EAGLE SCOUT AND BSA EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER SETS WORLD RECORD
American Adventurer Steve Fossett Sets Solo Ballooning Record
IRVING, Texas (July 3, 2002)—Just like the explorer Magellan
was the first person to circumnavigate the world in his sixteenth century
Portuguese galleon, Eagle Scout Steve Fossett became the first person to
circumnavigate the earth alone in a balloon. Fossett, a member of the Boy
Scouts of America's Executive Board and longtime supporter of Scouting, set
the record on July 2, 2002.
"We are extremely proud of Steve and his accomplishment," said Roy L.
Williams, Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America. "This was not
his first attempt at such a lofty goal. But his persistence and dedication
have paid off, and we celebrate his achievement."
During his youth, Fossett earned the Eagle Scout Award, Scouting's highest
rank. Traditionally, only about 4 percent of all young men in Scouting earn
this award.
"The BSA does very well in making Scouts aware of character, integrity,
and virtues and incorporating them in their lives," said Fossett.
Besides his position on the BSA's Executive Board, Fossett has been
awarded the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, and the Silver Buffalo Award
(Scouting's highest volunteer award) and is a member of the Order of the
Arrow, Scouting's national honor society.
Fossett has also been featured in a public service announcement for the
Boy Scouts of America celebrating his attempts to balloon around the
world.
The Scouting movement is composed of 1.3 million volunteers working
together for the sole purpose of helping its 5 million youth succeed in
life. The Boy Scouts of America's 92-year history is a testament to the
enduring values of the Scouting program. For more information about the
BSA and how to become involved in its outdoor adventure and service-oriented
programs for youth, visit www.scouting.org.
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