FLEMING ISLAND – Last Saturday, the Bartram Trail Eagle Scout Recognition Dinner honored 27 scouts who achieved the flagship, highest attainable rank of Scouts BSA during 2023.

Richard Knoff, the ceremony's keynote speaker, reflected on his own challenging "Trail to Eagle" but affirmed the importance of that journey, which has continuously shaped his character, career and commitment to his community.

Knoff learned practical and lifesaving skills as a scout, which he often put into practice during his career in the military and as fire battalion chief. He shared moments of his life where he evoked scouting lessons and principles. He once saved a man dehydrated and lost in the woods and a teenager who drifted out and struggled to stay afloat in the St. Johns River.

Achieving the Eagle Scout rank is a tremendous honor that requires at least 21 merit badges, planning and executing a community service project, demonstrating the Scout Oath and Law, demonstrating leadership and passing an Eagle Scout Board of Review.

Usually, only 4% of scouts finish the Trail to Eagle. However, Knoff was pleased to report for 2023, the figure was 6%.

Knoff honored the 27 scouts, their parents and scout leaders for completing the difficult and meaningful endeavor that will lay a foundation for the rest of a scout's life.

Below are the biographies of the 27 scouts and the date they achieved the rank of Eagle Scout last year. 

RYAN HOPKINS - January 28, 2023

Ryan began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 131 in September 2013, transferred to Cub Pack 832 in September 2015, and earned his Bobcat, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, the Arrow of Light Award, and the Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award. He crossed over to Troop 653 in March 2017 and earned his First Class Rank in February 2019. Ryan has served his Troop as Historian, Troop Guide, Den Chief, and Assistant Patrol Leader. Ryan is an Ordeal member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 45 Merit Badges, the Snorkeling BSA Award, Den Chief Award, National Outdoor Award for Camping, and the National Honor Patrol Award. He has attended summer camp at Camps Woodruff, Davy Crockett, Bert Adams, and Skymont Scout Reservation. For his Eagle Project, Ryan created an outdoor classroom for Oak Hill Academy, a Duval County public school that provides a unique educational environment for students with autism spectrum disorders or related disabilities. Ryan’s project included clearing an area of underbrush, removing small trees, laying mulch, building a planter box, and adding two picnic tables. Ryan is a senior at Oakleaf High School where he’s a member of the NJROTC and has earned the Cadet Achievement Ribbon. He holds a Digital Literary Certificate in Key Applications and is a Microsoft Office Specialist in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word. After graduation, Ryan plans to attend University of Central Florida to study Game Design and Coding. He plans to work part time at Oak Hill Academy as a paraprofessional class assistant.

NATHAN GILLAN - January 30, 2023

Nathan began his scouting adventure when he joined Troop 892 in April 2019 and earned his First Class Rank in October 2020. Nathan has served his Troop as Chaplain Aide, Historian, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Patrol Leader. Nathan is an Ordeal member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 34 Merit Badges, the Recruiter Strip, the Kayaking BSA and Whitewater Rafting BSA Awards. He has attended summer camp at Camp Woodruff. For his Eagle Project, Nathan built a gaga ball pit for Fleming Island Elementary School. Nathan is a sophomore at Fleming Island High School where he is enrolled in the Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) program. He is a member of the Robotics Team, the Cross Country Team, where he earned a JV letter, and served as the Freshman Class Secretary. He is also a member of the youth worship band. In junior high, he earned the Governor’s Award for a perfect score on a statewide science assessment and was a member of the National Junior Honor Society. After high school, Nathan plans to attend the Air Force Academy to major in Mechanical Engineering while minoring in Robotics Engineering, then pursue master and doctoral degrees in Robotics Engineering. Nathan also plans to become a both a novel and speech writer. He aspires to start a robotics company and one day run for President of the United States.

