By Cindy GladdenRecord Staff WriterThe Eagle Scout award is the highest and most prestigious status a young man can attain in the Boy Scouts.Drake Kamp, of Augusta, earned that high honor Sunday, Feb. 8. His parents, Amanda and Kerry Kamp, shared the spotlight with him and he thanked them for their support.Kamp is a member of Boy Scout Troop 359 of Marthasville and a senior at Washington High School. Scoutmaster Dave Chisholm, a staunch supporter of the scouting program, has been fortunate to see a number of his Scouts attain the Eagle rank.“This is a young man to watch. He will literally change our world,” said Chisholm. “He’s very driven and goal oriented. With his interest in physics, he will actually reach the stars.”Kamp admits he almost gave up his goal of becoming an Eagle Scout. He said his parents and Chisholm pushed him to continue and he is grateful for their encouragement.“My parents played a huge role. They kept pushing me,” said Kamp. “I’m really glad they did.”During his scouting journey, Kamp earned 32 badges. Among his favorites were nuclear science and sailing.A resolution signed by State Rep. Bart Korman highlights many of Kamp’s accomplishments, including earning the One Hundred Miler award, BSA Kayaking certification, BSA Snorkeling certification and Brotherhood membership in the Order of the Arrow.“It was strange to let go of Drake with people other than family,” said his father. “But I saw how it developed him. Scouting had a huge influence on him.”Those seeking the rank of Eagle Scout must complete a special project. Mary Robertson, principal at Augusta Elementary, helped Kamp with an idea that would impact the students at the school he had attended.Kamp designed and built two “Buddy Benches” that sit near the playground at Augusta Elementary. If a student is feeling left out or bullied, they are encouraged to sit on the bench. All students know they can then make a difference by inviting that student to play or just sit and talk to the student having a bad day.In addition, Kamp built a special wagon to move the benches easily if needed. He also built two planters that sit near the entrance to the school.Kamp said he has learned the satisfaction of being able to help others by adhering to Boy Scout principles.“I can be a part of people’s lives by being there to help, even strangers,” he said.After finishing high school, Kamp will begin his college career at East Central College. He hopes to eventually complete a doctorate degree at the Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla.The first Eagle Scout award was given in 1912. According to Boy Scouts of America, more than 50,000 Scouts earn the award each year.Drake Kamp, of Augusta, attained the rank of Eagle Scout Sunday, Feb. 8, at a Court of Honor ceremony. Pictured, from left, are Scoutmaster Dave Chisholm and Kamp. Cindy Gladden photo.
