In an impressive ceremony, held at Clinton Martin Park Recreational Center recently, John J. Rosa, of Troop No. 544, was raised to the rank of Eagle Scout.

Surrounded by family, friends, fellow scouts and many dignitaries, Rosa became the 42nd scout in Troop No. 544 to attain the coveted honor of Eagle Scout.

In the program, handed out by John Rosa, a great piece appeared, which explains Eagle Scouting:

"What It Means to be An Eagle Scout"

It means that I have the ability to be a leader

Not of a gang or criminal organization but

a leader of like-minded individuals that

uphold a creed, a sacred oath

A passion for life and the principles

that founded the United States of America.

Patriotism is a loyalty I will never break

If called on, I would voluntarily give my

life for my country. But more importantly,

I will work to make my country better.

Duty to God is an ongoing learning and

I will use moral values that ensure that I will

be a compassionate and productive citizen.

An Eagle Scout is not a patch, an award or certificate

to hang on the wall. It is a way to live your life.

Although the trail to Eagle is hard work and fun,

it is much more. The Eagle rank is education.

Each rank is a chapter. The conclusion is that by

earning the Eagle rank, the individual has the

tools to be a responsible citizen able to gladly

advance the group before the individual.