Witzel and Kraus earn Eagle rank

FALLBROOK – Daniel Witzel and Cameron Kraus, both 17 and from Fallbrook Troop 739, recently earned their Eagle Scout awards. In addition to earning 21 merit badges, to obtain the rank of Eagle, a scout must demonstrate leadership by planning and completing a service project that will benefit the scout’s community.

Witzel’s Eagle service project included installing new landscape, a bench and an updated irrigation system at the Angel Society Shop. Witzel said the best part of scouting has been teaching the younger scouts in his troop leadership skills. Witzel credits his dad with helping him earn his Eagle rank.

“My dad was my scoutmaster and he has been the most important person in my scouting life because of his encouraging actions and his leadership,” said Witzel.

Kraus’ Eagle service project was a landscaping project at the Pittenger House for the Fallbrook Historical Society. Kraus said his mom, Joanie Kraus, had the most influence on him during his scouting career.

“She was my den leader in cub scouts and has been very involved in my Boy Scout career and not just for my brother and me, but for every scout in the troop. She has always encouraged us all,” said Kraus. “Scouting has given me lifelong lasting memories.”

To get more information on the local scouting program, visit http://www.smscouting.org.