Boy Scout receives highest rank in scouting

Winfield Boy Scout Troop 575 has awarded the Eagle rank, Scouting's highest rank, to Aeden Edward Young of Winfield. He is the 47th scout from the Troop to be awarded this rank. Ceremonies were held at Christ Our Savior Church in Winfield.

The Eagle rank is the highest rank in Boy Scouts. Nationally, only 5% of Boy Scouts achieve this rank.

As part of the award ceremony, Aeden received letters of congratulations from President Barack Obama, Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner, and Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter.

In his speech, Aeden stated that, “Being an Eagle Scout is taking the Scout Oath, Law, and Motto to heart and using it not only to better yourself, but more importantly, to better your community and the people around you.”

For his Eagle Project, Aeden cleaned up debris in the portion of Winfield Creek that runs through Creekside Park in Winfield and dug a drainage swale to direct storm water in the park.

Aeden is a 2015 graduate of Wheaton North High School and recently completed his freshman year at Western Illinois University where he is studying law enforcement. He is a member of the University's Honors College and is employed with the Wheaton Park District as a summer lifeguard.

About Troop 575

Winfield Boy Scout Troop 575 was founded in 1997 and is made up of Scouts from throughout western DuPage County. The Troop is known for its commitment to the community, developing the moral character and leadership skills of its members, and producing Scouts with exceptional outdoor skills.