PAUL SCOTT HARVEY - February 1, 2023

Paul began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 109 in June 2014 and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 109 in February 2018 and earned his First Class Rank in November 2018. Paul has served his Troop as Historian, Librarian, Scribe, Quartermaster, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Paul has earned 60 Merit Badges and has attended summer camp at Camp Shands. For his Eagle Project, Paul built fishing line collection stations at four lakefront parks. This will provide a way for people to properly dispose of fishing lines which will help to protect the wildlife. Paul is a senior at Q.I. Roberts High School where he is a member of the Academic Team. After graduation, Paul plans to attend the University of Florida to pursue a degree in Business Management.

JASON MICHAEL ADAMS - February 21, 2023

Jason began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 20 in October 2012 and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 418 in May 2015, transferred to Troop 404 in January 2016, and earned his First Class Rank in April 2017. He transferred to Troop 653 in February 2018, and then transferred to Troop 20 in February 2019. Jason has served his Troops as Quartermaster, Den Chief, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Jason has earned 34 Merit Badges, the Paul Bunyan Woodsman Award, and the Den Chief Award. He has attended summer camp at Camps Shands, Bert Adams, and Davy Crocket. Jason’s Eagle Project consisted of replacing deck boards and hand rails on a handicap ramp for the Military Museum of North Florida. This provided a way for disabled veterans to easily use the ramp without their walkers or wheelchairs getting stuck. Jason is a senior at Orange Park High School. After graduation, Jason plans to enlist in the U.S. Army.

CALLUM CHARLES MCCOY - February 22, 2023

Callum began his scouting adventure when he joined Sabol District, Cub Pack 535 in September 2012 and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 425 in April 2017 and earned his First Class Rank in May 2020. Callum has served his Troop as Historian, Troop Guide, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Callum is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 34 Merit Badges and the Paul Bunyan Woodsman Award. He has attended summer camp at Camps Shands, Daniel Boone, and Woodruff. For his Eagle Project, Callum built five benches for the special needs class at Oakleaf Junior High School. Callum is a senior at Oakleaf High School where he is a member of the NJROTC, having earned the rank of E3 Seaman, and is also a member of the Wrestling team, where he’s placed second. He has also earned a Purple Belt in Taekwondo. After graduation, Callum plans to enlist in either the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, or U.S. Space Force, pursue a degree, obtain diesel and aircraft mechanic certifications, and work as an Aircraft Mechanic. He wants to help make space vehicles more efficient for space travel.

STONE OWEN THOMPSON - April 3, 2023

Stone began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 487 in September 2012 and earned his Bobcat, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 236 in February 2017 and earned his First Class Rank in September 2019. Stone has served his Troop as Chaplain Aide, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Stone has earned 40 Merit Badges and the 50-Miler Afoot Award. He has attended summer camp at Camps Powhatan, Raven Knob, Shenandoah, Grimes, and Philmont Scout Ranch. For his Eagle Project, Stone built two benches and set them on pavers for the Interlachen High School ROTC. Stone is a graduate of Palatka High School where he was enrolled in Advanced Placement courses, earned CTE certifications, and was a member of the Varsity Weightlifting Team. He served as the Commander for the JROTC Raider Competition Team and as the JROTC Battalion Commander. He also plays guitar in various performances. Stone enlisted in the Army and is completing his training in One Station Unit Training (OSUT), after which he hopes to earn a slot for Airborne School. His future plans include becoming Airborne Qualified, attending Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP), earning a bachelor's degree, and commission as an Officer.

HARLEY EDWIN SHIRLEY - June 6, 2023

Harley began his scouting adventure when he joined Troop 309 in August 2017 and earned his First Class Rank in July 2020. Harley has served his Troop as Instructor, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Patrol Leader. Harley is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 37 Merit Badges, the National Outdoor Awards for Camping and Aquatics, the World Conservation Award, and the Mile Swim BSA Award. He has attended summer camp at Camps Sequoyah, Shands, and Buck Toms. Harley’s Eagle Project consisted of building two picnic tables and three benches for the Quigley House. He also pressured washed the back porch, gutters, and the roof over the porch, cleaned all flower beds, cut tree and bush overgrowth, spread mulch, and hauled overgrowth debris away. Harley is a junior at Middleburg High School. After graduation, Harley plans to attend University of Florida to study Nutrition and Culinary Arts. In the future, he would like to work in the food service industry and eventually open his own restaurant.

