Troop 61 Wrentham Honors Three Eagle Scouts

On Saturday at the Coachman’s Lodge in Bellingham, many friends, relatives and fellow scouts gathered to recognize the achievements of three young men.

The highest rank in Scouting, Eagle Scout, was awarded to Colby Anderson, Daniel Young and Shane Loughlin.

To earn the Eagle Scout rank, a Boy Scout must fulfill requirements in the areas of leadership, service and outdoor skills. He is required to earn at least 21 merit badges, which signify the mastery of certain Scout craft skills as well as serving to increase skill in areas of personal interest. A Scout must also demonstrate good leadership skills, including organizing, leading and managing an extensive service project, that benefits the community.

On a national basis, approximately 2.5 percent of boys entering Scouting reach Eagle status. Each of these three young men began their scouting career back in Cub Scouts over 12 years ago. They joined Boy Scout Troop 61 when they were 11 years old, and embarked on the long dedicated road to the rank of Eagle.

Becoming an “Eagle” will open doors for these young men, not only in higher education, but in the business world and beyond. They will always be able to call on a fellow Eagle from around the country as they join this elite group.

Colby Anderson, son of Mark Anderson and Heidi Neipris, is Troop 61’s 96th Eagle Scout. Colby’s service project benefits hikers within the Wrentham State Forest, where he was instrumental in building a bridge on one of the trails. Colby is currently in his freshman year at UMass Dartmouth, studying engineering.

Daniel Young, Troop 61’s 97th Eagle Scout, son of Maryann and Rich Young, completed his service project within the Joe’s Rock Conservation area of Wrentham. An area that was previously run down and attracting undesirable activities has been completely refurbished. The parking lot, the trail, stream and sign now welcome families back to the area. Dan is studying music at Temple University in Philadelphia.

Shane Loughlin, son of Patrick and Sue Loughlin is Troop 61’s 98th Eagle Scout. He worked diligently at the Sweatt Baseball Complex clearing an overgrown area, making access to the fields easier for spectators, and designing and building a display board of the map of the fields. Shane is currently studying culinary arts at Southern New Hampshire University.

Many of Troop 61’s Eagle Scouts and former leaders joined in the celebrations this past weekend, some traveling from afar. This troop is instrumental in the development of mature young adults, who remain close and connected for years to come, many returning each year to participate in an annual campingtrip to the North Maine Woods in Millinocket Maine.

Congratulations to these boys on their dedication, commitment and accomplishments.

Troop 61 always welcomes new recruits. Meetings are held every Monday from 7pm to 8:30pm at WrenthamvElementary School, Wrentham. For more information, please contact: Ray Rose (Scoutmaster) (508) 400-9055 rosecabin@verizon.net or Steve Marland (Assistant Scoutmaster) (508) 384-5197 stephenmarland@verizon.net

-Submitted by Troop 61