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Last updated on Thursday, May 11, 2017
(BLUFFTON) - It has happened only 332 times before in the history of the Boy Scouts, but an Indiana Eagle Scout has earned every merit badge the scouts offer.
Zach Teeple of Troop 149 received his last 27 merit badges at the Court of Honor on Monday night.
"I thought that would be a good goal and a fun challenge," says Teeple. "It feels really good. I'm glad that I was able to get all of them. I'm just really happy about it."
Teeple, of Bluffton, became an Eagle Scout at the age of 13. In order to reach that rank Teeple had to earn 21 merit badges. He decided to set another goal - earning every merit badge possible. It took him five years to do it. Troop leaders hope Teeple's determination inspires others to do the same.
He had to work against the clock though because once you turn 18, you're Boy Scouts career is over. He just beat the cutoff before his 18th birthday on May 3rd, by completing his Digital Technology merit badge.
Teeple says the challenge has taught him a valuable lesson in perseverance.
"Keep the end in sight and make sure that you set your goal," he added. "Just keep working towards it."
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