Emma Strong broke a barrier recently in becoming the first female Eagle Scout in the Wasatch Back. Credit: Photo courtesy of the Strong family Emma Strong recently became the first young woman in the Summit/Wasatch Scout District to earn Eagle Scout status. “This is a significant accompli shment,” said Matt Lee, Scout leader for Kamas Scout Troop 1. “Only about 4% of Scouts ever reach this level.”  Even sweeter was doing it with her brother, Colton, who was recognized at the same time.   The Boy Scouts of America was founded in 1910 “to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.” In 1912, the group introduced the rank of Eagle Scout, which is the highest achievement attainable in the Scouting program.  Initially, only males were allowed into the Boys Scout program but by the late 20th century changes were made to welcome girls into the organization. With the move to a co-ed organization, the Boy Scouts of America changed their name to Scouts BSA and, most recently, Scouting America.  Despite the admission of young ladies to the program, it was not until 2021 that girls were allowed to obtain the level of Eagle Scout.  To be awarded the rank of Eagle, Scouts must demonstrate exceptional “Scout spirit” and leadership qualities. They must also earn 21 merit badges, each awarded upon the completion of an activity centered around citizenship, family, personal responsibility, preparedness, physical fitness or outdoors skills. This process can take years to complete and requires dedication and hard work, Lee said. “Scouting is both leader-supported and Scout-led,” he said. “Scouts plan their own merit badges, campouts and activities.” Lee himself became an Eagle Scout when he was 16 and knows what it takes to earn the award. Colton Strong earned his Eagle Scout recognition alongside his sister. Credit: Photo courtesy of the Strong family “Emma’s accomplishment is historic in multiple ways, as she earned it alongside her brother, Colton — making them the first brother-sister duo to achieve Eagle together,” he said. “Both Emma and Colton served as senior patrol leaders, taking responsibility for planning campouts, deciding where to camp, what to eat, and leading other Scouts in setting up tents, chairs, campfires and canopies. For Lee, being a Scout influenced his future and his life. “I didn’t realize at the time how much my scoutmaster influenced my life,” he said. “Today, I am a hard worker and a leader in my community because someone mentored me.” As the current Scout leader for Kamas Troop 1, Lee encourages his troop members to be an inspiration to someone else. “I tell them to remember that their Scouting journey has taught them how to be a leader,” he said. “Take what they have learned and use it to become the best version of themselves. You don’t have to be a scoutmaster, but you can be a mentor. Become the person who influences youth, who inspires, guides and encourages the next generation.” “We need more leaders in this world, more mentors for young people to look up to and learn from” and Scouting America helps create them, he added.  If you are interested in joining or volunteering with Scouting America, visit beascout.scouting.org/   The post First female Eagle Scout earns the recognition with her brother appeared first on Park Record. ...read more read less