Since he was seven years old, Winston Walters has been involved in the wonderful principles and training of scouting. Originally he joined the Cub Scouts for fun – the camping, the fishing, the merit badges and hikes. However, he stuck with the program eventually becoming a Boy Scout and has earned numerous rank achievements along the way, finally earning the highest rank of Scouting, the Eagle Eagle Scout Rank.
Winston, age 17, of Boy Scout Troop247 was honored at a special Eagle Scout ceremony on Saturday, May 12, 2021 at the San Bernardino Elks Lodge #836.
While receiving his special recognition as an Eagle Scout, Winston wanted to share the day and acknowledge a few local Veterans to tie in with his Eagle Project. A small way to thank them for their service to our great country. The following Veterans were recognized: Abel Gaytan (19 year Veteran of the Army), Jack Masi ( 4 year Veteran of the Navy), Sidney Murrish Sr ( 9 year Veteran of the Navy), Gwendolyn Pawluk ( 12 year Veteran of the Army & 31 year Veteran of Air Force) and Ben Rodriguez ( 10 year Veteran of the Army- not pictured above).
Winston’s Eagle Project included raising funds, planning, organizing volunteers, purchasing supplies and obtaining the necessary permits/clearance. With his team of 20+ volunteers, they erected a 27 foot flag pole and American flag at Gateway Christian Fellowship and Education Center. His fundraising efforts included sewing & selling face masks, collecting donated recyclables and some monetary donations. The project took 7 months to fundraise for and 2 months to complete.
Winston has served his troop as an Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, twice as a Troop Chaplain, and Troop Guide. Winston will be a senior at Gateway Education Center in the fall. He plans to enter the Nursing field after high school.
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