Born in the Texas Panhandle, he was Sunday School superintendent at age 18. As a Marine officer in World War II he was the leader of the platoon that raised the flag on Iwo Jima - for which he received the Navy Cross and the Purple Heart.

His 30 years of Scouting began in 1953. He was Committee Chairman for Troop #15. In 1956 he attended Timber Tag #10 and helped start Troop #79 at the Elmwood West Methodist Church. He led council backpack troops and served as Vice-Chairman of the Southern District Camping and Activities Committee. He led in a canoeing program for area troops during 1965-’67.

In 1968 he moved to Arvada, Colorado where he helped organize a Cub Pack, Two troops, and an Explorer Post. He was in charge of the Showando Trail and headed the adult training program for 3 years. He helped 2 troops make 15 canoes and organized a 50 mile canoe trip. He attended Wood Badge at Philmont in 1972.

He moved back to Abilene in 1974 and served as Associate Advisor of Sea Explorer Post #205. They went sailing in the Bahamas. In 1977 he organized High Adventure Post #299. They have gone skiing in the Rocky Mountains(’77), backpacking in Hawaii(’78 & ‘80), explored Old Mexico (‘79), and made a trip through Alaska and Canada (‘81) that included 1400 miles of motor biking and 460 miles of canoeing the Yukon River. In 1983 Keith and his wife Kathryn led the Explorer Post on a 77 day trip around the world.

He has received the Scouter’s Training Award and the District Award of Merit and is presently on the Chisholm Trail Council Executive Board.

His other activities have included Sunday school teacher, baseball coach, church lay leader, Little League, Y.M.C.A. basketball, Indian guide, and Red Cross Board. He is a member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene which sponsors Post 299 and Troop 237. He also helps with the troop.

Keith is a geologist and oil producer. He belongs to several professional organizations.

It is with great pleasure that the Chisholm Trail Council presents the Silver Beaver to Keith Wells.

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Current as of 05/31/2003

Chisholm Trail Council Abilene Boy Scouts of America, Texas