JAMES DAVID OVERLEY II - July 17, 2023

James began his scouting adventure when he joined Coastal Georgia Council, Altamaha District, Cub Pack 500 in December 2015, transferred to Cub Pack 475 in October 2017, and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to North Florida Council, Bartram Trail District, Troop 653 in December 2019, and earned his First Class Rank in February 2021. James has served his Troop as Librarian, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. James is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 31 Merit Badges, the National Outdoor Awards for Camping, National Honor Patrol Award, and Kayaking BSA and Stand Up Paddleboarding Awards. James has attended National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) and summer camp at Camps Shands, Bowers, and Bert Adams. For his Eagle Project, James coordinated running electrical wiring from the Fellowship Hall to the pavilion at Good Samaritan Anglican Church. Wiring was run through the attic, underground, and into the pavilion. This provided power to the ceiling fans and lights. James is a freshman at Middleburg High School where he is an honor roll student. He earned a Scholar Athlete Award and Varsity Athletic Award in junior high and plays baseball with the Middleburg Athletic Association. James is planning to take Automotive Maintenance classes in high school. After graduation, James plans to work in a local automotive repair shop, become an automotive master technician, and train apprentices at the start of their careers.

CHRISTOPHER JAY SNIDER - July 31, 2023

Christopher began his scouting adventure when he joined River Bend District, Troop 287 in June 2016, transferred to Bartram Trail District, Troop 236 in December 2017, and earned his First Class Rank in December 2017. Christopher has served his Troops as Chaplain Aide, Scribe, Troop Guide, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Patrol Leader. Christopher has earned 36 Merit Badges and has attended summer camp at Camps Powhatan, Raven Knob, Shenandoah, and Skymont Scout Reservation. For his Eagle Project, Christopher built a prayer labyrinth at St. Joseph’s Church. Christopher is a graduate of Q.I. Roberts High School where he was a member of the Band, serving as Drum Major, and active in Musical Theater. He is an Altar Server and Delegate at St. Joseph’s Church. Christopher is attending University of Florida, pursuing a degree in Religion. He is active in the Episcopal Chapel ministry at the university and plans to seek out opportunities in band and musical ensembles there as well. Although undecided on what career he’d like to pursue, it will be in the field of Religion. He may consider attending Law School to become a lawyer who specializes in religious freedom cases.

MATTHEW JAMES SNIDER - July 31, 2023

Matthew began his scouting adventure when he joined Troop 236 in December 2017 and earned his First Class Rank in December 2018. Matthew has served his Troop as Chaplain Aide, Scribe, Troop Guide, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. Matthew has earned 32 Merit Badges and has attended summer camp at Camps Powhatan, Raven Knob, and Shenandoah. For his Eagle Project, Matthew restored the primitive camp site at Camp Weed. Matthew is a senior at Q.I. Roberts High School where he is involved in Musical Theater, serving as a Dance Captain, and in Drama, serving also as a coach. Matthew has earned all A’s throughout middle and high school and hopes to achieve the same his senior year. Matthew would like to work at Camp Weed’s summer camp in the future. He has also served as group leader for Happening and New Beginnings. After graduation, Matthew is considering attending Florida State University to pursue a degree in Communications or Broadcasting and become involved in the university’s musical theater program. He hopes to one day become a radio host or a broadcaster.

CHASE COLE HOLBROOK - August 7, 2023

Chase began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 362 in October 2011, and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 415 in February 2016, transferred to Troop 892 in October 2019, and earned his First Class Rank in October 2020. Chase has served his Troops as Quartermaster, Troop Guide, Patrol Leader, and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. Chase is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 36 Merit Badges, the Whitewater Rafting BSA Award, and the National Outdoor Award for Camping. Chase has attended summer camp at Camps Shands and Daniel Boone. For his Eagle Project, Chase painted the curb and parking area in front of Crossroads Lutheran Church to make them more visible when parking. He also pressure washed, blew leaves, and picked up trash in the area. Chase is a graduate of Middleburg High School where he was a member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and the National Technical Honor Society. He is also active in the Middleburg High First Baptist youth group. Chase is currently employed full-time at Chipotle and is looking forward to furthering his education in the future. Chase remains active in Scouting with Venturing Crew 892.

