Troop 544 honored for heroic role in finding missing child near Ferry Park in early April
Okaloosa County, Florida – Officials in Okaloosa County honored the quick-thinking members of Scouting America Troop 544 for their efforts in finding a missing 11-year-old child earlier this spring. The county commission, led by Board Chairman Paul Mixon, gave the troop a special proclamation acknowledging them for their quick actions and sense of community during a short but tense search.
On the evening of April 7, Troop 544 met at their Scout Hut near Ferry Park in Fort Walton Beach for their regular weekly meeting. Local police officials talked to the scouts, many of whom were still in their uniforms, and told them that a little kid with autism had gone missing in the vicinity. The troop members promptly established search patrols and started looking through the park. They did this without thinking twice, with the help of their Assistant Scoutmaster and the older scouts.
As dusk settled over the neighborhood, the urgency grew. The scouts methodically covered the park’s grounds, their teamwork evident as they communicated and supported each other during the search. Just before midnight, they found the missing youngster silently hidden in some bushes nearby. Their hard work paid off. Instead of scaring him, the scouts carefully calmed and reassured the child, staying with him until the police arrived to safely reunite him with his family.
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People in the neighborhood and county leaders were thankful and proud of the response. Chairman Paul Mixon discussed about the fact that Troop 544 is an excellent role model for people to follow. He said that they are dedicated to the key ideals of scouting, which are helping others, working together, and being nice.
“I am very proud and appreciative of how Troop 544 demonstrated scouting values of helping others, showing kindness and teamwork,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. “The actions of Troop 544 not only showcased their dedication to scouting principles but also emphasized the importance of community engagement and support in times of crisis.”
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The event has shown how much of a difference young people can make when they are given the chance to lead and serve. Scouting has long taught kids how to grow character via outdoor adventures and community initiatives. These boys and girls are ready to confront obstacles with bravery and kindness. What they did that night in April had an effect on the entire community. It was an amazing example of leadership and care in action.
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If you want to discover more about scouting opportunities in the area, you can go to the official Scouting America website.
