Caleb Hicks receives his Eagle Scout Award from George Herman.
WAPAKONETA — Eagle Scout is the highest achievement attainable in the Scouts BSA program of the Boy Scouts of America. Since its inception in 1911, only four percent of Scouts have earned this rank. Caleb Hicks in now one of those few.
One of the requirements is to earn a minimum 21 merit badges. When asked about his favorite experience, Hicks said, “Camping is one of my favoriite things to do with the scouts. It’s a great way to help (younger scouts) explore new skills.” He talks proudly about helping younger scouts achieve awards.
Hicks, a senior at Wapakoneta High School who is studying heavy machinery and masonry, had to complete an “Eagle Project.” His project was to rehabilitate Veteran’s Park in Uniopolis. Hicks first had to fund his project. He organized a garage sale and solicited donations. With the secured funding, he was able to pressure wash the basketball court before putting down new lines and replacing the old nets, replace the old mulch with a rubberized mulch around the play set, and paint the wood, bringing new life to the park. His final project was to install a blessing box to be used by the community.
Achieving the Eagle Scout Award, the scout must demonstrate Scout Spirit, an ideal attitude based upon the Scout Oath and Law, service and leadership. Hicks also had to deal with a broken arm and COVID on his trek.
At an Eagle Scout Court of Honor, Hicks was presented with a medal and a badge that visibly recognizes the self-accomplishments, as well as the accomplishments for his troop, Troop 914, and his community.
Reach Dean Brown at 567-242-0409
