There are few lessons in life more important than learning the value of seeing something through to the end and finishing strong.

Wilbraham & Monson Academy’s Javier Herrera ’25 experienced both during his time as a Boy Scout, completing his final project to earn the prestigious Eagle Scout status.

Javier, who joined Scouts when he was 6 years old, belongs to Troop 275 in East Longmeadow. At the request of the Masonic Temple in East Longmeadow, he built a stage, which will be used for musical, educational and recreational events.

Quotes from Javier

On the most challenging part of the final project: “I believe that this project specifically made realize that I must take responsibility and accountability for everything that occurs in my life, whether good or bad. It wasn’t necessarily difficult in any regard; however, I did learn a valuable lesson in taking charge, leading in a real life setting, and understanding the authority and responsibility I contain.” 

On earning the rank of Eagle Scout: “You must be willing to make the sacrifice to achieve what you want. Nothing comes easy in life, which is precisely why if you accomplish something difficult, it gives it value. If everything were easy in life, nothing would have value and I learned that at a very early age. I’ve had countless friends who have dropped out of Boy Scouts because of (various) reasons. But with passion, effort, determination and especially discipline, anything is possible. With discipline, you are able to do the things nobody is willing to do. During my journey toward Eagle Scout, I had to take on duties that no one else wanted to do. But I did them, because I am a disciplined individual. Never give up on anything in this life. Nothing good comes easy.”

On what he enjoys about Boy Scouts: “There are many things that I will always remember and appreciate, from the community service, caroling in December in the retirement homes, the camp outs, learning how to do first aid, the friends and people who I met and who helped me along the way of Boy Scouts and everything in between. Now being one of the older boys, I get to help the younger boys earn their ranks and share experiences with them.”