New Eagle Scouts and 5th Anniversary Celebrated
Scouts BSA Troop 19
In a heartwarming ceremony held at St. Rose of Lima Church, Scout BSA Troop 19 marked a significant milestone by celebrating its 5th anniversary and honoring three exceptional scouts with the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. The event, attended by family, friends, and community members, showcased the dedication and achievements of the troop.
The ceremony began with an opening by Life Scout Sylvie Benjamin and First Class Scout Suhaani Tiwari, who both served as Masters of Ceremony. They welcomed attendees and introduced the evening’s proceedings, including the presentation of colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the national anthem performed by troop members. An invocation was delivered by Sister Sandy DeMasi, setting a reflective and celebratory tone for the event.
Troop 19’s Senior Patrol Leader, Chloe Benjamin, shared her experiences and pride in the troop’s growth over the past five years. Scoutmaster-Emeritus Daniel Cannon also addressed the audience and scouts, reminiscing about the troop’s journey, achievements, and continued mission of excellence.
Scoutmaster James McKenna, who just concluded his first year at the helm, assisted Scoutmaster-Emeritus Cannon in presenting an Eagle Cord to the graduating high school senior Eagle Scouts. Together they commended their leadership and contributions to the troop over the years, wishing them success in their future endeavors.
The highlight of the evening was the recognition of Troop 19’s newest Eagle Scouts: Natalie Daniewski, Kelsey Quane, and Emma Laffler. The trio are all founding members of Troop 19 and impressively represent the ninth, tenth, and eleventh Eagle Scouts since the troop’s inception in 2019. Each scout’s journey to Eagle was highlighted, showcasing their leadership roles and community service projects.
Natalie Daniewski’s Eagle Scout leadership project involved refurbishing a shed for Essex County Parks. This project required extensive planning, securing donations for materials, and coordinating volunteers. Natalie’s leadership ensured the successful completion of a shed that now serves as a functional and aesthetically pleasing storage space for park maintenance equipment. Her project not only improved the park’s facilities but also demonstrated her commitment to environmental stewardship.
Kelsey Quane’s Eagle Scout leadership project consisted primarily of a shoe drive for Samaritan’s Feet, an international organization that provides shoes to those in need. Kelsey’s initiative included setting up collection points, raising awareness about the cause, and overseeing the distribution of the collected shoes. Her efforts resulted in over 500 pairs of shoes being donated, providing comfort and protection to many individuals. Kelsey’s project highlighted her organizational skills and her dedication to helping others on a global scale.
Emma Laffler’s Eagle Scout leadership project involved constructing lifejacket racks for the Essex County Environmental Center. Recognizing the need for proper storage of lifejackets used in various water activities, Emma designed and built sturdy racks that ensure the safety equipment is easily accessible and well-maintained. Her project required carpentry skills, project management, and collaboration with the Environmental Center staff. Emma’s contribution enhanced the safety and efficiency of the center’s programs, benefiting the community for years to come.
The ceremony also included the presentation of the Eagle pin and patch by the scouts’ parents, symbolizing the crucial role families play in supporting their scouts. The Eagle Scouts then received an Eagle Scout neckerchief, officially joining the distinguished ranks of Eagle Scouts.
The ceremony was further enriched by the presence of Eagle Scouts Katie Cannon, Bridget Lomax, Morgan Lomax, and Maanya Jha, who led the Eagle Charge. Their inspiring words encouraged the new Eagle Scouts to uphold the values and responsibilities of their rank, emphasizing the importance of leadership and service.
In addition to celebrating the Eagle Scouts, the event recognized the accomplishments of other troop scouts. Over 40 merit badges were awarded since the last Court of Honor in the fall of 2023, and various scouts advanced in rank, reflecting the troop’s continued commitment to growth and development.
Representatives from government and veteran organizations, including Millburn Township Mayor Annette Romano and Sons of American Legion Squadron 140’s Vice Commander Ryan Cannon, presented awards and congratulatory messages, underscoring the community’s support of Troop 19.
As Troop 19 looks ahead, the evening served as a reminder of the values of Scouting and the bright future for these young leaders. The troop’s 5th anniversary and Court of Honor celebration was not just a reflection on past successes but a hopeful look toward continued community impact and personal growth for its scouts. The concluding Scoutmaster Minute, delivered by Scoutmaster McKenna, focused on a promise for a bright future for Troop 19, inspiring the next generation of aspiring Eagle Scouts to aim high and serve their community with dedication and pride.
Scouts BSA Troop 19 is chartered at St. Rose of Lima Church in Short Hills, NJ. All girls ages 11-17 are welcome to join. For additional information, please visit troop19shorthills.membershiptoolkit.com.
Courtesy photos
