PV student earns Eagle Scout badge

The Boy Scouts of America recognized Fort Worth native Wyndell Madkins, Jr. on Aug. 11 as a recipient of the Eagle Scout honor. Earning the highest ranking allowed for young men involved in the Boy Scouts has set Madkins apart from most people his age.

"It's very rare for young men to receive the Eagle Scout badge," said Madkins. "You must receive it before your 18th birthday. About two of every 83 boys to ever join the Boy Scouts earn the Eagle Scout badge. That's why it's such an honor."

Becoming an Eagle Scout is very important and beneficial. As the sixth and final rank, it opens doors for young men entering manhood.

Madkins said, "Scouting teaches the characteristics of changing from a boy to a man. Having the Eagle Scout badge can help in educational fields, getting into college and getting a job."

It took about one year for Madkins to qualify and submit paperwork to the council for approval.

Throughout that year, Madkins volunteered in the community, helping with Hurricane Katrina relief efforts and the Fort Worth Sister Cities International.

To complete the requirements to earn his Eagle Scout badge, he gave a presentation titled "How to Work the System to Receive Free Scholarships and Grants," to an audience. Madkins said he hoped to help prepare people to acquire financing for higher education.

"Young people don't know how or where to receive money for college.

There's plenty of money out there, you just have to get it. I wanted to be the one to show them they can't just wait for it to come to them; you have to go get it," said Madkins.

At Prairie View, Madkins is majoring in computer engineering.

He hopes to graduate with a bachelor's degree and eventually own a computer technology business.

Madkins also sings in the University College Choir and the Baptist Student Movement.

"I haven't quite figured out how to give back to the community. I am, of course, going to give back to my local community, and I'll eventually contribute to PV," he said.

"From Boy Scouts, I've learned that if you ever find someone in need, take the time to help those people, because you never know when you may need their help," Madkins said.