BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Five scouts were honored by the Bernards Township Committee for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout.
The Township Committee presented the proclamations at the July 28 meeting.
The resolutions honored William Josling, Logan Murphy, John Reynolds, Ahil Thendral and Jake Anthony Valentin for service projects completed in Bernards Township and the Somerset Hills.
Mayor Ana Duarte McCarthy said Eagle Scout is attained by only a small percentage of scouts after years of dedication, leadership development, community service and a significant service project.
"Our community thrives because of individuals like you who step up and intentionally consider ways to help others," McCarthy said. "Each of you has demonstrated hard work and commitment to moving through the ranks and achieving the required merit badges."
Josling built and installed three Trex benches around the tombstone memorial of Irwin Richardt at Sons of Liberty Farm and added landscaping with plantings and stones from the property.
Murphy designed, constructed and installed a permanent food donation cabinet at Ridge High School in partnership with the Somerset County Food Bank.
Reynolds partnered with the Historical Society of Somerset Hills to create the organization's first online exhibit, including a narrated script and virtual tour tied to the Natirar Estate and Kate Macy Ladd Convalescent Home exhibit at the Brick Academy.
McCarthy also noted during the meeting that Reynolds "was also honored by the Bernards Township's US 250th Committee at the Ross Farm Flag Day event."
According to the resolutions, Thendral completed his project at the Great Swamp Environmental Education Center by clearing invasive plant species, spreading wood chips along an overgrown walking path and installing new trail markers.
Valentin designed, built and installed two wooden benches for the Ridge High School Special Education courtyard.
McCarthy said, "The students added their own handprints to the benches, which is a lasting legacy."
Committee members also congratulated the scouts and their families.
Committee member Brett Hodges said, "It's this exact kind of civic engagement and leadership that leads to a strong community."
Deputy Mayor John Tompkins said, "It's rare. It's something you can take with you the rest of your life and something you can be proud of for the rest of your life."
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