The Audette family are, from left, Eagle Scouts Bert and Isaac and Janet Audette, all of China. Submitted photo

China’s Isaac Audette, 14, received his Eagle Scout medal during a ceremony at China’s Central Lodge No. 45 Masonic Hall on May 20.

In 2022, 35,533 young men and women earned the Eagle Scout rank, joining more than 2.7 million Americans before them. Less than 6% of all youth who enter Scouting attain the rank of Eagle, but Audette did just that, according to a news release from Chuck Mahaleris, district chairman for the Kennebec Valley District of Scouting.

“To earn the highest rank in Scouting, a Scout must spend a great deal of time and effort,” said Matt Bodine, who served as master of ceremonies for the Eagle Scout Court of Honor. “Therefore, the occasion that recognized his accomplishment should be memorable … . After a youth enters Scouting, the Scout Law that he promises to obey begins to guide his life.”

Nick Choate, who will soon also receive the Eagle rank, said during the ceremony, “In the Scout Oath, the young Scout promises upon his or her honor to do their best to do their duty, first to God and their country; second, to other people, by helping them at all times; and third, to himself, by keeping himself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.”

Audette, who attends China Middle School, is the 48th Eagle Scout for Troop 479 since 1995. In order to earn that rank, he was required to provide leadership to others in order to complete a meaningful project in the community. His project was to paint the unfinished interior of the new Scout China Public Library and build two outdoor bendings. Sanding and staining door and window trims were also completed as part of his project.

State Rep. Katrina Smith of Palermo presented Isaac with a Legislative Sentiment noting his accomplishments.

Eagle Scout Isaac Audette, right, hugs his grandfather David “Pops” Singer after presenting him with one of his Eagle Scout Mentor Pins. Submitted photo

One of the highlights of the ceremony came when Isaac presented one of his Eagle Scout mentor pins to his grandfather, David “Pops” Singer.

“This person has been by my side and is hands down one of the most influential people in my life,” Isaac said. “He has taught me many things, including fishing, metal detecting, magnet-fishing, and sparking a passion for cooking at a young age. We love trash talking each other about basketball teams, even though mine always comes up on top.”

Isaac is the son of Bert and Janet Audette of China.

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