Way to go Karl. Your life turned out even if you weren't in Scouts as long as you liked.
And by the way your scoutmaster sounded like a real prick. I can't remember but I suppose I probably bought the Scouthand book. But I do remember a lot of Scout hand books in the mini library the Scouts had and some of them were used but I think they would let you use them if you had to.
I made it to Life. I barely made it, since I was almost 18. I got started a little late. I don't know if I would have tried to make to Eagle if I had had more time, can't really say now. I did pick some of the easier ones to make it to Life as it was, had a lot of harder ones to go.
I suppose I can envy the "big boys," the ones who make it to Eagle, but they deserve it, since it takes a lot of work.
I have a friend from Arkansas who made it to Eagle. He's not in the army, but he's certainly a capable person and a good friend.
Anyway, a salute to all Boy Scouts, and it's good to remember the Oath, though we often forget it.
On my honor I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country
and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong,
mentally awake, and morally straight.