NOLAN JAMES HOLLINGER - August 9, 2023

Nolan began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 483 in September 2013, and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 482 in February 2018 and earned his First Class Rank in December 2020. Nolan has served his Troop as Historian, Librarian, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Patrol Leader. Nolan has earned 27 Merit Badges and has attended summer camp at Camp Ottari and Summit Bechtel High Adventure. Nolan’s Eagle Project for the K9 Services German Shepherd Rescue in Penney Farms consisted of building a dog washing station platform with stairs, which includes a wash basin with pipes to help easily drain water, a built-in basket for storage, and a safety railing to hook the leashes on for the safety of the dogs. He also helped to redesign the dog agility yard. Nolan is a junior at Fleming Island High School. After graduation, Nolan plans to establish a career in a technology-related field as an entrepreneur, possibly creating gaming videos on social media platforms. He also plans to continue to give back to the community.

PHOENIX QUINTON CUSHMAN - September 26, 2023

Phoenix began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 109 in September 2011 and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 109 in January 2017, transferred to Troop 290 in February 2020, earned his First Class Rank in October 2020, and then transferred to Troop 146 in May 2021. Phoenix has served his Troops as Librarian, Scribe, Webmaster, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Phoenix has earned 35 Merit Badges and has attended summer camps at Camp Shands. For his Eagle Project, Phoenix worked to identify graves at Eliam Cemetery in Melrose. Using online GPS software, he recorded the graves to allow people to search for the location of the graves on Billiongraves.org. Phoenix is a graduate of Keystone Heights High School where he graduated with high honors and completed an Associate of Arts degree. He was the Salutatorian and UF Youth Leadership Conference Representative. He was also a Saxophone Section Lead, the Robotics Team Drive Team Coach, and earned the 2023 Keystone High School Hall of Fame recognition. Phoenix is currently attending University of Florida, pursuing a degree in Computer Engineering, and also plans to become part of the UF Gator Band.

NATHAN KIYOSHI SHEALEY - October 11, 2023

Nathan began his scouting adventure when he joined Indian Waters Council, Capitol Rivers District, Cub Pack 4 in August 2012, transferred to Coastal Georgia Council, Altamaha District, Cub Pack 500 in August 2014, and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, Arrow of Light Award, and World Conservation Award. He crossed over to Toop 500 in February 2017, earned his First Class Rank in July 2019, and transferred to North Florida Council, Bartram Trail District, Troop 577 in June 2022. Nathan has served his Troops as Librarian, Quartermaster, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Patrol Leader. Nathan is an Ordeal member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 27 Merit Badges. He has attended summer camp at Black Creek Scout Reservation, GA. For his Eagle Project, Nathan cleaned and repainted 38 fire hydrants in his community of Green Cove Springs. He painted the top crown of the hydrants white and the bases red for visibility. Nathan is a senior at Clay High School where he is a member of the National Honor Society. At his previous high school, he was a member of the Golf Team. After graduation, Nathan plans to attend college to pursue a degree in Zoology with a special interest in marine life. His interest in working with animals was inspired by requirements from a merit badge.

