Thornton teen becomes NH's first female Eagle Scout March 03, 2021THORNTON — The Daniel Webster Council is proud to announce that Valerie Ann Johnston of Thornton has become the first female Scout from New Hampshire to earn the rank of Eagle. With this achievement, Johnston, a member of Troop 58 in Campton/Thornton, has become one of America's first female Eagle Scouts. Eagle Scout Valerie Johnston of Troop 58 said, "I am honored to have earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and I'm humbled to be the first woman to do so in New Hampshire. Being a part of Scouting has been a rewarding, life changing experience for me, from earning merit badges, to staffing Scouting's National Youth Leadership Training the past five years, attending the National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience at Summit Bechtel National Scout Reserve then staffing that course at Philmont Scout Ranch, all the way to my Eagle Scout project organizing and implementing a food and donation drive to benefit the New Hampshire Humane Society and better the lives of the animals at the shelter. During my Scouting journey, I have gained incredible leadership experience and have been able to learn skills and values that will serve me for the rest of my life. I'm grateful to the other Scouts and adult volunteers who have made my involvement so memorable and hope my positive experience will empower other young women to consider Scouting."