Local Scout Earns Every Merit Badge in Just 20 Months

In an extraordinary display of dedication, perseverance, and Scouting spirit, JT, a member of his local ScoutsBSA Troop, has achieved what few Scouts ever do—earning all 141 merit badges. Even more impressive, he completed this monumental feat in just 20 months.

Over that period, JT devoted nearly every day to Scouting. He and his family traveled extensively—visiting eight different states, including New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Virginia—to meet with counselors and participate in unique badge experiences. Some weekends were particularly grueling; on one occasion, JT’s family drove six hours to Virginia for a Saturday merit badge, then another four hours that night to New Jersey for another session on Sunday.

“It was a true family effort,” said JT’s parents, noting that they spent nearly every weekend on the road, often waking before dawn, staying in hotels or with friends, and balancing the schedule of JT’s younger brother along the way.

While every badge presented new challenges, JT found several favorites among them. “I really liked Scuba, Plumbing, Metalworking, Watersports, and Motorboating,” he said. His least favorite? “Definitely Bird Study,” he admitted with a grin.

In addition to completing all 141 merit badges, JT also earned five experimental “Test Lab” badges—Auctioneering, Woodland Fire Management, Life Skills, Physics, and Sewing and Needlework. His hard work also led to earning multiple awards, including the Firem’n Chit, Totin’ Chip, Mile Swim, Scuba, Snorkeling, and Forest Conservation awards. He is currently working toward his Angler Award and several others.

JT’s commitment to Scouting extended beyond badges. During this time, he served his Troop as Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, and Bugler, and he completed his Order of the Arrow Ordeal—the Boy Scouts’ National Honor Society—at just age 11. He plans to complete his OA Brotherhood in November 2025.

His adventures have also contributed to over 50 hours of community and conservation service, more than 150 miles hiked, and 40 nights of camping.

Along the way, JT discovered new passions, including scuba diving, waterskiing, and even crocheting—a skill he picked up during the Sewing and Needlework Test Lab.

Looking ahead, JT hopes to take on high-adventure trips, attend National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT), and grow as a leader within his troop and the Order of the Arrow. He also wants to help other Scouts on their own journeys toward earning merit badges and advancing in rank.

“Scouting has taught me that if you work hard and stay focused, you can accomplish more than you ever thought possible,” JT said.