I had the honor of presenting the Eagle Scout award some time ago to a young man in Lafayette. The Eagle Scout ceremony was very impressive. Being present that evening made me think back to my days in Scouting and how much Scouting has meant to my life.
Do you know that in the 113th U.S. Congress, 191 were Boy Scouts, 48 had been active as adult Scout leaders and 27 were Eagle Scouts? Do you know that in the U.S. Space Program, of the 195 pilots and scientists selected as astronauts since 1959, more than 123 were Scouts or have been active in Scouting, including 31 Eagles.
Do you know that for every 100 boys who join Scouting, 12 will have their first contact with a church; 1 will enter the clergy; 2 will become Eagles; 1 will save a life and another will save his own life with his Scouting skills; 5 will earn religious emblems; 8 will enter professions learned through merit badges.
I am just trying to say that Scouting is a wonderful organization. I am so grateful for Scouting and for all organizations that serve and reach out to youth. I am thankful for Scoutmasters and Cub leaders and Girl Scout leaders and little-league coaches. I am thankful for teachers and chaperones and Sunday School teachers. For Big Brothers/Big Sisters. I am thankful for all of those who work with youth and point them in the right direction. They are making a tremendous investment in the future.
As a people of faith, may we always do our best to support youth-serving organizations in our community! Without them, our future is bleak. With them, and the help of God, our future holds promise.