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Honoring Franklin S. Spears: An Eagle Scout Legacy of Service, Leadership, and Law

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In 1912, Scouting took root in South Texas with a promise that has endured for more than a century: to prepare young people for lives of character, service, and leadership. As part of the 1912 Initiative, we are proud to highlight Eagle Scouts whose lives reflect the lasting impact of that promise. This month, we honor Franklin S. Spears—a man whose Scouting journey helped shape a lifetime of public service and whose legacy continues to influence the Alamo Area Council today.

From Scout to Eagle: Foundations of a Life in Service

Franklin Scott Spears (1931–1996) earned the rank of Eagle Scout in May 1945 through the Alamo Area Council. Achieving Scouting’s highest rank at a young age marked more than a personal milestone, it set the foundation for a life defined by integrity, leadership, and a deep commitment to serving others.

Growing up in San Antonio, Spears was shaped during a pivotal era in American history. Scouting provided structure, values, and a sense of responsibility at a time when the world was changing rapidly. The lessons of the Scout Oath and Law (duty to country, service to others, trustworthiness, and moral courage) were not left behind when he aged out of the program. Instead, they became guiding principles throughout his life.

A Career Guided by Integrity and Civic Duty

Franklin Spears carried the values of Scouting into an extraordinary career in public service and law. He served as a member of the Texas House of Representatives from 1959 to 1961, followed by service in the Texas State Senate from 1961 to 1967. In each role, he demonstrated a commitment to thoughtful leadership and the public good.
His dedication to fairness and the rule of law ultimately led him to the Texas Supreme Court, where he served as a Justice from 1979 to 1990. During his tenure, Justice Spears authored numerous opinions that helped shape Texas jurisprudence. Colleagues and scholars alike recognized him for his intellect, humility, and unwavering ethical standards—qualities that echo the values instilled through Scouting.

A veteran as well as a jurist, Spears devoted his life to service and civic responsibility. His leadership—in uniform, in public office, and on the bench—reflected the highest ideals of Scouting and was recognized in 1991 with the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award.

A Legacy That Spans Generations

The impact of Franklin S. Spears did not end with his own achievements. His son, Carleton B. Spears, was also a Scout, continuing a powerful family tradition rooted in Scouting values. Today, Carleton serves as the President-Elect of the Alamo Area Council, an extraordinary full-circle moment that highlights how Scouting shapes not only individuals, but families and communities across generations.

This father-and-son legacy is a living example of Scouting’s long-term impact. It reminds us that the lessons learned around campfires, in patrol meetings, and through service projects often reappear decades later in boardrooms, courtrooms, and community leadership roles.

A Century of Impact, Measured and Unmeasured

While Eagle Scouts like Franklin Spears offer visible examples of Scouting’s influence, the true impact of Scouting extends far beyond titles and accolades. It lives in the Scout who learns confidence after their first campout. In the youth who discover a sense of purpose through service. In the young person who chooses integrity because someone once taught them to “do the right thing, even when no one is watching.”

For more than 113 years, the Alamo Area Council has served youth across our 13-county area, ensuring Scouting remains accessible to families from all backgrounds. That access, however, is not guaranteed. It depends on a community of supporters who believe in Scouting’s mission and its power to shape future leaders.

Keeping the Legacy Alive Through the 1912 Initiative

The 1912 Initiative honors our founding year while investing in the future of Scouting. A monthly gift of $19.12 helps sustain programs that build character, teach leadership, and provide safe, meaningful experiences for thousands of local youth. These contributions help maintain camps, support volunteers, and remove financial barriers for families who might not otherwise be able to participate.

When we reflect on leaders like Franklin S. Spears, we are reminded that today’s Scouts are tomorrow’s judges, legislators, veterans, educators, and community leaders. Supporting Scouting is not just an investment in a program…it is an investment in people.

Franklin S. Spears could not have known, as a young Eagle Scout in 1945, how profoundly his life would reflect the values he learned through Scouting—or how his legacy would continue through future generations of Scouts and leaders. Yet his story stands as a powerful testament to what Scouting makes possible.

