Troop 71 recently graduated four new Eagle Scouts: Matt Palmadessa, Dylan Shelley, Ryan Watson and William Boutzalis. Fellow Scouts, family, friends, leaders, BSA representatives, elected officials, representatives from American Legion Manhasset Post 304 and other dignitaries and guests filled Plandome Village Hall to celebrate these young men for earning Boy Scouting’s highest honor and to offer their insights on the award’s importance to their futures and society. Among them was State Assemblyman Anthony D’Urso and Munsey Park Mayor Frank DeMento, who awarded each Eagle a special citation after heartfelt remarks about the four Munsey Park residents.
Always the most touching part of the ceremony was when each honoree’s mother pinned the Eagle rank onto their son, followed by the Scout’s bestowing the Eagle “Mom” and “Dad” pin onto his parents.
After acknowledging the Eagle Oath and Charge, the honorees remarked on their trail to Eagle and what Scouting means to them, offered advice to their Scout brothers, presented their Mentor pins and thanked all those who assisted them with their Eagle Service Projects: Palmadessa repurposed trees to revitalize the Long Island Science Museum’s campfire area; Shelley dredged and redefined Pollywog Pond in Waldmann Park; Watson removed tons of overgrowth along the Science Museum entrance road; and Boutzalis revitalized the veterans’ memorial in Waldmann Park.
A delicious outdoor reception hosted by the new Eagle Scout parents topped off the wonderful event. Congratulations to the community’s newest Eagle Scouts. Learn more at www.plandometroop71.com.
