On Saturday, March 17 at 2:00 PM Troop 53 will hold a Court of Honor (admittance by invitation only) at the Andrew Shaw Memorial Cabin to celebrate four new Eagle Scouts, Elliott C. Helgans, Charles L. Stout, Alexander von Stuelpnagel and Holden M. Chung.
Eagle is the highest rank in Scouting, requiring demonstrated leadership in the troop, a minimum of 21 merit badges, and the completion of a project which benefits an organization outside of Boy Scouts.
Over the years, Eagle Scouts have dedicated thousands of community hours and made a lasting contributions to Darien. The recent accomplishments add to the more than 200 projects in Darien that have been completed since 1928.
During the Summer of 2011, Elliott Helgans worked with the and scouting friends on designing and constructing four new boat racks at the Y—over a ton in weight. The quality of the work was severely tested by Hurricane Irene with no damage to the racks or boats.
Charlie Stout and a large group of volunteers built two substantial bridges and conducted trail maintenance for the , providing safer trails and fun for hiking children of all ages.
Under the sponsorship of the , Alex von Stuelpnagel with the help from Scouts and Scout parents re-established the trail at Baker Woods which had been lost over the years due to overgrowth and neglect.
In addition, and to the delight of the dog walking neighbors, the group built a bridge and a field stone crossing area. A new sign post highlights the wonderful plant life in .
Holden Chung and his volunteers replaced almost 600 feet of old wood rail fence which runs around —with over 250 man hours of work. The new safety fence keeps students and young athletes safe from the busy traffic on Mansfield Avenue and is pleasing to the eye.
Ellliott, Charlie, Alex and Holden supported each other in their individual efforts, with the added sense of accomplishment during Holden's Royle School project, since this is where the four friends started out as Cup Scouts and where their scouting life now became full circle.
The four Eagle Scouts want to thank everyone in Troop 53 who helped, and the Darien Y, and for their donations in time and materials.
The Court of Honor on March 17 is expected to be attended by Darien First Selectman Jayme Stevenson, State Representative Terrie Wood and State Senator Bob Duff.
Arnold Feintuck, Assistant Scoutmaster and Eagle Coach, will serve as Master of Ceremonies and Grant Evans will provide the traditional Scoutmaster Minute. Todd Morgan, President of the Andrew Shaw Memorial Trust, and other Board Members will also be in attendance.
Anybody interested in Scouting, please come to the Scout Cabin at 140 West Avenue in the evening on any Monday (Troop 35) or Tuesday (Troop 35) or call 203 656 1830.
