Scouts and military personnel seem to have an intrinsic link. Maybe it’s because Scout training bestows the honor and discipline required for many young adults who serve in the armed forces. Or maybe it’s because Scouts recognize the great sacrifice that goes into serving our country. Either way, the connection is undeniable.
Eagle Scout Mitchell Woods discovered just that when he interviewed 30 World War II veterans for a documentary. Check out clips from his video below:
Mitchell wasn’t the only Scout in the last few months to pay tribute to veterans. Since May is Military Appreciation month, Saturday is Armed Forces Day, and May 25 is Memorial Day, we want to highlight the bond between Scouts and our country’s bravest citizens. Check out five times Scouts honored vets this year:
1. In Reading, PA, Scouts stashed their smartphones to listen intently to a World War II veteran who shared his account of being at Iwo Jima. Read more about what the Scouts learned from the veteran by heading to the full story.
2. In Philadelphia one Scout didn’t want the memories of aging veterans to be forgotten. For his Eagle Scout service project, Derek C. collected a series of memoirs from veterans who had witnessed some of the most famous battles in U.S. history. Check out the rest of the story, including how the project was donated to the Library of Congress.
3. Troop 377 of the California Inland Empire Council presented, not one, but six Battle of Normandy veterans with medals commemorating the 70th anniversary of the historical event. Check out pictures of the heroic veterans interacting with Scouts.
4. One Scout from Texas found a creative and meaningful way to celebrate the service of armed forces personnel. He installed flagpoles in front of the houses of veterans wounded in action. Read more about Thomas O.’s project to honor vets.
5. Scouts in Owego, NY, teamed up with veterans to lay flags on the graves of veterans in Evergreen Cemetery. Check out the video below for the full story (it’s an inspiring one!).
Feeling motivated to follow suit of the Scouts who honor the men and women protecting our country? Head to Bryan on Scouting for a list of ideas on how you can celebrate veterans. Whether you’re involved in Scouting or not, the next two weeks are the perfect time to salute our heroes.
