Scout with Special Needs First to Achieve Eagle in Troop
April 8, 2015
Left to right: Scoutmaster Rich Gambrill, Eagle Scout Nicholas H., and Cubmaster Tom Ernst. (Photo: Lauren Amberman, The Avenue News)
For any Scout, earning Eagle is a huge accomplishment. Scouts with special needs who achieve the honor are even more rare – that’s why these Scouts often have an extension to achieve the rank after their 18th birthdays. But Nicholas H. who has Juvenile Batten Disease still soared to Eagle Scout before he was 18.
Nicholas’ dedication is unswayed as he battles a fatal disease that has made him blind. From clinching the challenging cycling merit badge to organizing an Eagle service project that gave back to his school, Nicholas met every requirement with fortitude and achieved each at the same level as the Eagles who have come before him.
Nicholas’ achievements are of tremendous significance to his council – he’s part of troop full of other Scouts with unique needs. In the larger Scouting community, Nicholas’ story is one troops can learn from.
Read more about his journey to Eagle on Scouting Newsroom or The Avenue News. Then, let us know: what support systems do you think helped Nicholas achieve Eagle? How can troops help Eagle candidates, especially those with special needs, as they work to achieve the rank?
Gina Circelli
Gina Circelli is the Digital Editor for Boys' Life. She loves sharing news about Scouts who shake up pop culture or contribute to their communities in a big way. If you have story ideas, reach out to the team at communications@scouting.org.
Comments
reach out