As we honor his legacy through the 1912 Initiative, we invite you to help ensure that every young person in our community has the same opportunity to discover their potential. Because when we invest in Scouting, we are shaping futures, strengthening communities, and building leaders, one Scout at a time.

Text 1912 to 41444 or click here to join the 1912 Society and be part of Scouting’s next century of impact.

Eagle Scout Project of the Month (June 2024)

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Eagle Scout Project of the Month: Building a Better Future for San Antonio’s Children

The Boy Scouts of America Council is proud to announce June’s Eagle Scout Project of the Month. This month, two different, yet similar Eagle Scouts have been selected for their outstanding efforts in leading projects with a shared mission: providing beds for needy children in San Antonio. We are honored to recognize Emilio Edwards of Troop 163 in New Braunfels and Travis Ghormley of Troop 226 in Stone Oak for their dedication and hard work.

Emilio Edwards: A Community United

Sleep In Heavenly Peace – San Antonio Chapter estimates that more than 70,000 San Antonio children lack beds to sleep in every night. Inspired by his parents’ previous volunteer efforts with the organization, Emilio aimed to address the ever-pressing issue of child bedlessness himself. “I thought this project was a great way to work with the community to help raise funds to purchase materials and raise awareness about children without beds to sleep in.” Emilio and his team of 27 volunteers constructed 22 1/2 beds, 95 headboards, and collected 7 bed-in-a-bag sets, demonstrating the impact that one individual can make.

Travis Ghormley: Immediate Impact for Families in Need

Travis Ghormley partnered with First Baptist Church San Antonio (FBCSA) and the South Texas Alliance for Orphans (STAO) to build beds for families in need. His project specifically focused on kinship care families and those within the CPS system, addressing the urgent need for safe sleeping spaces for children. According to SATO, Bexar County faces significant child welfare challenges, including 21,897 cases where children need to be removed from their homes due to abuse. Providing beds for extended family members’ homes allows children to stay with their biological relatives rather than being placed in foster care, emergency shelters, or sometimes even with caseworkers. This initiative not only prevents family separation, but also reduces the strain on the city’s foster care system. “I chose this project because of the immediate impact it would have on the community and how urgent the need for beds was,” Travis explained.

Byron Pitts of FBCSA delivered the beds shortly after they were made. When Travis and his troopmates learned how quickly the beds they built were put into homes, they reconvened to construct more beds, even after Travis had earned his Eagle Scout rank. Reflecting on the need, Pitts stated, “We could build 1,000 bunk beds and never have enough. The need is so great that every church and every Scout troop could build beds, and we would still have a need.” To help address this ongoing demand, Travis is collaborating with these organizations by sharing the information he gathered during his Eagle Scout project planning and execution phases—specifically his notes and budget details—so that others may work together to meet the community’s need for beds.

The Importance of These Projects

Most people are unaware of this specific need in our community and are surprised by the number of children who often lack necessities such as a bed. Though Emilio and Travis may not have known about the other’s project, they approached the need to directly address urgent issues, providing much-needed beds for children of families in desperate situations.

Emilio’s and Travis’s projects exemplify the values of Scouting, demonstrating leadership, community service, and a commitment to helping others, embodying the true spirit of Scouting.

Stay tuned for more stories of exceptional Eagle Scout projects, and let these inspire you to make a difference in your community. Together, we can build a better future for all.

Local Scout Soars to National Success: Ricardo Awarded Top Eagle Scout in the Country

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San Antonio, TX – In the heart of Texas, amidst the bustling cityscape of San Antonio, a young Scout has emerged as a beacon of dedication and achievement. Ricardo L. has not only made his mark locally but has soared to national recognition, clinching the prestigious title of Top Eagle Scout in the country.

Just a month ago, Ricardo received news that he had secured the top spot in the Arthur M. & Berdena King Eagle Scout Contest at the state level, representing the state of Texas. His application, forwarded by the local San Antonio Chapter, stood out among the rest, earning him the first-place position.

But Ricardo’s journey didn’t stop there. His excellence transcended state borders when he was selected as the First-Place Winner to represent Texas at the national level by the Sons of the American Revolution.