HAILLEY HUTCHENS - October 12, 2023

Hailley began her scouting adventure when she joined Troop 9577 as a Founding Member in February 2019, transferred to Troop 9653 in October 2019, and earned her First Class Rank in February 2021. Hailley has served her Troops as Historian, Quartermaster, Webmaster, and Senior Patrol Leader. Hailley is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow, serving in American Indian Activities (AIA), and has earned 30 Merit Badges, the Religious Award, National Outdoor Award for Camping, and the Recruiter Strip. She has attended National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) and summer camp at Camps Shands, Bowers, and Bert Adams. Hailley’s Eagle Project consisted of painting and sealing the office building at the Good Samaritan Anglican Church. Hailley is a senior at Orange Park High School where she is a member of the FIRST Technology Challenge (FTC) Robotics Team. She is also a member of the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Team where she hopes to help take her team to the World competition. After graduation, Hailley intends to enroll in trade school to become an electrician and seek apprenticeship opportunities with esteemed companies. Her goal is to attain the title of Master Electrician.

NOAH ALEXANDER LOTOW - October 17, 2023

Noah began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 146 in June 2013 and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 146 in December 2016 and earned his First Class Rank in April 2018. Noah has served his Troop as Librarian, Quartermaster, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Noah is an Ordeal member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 24 Merit Badges. He has attended summer camp at Camp Shands. For his Eagle Project, Noah built picnic tables for the Melrose Youth Sports Association. Noah is a senior at Q.I. Roberts High School where he is enrolled in the Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) program and takes Advance Placement classes and dual enrollment courses through Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He is a member of the National Honor Society, the National Art Honor Society, the Student Government, the Interact Club, and plays Varsity Soccer. After graduation, Noah plans to attend University of Florida to pursue a degree in Engineering. He would like to start his own Engineering business in the future.

ENOCH O’NEAL DURBAN - November 13, 2023

Enoch began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 301 and earned his Bobcat and Webelos Ranks. He joined Troop 70 in February 2018 and earned his First Class Rank in January 2020. Enoch has served his Troop as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. Enoch has earned 24 Merit Badges and has attended summer camp at Camp Shands and Camp Blanding. For his Eagle Project, Enoch led his team in the restoration of Bob Lov Cemetery in Starke. Enoch is a senior at North Side Christian Academy where he is dual enrolled in college classes. He is a member of the Basketball Team and National Honor Society. He also serves as the President of the Student Council and was named Homecoming Prince. He is active in his church and works at Winn-Dixie. After graduation, Enoch plans to attend University of Florida to pursue a degree in either Business or Engineering. Upon finishing his degree, he would like to become an Apprentice Electrician, establish a career in the field, and possibly start his own business. Enoch plans to stay involved with Scouting and continue to give back to the community.

WYATT STEPHAN CONRAD-HOWARD - November 14, 2023

Wyatt began his scouting adventure when he joined his Cub Pack in September 2015 and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 309 in January 2019 and earned his First Class Rank in March 2021. Wyatt has served his Troop as Assistant Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Order of the Arrow Representative. Wyatt is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and serves on the Election Committee. He has earned 36 Merit Badges, the World Conservation Award, and the National Outdoor Award for Camping. He has attended summer camp at Camps Shands, Buck Toms, and Rainey Mountain. Wyatt’s Eagle Project for Strong Foundations Behavioral Services consisted of building two toddler picnic tables as well as a border around the playground and setting up six posts to hang a sail for shade. He also added to their playground, swing set, and herb garden. Wyatt is a sophomore at Fleming Island High School where he takes Advance Placement courses and is a member of the NJROTC Air Rifle Team. His goal is to also enroll in dual enrollment courses. After graduation, Wyatt plans to attend college to pursue a degree in the medical field. He then intends to enlist in the U.S. Navy and pursue a career in medicine.

NOLAN GETS - November 20, 2023

Nolan began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 146 in August 2014 and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 146 in March 2019 and earned his First Class Rank in February 2021. Nolan has served his Troop as Chaplain Aide, Scribe, Quartermaster, Den Chief, Bugler, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Nolan is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 29 Merit Badges, the Religious Award, Den Chief Award, and Mile Swim BSA Award. He has attended summer camp at Camp Shands and Philmont Scout Ranch. For his Eagle Project, Nolan installed a flag pole at Faith Presbyterian Church. He also created an area for ceremonies around the flag pole. Nolan is a sophomore at Q.I. Roberts High School where he’s enrolled in the Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) program and is a member of the Marching and Symphonic Bands, Captain of the Drone Team, Chief Science Officer, and School Student ASTR / Flight Engineer. After graduation, Nolan plans to attend college but is still exploring his desired course of study. He is considering career options including a history teacher, a psychologist, or an engineer at NASA. He also has plans to travel, visiting many different countries, and would like to stay involved in Scouting.

