An Eagle Scout candidate has to earn 21 merit badges varying in subject from first aid to business, assume leadership roles and execute a large community service project and has to be done before turning 18.
Credit: Courtesy Lauren Krimm/Julie Frances Photography/Valerie johnston/Ysa Duenas
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For the first time, girls were eligible to be Eagle Scouts -- and nearly 1,000 earned the elite rank
Valerie Johnston knew she wanted to be a Boy Scout since she was 6. That's when she started attending meetings with her brother. When she turned 8, she got special permission to get an official uniform, and she joined the co-ed group Venturing at 14.
