• Memorial Day, May 26, 2014
• By Paul Garrod
• Paw Paw Courier-Leader, May 30, 2014

Waverly Township Supervisor Bob Reits prioritized installing a flagpole at the Waverly Township Hall when he was elected in 2012. Colin DeYoung, a freshman at Paw Paw High School and a resident of Waverly Township, took on this challenge.

Colin, a Life Scout with Paw Paw Boy Scout Troop 169, presented his Eagle Scout Project to the Waverly Township Board. They agreed, with the condition that it be completed by Memorial Day.

After a year of planning, the project was finished earlier this month. A dedication ceremony took place on Memorial Day, attended by over 50 people.

Colin organized the ceremony with the Color Guard of Boy Scout Troop 169, the Waverly Township Board, Van Buren County Commissioners Chairman Dick Godfrey, County Commissioner Mike Toth, and others.

Colin had the honor of raising the flag for the first time. After presenting the flag and dedicating the pole, he handed the keys to Supervisor Reits.

Colin shared, “The best part was the day the pole went up and all the wonderful people who supported me.”

• Paw Paw Courier-Leader
• May 30, 2014

Dear Editor,

I want to thank everyone who helped me install a flagpole at the Waverly Township Hall for my Eagle Scout Project.

Thanks to the Waverly Township Board, Supervisor Bob Reits, and Trustee Tony Millek. I also appreciate Tapper Towing, Thomas Bros. Equipment, and Flame Tamer Fire Protection.

Special thanks to Paw Paw Boy Scout Troop 169, Scoutmaster Scott Anderson, and individuals like Bob Adams, John Porter, Larry Chase, Gary Ewert, Mike Melnyk, Jim Hooper, Nathan Ratzlaff, and Jason Dooley for their time and resources.

Thank you to the public and officials who attended the ceremony, and to Troop 169 for serving as color guard.

Sincerely,

Colin DeYoung, Boy Scout Troop 169

The Eagle Scout is the highest rank in the Boy Scouts of America. Since 1911, over two million young men have earned this rank.

To become an Eagle Scout, a Scout must earn at least 21 merit badges and show Scout Spirit through the Scout Oath and Law, service, and leadership. This includes planning and leading a significant service project. Eagle Scouts receive a medal and badge, with additional recognition possible through Eagle Palms.

Congratulations, Colin, on a job well done!