NEWBERRY — Gabe Lindner was officially named an Eagle Scout, the highest advancement rank of Boys Scouts Wednesday evening during an Eagle Court of Honor ceremony, held in recognition of his achievement.
On April 23, 2013 Lindner joined the troop. To begin his scouting journey, Lindner first had to learn about scouting ideals, motto, law and slogan. On June 25, 2013 Lindner became a full-fledged scout and earned a badge and a few short months later on Sept. 24, 2013, Lindner was a Tenderfoot Scout.
Continuing to be active in his troop, Lindner learned about nature and participated in a service project and program that shows the dangers of alcohol and tobacco. After mastering the basic skills of scouting, on May 13, 2014, Lindner became a first class scout.
Lindner also served as assistant Senior Patrol Leader completing more service hours, and on Sept. 8, 2015 became a Life Scout, one step away from being an Eagle Scout.
Not only did Lindner have to earn various badges, but he also had to participate and lead a service project. To fulfill this requirement, Lindner planned and led the construction of a storage shed for track wheelchairs benefiting the Freedom and Hope Foundation, in Prosperity, which provides free outdoor experiences to wounded veterans and disabled children. Throughout the service project, Lindner, with the help of his troop members, youth from the community and adults was able to record over 100 hours of service.
To honor Lindner, members from Troop One recited the Scout Oath, which describes the characteristics that a Scout possesses such as being trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, worthy, clean and reverent.
“It’s not enough to just stand up for yourself you also have to stand for something. Here’s your challenge and your opportunity. While there are detailed requirements for becoming an Eagle Scout there are no requirements of being an Eagle Scout. The path you have been climbing ends right now. You may embark on a lifetime of service to scouting, giving back to the program that has given so much to you or you may never put on a scout uniform again,” said Blair Williams, Eagle Scout/Troop Advancement chair. “You may choose a rewarding career one that brings you fame and fortune or you can choose a job that will allow you to spend more time with your family. You may strive for a career in teaching or community service, showing you can serve in other ways. No matter where you go you will always be an Eagle Scout.”
During the ceremony, Lindner also received recognition’s from representatives that were unable to attend Wednesday’s ceremony. Among those who recognized Lindner’s accomplishment were Governor Henry McMaster, Senator Lindsey Graham, State Representative Rick Martin, the United States Air Force, the United States Coast Guard, NASA and Senator Ronnie Cromer.
“The Rotary Club has sponsored Troop One since 1921, so you join a long line of distinguished Eagle Scouts in Troop One. That in itself is an accomplishment,” said County Councilman Scott Cain.
On behalf of Congressman Ralph Norman, who was unable to attend, Freddie Gault presented Lindner with a flag that Norman ordered be flown over the United States Capitol in Lindner’s honor for his Eagle Scout achievement.
“This is an honor. Once again, thank you all for coming out tonight, thank you for your support and I should have done this to begin with, I want to thank the Lord for his support,” Lindner said.
