Ladue Horton Watkins High School senior Brandon Barrett has accomplished a rare and remarkable feat—earning all 141 merit badges offered by Scouting America, an achievement that recently earned him recognition on Fox 2.

Merit badges cover a wide range of subjects, from outdoor skills and conservation to science, technology, trades, and civic engagement. Each badge requires focused learning, hands-on experience, and guidance from certified counselors. Completing all 141 reflects years of dedication, perseverance, and goal-setting.

Brandon said the process taught him discipline and the importance of breaking large goals into manageable steps.

“You have to be dedicated toward a goal,” Brandon stated to Fox 2. “It’s important to break it down into steps you can achieve. It’s such a long path.”

Among his favorite merit badges are small boat sailing and fishing—two activities he enjoys so much that he now serves as a merit badge counselor, helping younger Scouts earn those same distinctions. He said some of the most challenging badges, including bugling and scuba diving, pushed him outside his comfort zone.

In addition to earning all 141 merit badges, Bradon achieved the rank of Eagle Scout last year, a distinction that requires at least 21 merit badges and the completion of a major service project. For his Eagle Scout project, Brandon worked with the Missouri Department of Conservation at the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area to improve fish habitats by designing and installing underwater structures to support local ecosystems.

His Scouting accomplishments build on another prestigious honor he received last year—the Congressional Award Gold Medal, the highest level of recognition presented by the United States Congress to youth who demonstrate initiative, achievement, and service. The award recognized years of personal development, community service, physical fitness, and exploration.

Together, these accomplishments paint a picture of a student who is deeply committed to growth, leadership, and service. Whether through Scouting, academics, or community involvement, Brandon exemplifies what it means to pursue excellence with purpose.

Ladue Schools congratulates Brandon Barrett on this incredible achievement and for representing Ladue Horton Watkins High School with distinction. His dedication and drive are truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next.