Carol Stream teen earns Eagle Scout ranking

Matt Slanker, 18, became Carol Stream Boy Scout Troop 191's newest and 46th Eagle Scout.

Slanker boasts a 12-year Scouting career and was joined by 40 family members and friends for his Eagle Court of Honor celebration at Fellowship Church in Carol Stream, a sponsor of Troop 191.

"I went all the way through," he said.

However, Slanker doesn't take all the credit. He is very thankful to his parents, Jim and Dawn; his uncle, Bob Rosner; and cousin Ben Rosner for their encouragement. With his uncle a Scout Master for another troop and his cousin an Eagle Scout, Slanker knew there were many advantages to attaining the Eagle Scout rank.

"I did a lot of things I wouldn't have done on my own," he said.

The new Eagle Scout knows his achievement will look good on his resume, as well. To attain the rank of Eagle Scout, each candidate must choose a project and have it approved by the council. So, following a conversation with his church pastor, Slanker chose a project that would benefit his church nursery.

With assistance from his troop and family, his church nursery now boasts a 14-foot-wide wall cabinet. Slanker's dad helped with the plans and cut the wood, while the others helped build and stain the cabinet, working a few weekends to complete it.

"I learned how to be a leader and show leadership skills," Slanker added.

Slanker also wanted to be sure to give credit to Boy Scout Troop 191 Scout Master Carl Zika for his help.

"He (Zika) is a great leader and very friendly and helpful," Slanker said.

Now that Slanker has attained this rank, he will be Troop 191's assistant Scout Master. Through this volunteer position, he hopes to share his skills with the other 55 members, and will encourage them to work toward the rank of Eagle Scout.

Slanker graduated from Glenbard North High School this year and will attend college in the fall. He says he is grateful for his many Boy Scout experiences that are sure to be helpful with his education.

He is so grateful for having this experience that he said, "When I have a son, hopefully I will be able to teach him some of the things I learned."