Troop 1 marks 100 years of scouting in Carmel  

A century after it was first chartered, Carmel Troop 1 celebrated 100 years of scouting service this month with a special Court of Honor at Airport Park in Mahopac, bringing together current scouts, alumni and community leaders to recognize the troop's longstanding impact on generations of local youth. 

Among those attending the centennial celebration was Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne, an Eagle Scout and former member of Troop 1, who reflected on the troop's role in his own life and its continued contributions to the community. 

"Scouting played a major role in my life," Byrne said. "I earned the rank of Eagle Scout with Troop 1 more than 20 years ago and later served as an assistant scoutmaster, troop committee member and adult leader." 

Troop 1 holds a unique place in local scouting history as the first Boy Scout troop chartered in Carmel. Except for interruptions during World War II, the troop has remained active since the 1930s. 

The troop also trained the first scout in town to ever earn the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest achievement in scouting. Nationwide, fewer than 4 percent of scouts attain the rank, making it one of the organization's most prestigious honors. 

Byrne noted that he also attended Troop 1's 75th anniversary celebration and said the troop's longevity is a testament to the dedication of its volunteers and leaders. 

"Over the years, many troops have faced challenges, but Troop 1 has remained strong — growing, serving the community and producing new Eagle Scouts year after year," Byrne said. 

During the ceremony, three longtime leaders were recognized for their decades of service to the troop and the community: Jerry Wiggers, Ed Lacey and the late Joe Efferen. Byrne said the men served as mentors to him and countless other scouts over the years. 

The county executive said his family's connection to scouting continues today through his son, Braeden, who is involved in scouting in Mahopac. 

Byrne congratulated Troop 1 on reaching the milestone and thanked troop leaders for their commitment to maintaining a tradition that has shaped local youth for generations. 

"Here's to the next 100 years," he said.