A local 17-year-old has achieved the Eagle Scout rank after leading a project to create a dedicated space for chess enthusiasts at Ferry Park.

• Andrew Dali of Scouting America Troop 529 recently guided fellow Scouts through the construction of two concrete chess tables and benches at the Fort Walton Beach park. The project serves as his Eagle Scout service requirement and provides a new recreational opportunity for residents and visitors. 

“Andrew has grown into an incredible young leader over the years and we are very proud of his accomplishment,” said Troop 529 Scoutmaster Chris Cutler.

The chess tables are designed to attract both experienced players and newcomers to the game, creating a gathering place for mental recreation. The concrete construction ensures the tables will provide long-lasting benefits to the community.

Fort Walton Beach City Councilman Payne Walker, who followed the project from its beginning, praised Dali’s work. 

• “Andrew is an outstanding young man,” Walker said. “I recently had the honor of meeting him and his parents at the completed project site, where he shared his project portfolio, some challenges he faced and how he overcame them. The designing, planning and execution were impressive. His dedication and persistence created a project that will live on for generations at a public park. This is an incredible accomplishment and I am so proud of him.”

The Eagle Scout rank represents the culmination of Dali’s 11-year Scouting career, which began when he joined as a Cub Scout. The rank requires Scouts to complete a leadership project that benefits the community while demonstrating the values outlined in the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

Eagle Scouts have historically achieved notable accomplishments in their lives. Past Eagle Scouts include astronaut Neil Armstrong, television host Mike Rowe, actor Zach Galifianakis, director Steven Spielberg and President Gerald Ford.