East Texas teen achieves Eagle Scout rank at 13, just like his father | Family

While he aspired to become an Eagle Scout at the age of 13, Madhave “Madi” Brazeal learned that achieving his goal would require a lot of focus, hard work, and sacrifice.

“One day I remember exactly where I could have gone to watch a movie or something with my grandparents, but instead I stayed home and made scouts and merit badges,” Madi said. “My dad (Dr. Brad Brazeal) got it when he was 13, so I guess you could call it a challenge.”

Inspired by the challenge, Madi decided to achieve his goal in the same troop as his father's, Boy Scout Troop 370, sponsored by Green Acres Baptist Church.

In doing so, he developed a deeper appreciation for camping, cooking, first aid and what it means to be a good Scout.

“(Scouting taught me) to be kind to others and try to help them no matter the situation,” he said.

He added that he learned the importance of having an open mind and gained leadership skills.

Last year, Madi achieved her goal of becoming an Eagle Scout at age 13. In November, a ceremony was held in recognition of his achievement.

Boy Scout Troop 370 Scoutmaster Patrick Moran said that nationwide, only about 3 or 4 percent of Boy Scouts achieve the Eagle Scout rank. About 24 percent of Scouts in Troop 370 reach the Eagle rank, but Moran said reaching it at age 13 is quite rare.

“He’s very goal-oriented,” Moran said. “Every position he’s had, he’s used that position to develop and grow.”

Madi became a Tiger Scout at age 6. He rose through the Cub Scout ranks and was elected patrol leader while at Webelos. At age 11, he achieved the rank of Arrow of Light and joined the Boy Scouts.

His Eagle Scout project involved building an approximately 10-by-30-foot treated wood deck with handrails in front of the Anderson Cabin at the Paul W. Powell Retreat Center on Lake Tyler. In 2017, he served as deputy patrol leader of Troop 4206 during the National Jamboree.

Madi is also very dedicated to his educational goals. He plans to become a scientist and has many accomplishments, having received the Presidential University Award for three consecutive years.

He credits his parents, Dr. Brazeal and Dr. Asha Brazeal, as a great source of motivation and drive.

Dr. Brazeal said he never wanted his son to feel pressured to reach the Eagle Scout rank at age 13, but he is proud of him for doing it and how he did it. seen growing along the way.

“For me and from my personal experience, I think scouting is something that prepares you really well for life,” Dr. Brazeal said. “He certainly benefited from his leadership position.”

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