Post date: Jul 23, 2019 12:19:50 PM
Troop 1657 would like to congratulate Justice Mayes for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Justice becomes the 72nd addition to the Eagle's nest of Troop 1657.
Justice began his scouting journey as a Tiger Cub with Pack 1959 and then transferred to Pack 1657 as a Bear Cub. From the very beginning, Justice has been focused on achieving his goals, whether they were Cub Scout belt loops or earning the Arrow of Light award. Upon officially joining the Boy Scouts, he set his focus on earning the rank of Eagle. Settling for Eagle was not sufficient, he planned to remain active in the Scouting program and earn several Eagle Palm awards. Justice credits his family and especially his cousins, Eagle Scouts Joshua and Jacob Simms, with blazing the path for him to follow and providing constant encouragement and mentorship. His mother uses the phrase “Reluctant Leader” to describe her son; that is, she believes that scouting has helped Justice to believe in himself and provide an environment where he could learn and thrive. On his path to Eagle, he has served as Den Chief, Scribe, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. Justice states that:
“My purpose in life is to be a leader and influence others to become a better version of themselves… I seek to use my wisdom and knowledge to others grow though teaching and encouraging while making a difference in their lives and the lives around them.”
Justice chose to partner with the Clearwater Nature Center and make a series of renovations to the birds of prey birdhouse. The renovations involved installing a drop ceiling made of mesh netting and cabinet doors under the counter. The purpose of the project was to prevent the birds from becoming trapped in potentially unsafe areas and possibly sustaining an injury as a result. Justice reflects on some of the skills that he learned during the planning and execution of his project. Specifically, he believes that it has helped him to enhance his communication skills, analyze situations from multiple perspectives, and increased his attention to detail and facilitation skills.
Justice plans to attend college after graduating from Bishop McNamara High School. After college, he intends to join the Air Force. Justice has been involved in a variety of activities outside of scouting to include:
Justice believes that scouting has introduced him to many experiences that he would not have normally been unable to partake. Experiences such as zip-lining, camping, rock climbing, and white-water rafting. He is proud of the many merit badges and the associated skills that he has earned; to include becoming CPR and First Aid certified. He believes that scouting has taught him teamwork and the importance of serving and encouraging others. Justice says that:
“I see Boy Scouts as a door of opportunities waiting to be opened. Scouting isn’t just an organization but is also a lifestyle and a way of living. Scouting is a way to unleash your full potential and expand your horizons. I have met many people along this Journey at all different levels of scouting. By living the scout law, oath, motto, and slogan anyone can have the spirit of a scout and could help shape the world, our nation, and community to be a much better place.”
As a corollary, Justice’s mother comments that:
“The accomplishment of earning the Eagle Scout rank, the dedication and discipline to achieve it and this tremendous experience has trained Justice to serve as well as to lead. I am proud of the Godly man that he is becoming. Justice has left a positive impression on the adults, community members, and peers and has been impacted by each of them along this journey. My deepest gratitude to the Boy Scouts of America for the programs, policies, and procedures that propel our sons to leadership and legacy.”
Justice has had a very long journey on his path towards his goal Although there were some obstacles along the path, he showed perseverance and persistence and did so with a very positive attitude. Justice is a responsible, well-mannered, intelligent, and respectful young man. His temperament is very easy-going but he works hard in all that he does and continues to be consistent in his involvement with many activities. In summary, I believe that he will represent the tradition of excellence that embodies that prestigious rank.
So, once again, congratulations to Eagle Scout Justice Mayes and family.