Danville teen Scott Talley received the Congressional Silver Medal last week from Congressman Jerry McNerney. The award recognizes Americans who set and meet goals in four main categories, including public service, personal development, physical fitness and expedition/exploration.
But, with the silver medal in the bag, Talley is now after the gold.
"My older brother and sister got the gold medal, so I want to get the gold medal," the 16-year-old junior said.
But, he says, the drive for the gold goes beyond just sibling rivalry.
"I really like that this medal recognizes a variety of areas," he said. "It has the four core areas it looks at. It's not just awarded based on one thing."
To qualify for the silver medal, Talley had to complete more than 200 hours of voluntary public service through the Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, he tutored students, was a camp counselor and participated in community fundraisers.
He also attended religious study sessions, accomplished the physical fitness component by playing basketball and football and, lastly, for the exploration component, traveled to Lake Tahoe to learn about the history and transpiration of the area.
“I congratulate Scott as an outstanding example of what the best of our youth are achieving," said McNerney in a release from his office. "To set his own goals and then reach them in each category is a true accomplishment. I am honored today to have the opportunity to present him with the Congressional Silver Medal."
For the gold medal, however, the goals are set higher. So, for example, the public service component increased to 400 hours.
"That's probably was the hardest part," he said, about the 400 hours of public service he had to long. "After awhile, it's hard to find programs or initiatives to volunteer for."
To fulfill those 400 hours, Talley said he coached a summer basketball camp, participated in a Cub Scout camp and made about a dozen blankets for a women's shelter in San Francisco.
Talley said he sent the gold medal application in last week and expects to hear something in April.
If Talley is awarded the gold medal, he'll travel to Washington D.C. for a ceremony at the White House.
With the silver medal locked up and the gold medal on the horizon, Talley said he's still not sure what the future might hold. Asked what all 16-year-olds are asked: What do you want to do in the future?
"Go to college and then I'll figure out the rest," he said, with a laugh.
