By R.E. Wagner
Long time boy scout and local Roxbury senior, Christopher Merring Jr., earned his Eagle Scout position this past summer after completing a challenging year and a half community service project.
“We are so proud of our son,” stated his father, Christopher Merring Sr. “He worked so hard to achieve this honor.”
Merring’s community service project involved the relocation and restoration of an authentic World War 2 era anti-tank gun at the West Orange National Guard Armory. In addition to repainting the entire decades old weapon, the young Eagle Scout also installed paving stones around the cannon.
When asked why he had chosen this particular project, Merring Jr. explained that he wanted to honor the nation’s veterans and that he aspired to join the Marine Corps once graduating from High School at the end of this school year.
Starting his journey in the Boys Scouts as a young Bobcat in the summer of 2008, it wasn’t long before Merring Jr.’s natural determination, resilience, and work ethic was recognized by his
troop. He swiftly began leading in numerous positions support positions within his troop, including librarian, assistant patrol leader, patrol leader, troop quartermaster, axe yard instructor, assistant senior patrol leader and senior patrol leader.
In order to earn the title of Eagle Scout, a member has to earn no less than 21 of the numerous Merit Badges offered, including: Camping, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, Communication, and Cooking.
Of the many young boys starting out as young Bobcats, considerably less make it all the way up to Eagle Scout. It takes years of hard work and commitment.
“I couldn’t have done it without the love and support of my family and friends,” thanked Merring Jr., “and my brother scouts of course.”