The Grand Canyon Council recently held an event Sept. 30 to reveal the commissioned 1,000-pound bronze statue, Be Prepared, placed at GCC’s Heard Scout Pueblo facility located at the base of South Mountain in Phoenix.

The statue, Be Prepared, sculpted by artist Jamie Lester, was inspired by Dave Alexander — a longtime Scout supporter, Distinguished Eagle Scout and generous donor from Paradise Valley.

Utilizing action and movement, the statue depicts young Alexander leaping into the air, stretching out one foot to reach an adolescent bald Eagle. Details such as a recreated badge from his early days of Cub Scouts, when Lion, Wolf and Bear symbolism was used, and Alexander’s cub scout uniform, are incorporated in the sculpture.

Alexander has been a life-time supporter of Scouting and is the current managing partner of Caljet, the largest independent motor fuels terminal in the Southwestern United States. He has competed in triathlons in 37 countries and is actively involved in bringing triathlon to many Scout councils around the U.S. and the world. Alexander attributes the important lessons he learned in his youth to his experiences in Scouting and, to this day, is committed to living his life by the “Scout Oath” motto.

“Dave is an ideal role model for young Scouts in Arizona and across the world so naturally his spirit is the perfect muse for a bronze sculpture depicting the excitement of Cub Scouts,” said GCC Scout Executive and CEO Andy Price. “Dave is incredibly committed to ensuring Scouts have the necessary resources to succeed and we are so grateful for his generosity and compassion. Be Prepared will inspire all Scouts and families who visit the Heard Scout Pueblo for years to come.”

As GCC strides to help youth discover their path, the tradition and legacy of Scouting continues to help inspire young Scouts to reach their goals. Leader and life-long scout Alexander serves as an excellent role model to inspire young scouts to accomplish their dreams and the Be Prepared bronze statue captures this essence.

GCC is an independent nonprofit organization chartered by the Boy Scouts of America in Arizona.