Whiz Kid: Scout Snags Eagle Scout Ranking

Josh Dinsmore had dreamt of becoming an Eagle Scout since he was 7 years old.

The long-time Boy Scout and band enthusiast combined the two things he loved to help him reach his goal.

Dinsmore took one look at Oak Forest High School's band storage area, and knew what he would focus on for his Eagle Scout project. He decided to create more shelving for instruments and organize the music library—general improvements for the music department.

"I felt that it would help a lot of people," Josh said. "It would free up space for more instruments."

After receiving the ranking, Dinsmore felt relief wash over him.

"It was a giant weight lifted off my shoulders," he said. "I'd like to thank my parents for pushing me through.

"Five percent of all Boy Scouts earn it, and I feel proud to be a part of that top 5 percent."

In his spare time, Dinsmore is also involved in "all the bands" at the high school, and also enjoys paintballing as a hobby. After graduation, he will continue on to Western Illinois University, where he plans to major in law enforcement, with a minor in homeland security.