Neshanic Station Troop 1776 has Eagle # 184

On 9 July, Colin O’Brien of Hillsborough earned the rank of Eagle by completing all the necessary rank, merit badge and project requirements. Achieving the rank of Eagle Scout requires completion of 21 required merit badges, 7 ranks and leading a project which demonstrates leadership, teamwork, and service. The project must benefit a school, religious institution, or the community.

Colin entered Cub Scouts in first grade and continued through Scouting America (formerly known as Boy Scouts of America) for 10 years before earning Eagle Scout. He completed 33 Merit Badges, National Youth Leadership Training program, Camping National Outdoor Award, and backpacked in 13 of the 14 states along the Appalachian Trail. He also served in multiple leadership positions including Den Chief and New Scout Guide.

For Colin’s Eagle project, he choose to design and build an outdoor classroom for Hillsborough’s Woodfern Elementary school. He chose this project because he wanted to pick something unique but more importantly to give back to his K-4 school which was always a special place for him. Karen Stapleton, Woodfern 4th Grade teacher, said "I had the pleasure of teaching Colin in fourth grade, and even then, his character stood out-honest, hardworking, and kind with a great sense of fun. It’s been a joy to watch him grow into the young man he is today. The Woodfern teachers are thrilled he chose Woodfern to do his Eagle Scout project, are looking forward to using the classroom and know the Eagle Scout rank is a true reflection of the values he’s carried with him all along."

Colin led his team of 10 adults and 15 scouts over 3 work sessions. With each session, he ensured he had jobs for everyone, directed the tasks and completed the classroom in according to plan. Colin would like to thank his team members for their hard work and the Woodfern HSA, Hillsborough Rotary Club, Home Depot, and Central Jersey Nurseries for their donations and support.