Itell earns rank of Eagle Scout

June 08, 2009

On March 29, Hagerstown Boy Scout Troop 10 awarded the distinguished recognition of Eagle Scout to James M. Itell of Williamsport.

James represents the 93rd Scout to receive this award in Troop 10's history at Trinity Lutheran Church. The ceremony was held at Saint James Chapel, Saint James School, where James is a student.

James earned 24 merit badges and held various positions while on his journey to Eagle Scout. His Eagle Scout project was to build an eight-foot storage closet and a stationary horse for the Star Community equestrian center. The storage closet was needed at the riding center, and the stationary horse allows new riders to sit on a saddle prior to sitting on a live horse. Virginia Gaylor, the equestrian center's director, expressed appreciation for James' hard work.

The ceremony was called to order by Scoutmaster Hunt Hardinge, and the presentation of colors was performed by Jack Fowler and Breese Dickinson, with the Pledge of Alliance led by Leighton Younger. The Rev. Stuart Dunnan, headmaster of Saint James School, gave the invocation. Eagle Scout Zach Repp read the Scout Law, and all Scouts stood to reaffirm the Scout Oath. Hardinge then read the "One Hundred Scouts" essay. Assistant Scoutmaster Todd Cochrane shared James' personal biography. The Eagle Scout Obligation was read by Darrell Fowler of the Council District, with the Eagle Charge presented by Hardinge.

James stood before the audience with his parents, John and Susan Itell, as Hardinge presented James with his Eagle award. Gerald Cump of Elks Lodge 378 presented James with an American flag and shared some inspirational thoughts. Dunnan reflected on James' good nature and positive growth over the years. In addition, Mark Barbernitz, executive director of the Mason-Dixon Council, commented on the importance of the milestone and expressed his appreciation of the Scout leaders and parents who helped James achieve such an honor.

James also received various commendation letters from federal and state representatives congratulating him on the achievement. James shared his personal reflections of his Scouting journey and shared PowerPoint slides showing some of his outdoor activities.

The ceremony closed with a benediction by the Rev. Todd R. Fitzgerald, chaplain at Saint James School. Cake and refreshments followed in the refectory. On display were collages made by James' mother depicting various Cub Scout and Boy Scout adventures experienced by James and his family.

In the fall, James will attend Elon University in North Carolina, where he will major in business. He is also one of only 25 students accepted into the leadership program at Elon.

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