By Jessie Define

Many students find it hard to not notice the FHN Rock Mural in the stadium, near the pole-vaulting pit. What most students don’t realize is that it was an Eagle Scout Project.

Senior Thomas Officer is in the process of getting his Eagle. One part of the process is a project; his was the rebuilding of the FHN Rock Mural.

“I wanted to do a project that was a bit out of the norm,” Thomas said. “Something that isn’t usually done and something that was unique. When my mom suggested to me that I might be able to replace the previous Rock Mural there, it was the perfect solution.”

Thomas began building his project over fall break, but before he could start it, there was a long process he had to go through. There is a resource book that walks the scout through the entire process, from planning, approving, completing and reviewing. The project design must be approved again at its completion. On Dec. 8, Thomas earned his Eagle Scout Badge, but the process of getting there wasn’t quick.

“Working with others can sometimes be a challenge,” Thomas said. “However, my experience in scouting has well prepared me for projects like this one. I was able to lead the project with minimal issues. If anything, I have further refined my leadership and planning skills.”

This project symbolizes the importance of being an eagle scout and marks a very important time in Thomas’ life.

“Having my Eagle means to me that I accomplished a lot,” Thomas said. “It is symbolic of all the hours put in it, all the accomplishments I have made, and all the people I have met. This award summarizes everything that I have done in scouting.”

Being an Eagle Scout has always been a goal of Thomas’, he really enjoyed it. To Thomas becoming an Eagle Scout is the accomplishment and recognition for achieving that goal. People who know Thomas well can tell how much this means to him.

“Over the time put in, I have grown and developed more as a person and as a leader.” Officer said. “I have learned many life lessons that I will take with me after high school, and much more.”