Francesco, U.S. Navy Veteran Courageous Kids Contest Winner
April 9, 2026
Francesco, Navy Veteran Courageous Kids Contest Winner
14-Year-Old from Louisiana Pursues Eagle Scout Achievement While Caring for Veteran Father
For Francesco, being a military kid has given him a full spectrum of experiences. The Louisianan teenager knows what it’s like to be part of an active-duty Navy family — PCSing, deployments, new towns. He also knows what it’s like to be the child of a Veteran with service-connected injuries.
When his father needed increased medical treatments, physical therapy, and care last year, Francesco took on more responsibilities at home. Andrea, a family friend and nominator, noted that Francesco “displayed emotional endurance by stepping up reliably and without complaint” and “openly shared his feelings…refusing to hide worry but channeling it positively rather than withdrawing.”
A member of Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America), Francesco was enterprising, using knowledge and techniques he honed as a Scout and a two-time Our Military Kids activity award recipient to improve life for his family.
Using tactical skills cooking, first aid, and personal fitness, he also drew on less tangible (but no less important) tools like teamwork, service, and mental resilience. “Francesco truly exemplifies courage, strength, and resilience — qualities that honor both Scouting and our military families,” said Andrea.
“Through it all, Francesco has become a role model: his siblings rely on him for stability, fellow Scouts admire his dependability, and the family draws strength from his steady presence.” - Andrea, Family Friend and Nominator
While navigating difficult circumstances, the Honor Roll student never waivered in his academics and commitment to Scouting. Last year, Francesco earned 13 merit badges, his First Class rank, and the Ad Altare Dei Emblem. Additionally, he volunteered more than 17 hours in service projects and continued to participate in Scouting events.
Francesco continues to work towards achieving Eagle Scout rank and enjoys reading, with a special emphasis on history and WWII. He plans to attend college as a member of ROTC and major in computer science and engineering, with the ultimate goal to become a commissioned officer and cyber warfare specialist for the U.S. Air Force or U.S. Space Force.
“[Being a military kid is] not just a childhood experience. It has become part of my identity in ways that shape how I see myself and the world. It also gives me a deep sense of gratitude both for the freedoms that come with being an American, but for those whose service makes it possible.” - Francesco
Learn more about the Our Military Kids activity award program at: https://www.ourmilitarykids.org
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