Preston Alan Talpers became a member of Boy Scout Troop 42 in June 2013 and earned his Tenderfoot rank that same month. He advanced to the ranks of Second Class in March 2014, First Class in July and Star in December. He became a Life Scout in June 2015. Eric earned his Eagle Scout in June 2018. Additionally he earned a Silver Eagle Palm and a 2nd Bronze Palm.

During his time in Scouting, Preston served his Troop as Scribe, Assistant Patrol Leader, Den Chief and Assistant Quartermaster.

He attended summer camp at the H. Roe Bartle Scout Reservation where he began the trail of the Tribe of Mic-O-Say honor camping program as a Foxman in 2015. He was called to join the Tribe the following summer as a Brave and chose the name Calm Whispering Hornet. In 2017 he was elevated to the rank of Warrior, became a Firebuilder and this past summer was given the additional responsibility of Firebuilder.

Additionally, Preston went to the Philmont High Adventure, earned the 50-Miler Award, World Conservation Award, Arrow of Light and the National Outdoor Award-Camping.

Preston’s Eagle Scout Service Project was to refurbish the main campfire ring located at the Greater Kansas City Rotary Youth Camp in Lee’s Summit. The campfire ring was restored using mortar and stones to the original condition thereby allowing the renewed use of the fire ring during the evening campfire. A total of 74 service hours were completed as part of this project.