Celebrating Cole R. Campbell: Troop 226’s Newest Eagle Scout

Council Communications
Feb 3, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Feb 3, 2025

On Tuesday, January 28, 2025, Troop 226 proudly honored Cole R. Campbell during his Eagle Scout Court of Honor at Kingswood Methodist Church in Clovis, New Mexico.

This special ceremony marked the culmination of Cole’s outstanding Scouting journey, recognizing his dedication, leadership, and service to his community. Surrounded by family, friends, fellow Scouts, troop leaders, and community supporters, Cole was celebrated for his accomplishments and contributions as he officially earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout—the highest honor in Scouting America.

Presentation of Colors
Presentation of Colors
Presentation of Colors
Presentation of Colors
Presentation of Colors
AJ Soliz & Norm Kia
Cole, his mother, and Norman Kia
Cole and Chad Atkinson-Adams, Eagle Scout Charge
Cole and his Eagle Scout Charge
Kingwood Methodist Church
Cole, Brenner, and Stephanie Campbell

Cole began his Scouting journey in August 2021, with Troop 226 in Clovis, NM. Throughout his time in Scouting, he actively engaged in troop activities, including campouts, summer camps, and service projects that benefitted both his troop and the wider community. Cole’s service projects included meaningful contributions at Hillcrest Park Zoo, Angel Tree, Matt 25 Hope Center, Central Baptist Church, Scouting for Food, and Wreaths Across America.

His leadership roles as Troop Guide, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader showcased his commitment to mentoring younger Scouts and leading by example. In 2024, he was also inducted into the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s national honor society, reflecting his exceptional service and leadership within the organization.

A significant milestone in Cole’s journey was his Eagle Scout Project, where he demonstrated vision and leadership by constructing Gaga Ball Pits for local community churches, including Central Baptist Church and Kingswood United Methodist Church. This project benefits not only the churches’ youth groups but also the surrounding neighborhoods, providing a fun and engaging recreational space that fosters physical activity, teamwork, and community bonding. The Gaga Ball Pits stand as a testament to Cole’s ability to identify a community need, plan effectively, and mobilize resources to bring a project to life that will have a lasting impact.

In addition to his project, Cole’s Scouting career is distinguished by the impressive 31 merit badges he earned, reflecting a diverse range of skills, interests, and areas of expertise. Among these badges are Eagle-required merit badges such as Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Personal Management, Emergency Preparedness, Environmental Science, and First Aid. His collection of badges also includes Aviation, Space Exploration, Welding, and Wilderness Survival, highlighting his curiosity and commitment to lifelong learning.

During the ceremony, heartfelt tributes were shared by leaders and mentors who played pivotal roles in Cole’s development as a Scout. The program featured inspiring words from Ronald "Poppy" Walton, Chad Atkinson-Adams, and Mike Waggoner, among others, emphasizing Cole’s resilience, leadership qualities, and growth throughout his Scouting journey. AJ Soliz-Chavez, ELG Dist. Executive delivered remarks as the Scouting America Professional Representative, and Brenner Campbell offered a reflection on the Scout Law in Scripture, reinforcing the values that Scouting instills in its members.

Cole expressed deep gratitude to those who supported him along the way. He gave special thanks to his parents, Brenner and Stephanie Campbell, for their unwavering love and support, and to his four sisters for their constant encouragement. He also recognized the invaluable guidance of his Scoutmaster, Norman Kia, and other troop leaders, including Cheryle Csakan and Mike Waggoner.

Cole acknowledged individuals such as Philip Wright, Rick Hollis, Elliott Ford, and Olivia Usher for their contributions in writing his Eagle Scout Letters of Recommendation, and extended thanks to Greg Butcher, Michelle Bjorkland, and Claire Burroughs for serving on his Eagle Board of Review. Additionally, he expressed appreciation for Michael Kirby of Central Baptist Church and Bill Case of Kingswood Methodist Church for their support throughout his Eagle Project.

The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt benediction and blessing of the meal by Stan Allcorn, followed by a reception where attendees gathered to celebrate Cole’s achievements. Family members, fellow Scouts, troop leaders, and community members all came together, reflecting the profound impact Cole has made through his service, leadership, and commitment to the values of Scouting.

As a high school freshman, Cole continues to excel academically and aspires to pursue a future in engineering, military service, and biblical studies. His journey as an Eagle Scout is just the beginning of a lifelong path of leadership, service, and personal growth.