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A Trio of Eagles for Troop #539

photo by Mike Cameron

photo by Mike Cameron

Tuesday November 27, 2007

By Mike Cameron

    Even people with only limited knowledge of scouting know that to attain the honor of Eagle Scout is a accomplishment unsurpassed in the organization.

    The designation doesn't come easy and requires years of dedication and loyalty.  “Be Prepared”, the Boy Scout Motto is never more evident than when a scout earns the designation of Eagle Scout.

    On November 18th 2007, Boy Scout Troop #539 in Vergennes saw three of its own receive the coveted award.

    Benjamin Osicky, Kyle Pixley and John Slocum were recognized in front of peers, family and friends as Eagle Scouts before the Eagle Court of Honor.

    The event was hosted by American Legion Post 14 of Vergennes.  The Vergennes post has been an active supporter of scouting in Vergennes for 61 years.

    According to BSA officials, Eagle Projects must be approved by the regional council, documented and describe in detail at least 100 hours of combined work by each eagle candidate.

    The troop, families and friends are very supportive in this effort.  The cost of materials is covered by donations and support of local businesses solicited by the eagle candidate and the project must serve a public need.

    The recent award ceremony was attended by 125 family members and friends from as far away as Florida and California.

    Thirty one prior Vergennes Eagle Scouts dating back to 1950 were also recognized (in absentia) and all Eagle Scouts present were recognized.

    John Slocum is a 16 year old resident of Middlebury.  His Eagle Project was to build a wheelchair access ramp with the U.S. Forest Service under their supervision.  John’s project was completed in the Blueberry Hill Management Area in Goshen.  Now thanks to John’s efforts on their behalf more disabled people can enjoy some time in one of the state’s most scenic wilderness areas.  John is the son of Paul and Priscilla Slocum of Middlebury.

    Kyle Pixley is an 18 year old resident of Vergennes.  His Eagle Project was to clear a wooded area for a picnic grounds on the property of the Victory Baptist Church in Vergennes. Now thanks to Kyle’s initiative people can enjoy a picnic with family and friends in a beautiful and peaceful setting.  Rick is the son of Rick and Cheryl Pixley of Vergennes.

    Rick recently left is position of Scoutmaster, but was the principal scout leader for these three eagle scouts.

    Benjamin Osicky is an 18 year old resident of Ferrisburgh.  His Eagle Project was to build an informational Kiosk for the Salisbury Fish Hatchery on Route 52 in Salisbury.  Now thanks to Ben’s efforts fishermen and women can view fish stocking information and other data posted by hatchery personnel including rules and regulations. Benjamin is the son of Tammy Lavalette.

    These young men are justly proud of their achievements in scouting.

    Their parents would like to thank all those who supported and encouraged  their son’s during the time they were involved with the Eagle Project.

    In a related note, during the special ceremony and reception, special recognition was also given to Dr. Paul Stannilonis MD, Phd.  A Vergennes native Dr. Stanilonis is one of the founding scouts of Vergennes Boy Scout Troop 39 started in 1948.  The Troop later became Vergennes Troop 539.  Dr. Stanilonis earned his Eagle Scout rank in 1956 and was one of the first Eagle Scouts in Vergennes.

    Dr. Stanilonis earned his doctorate in 1965.  He continues to serve the Vergennes community and remains active in Scouting today. 

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