Matt Thomas’ winning patch design is unveiled. Photo provided by Susan Thomas.A shoulder patch designed by Canyon Lake Boy Scout Matt Thomas was selected as the winning design for the 50th anniversary of the California Inland Empire Council (CIEC) of the Boy Scouts of America.
Thomas was recognized at the Inland Empire Council recognition dinner, where his winning design was unveiled. He will also receive special 50th anniversary swag in April at the Grand Camporee.
Using “camping” as an inspiration, Thomas created his design in about 20 minutes. “Camping is a central part of scouting and one of my favorite scouting activities,” he said.
Photo provided by Susan Thomas.Thomas’ design features two Scouts. The Scout on the left side of the patch represents the history of Scouting. The Scout on the right represents the future of Scouting.
Thomas also incorporated an arrowhead into his design to represent San Bernardino County. The Mission Bell represents Riverside County. The bottom of the patch represents the four councils that merged 50 years ago to create the California Inland Empire Council.
Thomas joined Cub Scouts at the age of six. Since then, Thomas has climbed the ranks to Eagle Scout and has earned 88 of the 138 merit badges. In July, Thomas and his brother will be joining more than 20,000 other Scouts at the National Jamboree at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in Glen Jean, West Virginia.
The anniversary patch Thomas designed sells for $3.99 and can be purchased here.
The California Inland Empire Council of the Boys Scouts of America serves the Inland Empire of California. The service area comprises Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