This past weekend, at the Sons of the American Revolution State Convention, Ricardo received news that would further solidify his status as a standout Scout. He was informed that he had been chosen as the Top Eagle Scout in the entire nation.

The accolades didn’t end with recognition; Ricardo is set to receive significant scholarships as a testament to his hard work and dedication. He will be awarded a total of three scholarships, amounting to an impressive sum:

  • $250.00 – Local Chapter 1st Place Winner
  • $3,500.00 – State-Level 1st Place Winner
  • $10,000.00 – National 1st Place Winner

With the national title under his belt, Ricardo’s journey continues as he prepares to embark on an all-expenses-paid trip to Lancaster, PA, on July 13th. There, he will be honored with the national $10,000.00 scholarship, marking a remarkable achievement in his scouting career.

The 583 extends heartfelt congratulations to Ricardo, expressing immense pride in his accomplishments! As he prepares to receive his well-deserved recognition on the national stage, the community stands in awe of his dedication, perseverance, and commitment to service. Ricardo’s success not only highlights his individual achievements but also serves as an inspiration to Scouts across the country, showcasing the transformative power of determination and hard work.

 

 

Do you have a Scout story to share? We want to hear from you! Email eNews@AlamoAreaBSA.org

Ensuring Safety and Privacy: Introducing Encrypted Applications

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We, at the Boy Scouts of America, Alamo Area Council, are committed to maintaining the utmost safety and privacy for all individuals associated with our organization. As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance data security, we have implemented a new policy regarding application submissions. Effective immediately, we will only accept Membership Applications and Eagle Applications via email if they are encrypted. This change is designed to protect both the sending party and the individuals represented in the application itself.

Why is this change important?

In today’s digital landscape, ensuring the privacy of personal information has become increasingly crucial. With the rising prevalence of cyber threats and data breaches, we cannot afford to compromise the safety and confidentiality of our applicants. By requiring encrypted applications, we are taking proactive measures to safeguard sensitive data and protect the trust placed in us by our Scouts, Scouters, and their families.

What does it mean to encrypt a file?

Encryption is a method used to scramble information so that it is unreadable to unauthorized individuals. It adds an extra layer of protection by encoding the contents of a file, ensuring that even if intercepted, the data remains secure. When an application is encrypted, it can only be accessed and deciphered by the intended recipient who possesses the decryption key.

How can you encrypt your application?

We understand that encryption may be unfamiliar territory for some, which is why we are dedicated to providing you with the necessary tools and resources to securely submit your applications. To help you get started, we have curated a series of instructional videos that will guide you through the process of encrypting your files.

  • Choosing the right encryption software. The first step is to select a reliable encryption software that will allow our office to view and print applications once received.
  • Encrypting your application. The videos above will walk you through the encryption process step by step. You will learn how to encrypt your application files effectively, ensuring they are protected during transmission.
  • Send the encrypted file.

Unencrypted applications will not be opened by our office.
This strict requirement is in place to prioritize the safety and privacy of everyone involved in our organization.

At the Boy Scouts of America, we are steadfast in our commitment to providing a secure environment for our Scouts, Scouters, and all stakeholders. We believe that by implementing encrypted application submissions, we are taking a proactive stance against potential threats to your privacy.

We encourage you to access our video tutorials, follow the instructions, and reach out to your District Service Executive if you have any questions or concerns. Together, we can ensure that your applications are transmitted securely, protecting your personal information and upholding our collective dedication to safety.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we continue to strengthen our commitment to privacy and security.

An Eagle Scout Project 8,000 Miles from Home Connects a Scout with his Heritage

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My name is Jaedon, I am a tenth grader in San Antonio, Texas. I have been a Scout since I was 7 years old. Over the years I have graduated from a Cub Scout to a Scouts BSA. It has been a wonderful journey, Scouting gave me an opportunity for outdoor adventures like rock climbing, kayaking, Caving, Camping, and many more things. The life skills I have learned along the way are invaluable. A combination of merit badges, meetings, and campouts has given me these necessary skills. For me, the most memorable part of scouting was the comradery it created between us Scouts as we went through the ranks together.

