On Monday, March 11, Scout Jonah Pinion was honored with the prestigious Eagle Scout rank during the Troop 149 Court of Honor.
Jonah Pinion, a native of Roswell, New Mexico, was raised in a family deeply rooted in Scouting. As the youngest of four boys, all of whom have achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, Jonah's journey began as a Tiger Cub Scout, progressing through both Cub Scouts and ScoutsBSA programs with unwavering dedication.
Throughout his Scouting tenure, Jonah assumed various leadership roles within Troop 149, including Assistant Patrol Leader and Senior Patrol Leader, showcasing his commitment to service and excellence. His exemplary service was recognized with induction into Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s national honor society, where he amassed over 500 service hours. Notably, a significant portion of these hours were dedicated to his Eagle Scout project, where he spearheaded the transformation of over 10,000 square feet of land into a xeriscape oasis at Saint Peter's Church in Roswell, NM.
In addition to his Scouting endeavors, Jonah distinguished himself at the New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI), where he currently pursues his senior year and anticipates graduation in May 2024. At NMMI, Jonah assumed pivotal leadership roles, including Troop Commander, overseeing a cohort of over 75 cadets. Beyond his leadership acumen, Jonah excelled in academics and athletics, notably as a three-sport varsity athlete and participant in the National Science Bowl.
Remarkably, Jonah's achievements extend beyond Scouting and academics to the realm of sports. As a Pentathlete, he proudly represented Team USA in the 2022 and 2023 Youth World U-19 Modern Pentathlon Championships in Italy, showcasing his versatility and athleticism on the global stage.
Reflecting on his journey, Jonah attributes much of his character development to the Scouting movement, regarding it as a "laboratory for character." He cherishes fond memories of hikes, campouts, and service projects, which have shaped his values and perspective profoundly.
During the Eagle Scout ceremony, Jonah expressed gratitude to his parents and two older brothers, presenting them with mentor pins as tokens of appreciation for their guidance and support. Notably, his father, Rick Pinion, previously received the prestigious Silver Beaver Award for his unwavering commitment to Scouting.
The Pinion family's legacy in Scouting is illustrious, with all four sons achieving the esteemed Eagle Scout rank. Notably, their educational and career paths reflect a commitment to excellence, with two sons attending military academies, one embarking on a medical career path, and Jonah set to pursue Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University in Galveston this fall.
Congratulations to Jonah Pinion and the entire Pinion family on their outstanding achievements in Scouting. Their collective journey serves as an inspiring example of leadership and mutual support within the Scouting community.