Eagle Candidate Sowing Seeds of Community Service
Byron James-Ray “BJ” Olson likes to joke that he worked toward becoming an Eagle Scout just to outdo his dad. His Dad helped inspire him to to do something with his life “to always help others.” (Photo provided)
By Karen Haave
Byron James-Ray Olson likes to joke that he worked toward becoming an Eagle Scout just to out-do his dad.
“BJ” to his friends, he says he always wanted to reach Eagle status.
“Dad was a 1st class scout, so I had to do better than him. Lol,” he quipped.
In truth, he is a young man with a mission: To do something with his life “to always help others.”
A junior at Providence Catholic High School in New Lenox, he used that theme to create the service project required to achieve scouting’s highest rank. With the help of family, friends, fellow scouts and sponsors, he built a community garden.
Located at the Lloyd Bate Park, 1001 E. Hauert St, Peotone, “It will be used by anyone who would like to visit it or use it,” he explained.
“It also can be used to teach younger kids and people the health effects of eating good foods and how they grow. The town and I, through discussions, thought it would be a good idea to build this to help the community.”
He launched his project in the Fall of 2021 and finished last summer, struggling with
“weather, cost and volunteering” issues along the way.
“Special shout-out to Troop 49 Scouts and Scouters, and The Providence Varsity Football team who volunteered their time and donations on several occasions,” he acknowledged.
“Special Thanks to Cornerstone Coffee House, Peotone Automotive, Berkot’s Foods, Qubar Mechanical, CDJR/South Suburban Mitsubishi, Ozinga, ECC Demolition, Tony’s Pizza, DV Ents/Game On, Terry’s Ford, RC Services, Lowe’s and Neighbors by Design. and all the volunteers who gave their time and donations to make this project a reality.”
“BJ” Olson had a lot of help with the community garden project, but he oversaw the work by digging in as well.
BJ started in scouting in 2012, as a Cub, and continued as a Boy Scout in 2017 with Troop 49, under Scoutmaster Dave Konopko. He also is active at PCHS in Wrestling, Football, Track & Field, and Habitat for Humanity.
“Reflecting, I realize just how far I’ve come. Not only have I learned how to light a fire, tie a bowline around myself with one hand – maybe – and sell ungodly amounts of Trail’s End popcorn — Scouting has given me much more. Scouting has given me the core values and principles that I now carry with me through my life.” he said.
“In my current high school life, I am a Junior and planning on taking college prep course at Providence Catholic High School. The course work, though challenging, will hopefully help me expand my knowledge into areas that I may be interested in pursuing while at college. While at PCHS, I plan on getting my Personal Pilot Licenses (PPL). To start my career as a commercial pilot or serve in the Armed Services.
“My next challenges come in the form of my PPL and college applications. Between club responsibilities, classes, scouting, work and friends, I’ll be hard-pressed to find the time.
“However, like earning Eagle, nothing worthwhile comes easy. To achieve my short-term goals I’ll set a schedule, make a plan, and check things off one requirement at a time.
“Upon graduating from high school, I will attend a four-year college (Indiana State University, Southeast Missouri State) with a pilot program and a ROTC detachment. I have not decided what route I will pursue in regard to the armed services after college or straight to the working world.
“In college, I hope to develop the skills and connections to land a Pilot job where I can directly help others. I want a comfortable salary, and the expertise to have my ideas be heard within the workforce. I won’t be satisfied simply remaining a follower in my field and intend to lead others to help bring about breakthroughs that improve human well-being.
“My ultimate vision for life is to become an individual who helps others when in need no matter what. Growing up with one younger sibling I have always felt the need to help wherever I can. I have tried always to help people wherever I can.”
The son of Joanne and Byron “Buck” Olson of Peotone, he has one younger sister, Maria.
“We couldn’t be prouder of our son as we watched him earn approximately 68 merit badges, achieve several awards, and successfully complete his
Eagle Scout Service Project,” his parents said.
“We are confident that he displays the principles held within the Scout Law and Oath in all aspects of his life.
“Our son is a fine example of what it means to be an Eagle Scout; loyal, reverent, helpful, friendly, and kind. His involvement in his church, his wonderful group of friends and the precedent he sets for his younger sister, all a testament to Byron’s character. As proud parents, We look forward to seeing our son attain this remarkable achievement.”
BJ’s Eagle Court of Honor is tentatively slated for early 2023 at the Peotone American Legion.
Karen Haave is a freelance reporter.