As part of my Eagle Project requirement, I was required to do a service project. I have been looking forward to a project that would be beneficial to society and at the same time use the skills I have learned along the way. I wanted the project to challenge me and extend beyond my comfort zone. Why don’t I do my project in India? India is a country that is still developing economically and needs a lot of help in its educational sector. So, I decided that was the direction I wanted to go in. Since my parents are from India, I also thought it would be a great opportunity to learn more about my culture, and language, and spend some time making a stronger bond with my grandparents.

The Plan

The way I chose my project was quite a long road. I first got contacts to the Transatlantic Scout Organization from my counselor, Joseph Skop. They then gave me contacts to Asia Scouts, who then gave me contacts to the South Asia Scouts, and they gave me the Kerala Scout contact (southernmost state of India). Once I had that contact, they gave me contacts to local Scouts, and it would turn out by pure coincidence that their Scoutmaster was an ex-school teacher. So, he was able to link us with his school that could use some help.

The way it first started was with meetings with the school’s headmaster and finding out what the school needed and what we could reasonably do for it. Once we decided on that, we started with the details and logistics of each part. So we went back and forth between the headmaster and contractors, getting prices, dates, and any other information. We were able to do this because the timing of this project was perfect since it was during my summer vacation, This gave me the flexibility to make India calls that matched their convenience. India is almost 11 hours ahead of CST.

After we got everything set up, it was time to start fundraising. This was quite difficult for me, mainly because we were asking friends and family. I managed to get through this by an idea from my dad, which was to make a script and stick to it. I also sent a brochure with sufficient project information for them to peruse, before my calls. With this, I managed to raise more money than my initial goal.

Now everything was set, and the time had come to be there at the project location to execute. With the best fair we could secure, our travel itinerary called for 2 days in each direction. We went from San Antonio to Chicago to New York to Doha to Kerala. The round trip was three thousand per ticket. For such an expensive flight you would expect to get a premium trip experience. But no, it was a long and tiring journey with packed flights. On our return trip, there was a 20-hour layover at Doha. Even though it was challenging we still found a way to make it a memorable experience. Two of my dad’s classmates were living in Doha. We contacted them and requested to show us around the city and they graciously obliged.

On the Ground

Upon landing in Doha, we tried to get an exit visa, which usually should have been easy for an American citizen. However, since it was covid time, we had to go back and forth between immigration and the medical unit, to get our permit. Finally, the chief of airport security passed us through, and we were able to leave the airport. As promised, my dad’s friends picked us up, and showed us various sights in Doha including world cup soccer stadiums. Qatar is hosting the World Cup this year. The city looked much cleaner, and buildings were architecturally more interesting than that of New York. In the morning one of my dad’s friend showed us the FIFA command center, which was a state-of-the-art facility. It turned out that, he is the CIO of Qatar FIFA.

So, back to the project, over the last three months we had been talking with the headmaster, so I had become quite acquainted and close with him through our regular zoom calls. However, I had not met any one of them or the place in person prior to this. By then, I had all my plans ready, all contracts for material and labor were in place. I also had students, Scouts, and staff commitments to help with the project. As part of project preparation, I taught myself flooring the tiles, painting, electrical testing (India runs on 220 V electricity), building desk and bench models etc. We had scheduled some of the materials like sand, cement, and other supplies to be purchased and brought to the site prior to our arrival.

In India, buses, autos, taxis, and motorbikes are the most common modes of transportation. Not many people own cars. Our auto driver was a very helpful and resourceful man, if we ever needed something from town he would know where to get it. He would be like our personal chauffeur to the school, where he would drop us off and help us with any errands.

Getting Started

We arrived at the school on a Monday morning. The school was on a hill with a breathtaking view. The headmaster gave us a tour of the facility and introduced us to other staff and students. I got swarmed by the little kids asking questions, and one even wanted me to do their English homework! It was quite an interesting day. The original plan that we settled on with the headmaster was to renovate the cafeteria with A) a Drop ceiling B) Painting C) 10 Desks and benches D) Installing Windows panes with the extended goal of E) flooring and F) lights and fans. Our Plan was to finish the project in 2 weeks with an additional week for unforeseen delays and for any scope increases. We had collected funds more than we had planned for, even with the extended goal. On my tour of the school, I saw so many things that could help the school, so l included a few more to the projects like G) building 3 courts (Soccer, Volleyball, and Badminton) and H) Curtains for the school auditorium. The strong dollar (better exchange rate) during this time, also help me to take [on] these additional work [projects]. Each of these (A through H) formed mini projects and milestones.

