Local Scout attains elite rank of Eagle

Max Dargatz of Sycamore has earned the highest advancement rank in Boy Scouts: the rank of Eagle Scout. On March 8, Troop 40 recognized him for completing all the requirements for this honor. Max is the son of Ken and Jane Dargatz of Sycamore.

To earn the Eagle Scout rank, a Boy Scout must fulfill requirements in the areas of leadership, service and outdoor skills. Merit badges signify the mastery of certain scouting skills, as well as helping boys increase their skill in an area of personal interest.

Twenty-one badges must be earned to qualify for Eagle Scout. Twelve badges are required, including First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, Communications, Environmental Science, Personal Fitness, Personal Management, Camping, Family Life, Emergency Preparedness and Swimming. Elective merit badges Dargatz completed were Archery, Basketry, Geography, Indian lore, Pioneering, Rifle shooting, Leatherwork, Cooking and Fingerprinting.

In addition, Dargatz demonstrated leadership skills by holding the following positions of responsibility in his patrol and/or troop: patrol leader, assistant patrol leader, den chief and Order of the Arrow representative.

Dargatz attended summer camp five times and hiked in Philmont, N.M., in 2005 and 2007. To demonstrate leadership and organization, Life Scouts must plan and execute a Scout-led service project to benefit the community. Dargatz’ Eagle project was painting the Veteran’s Pavilion in Elmwood Cemetery in Sycamore in time for the Memorial Day ceremony in May 2007. Each year, Troop 40 of Sycamore performs a flag-folding ceremony for the community there.

Dargatz is actively involved in the Order of the Arrow, an honor society of Boy Scouts. He has served as chapter chief for the last two years.

Max recently graduated from Sycamore High School. He plans to attend Kishwaukee College in the fall with an emphasis in math and science.