5 Oceanport Residents Earn Eagle Scout Rank

5 Oceanport Scouts from Troop 58 attained the highest Scout rank last Saturday at a ceremony held at the Shrewsbury Sailing and Yacht Club. The requirements include earning at least 21 merit badges (each of which can take months to complete) and demonstrating Scout spirit through the Boy Scout Oath and Law, community service, and leadership.

Over 100 family members and friends gathered at SSYC for the Eagle Scout Court of Honor held for Connor Feroce, James Lane, Michael McArdle, Andrew Smith and Mark Steinbrick. All five young men crossed over from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts in 2006 and each completed an impressive list of merit badges over the last 7 years including mammal study, first aid, oceanography, family life, camping, crime prevention, aviation, citizenship, space exploration, personal fitness, and many more.

In addition, each Scout must plan and oversee an Eagle Scout project to demonstrate leadership of others while enhancing the community. Connor Feroce’s project included the refurbishment and face-lifting of both Blackberry Bay Park and Trinity Park. James Lane provided a nesting platform for osprey to nest on within the boro of Oceanport (a pair of osprey have already been seen nesting there!). Michael McArdle erected a memorial at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation in West Long Branch in memory of Mr. James Kirk, a mentor and influential leader of Troop 58. Andrew Smith installed an illuminated sign in front of the Oceanport Fist Aid Squad Building so that the community can now view important messages about the community. And Mark Steinbrick built an 8x8 professional grade garden shed for the Oceanport Community Garden as part of “Sustainable New Jersey”.

The Eagle Scouts presented their parents with “Parent Awards” which signified the tremendous support and commitment they each received from their families over the years. Scoutmasters, parents and Scouts all recognized that it typically takes “a few” reminders to keep the Scouts moving forward towards the accomplishment.

Following the ceremony, the Eagle Scouts and their families & friends enjoyed dinner on the deck of the Shrewsbury Sailing and Yacht Club, and celebrated this exciting milestone while overlooking the magnificent view of the Shrewsbury River.

Congratulations to Troop 58 Eagle Scouts!