APRIL 6, 2026

Dear Editor:

As I approach my 18^th birthday, I would like to reflect on my experience in Scouts BSA with Scouting America. 

When I started as a Cub Scout, I was a goofy kid just wanting to have fun.  But through my 11 years of scouting, I have learned more than how to tie a good knot or whittle a marshmallow stick.

I have learned to communicate better, work in a team- sometimes leading and sometimes following and gained confidence in myself. 

I have also appreciated being a good citizen and was humbled by the support I received from the community working on my Eagle Scout project.  I am also grateful for my supportive mentors.

Scouting was much more popular pre-pandemic, and I worry that the beneficial experience that I had will be missed by other kids now. 

“I have learned to communicate better, work
in a team – sometimes leading
and sometimes following
and gained confidence in myself. “

Scouting is now open to girls and boys.  I want to encourage parents to consider this activity that can span from age 4 to 18.  I did not like every part (merit badges were hard, but good for me), however, I have grown as a person who is community focused, can do hard things and is an outdoor enthusiast. 

There are many choices of how to spend our time, as I reflect back on my childhood, I would recommend Scouting as a wonderful option.  LEARN MORE | BeAScout.Scouting.org

___________

Oliver Williams, Eagle Scout Candidate,

Saco, Maine

Editor’s Note: Our friends at Saco Bay News did a very nice feature story about Oliver Williams. You can find that story here: SACO BAY NEWS | Local Spotlight: Oliver Williams

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