Aiden Retkowski of Steelville is working toward becoming the eighth Eagle Scout from Troop 477. He would join the distinguished ranks of Eli Young (2025), Carter Mason (2025), Sean Retkowski (2023), Gavin Boone (2021), Mickey Long (2018), Harry Colbert (2016) and Adam Marquez (2014).

Retkowski's Eagle Scout Project was completed for the Crawford County Historical Society, located in Cuba, Missouri. The project consisted of building five themed free libraries to be placed throughout the community. Each library featured a unique theme – Route 66, Ozark Geology, Crawford County History, Travel Library and a Children’s Library. The project was made possible by a local Impact100 grant. 

Retkowski and his team spent over 150 hours constructing the libraries, along with an additional 50 hours in the planning and design phase. During this time, he collaborated closely with the Historical Society to determine the designs and locations. He also received assistance from the Cuba City workers, who generously installed the library posts at no additional charge.

He began his Scouting journey in 2014 as a Tiger Cub, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Sean. He earned the Arrow of Light, the highest award in Cub Scouting in 2018 before crossing over into Scouts BSA. Since then, he has steadily advanced along the Eagle Trail and looks forward to presenting his project, letters of recommendation and Life Ambition Statement to the Osage Eagle Board this November: his final step before earning the Eagle Scout rank.

Throughout his time in Troop 477, he has served as a Den Chief since 2019 and has held leadership roles such as Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and Patrol Leader. He has logged over 50 nights of camping, contributed more than 135 hours of community service, was elected to the Order of the Arrow in 2020 and completed his Brotherhood in 2023. He has earned 34 merit badges and received multiple Scouting awards and honors.

His dedication, leadership and service reflect the core values of Scouting and continue to inspire pride within Troop 477.