Replies

At 13, my son was a better leader than his 17 year old scout mates who failed in time management, organization, and dedication. They aged out just shy of Eagle because they did not choose to make scouting a priority.

I can believe that. My son's as well, were better leaders at 13 then some of the older Scouts. However, that doesn't mean they were "EAGLE" leadership level, yet. That took more time, maturity and learning.

Maturity is not restricted to age.

Again, I can agree with you here. I'm not debating that your son was or was not mature, I'm simply stating that I don't buy that ANY 13 year old truly earned or understands what it means to be an Eagle Scout. Now, maybe your troop or Council has dumbed Eagle Scout down so much that it doesn't mean what it used to or what it means in my area. Whatever the case may be, to me, a 13 year old Eagle Scout should not happen.

“Now, maybe your troop or Council has dumbed Eagle Scout down so much that it doesn’t mean what it used to or what it means in my area. Whatever the case may be, to me, a 13 year old Eagle Scout should not happen.”

BSA disagrees with you. And my son, who continues to lead and teach within his troop and council, is evidence that BSA is not wrong about allowing some 13 year olds to be Eagle Scouts.

Now, maybe your troop or Council has dumbed Eagle Scout down so much that it doesn't mean what it used to or what it means in my area.

I think the community service aspect of Eagle must have really been watered down. Back in my day, and one of the reasons I couldn't finish in time was that your community service project had to be a significant undertaking. (Effort and Time) I read somewhere here local that a kid got his by painting trash cans at a park. Hmmmmmmm.