Eagle Scout Nathan West: Achieving the Highest Rank with Honors

By Vicki Wood

Naval Commandant Awards Eagle Scout Nathan West of Camdenton, MissouriPhoto byVicki Wood Writing and Photos

In a formal ceremony and reception at the Camdenton Knights of Columbus Hall on Saturday, April 20, 2024, Nathan West achieved the highest rank of scouting. The Eagle Scout award was bestowed on West by various officials including in person presentations by Dr. Lisa Thomas, Missouri State House of Representatives, and US Marine Corps Commandant William Wyman. Kevin Burns, local radio and television personality, emceed the event. 

West is a four year cadet in the Camdenton High School Junior ROTC. He has gone to Washington DC with the Academic Bowl, and has been a volunteer for Camden County Child Advocacy for eight years. 

One of many awards.Photo byVicki Wood Writing and Photos

The Eagle Scout program included an empty seat and moment of silence recognizing his former scout leader who had passed away. Also recognized was another past scout leader, Bill Truxell, and current leaders Jeremy and Janelle Stockstill.

A fantastic cake for Nathan West.Photo byVicki Wood Writing and Photos

An award presented by US Marine Corps Commandant William Wyman, The Superior Achievement Award, is only the third award that Wyman has presented in five years.

West has many opportunity paths and offers now that he is a much decorated Eagle Scout. His Eagle Scout Service Project was performed for the Camdenton VFW Post 5923, where he remodeled three rooms at the post, and constructed some much needed furniture for two of the rooms.

West is the son of Samantha West-Killiam and Nate Killiam and BJ and Laurie Smith of Camdenton.