The Boy Scout Law has 12 points that all Scouts follow. They are to be Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent. Of course, it’s not always easy to do all of these things. It’s important to keep them in the back of your mind at all times when you’re a scout. Devon Champenoy takes scouting seriously. While on a rafting excursion, Assistant Scoutmaster David Lemley of Troop 277 found himself in trouble.
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“An adult leader was thrown from the raft, and his foot became trapped under the seat, forcing him underwater in the powerful current. Devon immediately stepped in and helped free him while the situation was extremely dangerous,” David shared on Facebook.
“Then, Devon took control of the raft and for the next 15–20 minutes navigated the strong currents while guiding several first-time campers (10–11 years old) safely through multiple sets of rapids until they reached calmer water. I am the person who was rescued, and I am incredibly grateful to be alive because of Devon’s courage, quick thinking, and leadership that day,” he added.
Devon Champenoy Received a Prestigious Scouting Honor
The Red Wolf District honored Devon Champenoy during a recent banquet. He received one of the highest awards given by Scouting America — the Honor Medal with Crossed Palms.
“This award is presented for unusual heroism and extraordinary skill or resourcefulness in saving or attempting to save a life at extreme risk to oneself. It is one of the rarest recognitions in Scouting, awarded only in the most exceptional circumstances when a Scout demonstrates remarkable bravery and presence of mind during a life-threatening situation,” the Red Wolf District shared.
Devon Champenoy, now 15, was just 13 when he saved his scoutmaster’s life. He told KHOU it took a while to sink in.
“I didn’t feel it at the moment. It was just instinct,” Devon said. “It took a while for me to accept that I saved a life, but I think now I have.”
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