Bryson Lee Pettengill of China, a member of Troop 479, received his Eagle Scout rank during a ceremony held Oct. 30 at the China Masonic Lodge.

He isn’t the first in his family to attain the rank of Eagle; both of his brothers also have earned Scouting’s highest honor. Aiden earned it in 2017 and Rémy, who is serving as Senior Patrol leader for Troop 479, earned his in 2019.

Since the inception of the Eagle Scout award in 1912, 2.01 percent of eligible Scouts have earned the honor, but the Pettengill family has seen all its children earn the award, according to a news release from Chuck Mahaleris, district vice chairman for the Kennebec Valley District of Scouting.

Lee Pettengill, their father, said Scouting “means a safe place for boys to turn into young men. A place of friendship and tolerance. A place that teaches it’s OK to stumble and educates how to get back up gracefully and move forward with dignity.” Lee is an assistant Scoutmaster with the troop, and his wife Danielle is the troop advancement chair.

More than 50 people attended Bryson’s ceremony, including state Sen. Matt Pouliot and Rep. Tim Theriault, who presented the China Middle School student with a legislative sentiment acknowledging his accomplishment and a U.S. flag that flew over the State capitol building.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment,” Pouliot said, admitting that he never got beyond Cub Scouts but appreciated the leadership development and service Scouting provides. “It is a great program for our young people and it is a great benefit to our communities.”

Bryson also earned a Bronze Palm for his Eagle Scout ribbon in recognition of his having earned nine badges above those required for Eagle. As he is only 13, he could earn many more palms before he turns 18.

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