A pandemic is not standing in the way of Scouts USA members achieving their Eagle rank. In order to earn scouting’s highest rank, members have to complete requirements such as earning at least 21 merit badges, organize and execute a service project, and be an active member of their troop for at least six months after achieving Life Scout status. Many of those requirements have taken a hit in 2020 due to the pandemic limiting the amount of in-person activities available. Bay-Lakes Council has done its part, organizing virtual classes for merit badges required for the Eagle Scout rank as well as increasing their online programming. Voyageur District Executive Bob Pekol oversees units in Brown, Door, and Kewaunee counties and says he has been impressed with how those scouts chasing their Eagle rank have been able to be creative.

Pekol added that Life Scouts nearing their 18th birthday can apply for an extension from the council in order to still be able to earn the rank before aging out of the program. Area troops and packs have been mostly meeting virtually or in very socially distant situations this fall.