FLEMING ISLAND – Ryan Bowmaster cringes every time he learns of a drowning, particularly when it could have been prevented. 

Life jackets save lives, so he believes there’s no excuse for someone to lose their life without one. That’s why he built a stand at the Black Creek Marina for anyone to borrow one for free. 

“Life jackets are super-important for any kind of water activity, whether kayaking, canoeing, boating or jet skiing,” Ryan said. “It's like an honor system. If you need one, you can take one. If you have extras that don't fit anyone, you can leave one for others to use.” 

Not only can Bowmaster’s idea save a life, but it also completed his Eagle Scout final project requirement. He will join 31 other Eagle Scouts at the Bartram Trail Class of 2025 Recognition Banquet at Sacred Heart Catholic Church’s Sullivan Hall on Saturday, Jan. 31. 

Bowmaster’s project relies on the honor system. When a boater needs a life jacket, take one. When they’re done, leave it. If they have an extra or have outgrown one, leave it. 

He planned, acquired materials from Hayward Construction Group and First Coast Metal Roofing Supply and got permission and direction from former Clay County Commissioner and Eagle Scout Mike Cella, County Parks and Recreation Director Justin Pierce, Camp Chowenwaw Park Ranger Liza McCain, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and Fish and Wildlife Services. 

The project was approved by the Eagle Board of Review by members of the Troop Committee and District Representatives. 

Bowmaster also received the Marine Corps League Eagle Scout Good Citizen Certificate and Challenge Coin from Junior Vice Cmdr. Steven Jimenez of the Gen. Roy S. Geiger, Detachment No. 1047, Marine Corps League. 

Bowmaster’s project fits the “Kids Don’t Float Educational Program,” which started in Homer, Alaska, in 1996. He read there were 105 fatal drownings in Florida in 2024, and he decided he wanted to do something about it. 

"I needed to do a project for my Eagle Scout rank, so I thought, ‘What would be a good community project in this area? I thought about something to do with water, since we're a water community.'

“We should have one of these at every boat ramp and waterfront park in this county. It’s a simple way to ensure a child doesn’t drown.” 

The Bartram Trail District includes troops from Clay, Putnam and Bradford counties. 

For bios on all Eagle Scouts, see pages 11-15.