‘I’m just extremely proud’: Central Texan becomes 3rd generation to reach rank of Eagle Scout

WACO, Texas (KWTX) - Central Texas native, Chayden Gillaspy, became the third generation in his family to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.

Congressman Pete Sessions appeared at Chayden’s Court of Honor ceremony to present him with a flag flown over Washinton D.C.

The Gillaspy’s are mostly Central Texas Natives.

Chayden began his scouting journey two years after he reached the minimum required age. He said he wanted to do something that few others participated in.

“I kinda knew I wanted to be an Eagle Scout and I wanted to go through all the way ‘cause I know a lot of kids don’t,” Chayden said.

Chayden joined his father and grandfathers in achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. His grandfather, Tery Ives, said having three generations of Eagle Scouts in the family made him proud.

“And then when I saw my grandson made Eagle I’m just extremely proud because I know how hard it was to obtain,” Ives said.

Chayden’s progress towards achieving the rank of Eagle Scout slowed when he began high school. Sports and work took up much of his time. But he said his family kept pushing him to continue his journey in scouts.

“I got into high school and I started slowing down because I started doing more sports and a job and everything else,” Chayden said. “The I finally realized I needed to balance it all together.”

Chayden’s father, Joseph Gillaspy, said he wants to see a legacy of Eagle Scouts in future family generations.

“And hopefully the legacy continues,” Joseph said, “We hope so.”