MAHOPAC, N.Y.—Monday, Dec. 16, was an exciting day for several local boys from Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s Troop 238, including 17-year-old Jack Degl from Mahopac. The boys all received their Eagle Scout rank at the Court of Honor. The Eagle Scout rank is the highest achievement in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Scouts BSA program. It recognizes a scout's leadership skills, dedication, and commitment to serving their community. Only four percent of scouts reach the ranks of Eagle before they age out of scouting.
To receive their Eagle rank, scouts must be under 18 years old, earn at least 21 merit badges, hold leadership positions within their troop, complete a significant community service project, demonstrate Scout Spirit, Scout Service, and Scout Leadership, display outdoor skills, and demonstrate by example the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
A current junior at Brunswick High School in Greenwich, Connecticut, Jack has been a part of Troop 238 since he was in first grade and has been very active in scouting events, field trips and community-based service activities. His Eagle Scout project was designed to support the community of Putnam County.
Jack coordinated with the Town of Carmel to create a reflection area for Gold Star Mothers in the Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park. With the help of fellow members of Troop 238 and his family, Jack designed and constructed a seating area that includes a metal bench donated by Chapter 137 of the Disabled American Veterans, and two trees planted to provide shade for families utilizing the space in remembrance of our fallen service members.
This project was inspired by both of Jack's grandfathers having served in the Vietnam War as members of the Army. Both have been very much involved in Jack’s scouting career, encouraging him along the way through his journey to Eagle rank.
New York State Assemblyman Matt Slayter (District 94) and Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne took photos on the new bench during the Gold Star Mother’s Ceremony at Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park on Sept. 29—just after the reflection area was complete.
Three other members of Troop 238 from Westchester also received their Eagle rank. They are Noah Dias, Nicholas Badini, and Thomas Pavletich.
The Court of Honor recognizing the new Eagle Scouts was held in the gymnasium at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Shrub Oak and was filled with over 50 attendees who gathered to celebrate the new Eagles, as well as several other BSA Merit Badge recipients.
Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand both sent letters of recognition to the Eagles; Frank Garcia from Assemblyman Matt Slater’s office attended and presented Eagle Scout proclamations on behalf of New York State.
Congratulations to all.
Article courtesy of Jennifer Degl
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