Local Girl Scout Awarded Prestigious Medal of Honor for Heroic Actions

Julia Lipsett, a 17-year-old Girl Scout from Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey (GSCSNJ) Troop 617, was awarded the Girl Scout Medal of Honor.

Cherry Hill, New Jersey (June 21, 2024) - On Sunday, June 9th, Julia Lipsett, a 17-year-old Girl Scout from Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey (GSCSNJ) Troop 617, was awarded the Girl Scout Medal of Honor. This award, given for bravery and gallantry,  recognizes a Girl Scout who has saved someone’s life in an emergency. 

Julia and her mother, Amy Lipsett, a nurse at Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, encountered a severe three-person accident. With medical equipment that they had on hand, they were able to stop the victims bleeding before first responders arrived. This quick and decisive action made a difference for this person.  Julia’s actions exemplify the core values of the Girl Scouts—courage, confidence, and character in action.

The Girl Scout Medal of Honor is a significant and rare recognition. The Meritorious Service awards are rare and are reviewed by GSUSA for approval. Since 1998, a little more than 500 Girl Scouts have received this award for acts of heroism beyond their age and training. Julia is one of the few from New Jersey to receive this honor.

Julia’s preparedness for this emergency is rooted in her experience as a Girl Scout. Julia has been involved in numerous first aid and emergency response activities alongside her mother. Amy, a seasoned nurse, has been a Girl Scout leader for 13 years and has always integrated health training into their troop’s activities.

Amy reflected on the accident and said, “We saw the collision occur and knew we had to help. Julia called 911, described the location and the injured person, and I got supplies from my car to help.” Julia’s ability to remain calm and effectively communicate with emergency responders played a crucial role in the successful outcome.

Julia credits her Girl Scout experience with providing a sturdy foundation for her actions. “Girl Scouts has taught me to always do the right thing, to help others, and to be a leader,” she said. Her involvement in community education, including creating materials for the Jefferson Trauma Safety Fair, further highlights her dedication to public service.

Julia's story demonstrates the Girl Scouts' broader impact. The organization’s programming prepares young women for emergencies and instills a lifelong commitment to leadership and community service.

As Julia prepares for her future endeavors, the Girl Scout community congratulates her on this remarkable achievement and wishes her continued success. Julia Lipsett’s recognition with the Medal of Honor serves as an inspiration to all Girl Scouts.

Julia participates in Rowan University's Health and Wellness Expo to raise awareness for the Stop The Bleed ACS campaign.