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Elgin’s first and only all-female scouting unit, Scouting America Troop 473, celebrated a major milestone last week as it recognized its first member to achieve the organization’s highest rank.
Madison Woehl became the troop’s first Eagle Scout during its inaugural Eagle Board of Review March 26. The troop, chartered by VFW Post 6115, was founded in 2019 by Woehl’s mother, Alicia, following the Boy Scouts of America’s decision to welcome in young women.
Coming from a scouting family, Scoutmaster Morgan Louvier said Woehl’s journey began long before the policy change.
“(Madison) has made us proud, and we are all excited to see how far this strong woman will go,” Louvier said.
According to Louvier, Woehl earned her Eagle rank through a deep commitment to service, including a renovation of the VFW hall entrance, which she dedicated in November in honor of Capt. Joshua S. Meadows, USMC, on the 249th birthday of the Marine Corps.
The Eagle Board of Review included participation from Elgin Independent School District Superintendent Jana Rueter, Mayor Pro Tem Sue Brashar and other community leaders.
Troop 473 looks forward to seeing more members pursue Eagle Scout rank in the near future and make a difference in the community, Louvier added.
