From his first Cub Scout meeting in 1950 to decades of leadership and mentorship, Rodger Monson’s 70+ year journey in Scouting reflects a lifetime of service, inspiration, and commitment to shaping future generations.
When you meet Rodger Monson, you quickly realize that Scouting isn’t just something he did as a youth—it’s something that has shaped his entire life. A proud Eagle Scout, recipient of the Silver Beaver Award, Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow, and now Council Commissioner for the Flagstaff–Williams–Page community, Rodger has devoted more than seven decades to living—and giving—the spirit of Scouting.
In 2021, he earned his 70-Year Veteran Pin, a recognition few achieve. Rodger’s Scouting story began in 1950 with Cub Scout Pack 222 in Hollywood, California. His father, Larry Monson, was deeply involved as a Scoutmaster, Exploring Advisor, and longtime volunteer at Camp Emerald Bay. Larry’s dedication left a lasting impression on Rodger.
“My father really inspired me,” Rodger reflects. “He was my Scoutmaster, my Exploring Advisor, and my role model. At my Eagle ceremony dinner, he even pulled some strings to have P-51 fighter planes—famous from World War II—do a flyover. I wouldn’t be where I am today without him.”
Rodger earned his Eagle Scout rank in 1957, but his journey was just beginning. His experiences in Scouting opened doors to unforgettable opportunities, from meeting astronauts and aeronautical engineers like Neil Armstrong to developing navigation and survival skills that served him well during his military service.
“Scouting paid off in geology, meteorology, and First Aid,” Rodger says. “I owe my life to it. Scouting is so important—it prepares you for whatever comes your way.”
A Mentor and Guide
Rodger has worn nearly every hat in Scouting: Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, Den Leader, Merit Badge Counselor, Exploring Advisor, Philmont Wrangler, Camp Staff, and Commissioner. But what matters most to him is the impact on young people.
“Scouting gives youth opportunities that benefit them later in life. I worked closely with a Scout on the autism spectrum and watched him grow into an incredible leader. He became Senior Patrol Leader for his troop and earned Eagle. Experiences like that are why I stay involved.”
Today, Rodger supports three units in Flagstaff, helping leaders and Scouts find resources, connect with opportunities, and grow stronger together.
“The opportunities are out there—the sky’s the limit,” Rodger says, “You just have to get out there and take them.”
Why Scouting Still Matters
For Rodger, Scouting’s value is timeless. “Scouting is important today because it offers face-to-face, hands-on learning that builds self-confidence and independence. It can help even introverted youth find their voice, believe in themselves, and achieve more than they thought possible.”
He’s especially inspired by the energy of today’s Scouts, including the young women who are blazing their own trails. “Scouts BSA, including the girls, are right on it—it’s really inspiring. One Scout here in Flagstaff told me, ‘Scouting opened a new world for me.’ That says it all.”
When asked what advice he would give to Scouts beginning their journey, Rodger doesn’t hesitate: “Put your phone down! Seriously though, you can be whatever you want—you just have to get out there and go for it. And if you have questions, ask. We’re here to help.”
After 75 years of involvement across four different councils, Rodger has served on countless Eagle Boards and supported service projects, inspired by the thousands of hours Scouts dedicate to their communities. “People don’t always realize just what these kids can do for their communities,” he said. “It’s incredible to see.”
For Rodger Monson, Scouting has never been just an activity. It’s been a way of life—one built on honesty, integrity, service, and a belief in the limitless potential of young people. His story is a reminder that the spirit of Scouting doesn’t end when you leave your troop—it carries forward, shaping lives, families, and communities for generations.
Scouting is also a family story. His daughters were in Girl Scouts; his four grandsons are pursuing their own paths—three in college and one already an Eagle Scout—and one grandson has even become a pilot. His wife, a retired schoolteacher, continues to be his biggest supporter, always encouraging him to attend meetings and stay involved.
