He was born and raised in the community of Echo in Coleman County and is a graduate from Coleman High School. He has been active in supporting the school district, Band Boosters Club and other community programs. After high school, he worked in ranching before joining the Texas State Department of Highways and Transportation. Since 1961, he has worked in various departments and is presently a Maintenance Technician.

Cecil started his Scouting career helping his wife, Barbara, with her Cub Scout Den and then joined the Sweetwater Eastridge Elementary School Pack 146 as a Den Leader and then advancing on to the Webelos Den Leader role. In 1982, Cecil became the Scoutmaster for Troop 142, chartered to the First United Methodist Church. During his tenure as Scoutmaster his troop has helped the Sweetwater Jaycees, the Optimist’s Club, the VEW and other church activities in their community to serve the Sweetwater youth.

As an adult Scouter he has attended many training courses including Akela‘s Kiva, Timber Tag 57, Train the Trainer and Showando. He has been recognized with the Scoutmaster Award of Merit - 1988, Scouter’s Key - 1989 and the Northern District Scouter of the Year for 1989.

Besides being a Troop leader he is active in supporting the Order of Arrow. He was Tapped— Out in 1982 and completed his Ordeal in July. The following May he completed his Brotherhood. In 1989 he was selected for the Vigil Honor in the Order. His son, Greg who is an Eagle Scout, is the Kotso Lodge Chief. As an arrowman he has provided transportation, fellowship, service and sets an example to follow in the Spirit of Scouting.

Besides his contribution at the unit level, he has served the Northern District as the Pushmobile Chairman for three years and twice hosted the District Camporee. He is a positive influence on the community by the manner in which he carries out his role as a leader of youth to prepare them as tomorrow’s leaders. It is with great pleasure that the Chisholm Trail Council presents the Silver Beaver to William Cecil Keeney.

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Current as of 05/31/2003

Chisholm Trail Council Abilene Boy Scouts of America, Texas