Local Eagle Scout honored for water rescue

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - A local Eagle Scout is being honored for rescuing a friend who was drowning.

Prairielands Council, Scouting America, presented Lily S., a member of Troop 2119, with the Medal of Merit on June 22 at the council's Executive Board Meeting at Camp Robert Drake.

The award was given in recognition of her saving a friend from drowning during a private gathering in the summer of 2024.

Lily, then a younger Scout who had just earned her Lifesaving merit badge at summer camp, was swimming with friends when one of them began to struggle in the deep end of a pool. Lily swam to her friend, positioned herself so she couldn't be pulled under, and guided her safely to the shallow end.

She then checked for injuries and made sure her friend was breathing normally and uninjured.

Lily didn't share what happened to draw attention to herself. The story was only shared months later, when she used it to teach younger Scouts in her troop why first-aid and lifesaving training matters.

"Lily's training as a Scout made her react in a moment when every second mattered," said Jared White, Scout Executive/CEO of Prairielands Council, Scouting America. "She chose courage over hesitation. Her actions led to

safety in the water, proving that 'Being Prepared' is more than a motto — it's a way of life. Her meritorious action reflects the very best of Scouting: calm leadership, swift action, and a heart committed to looking out for others."

The Medal of Merit is a national Scouting America award presented to youth or adults who perform a significant act of service of an exceptional character, reflecting an uncommon concern for the well-being of others. Recommendations are reviewed locally and forwarded to the National Court of Honor for final approval.

Lily has since gone on to earn her Eagle Scout rank, Scouting's highest honor, balancing academics, athletics, and Scouting leadership along the way.