Scouting is Still Impacting My Life

I grew up in Scouting in Abilene, Texas. Scouting taught me the values for how to live and respect people, authority and work toward success. My Scoutmaster was J.W. Highlacker (sp) with Troop 72, Through his guidance and support, and the support of my Dad, I attained the rank of Eagle Scout and Vigil in the OA. I stayed fairly connected with Scouting over the years. In 2011, I joined the BSA Alumni and the first newsletter talked about the National Jamboree in 2013. I attended the Jamboree in 1964 at Valley Forge. I thought, “What if I went to the Jamboree?” I contacted my local Council in Austin, Texas and applied. I was now reconnected with Scouting. I attend the 2013 and 2017 Jamborees as an Assistant Chief Nurse on the Medical Services Team and the same position for the 24th World Jamboree in 2019. At the 2013, I celebrated the 50th anniversary of receiving my Eagle Scout by carving on an Eagle Scout totem pole at the NESA Pavilion. I continue to be involved as a member of the Troop Committee of Troop 472 in Elgin, Texas and now moving to the District Committee for the Colorado River District in the Capital Area Council. I continue to look for ways to promote Scouting and support scouting activities in my community.

Submitted by: James (Ron) Hilliard of ELGIN