A central Iowa Boy Scout has accomplished something only four other Scouts in state history have achieved — he’s earned every single merit badge. Charlie Stevens, of Ankeny, only needed 21 of the badges to earn the top rank of Eagle, but decided to broaden his experience by working to acquire every one — all 138 merit badges. Stevens, who’s 17, says it took him almost nine years to finish the feat.

From Astronomy and Archery to Wilderness Survival and Woodworking, Stevens learned a wealth of life skills during his quest to earn every possible patch.

When asked if he considers himself an overachiever, Stevens compared his accomplishment in Scouting to how he is in school, as there are some classes he enjoys more than others.

After he graduates from Ankeny Centennial High School next year, Stevens plans to attend the University of Iowa and major in computer science engineering.

For his Eagle Project, Stevens created the Agape Garden at Ankeny First United Methodist Church, which is an ecumenical faith garden that donates fresh produce to area food pantries. He hopes to complete his remaining Eagle rank requirements next month. Officials with the Mid-Iowa Council say only a few hundred Scouts have earned every merit badge in the history of the Boy Scouts of America, which was launched in 1910.
www.scoutingiowa.org