The local Scouting community is proud to celebrate one of its own: Dawson Elliott, an Eagle Scout from Epworth, has been named the 2025 American Legion of Iowa Eagle Scout of the Year. This prestigious honor recognizes Dawson’s exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to both Scouting and his community. Along with the title, Dawson received a college scholarship to support his future education.
Dawson’s journey to this award began with a powerful Eagle Scout project that blended faith, craftsmanship, and community spirit. Wanting to create a space for prayer and reflection, Dawson expanded on a previous Eagle Scout’s project at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta by building an outdoor rosary path.
He organized volunteers to lay colored concrete around an existing sidewalk, then installed 20 custom-fabricated steel posts. Each post now holds a laser-engraved granite slab representing a decade of the rosary. At the entrance, a handmade wooden cross—built with the help of another volunteer—welcomes visitors into the space.
To enhance the prayerful atmosphere, Dawson and his team added two benches, solar lighting, rose bushes, statues, and a variety of flowers. The space was designed to be inclusive and calming, especially for individuals who benefit from movement while praying, such as those with ADHD.
The American Legion of Iowa selects one Eagle Scout each year for this honor, based on a competitive application process that considers academic achievement, community involvement, Scouting leadership, and the impact of the Eagle project.
Dawson’s project is a shining example of what it means to live the Scout Oath and Law. His work will serve the Peosta community for years to come, offering a peaceful place for prayer, reflection, and connection with nature.
Please join us in congratulating Dawson on this well-deserved recognition!
