A total of 202 boy scouts within the Flint River Council of the Boy Scouts of America, which is comprised of eight counties in the area, have become Eagle Scouts in 2012. Eighteen of those Eagle Scouts came from Spalding County, and on Wednesday, the Kiwanis Club of Griffin recognized them for their achievement.

“Thank you, Kiwanians, for recognizing scouting in our community,” said Scout Executive Chuck Brasfield, adding that the Flint River Council served more than 8,000 young people last year.

The great benefit of scouting is that it builds a moral compass in young children, Brasfield said, as scouting activities revolve around fun with a purpose, such as youth development, character and leadership.

“These Eagle Scouts — that is our product, that is what we do,” he said. “We build character in young people. That’s what we do. It’s a simple as that.”

Nationally, about four percent of all boys who enroll in scouting become Eagle Scouts. Within the Flint River Council, it’s about 7 percent — a rate achieved in part by the financial support and involvement of parents and volunteers.

“You are the ones that make scouting great,” said Ronotohachi District Executive Jonathan Swatts. “Thank you for your support.”

The American Legion Post 15, represented by Post Commander Jim King and Allan Imes, presented certificates to the local Eagle Scouts as part of Wednesday’s recognition, though many of the Eagle Scouts were unable to attend because they are already in various training programs.

The 2012 Eagle Scouts from Spalding County are Elan Elliott II, Barrett Lavender, Thomas Skinner, Eric Berryman, Carlito Wilmoth, Sam Shockley, Shelby Perry, Justin Kempson, Nathan Lee, Elijah Jones, James Callaway, Jay Roche, Joseph Godwin, Phillip Simmons, Andrew Shockley, William Brundage and Bradley Tracy.