Lithia teen helps refurbish Vietnam-era chopper

TampaBayOnline: Lithia teen helps refurbish Vietnam-era chopper

LITHIA -- Not everyone can say they have readied a Vietnam War-era helicopter for painting. But Cody Marc Codner can, and he has an Eagle Scout medal to prove it.

The well-worn chopper is part of a memorial at Veterans Park in Tampa.

The son of Marc and Karen Codner officially completed the project last December to earn the Boy Scouts highest rank, but he wasn't officially recognized until his Eagle Scout Court of Honor on May 21. Sixty people attended the congratulatory ceremony at Riverview VFW Post 8018, which chartered his Troop 205.

He also received letters of commendation from President Barack Obama, his wife, Michelle, and Gov. Rick Scott.

Codner, 17, a junior at South County Career Center, entered Scouting seven years ago. At the time, his parents said they were a bit reluctant to say yes because of transportation issues created by their work schedules.

"But he begged us to join," his mother said. "We finally agreed, but we weren't so sure he'd stay committed."

He did, and they are proud of his achievements, especially his Eagle Scout ranking.

"He had to come up with the project, raise money, get donations of supplies and enlist helpers," she said.

Crossroads Ace Hardware in Lithia gave Codner sandpaper, buckets and other supplies for the project, and Cici's Pizza on Fowler Avenue in Tampa donated food. He raised $275 by selling custom wood pens and collecting aluminum cans, and recruited six helpers, including his grandfather, Ray Codner.

"Having achieved Eagle myself when I was his age, I know the life skills and knowledge that can be gained in Scouting," he wrote in a letter of recommendation for the boy. "I have encouraged him to keep his 'eye on the prize.'"

Codner spent hours planning and implementing the project, which included hours of sanding down the helicopter. Park representatives had to sign off before he could appear before the Boy Scouts Gulf Ridge Council board.

"I learned the importance of teamwork in getting a job done," Codner said of the experience. "I also learned a lot about responsibility. Scouting has helped me be more active."

Although required to earn 21 badges on his way toward becoming an Eagle, Codner surpassed that requirement by three. He also became a member of the Order of the Arrow, Scouting's national honor society.

"Cody stepped up and showed strong leadership during this project," said Scoutmaster Bill Campbell. "He handles himself well."