By Glorianna Nichols and Samuel Villa
The Boy Scouts of America first introduced the Eagle Scout rank in 1912. Only 2% of Scouts have since earned this prestigious rank and, of the already small percentage, only .4% of them earn the Silver palm. Additionally, due to its rarity, there are no statistics on exactly how many Scouts have been awarded the Medal of Merit.
But for senior Jericho Pace, he managed to earn all three palm awards past the Eagle Scout rank including the Medal of Merit.
“The Eagle Scout award is the final advancement a Scout can earn,” Pace said. “It showcases you as a good role model to your community.”
The requirements for this rank include demonstrating Scout Spirit, possessing an ideal attitude based upon the Scout Oath and Law, service, leadership and getting a certain amount of badges.
“I have earned a total of 38 badges, but you only need 21 as a requirement for the award,” Pace said. “Most of my badges were earned by use of physical skill and providing leadership as a member.”
An Eagle Scout, though not required, has the ability to earn three additional awards called Eagle Palms. These feather shaped pins are presented to Scouts in order from bronze, gold and silver to those who’ve earned five, 10, 15 or more merit badges. So, the Silver Palm, the highest award, is for Eagle Scouts who’ve received 15 additional merit badges beyond those required for the Eagle Scout rank.
The Medal of Merit is awarded to Scouts who have performed some act of commendable service beyond what is normally expected of a member. Pace received the Medal of Merit from the National Honor Board after rushing his father to the hospital while he had a stroke.
Earning an Eagle Scout rank takes time and dedication, requiring Scouts to meet specific criteria. For example, a requirement for this rank includes creating an extensive service project that the Scout plans, organizes, leads and manages. The Eagle Scout Service Project, or the “Eagle Project,” allows the Scout to demonstrate leadership of others while helping to benefit any religious institution, school or the community.
“My project involved building beehives for Grapevine Farms,” Pace said. “They’re a charitable organization that helps provide food to those in need.”
Grapevine Farms grows affordable food to help feed the homeless and hungry in 22 counties of Texas. They seek to eliminate the food insecurities of an estimate of 50,000 people by partnering with local nonprofit organizations.
“I felt really happy about receiving this award,” Pace said. “It felt like a big payoff after all I’ve done during my time as a Scout. I’ve been a Scout most of my life. It’s guided me to have better morals in life and leaned me into good business with some great role models.”
