Rye Troop 2 Hits Eagle Scout Jackpot

Three members of Rye Boy Scout Troop 2 have been awarded the most prestigious honor any Scout can earn—an Eagle Scout badge.

Scouts who earn the highest Boy Scout rank receive 21 merit badges, an indication of how well they exemplify the organization's mission of building character, responsible citizenship and maintaining personal fitness.

"It's a special award," said current Alqonquin District Commissioner and former Rye Troop 2 Scout Leader Bill Langham.

Wilson Hunt and Daniel Newmark were awarded the honor at the seasonal Court of Honor Ceremony on June 15, which was held at Rye Presbyterian Church.

Their fellow Boy Scout, Yuta Makita said he was proud of receiving the Eagle Scout badge.

"I'm really grateful for this honor and for the people who helped me out all the way through until the Eagle," Makita said.

Makita will receive his badge in a formal dedication in September, another option Scouts have of being honored in addition to the Court of Honor ceremony.

Newmark, who received his badge at the Court of Honor ceremony, became a Scout seven years ago when Langham was still leading the troop. Newmark will attend Brown University in the fall, and though he is now too old to still formally participate in the organization, he said his experience with the Boy Scout has helped in his individual growth.

"It feels like a big accomplishment," he said. "I feel very grateful for everyone who helped me and helped me get to today."

Hunt, a Rye High School junior who also received his badge at the Court of Honor ceremony, said it shows that all of his hard work has paid off, especially in a fundraising effort where Rye Troop 2 raised $150 for Hunt's service projects.

Last year, five Boy Scouts received an Eagle Scout badge, a notable accomplishment for the Troop.

"I'm very proud of that," said former Troop Leader Langham.

Those Scouts include Hunt, Simon Edmonds-Langham, Brandon Duffy, Patrick Duffy and Wilson Kaiser.