Community Celebrates Long Valley Eagle Scout’s Milestone

LONG VALLEY, NJ — Another Washington Township Boy Scout has earned scouting’s highest honor and was recently recognized by members of the local police department.

Washington Township officials presented a formal proclamation to Charles Meyer from Boy Scout Troop 436, welcoming him into the rank of Eagle Scout.

Eagle Scout is the highest rank in the Scouts BSA program of the Boy Scouts of America. Since its inception in 1911, only about four percent of scouts have earned this prestigious title, which requires a rigorous review process, according to officials.

To earn the Eagle Scout rank, scouts must plan, develop, and lead a service project that benefits a religious institution, school, or the local community.

Meyer began his journey as a Cub Scout in first grade and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in March of this year.

Meyer’s Eagle Scout project focused on restoring the parking lot at Hacklebarney State Park. According to officials, the project involved repairing wooden guardrails, trimming overgrown vegetation, reconstructing deteriorating picnic tables, and rehabilitating the entire area.

The project took over a year to complete and greatly enhanced the park’s functionality, the department said.

Sgt. Dan Parrish, Officer Sam Lauver, and Committeeman Matt Murello were present to award Charlie a letter of recognition from the Washington Township Police Department in honor of his accomplishment.

"Charlie your hard work, dedication, and commitment to service and leadership have truly paid off. This is an incredible milestone … Well done," police said.

Chartered in Long Valley in 1972, Troop 436 meets every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. at St. Luke’s Parish. Over the past 52 years, the troop has produced more than 130 Eagle Scouts, with many Scouts passing through its ranks.