A Freedom Award Ceremony was held on November 1, 2025, to honor Jack Meyer and Eli Lammers, members of Trail Life USA Troop OH-0611, which meets at The Covenant at Sugar Grove Church in Tipp City, Ohio. These two young men are the first in their troop, founded in 2017, to earn the Freedom Award, the highest achievement in the Trail Life USA program.
To earn this honor, a Trailman must complete an extensive list of requirements, including earning 25 badges, performing 20 hours of servant service each year, demonstrating leadership among peers, completing four Freedom Experiences across three chosen fields, and participating in a Faith Building Activity. Recipients must also budget, plan, and lead a volunteer team to complete a Servant Leadership Project, as well as complete an advancement conference and a formal Freedom Board of Review.
For their Servant Leadership Projects, Jack constructed a gaga ball pit for The Covenant at Sugar Grove Church, and Eli built a food pantry for Restoration Park Church (RPC).
Jack and Eli’s dedication, perseverance, and desire to serve their communities stand as an inspiring example to all Trailmen. Their achievements reflect not only hard work, but strong character, deep faith, and a willingness to lead with integrity. As the first Freedom Award recipients of Troop OH-0611, they have paved the way for future young men to follow.