LUKE ARMANN PEFFLEY - November 28, 2023

Luke began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 146 in October 2012 and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 146 in December 2016 and earned his First Class Rank in April 2018. Luke has served his Troop as Scribe, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Luke is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 35 Merit Badges. He has attended summer camp at Camps Shands and Daniel Boone. For his Eagle Project, Luke installed a new Holocaust Memorial Bench along with plants at the Naval Air Station Jacksonville. Luke is a senior at Q.I. Roberts High School where he’s a member of the Interact Club, the HQ Team, and is enrolled in Advanced Placement classes as well as dual enrollment courses at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He is also active in Historic Melrose, Inc. After graduation, Luke plans to attend University of Florida to pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering and seek out internships in this field. He also would like to pursue a master’s degree.

ANDREW SCHAEFER - December 4, 2023

Andrew began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 25 in October 2013 and earned his Bobcat, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 25 in February 2018 and earned his First Class Rank in August 2019. Andrew has served his Troop as Quartermaster, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Andrew is an Ordeal member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 32 Merit Badges and the National Outdoor Award for Camping. He has attended summer camps at Camps Old Indian, Skymont Scout Reservation, and Philmont Scout Ranch. For his Eagle Project, Andrew repaired minor wall blemishes and holes and painted a large classroom at Orange Park High School that served as a multi-functional room for academic classes and the school’s yearbook team. The room had been on the list to be updated and painted for over four years prior to Andrew’s project. Andrew is a senior at Orange Park High School where he’s a member of the Varsity Cheerleading Team. He was a member of the Soccer Team for three seasons and of the Weightlifting Team for one season. After graduation, Andrew plans to attend college and is considering the University of Central Florida, Georgia Southern University, or Coastal Georgia College to pursue a degree in either Marine Biology or Ecology.

CODYLEE FAYETTE - December 11, 2023

Codylee began his scouting adventure when he joined Troop 577 in November 2018 and earned his First Class Rank in March 2021. Codylee has served his Troop as Assistant Patrol Leader and Patrol Leader. Codylee has earned 25 Merit Badges and has attended summer camps at Camps Woodruff and Bud Schiele. For his Eagle Project, Codylee painted fire hydrants for the City of Green Cove Springs. Codylee is a junior at Clay High School. After graduation, Codylee plans to attend a trade school to obtain certifications as a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technician. He is considering Florida Career College, Fortis College, and J-Tech Institute where he’d be able to try out different fields before committing to a specific program. He then plans to work within the HVAC field and is considering owning his own HVAC company in the future.

BRANDT CRERAR - December 11, 2023

Brandt began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 802 in September 2015, transferred to Transatlantic Council, Mediterranean District, Cub Pack 007 in September 2016, and transferred back to Bartram Trail District Cub Pack 802 in June 2018. He earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award, the Religious Award, and the World Conservation Award. He crossed over to Troop 892 in February 2020 and earned his First Class Rank in January 2021. Brandt has served his Troop as Chaplain Aide, Historian, Patrol Leader, Order of the Arrow Representative, and Outdoor Ethics Guide. Brandt is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 40 Merit Badges, the Religious Award, the National Outdoor Award for Camping, and the National Honor Patrol. He has attended summer camps at Camps Shands, Woodruff, Daniel Boone, and Philmont Scout Ranch. Brandt’s Eagle Project consisted of rebuilding the fence and gate around the dumpster at Crossroad Lutheran Church using outdoor-suitable wood that is long-lasting to replace plastic fencing that was damaged. Brandt is a freshman at St. Johns Classical Academy where he’s a member of the National Junior Honor Society. After he graduates, Brandt plans to attend college and is considering either Veterinary Medicine or Engineering.

