Boys learn how to fly with the Eagles

Less than 2 percent of all Boy Scouts achieve Eagle Scout rank, which isn't lost on Zachary Dale of Cape Girardeau. He felt honored in joining 78 other boys from Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois Saturday to receive the recognition at Southeast Missouri State University's Academic Hall.

But as much as feeling honored, Zachary said he was relieved. It took him 140 hours of work, starting around Thanksgiving, to complete a 30-by-22-foot map of the United States on the playground at Blanchard Elementary in Cape Girardeau.

To become an Eagle Scout, 21 merit badges, including 12 specifically required, must be earned, as well as completion of a major service project.

"The important thing we're able to do today is stand behind our scoutmasters and parents," said Stacy Huff, field director at the Boy Scouts of America office in Cape Girardeau. "This honor is one that sets them apart from fellow scouts -- one that is recognized throughout society as outstanding."

Lewis Blanton, a federal magistrate judge, was class sponsor for this year's group of Eagle Scouts. In his keynote speech, he pointed out that three characteristics of Scout law serve as blueprints for life: respect for others, obedience and reverence. Blanton also noted that three out of the 12 merit badges required for the Eagle rank are centered on citizenship.

Logan Brennecke, an Eagle Scout from Troop 11in Jackson, performed his community service project at the Shawnee Sports Complex. He sanded, scraped, painted and numbered 34 goal posts; landscaped a flower bed; and painted and erected three maps of the facility.

His mother, Cheryl Brennecke, said it helped that Logan enjoys the venue.

"Logan is also a soccer referee, so he spends a lot of time at the complex," she said.

Although Zachary's map at Blanchard Elementary may have taken him out of his regular routine, he said it was worth it for the children's sake.

"I wanted to facilitate children in learning U.S. geography," he explained.

Zachary, who's been a Scout since Tiger Cubs, plans to remain in scouting and become an assistant scoutmaster.

It wouldn't surprise his father one bit.

"He comes from a long line of scouting," said Bob Dale, who has been active in scouting for 42 years.

cpagano@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133