When we arrived, some of the materials were already in place and students were ready to start the work. I gave a brief introduction of myself and laid out my plans for each of the sub-projects in detail with tasks, assigned team members, materials needed, corresponding contractor names, and when each item will be arriving. Each Project consists of multiple students from different classes so that they could take turns to help us during their free period. This allowed us to run the project continuously. Some of the tools were in school, some were brought from my home and some power tools were rented for the project.

We worked from 9 – 5 with a 1-hour lunch break and two, 15 minutes snack breaks. During break times we would do various things. I taught them sports, and they would show me what they do in India for fun, like what their favorite songs are. During lunch, we ordered nutritious and tasty local foods that the kids loved. We had first aid on site and sufficient water brought over from our grandparent’s home well. Every morning, we started our day by reviewing what was completed from the prior day (issues, pending work, and what went well), then we discussed what needs to be done for that day. At the end of the day, we paid contractors (once the work is completed or in increments) and any daily laborers we used. An entry was made into the accounting book, as soon as payment was made.

Every other day, we had a project review with the headmaster (Mr. Reji Pulickal), reviewing the progress, discussing the fund usage and balance, and adjusting the plans. In some of the discussions, members of the school management were also present. Once the cafeteria was fully furnished, we envisioned that it could double as a breakroom for board games and reading. We bought a few board games and 20+ books. At the end, we had a celebratory luncheon for the students and an inauguration attended by teachers, staff, students, management, local government officials, and parents without their help and support this would not have been successful.

During my project, we didn’t work on weekends. One weekend we decided to visit some family in Mumbai. I met my uncle, aunt, and my two cousins. We explored the city and visited so many cool places, like the Taj Mahal palace hotel and the gateway of India. I would definitely recommend going on a trip to Mumbai. Over my time there, I observed a few cultural differences. The way I would normally act in America is different in India. For instance, instead of “Mr. Blank,” you would say “Sir.” Shorts are not worn in a public setting. An Indian diet predominantly consists of vegetarian food and most people prepare food at home.

Reflections of the Project

I have been told that every good project has its challenges and problems. I didn’t believe this. I believed that if you plan thoroughly nothing can go wrong. I was sorely mistaken. My first problem occurred when the brother of the guy who was supposed to deliver the sand passed away, and because of that, he wasn’t able to deliver. However, we were able to quickly find another supplier at a lower cost with the relationship I had built by then. The next thing to go wrong was that the electricians called in sick, so we had to extend the project by a day. Another thing that went wrong happened when I got back from Mumbai. We found out that students were having tests and were not available for the next 2 days. Fortunately, I had a contingency plan, and I was able to re-sequence and brought in the Ceiling framers. So ya, no matter how hard you try to account for obstacles, there will still be unforeseen ones that sneak by and you have to be resourceful and quick thinking.

During my trip, I learned many new skills like accounting, detail planning, contract negotiation, project scheduling & coordination, team motivation, effective communication, and leadership skills. My father taught me how to keep records of expenses, and how to make contracts with workers. Before I went on the trip, I wanted to be able to speak a little better Malayalam (the native language of the state of Kerala), so I could communicate better. I took a two-week crash course before I went. I believe that having to adjust to a new culture, and being with people of a different language made me better at understanding and solving problems with different types of people and be more culturally tolerant.

Overall, this project planning took around eight weeks, and the execution, around 3 weeks. We had planned to raise $4,500, but thanks to many generous donors, we were able to raise $5,000. With detailed planning, careful accounting, creative negotiation, and the support of the donors, suppliers, staff, and students, I was able to deliver much more than the initial scope with budget and in time!

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We want to learn more about your stories of Adventures in Scouting! Send us your story and pictures at Scouting@AlamoAreaBSA.org.

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