NICOLAS VIVIERS - December 11, 2023

Nicolas began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 802 in January 2016 and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 892 in February 2020 and earned his First Class Rank in January 2021. Nicolas has served his Troop as Instructor, Scribe, Bugler, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Nicolas is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 44 Merit Badges, the 50-Miler Afoot Award, and the National Honor Patrol Award. He has attended summer camps at Camps Shands, Woodruff, Daniel Boone, and Philmont Scout Ranch. For his Eagle Project, Nicolas built two wooden cupboards to serve as clothes racks as well as provide additional storage for shoes and other pieces of clothing. The project helped Ridgeview Elementary School address their lack of clothing storage for students. Nicolas is a freshman at Fleming Island High School where he’s enrolled in the Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) program and is a member of the National Junior Honor Society. He has also received the American Legion Award. After graduation, Nicolas plans to attend college but is still considering paths of study, possibly in the areas of Law or Civics.

NATHAN ANDREW YOERGES - December 19, 2023 Nathan began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 483 in September 2009 and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 482 in December 2016 and earned his First Class Rank in December 2020. Nathan has served his Troop as Chaplain Aide, Quartermaster, Troop Guide, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Nathan has earned 28 Merit Badges and the Religious Award. He has attended National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) and summer camps at Camps Otari, Skymont Scout Reservation, and Summit Bechtel Reserve. For his Eagle Project, Nathan refurbished the children’s playground at Doctor’s Inlet Elementary School. The playground equipment was rusted, unsightly, and causing discoloration and discomfort for the children. Nathan sanded, primed, and painted the metal structures to achieve a smooth and cool surface. He also cleared grass and redistributed the ground cover on the playground. Nathan is a graduate of Fleming Island High School where he was a member of the Television Production crew and was recognized as Student of the Quarter three times. He was a percussionist in the Marching Band and volunteered at the Military Museum of North Florida in Green Cove Springs. Nathan is currently serving in the United States Army. After completing his Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) training, Nathan will be stationed overseas.

WONDERFUL MICHAEL WEST - December 19, 2023

Wonderful began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 301 in 2014 and earned his Bobcat, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 70 in February 2018 and earned his First Class Rank in January 2020. Wonderful has served his Troop as Outdoor Ethics Guide, Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Wonderful has earned 24 Merit Badges and has attended summer camps at Camp Shands. For his Eagle Project, Wonderful made significant trail improvements on the Eagles Roost Nature Trail. His improvements made approximately three miles of what were unusable trails into trails now usable for hiking. Wonderful is a senior at North Side Christian Academy where he’s an Honor Roll Student and a member of the Gaming Club and Drama Club. He has also earned a 1st and 2nd Degree Black Belt and is active in his church where he serves as a nursery assistant. After graduation, Wonderful plans to attend college to study Mechanical, Electrical, or Technological Engineering. He then would like to establish a career in his chosen field where he can help other people. Wonderful also has an interest in working on the development and coding of games. He plans to stay involved with Scouting and continue giving back to the community.

NICHOLAS LIBERTY VALLANCE - December 28, 2023

Nicholas began his scouting adventure when he joined Cub Pack 146 in June 2012 and earned his Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Ranks, and the Arrow of Light Award. He crossed over to Troop 146 in December 2016 and earned his First Class Rank in April 2018. Nicholas has served his Troop as Scribe, Quartermaster, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. Nicholas is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned 27 Merit Badges. He has attended summer camp at Camps Shands, Woodruff, and Daniel Boone. For his Eagle Project, Nicholas constructed and installed two benches at the site of the historic settlement of Banana, Florida’s grist mill and general store. These will help make the site more enjoyable for visitors. Nicholas is a senior at P.K. Young Research and Development School where he’s an Honor Roll student and a Football Team representative. After graduation, Nicholas plans to travel and attend classes at Santa Fe College before transferring to University of Florida to pursue a degree in Business.