Epworth Scout Wins Iowa’s Top American Legion Eagle Award

Growing up I was never in scouts, but I did a lot of the same activities scouts is known for with my family and friends; boxcar derbies, fishing, camping, hiking, and hunting. I try to take that same passion and place it into my kids today for the outdoors, self-sefficieny, and preparedness. It's a good thing to know how to respond in emergency situations and scouts, especially those achieving Eagle rank, are prepared for all kinds of real-world challenges. They call it getting grit. I rather like that.

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That kind of grit and determination is exactly what Dawson Elliott, an Eagle Scout from Epworth, Iowa, has shown. According to a recent release from the Northeast Iowa Council, Dawson was recently named the 2025 American Legion of Iowa Eagle Scout of the Year, a statewide honor recognizing his leadership, service, and dedication to community. Along with the title, he received a college scholarship and statewide recognition at the Legion’s District 2 meeting in Davenport.

Dawson’s journey to this award started with a meaningful Eagle Scout project at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta. Wanting to create a peaceful space for prayer and reflection, he expanded on a previous project by building an outdoor rosary path. With a team of volunteers, Dawson laid colored concrete around a walkway and installed 20 custom steel posts, each displaying a laser-engraved granite slab representing a decade of the rosary. A handcrafted wooden cross marks the entrance, inviting visitors into the tranquil setting.

The path also features benches, solar lighting, rose bushes, and seasonal blooms. Dawson thoughtfully designed it to be inclusive for those who benefit from movement during prayer, such as individuals with ADHD, with a goal of blending accessibility, craftsmanship, and faith.

Each year, the American Legion of Iowa selects one Eagle Scout who exemplifies Scouting’s highest ideals through academics, leadership, and service. This year, Dawson’s project stood out for its heart and its lasting impact on the community.

“Dawson’s project is an incredible example of how young people can make a lasting impact on their community. His leadership and vision created a space that will serve generations to come.”

-Carl Bobis, Executive Director, Northeast Iowa Council

The Northeast Iowa Scouting community is proud to celebrate Dawson’s achievement. His leadership, creativity, and compassion are a true reflection of what it means to live the Scout Oath and Law.

It's great to see our area youth succeed and give back to the communities they reside in. Congratulations Dawson, this is a well-deserved recognition. Your example reminds me that grit, service, and faith can build something lasting. And that's two-fold, both in our communities and in ourselves.