NEGA Council Thanks & Recognizes 3 Resident Eagle Scouts for Their Service
May 13, 2023, marked a momentous occasion for three Chateau Elan residents as they were honored at the 2023 Eagle Banquet. These individuals have not only achieved the prestigious Eagle Scout rank but have also continued to give back to their communities through their unwavering dedication to the Boy Scouts of America. Let's meet these remarkable individuals:
Jim Edwards - 2022 Eagle Class Honoree
Jim Edwards' Scouting journey began as an Eagle Scout from Troop 5 in the Northeast Georgia Council. His connection with Scouting was rekindled when his son, Mason, was old enough to join Cub Scouts as a Tiger. Currently, in the 8th grade, Mason actively participates in Troop 597 and is working toward achieving his First Class rank.
As an adult, Edwards recognizes the significant impact the trail to Eagle has had on his life. He finds himself using the skills he acquired from Scouting in his business and personal life on a weekly basis. His journey has come full circle, as he now enjoys giving back to Scouting by volunteering in various capacities, from mentoring Cub Scouts to serving on the Executive Board.
Hardy Johnson - 2022 Eagle Class Honoree
Hardy Johnson's journey to becoming an Eagle Scout commenced in 1959 when he earned this esteemed award, proudly signed by none other than President Dwight Eisenhower. Johnson has remained deeply involved with the Scouts, actively serving on the Northeast Georgia Executive Committee. To him, Scouting is not merely a hobby; it's a second family and a profound source of lifelong lessons.
Throughout his life, Johnson has found himself applying the valuable life skills he acquired through Scouting in countless everyday situations, from first aid techniques to public speaking. For him, Scouting stands as the epitome of leadership development for young boys and girls, and he wholeheartedly endorses and recommends the program.
Russell Smith - NESA Outstanding Eagle Award
Russell Smith's Scouting journey took shape in Habersham County, where he was a member of both Troop 24 and Troop 605. His dedication to the cause led him to achieve the prestigious Eagle Scout rank in 1993, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the Scout values.
In the years since, Smith has continued to give back to the community, serving on the NEGA Council of the Boy Scouts of America and participating in numerous governing boards.
“It’s hard to overstate the impact Scouting, and in particular the Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters, had on me. Scouting helped mold and define who I am, reinforcing the values that guide most of the decisions I make. The Scout Law is an excellent tool when facing a tough choice. I’m very grateful I had the opportunity to be a Scout” Russell shared.
The 2023 Eagle Banquet celebrated not only the accomplishments of these three Chateau Elan residents but also the enduring legacy of the Boy Scouts of America. Their dedication to the organization and their communities exemplifies the values of leadership, service, and lifelong learning that Scouting instills in its members. Their stories serve as an inspiration to Scouts, young and old, and a testament to the power of the Scouting experience.