Gibsonia, PA — Simon Wynn, an Eagle Scout from Troop 150 in Gibsonia, has been named the 2026 American Legion Pennsylvania Eagle Scout of the Year, a prestigious honor recognizing exceptional achievement in Scouting, leadership, and service.
The American Legion’s Eagle Scout of the Year award highlights Scouts who best represent the values of the Scout Oath and Law through their accomplishments, character, and commitment to community. Following a competitive statewide selection process, Wynn was chosen as Pennsylvania’s top candidate and has now advanced to the national level, where he is under consideration for a $10,000 scholarship.
“Simon represents everything we hope Scouting instills in a young person—leadership, resilience, and a deep commitment to serving others,” said Todd McGregor, Scout Executive of the Laurel Highlands Council. “Earning the rank of Eagle Scout is a significant achievement, but what sets Simon apart is how he has continued to lead, serve, and live the Scout Oath and Law every day. We are incredibly proud to see him recognized at the state level and now representing Pennsylvania on the national stage.”
Simon’s Scouting journey began in the first grade as a Cub Scout with Pack 179 in Gibsonia and continued with Troop 150, sponsored by American Legion Post 548. Over the years, he has demonstrated outstanding leadership within his troop, serving in key roles including senior patrol leader, patrol leader, assistant patrol leader, troop guide, and scribe.
He earned the rank of Eagle Scout on July 29, 2025 which is an achievement attained by only a small percentage of Scouts nationwide. His Eagle Scout Court of Honor was held on November 15, 2025.
For his Eagle Scout service project, Simon led a significant environmental restoration effort at Latodami Nature Center in North Park. Over six months, he organized and managed 48 volunteers to remove more than a quarter acre of invasive species from a historic apple orchard that had been overgrown for more than 50 years. The project restored accessibility to the area and included the installation of a bench overlooking a stream that is home to a rare species of burrowing crayfish. In total, the project contributed 311 hours of service to the community.
Simon’s dedication to Scouting extends beyond his Eagle rank. He has participated in multiple high-adventure experiences, including Northern Tier in Minnesota and Sea Base in Florida, building skills in wilderness survival, teamwork, and leadership. He will return to Northern Tier this summer and is planning to attend Philmont Scout Ranch in 2027.
As part of the American Legion selection process, candidates are evaluated on their full Scouting record, including merit badges, leadership positions, community service, and personal character. Simon’s application also included multiple letters of recommendation and highlighted his earning of the God and Life religious emblem, reflecting his commitment to faith and service.
In addition to his Scouting accomplishments, Simon is an honors student in the Pine-Richland School District and has been an active member of Air Force JROTC throughout all four years of high school, further strengthening his leadership development and dedication to service.
Simon is the son of Joe and Kerrie Wynn. He has one brother, Jonah, who is also an Eagle Scout, and a sister, Lucy, who is a Girl Scout.
He will attend the University of North Dakota this fall, where he plans to pursue a double major in Commercial Pilot and Aviation Management.
Simon Wynn’s recognition as Pennsylvania’s Eagle Scout of the Year is a testament to the lasting impact of Scouting in developing young leaders committed to service, character, and community.
About Scouting America, Laurel Highlands Council
Laurel Highlands Council serves over 12,000 youth across western Pennsylvania western Maryland, and parts of West Virginia, providing programs that build character, leadership, and life skills through Scouting. Learn more at lhcscouting.org.
