Troop 544 Honored for Rescuing Missing Child in Fort Walton

In Brief:

🧭 Scouts from Troop 544 helped locate a missing 11-year-old autistic child near Ferry Park in Fort Walton Beach on April 7.
🏅 Okaloosa County Commissioner Paul Mixon presented the troop with a proclamation recognizing their quick action and community spirit.
🌟 The scouts’ teamwork and leadership calmed the child and ensured his safe return, highlighting the real-life impact of scouting values.

🌲 Quick-thinking scouts, a cold spring evening, and a happy ending.

The Okaloosa County Commission honored local scouts from Troop 544 this week after the group helped locate a missing 11-year-old autistic child near Ferry Park in Fort Walton Beach last month.

On the evening of April 7, the troop had gathered for their weekly meeting at their Scout Hut adjacent to the park when law enforcement arrived searching for the child. Instead of watching from the sidelines, the scouts jumped into action.

Led by older members and an assistant scoutmaster, the troop quickly divided into patrols and swept the park. As daylight faded and temperatures dropped, one group spotted the child hiding in nearby bushes. They stayed with him, offering comfort until law enforcement arrived to take him safely home.

Okaloosa County Commission Chairman Paul Mixon presented a proclamation to Troop 544 on Wednesday, praising the scouts for their courage and compassion.

“I am very proud and appreciative of how Troop 544 demonstrated scouting values of helping others, showing kindness and teamwork,” Mixon said. “Their actions emphasized the importance of community engagement and support in times of crisis.”

Through outdoor challenges and community service, the scouting program teaches kids to stay calm under pressure and act purposefully when it matters most. For more about Scouting America and how to get involved, visit scouting.org.