Congratulating Ian Noel Merriman and Jeremy Paul Yoakam for Earning the Rank of Eagle Scout

Floor Speech

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Mr. ZINKE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor two exceptional young men from Livingston, Montana, Ian Noel Merriman and Jeremy Paul Yoakam, for their remarkable achievements and dedication to the principles of Scouting. Their commitment to service, leadership, and community exemplifies the values that Scouting instills in young men.

Growing up in Whitefish, Montana, the outdoor and survival skills that I learned, as well as the friends I made as a Boy Scout have stayed with me to this day. The Eagle Scout Oath to do my best to God, to my country, and to scout law is something that set me on the right track to serve my country as a SEAL and as Member of Congress. These two young men have lived up to that oath and deserve the honor and recognition that comes with the Eagle Scout title.

Ian, a senior at Park High School, began his Scouting journey in the Cub Scouts in 2013. He achieved the rank of Webelo Scout and earned the Arrow of Light, the highest rank in Cub Scouting, in 2018. Transitioning to Boy Scouts in May 2018, Ian has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication.

Ian has participated in numerous community service projects, including annual ``Scouting for Food'' drives, Yellowstone River Clean- ups, and serving veterans at the American Legion Post No. 23 Veterans Day dinner. His involvement in activities such as erecting and taking down flags in Sacajawea Park and local cemeteries on significant patriotic holidays underscores his commitment to community service.

For his Eagle Scout Project, Ian raised funds to purchase and install two bicycle repair stations on local bike trails, benefiting the Livingston Bicycle Club and the community. Ian's perseverance, positive attitude, and compassion for younger Scouts are truly inspiring.

Jeremy Paul Yoakam, a senior who splits his education between homeschooling and the Learning Bench Academy, also embarked on his Scouting journey in 2013. Achieving the Arrow of Light in 2018, Jeremy joined Boy Scouts in May 2018 and has since been an active and influential member of his troop. His service projects display dedication to community improvement, including food drives, river clean-ups, and veterans' support.

Jeremy's Eagle Scout Project involved building two flag collection boxes for the community to appropriately dispose of worn flags. This project honors the American flag and those who have served, and it highlights Jeremy's innovative thinking and commitment to service.

To go along with his excellent academic achievement, Jeremy balances his Scouting activities with a rich array of extracurricular pursuits, including church youth group, jiu-jitsu, backpacking, hunting, fly- fishing, and shooting sports. His work at Woodland Ridge Tiny Home Crafters speaks to his industrious nature and varied interests.

Mr. Speaker, the dedication and achievements of Ian Noel Merriman and Jeremy Paul Yoakam are commendable. Their contributions to their community and Scouting exemplify the best of our young citizens. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring these outstanding young men for their exemplary service and leadership.

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