Scouting America Marlboro Troop 86 Eagle Court of Honor

Scouting America, Battleground District, and Troop 86 proudly recognize Samay Bhatt, who achieved the rank of Eagle Scout on December 12, 2024. A resident of Marlboro Township, Samay is a graduate of Marlboro High School and is attending The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) to pursue a degree in Nursing and Public Health.

Samay’s Scouting journey began at just five years old when he joined Tiger Scouts in Edison Den 5, Pack 12. From the very start, Scouting became a passion. One of his favorite early memories was preparing and delivering a coin-collecting presentation with his twin brother, Sunay. Showcasing their America the Beautiful quarters, the brothers shared their knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow Scouts. Samay’s natural storytelling ability and excitement for his hobby made the presentation a hit.

Whether fishing, hiking, learning outdoor skills, racing Pinewood Derby cars, or simply spending time with friends, Samay embraced every aspect of Cub Scouts. After moving to Marlboro, he eagerly continued his journey by joining Pack 86 in 2015, where he quickly formed strong friendships. His favorite Pack 86 memories include designing and racing cars in the Pinewood Derby.

Samay crossed over to Troop 86 in 2017, where Scouting grew into something even more meaningful. He thrived in the Scout-led environment and cherished the adventures that took him places he might never have experienced otherwise. The camaraderie, leadership development, and opportunities for service deeply shaped his character.

Throughout his time in Troop 86, Samay served as Quartermaster and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL). Reflecting on these roles, he shared, “These leadership positions taught me responsibility and accountability. I learned how to communicate with presence of mind, focus, mental clarity, and calmness so I can convey my ideas effectively and compassionately.” Strengthening his communication skills became especially important to him, leading him to attend the National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT). He recalls, “The most memorable part of NYLT was sitting around the campfire during outpost nights, where I truly learned the importance of teamwork.”

A highlight of Samay’s Scouting career was participating in Philmont Scout Ranch High Adventure in 2022 and in 2025. Preparation began a year in advance for the demanding two-week trek through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Scouts hiked 5–7 miles daily, carrying 50–60 pound packs filled with essential supplies. Along the way, they took part in activities such as spar pole climbing, blacksmithing, railroading, and ultimately summited Mount Baldy at an elevation of 12,441 feet.

In 2022, Samay was chosen to serve as a Guia, responsible for fostering appreciation of nature and wilderness. He led his crew in identifying native wildlife and learning about the local ecosystem. Beyond the physical demands, water management was a constant challenge, requiring careful planning and teamwork. In 2025, Samay was elected as the Crew Leader, leading, guiding, and delegating his entire crew to success. Reflecting on the experience, Samay said, “Philmont gave me incredible friendships and a strong belief that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. That confidence helped me approach my Eagle Project with calmness and certainty.”

“I wanted my Eagle project to be meaningful and a true selfless act for others,” states Samay, so he partnered with a local temple, Sri Guruvaayoorappan Temple in Morganville, New Jersey, that needed outdoor seating for the elderly and people with disabilities attending religious ceremonies in a large gazebo. After meeting with Temple Committee Chair Mr. Kasi Subramanian, Samay designed a plan to build seven durable, weather-resistant benches. “This project spoke to my heart because it helps the elderly and people with disabilities pray and take part in religious ceremonies in comfort,” Samay exclaims sincerely.

He carefully refined the design, selected materials, organized volunteers, and created detailed work plans. One of the challenges was precise measurements and complex woodcuts, which Samay solved by labeling materials and sequencing cuts to eliminate waste. The temple generously provided meals for volunteers, ensuring everyone remained energized throughout the project.

Samay set up organized workstations for measuring, cutting, assembling, sanding, and painting, even arranging pop-up canopies to protect volunteers from the sun. Younger Scouts were paired with older ones to encourage mentorship and teamwork. “I wanted everyone to stay engaged and enjoy the experience,” Samay said. “In the end, we produced beautiful work, something I am tremendously proud of and which will serve my community for years to come.”

From this project, Samay gained one of his most important life lessons: “One of the biggest lessons I learned from my Eagle project was to trust myself and to have the confidence to think of creative solutions to any challenges that I face. To be a solution-oriented thinker with a calm focus. This was one of the most valuable lessons I gained from Boy Scouts.” These are the actions that define Samay's character, not just his achievements. Achieving the rank of Eagle Scout is no small feat. It requires discipline, commitment, leadership, and a heart for service. It’s about living the values of the Scout Oath and Law every single day. And Samay has done that with integrity, humility, and quiet strength.

His commitment to helping others and improving his community truly embodies the spirit of Scouting and the honor of the Eagle Scout rank.