Of the millions of young people who begin a journey with the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), only a small percentage, a number hovering in the mid-single digits on average from year to year, will attain the BSA’s highest rank of Eagle Scout. It takes years of hard work, dedication, perseverance, and discipline to meet the rigorous requirements to become a member of this very exclusive and highly respected class of American citizens.
Just several weeks after receiving his diploma from Evergreen High School, Sam Napierala was officially recognized as an Eagle Scout in a ceremony held in the banquet hall of the Swanton Sports Center.
“When I first started I kind of just went because all my friends were there and I got to hang out with people,” said Sam, explaining his initial motivation to be involved with Scouting. “But once I passed my First Class (swimming) I realized that Eagle Scout was something I wanted and I really pushed myself to do it. And I’m glad that I did.”
Following the ceremony, a combined Graduation/Eagle Scout Achievement celebration was held for family, friends, and fellow members of Boy Scout Troop 167 of Metamora.
“Sam has worked very hard to earn this rank. I’m very proud of him,” said Jason Napierala, Sam’s father and Scoutmaster.
“He was a bit shy. He’s grown quite a bit,” said Joe Blanchard, Sam’s Cub Scout leader, commenting on his maturation in the program. “I only had him for a year and a half before he crossed over to the Boy Scouts. It’s awesome to watch the boys go from little to big and turn into young men.”
Another Scout leader, John Schwab, affirmed Sam’s growth from when he first joined the Boy Scouts. “I saw him from probably a Tenderfoot all the way up to Eagle today and I saw his progression on how he changed from a kid to an awesome reliable young man,” he said. “He is a true leader.”
With his education from Evergreen Schools and the life skills he has acquired in the Boy Scouts, Sam is well-prepared and ready to begin the next chapter of his life. He will be attending Owens Community College later this year and will be studying for a job in the electrical industry.
You can find this story originally published on June 14, 2021, at Metamora’s Sam Napierala Gets His Wings | Fulton County Ohio Media (fultoncountymedia.com). Fulton County Ohio Media is Independent Journalism Covering Fulton County in Northwest Ohio.
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