Scout Soars with Eagles as Americas Newest Eagle Scout

A Court of Honor was held for Eagle Scout Gordon Vincent Moccio on April 15th2018, at Drew United Methodist Church in Carmel, NY. Since its inception is 1912, only 7 of every 100 scouts attain scouting’s highest rank. Eagle Scout Moccio has been in scouting since he was seven years old. Now eighteen, several former leaders were on hand to recognize his achievement. An Eagle Scout carries that title for life. Gordon is also a “Brotherhood Member” of the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s National Honor Society.

Gordon selected the “Old Baptist Burial Ground” in Carmel for his service project. Gordon researched State, County and Local archives and met with historians to identify veterans and patriots interned at the site. Months of research, planning, and obtaining permits culminated in the construction of a kiosk which displays a map of cemetery plots identified, a brief history on the life of a revolutionary war soldier, and other historical information. The project was formally turned over to Pastor Andrew Columbia of the Carmel Baptist Church during the ceremony on April 15th

“I am happy I could bring some recognition to those who served and do my part in recalling the great history associated with Putnam County” Moccio stated, adding many people pass the cemetery each day and many may not give it a second thought. Gordon stated that veterans from the war of 1812 and civil war are also interned there. Surprisingly, Gordon discovered a member of the famous Culper Spy Ring, Robert Townsend, code name Samuel Culper Jr. and “723” is interned in the Baptist Church Cemetery. Many do not realize the historical relevance of this area Moccio said.

Dignitaries present Included Putnam County District Attorney Robert Tendy, Long time Assembly member Sandra Galef and Eagle Scout,

Assemblyman Kevin Byrne, Karl Rohde, Director of Putnam County Veterans Services, Town of Kent Supervisor Maureen Fleming, Jack Duncan of the Brewster Elks, and Dan Troge, Representing the National Council of Order of the Arrow. County Executive Mary Ellen Odell was unable to attend but provided Gordon with a Limited-Edition publication of the History of Putnam County presented by her proxy, District Attorney Robert Tendy. County Executive Maryellen Odell who was unable to attend. Certificates of recognition from Sen. Sean Patrick Maloney, Senator Sue Serino as well as past presidents and other veteran and civic groups.

Gordon is currently a student at Western Connecticut State University majoring in Computer Science and Graphics and hosts the Monday Night Mash up on campus radio Monday nights at 10pm.

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Submitted by Brewster, NY

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