Clarke completes Eagle project

In July, an American flag was raised in honor of Marine Aviator Cyrus Augustus Clarke at Discovery United Methodist Church by Boy Scout Troop 23 of Hoover. Life Scout Bennett Clarke, the grandson of Cyrus Augustus Clarke, erected the new flag pole as part of his Eagle Scout Service Project. The flag was initially flown by a U.S. Air Force pilot, currently serving in England and a former Eagle Scout. The Hoover Fire Department raised the flag as part of the ceremony.

In order to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, a Life Scout must earn 21 merit badges including 10 Eagle-required merit badges. A Scout is required to serve six months in a leadership position with his Boy Scout troop. Clarke served as the senior patrol leader of Troop 23 for a six-month period. Finally, a Life Scout must develop, manage and complete an Eagle Service project that is beneficial to the community. Clarke was able to raise more than $1,000 in donations, coordinated with local building inspectors and managed fellow scouts to complete the project. 

-Submitted by Michael Holt