WINONA LAKE - Seven members of Warsaw Boy Scout Troop 715, who finished all of the merit badge requirements and their community service projects in 2007, received their Eagle Scout Award at a formal Court of Honor.
The event was held at the Winona Lake Presbyterian Church.
Indiana Sen. Ryan Mishler was the special guest speaker for the evening. After the opening flag ceremony, Senior Patrol Leader Jordan Friddle welcomed the packed sanctuary and William Anderson led the invocation.
Scoutmaster Richard McCleary introduced the Eagle Honor Guard, which was composed of Troop 715 Eagle Scouts from former years. They were Ben Blocher, 2006; Eric Hoover, 2005; Thomas Friddle, Matt Holderman, Trent McClintock, Preston Moudy, 2004; and Brandon Wilhite, 1991. The Honor Guard, prior to the ceremony, had escorted the parents of the candidates to their seats in the front. During the ceremony, they individually escorted their candidate to the stage, introduced him, and gave a brief history of his Scouting career.
Jean Northenor introduced Mishler and later read a poem titled "A Boy Scout's Mother Asked."
Lincolnway District Chairman Bill Curl presented the new Eagle Scouts with the Eagle Pin.
Anthony Wayne Area Council Field Director Jim Molebash gave the Eagle Charge and presented them with the Eagle Certificate from the Boy Scouts of America.
Troop 715's Advancement Chairman Scott McClintock presented the Scouts with letters of congratulations from President George W. Bush, Senators Richard Lugar and Evan Bayh, Governor Mitch Daniels, Mayor Ernie Wiggins and many other distinguished dignitaries.
The new Eagle Scouts are Wesley Craig, son of Ken and Hung Kyu Craig; Josh Holland, son of Dan and Janet Holland; Jonathan Humberson, son of Donald and Jessica Humberson; Michael Meadows, son of Mark and Lisa Meadows; Patrick Olson, son of Stephanie Olson and Don Olson; Clayson Wilhite, son of Jack and Teresa Wilhite; and Taylor Zigon, son of David and Karen Zigon.
A reception was held downstairs for the crowd and the celebration lasted until 10:30 p.m. when McCleary decided it was past his bedtime and started turning out the lights.
