Current Troop 804 Scouts joined their families with past and current Scoutmasters, Assistant Scoutmasters, Eagle Scouts and honored guests to celebrate their 10th Anniversary the afternoon of Sept. 14 at St. Francis in the Fields Episcopal Church.
Started in 2004 by then Scoutmaster Tim Blagsvedt, the American Legion Post #79 has been the Troop’s sponsor, providing support and space for the Troop’s weekly meetings. The Troop has grown from nine boys to 57 current Scouts. More than 200 boys have been part of the Troop resulting in an impressive 42 Scouts earning their Eagle rank, the highest and most coveted rank in Scouting. Attending Eagles included Ryan Mantel, serving as Master of Ceremonies; Tyler Mantel, Will Penczek, Dave Peterson, Ross Robinson, James Sowinski, Jacob Ward, Benjamin Washer, Michael Witte and David Wurdeman.
Patriotic red, white and blue colors decorated the festive occasion and was attended by Crossroads of America Council Scout Executive, Patrick Sterrett, and North Star District Executive, Eric Sarlitto, who spoke to the more than 150-person audience. Three of the four past Scoutmasters were also in attendance and were honored including Tim Blagsvedt, Ron Penczek, and Mick Witte. Scott Ward was unable to attend from Arizona.
Gov. Michael R. Pence sent a letter of congratulations to the troop, which was presented to Legion Commander #79, Bart Colvin, along with the Indiana State flag which was flown over the Capitol to celebrate Troop 804. Susan Powell Mantel wrote a special poem, with feedback from the Eagles’ memories, to present to the Legion and thank them for their generous sponsorship.
“We are proud of our Scouts and appreciative of their families’ support and involvement in the Troop,” said Greg Hoyes, current Scoutmaster of Troop 804 for the past two years.
The Troop’s most recent Eagle Scout, James Sowinski, was also honored at the celebration, having earned his award on June 11. The Troop has provided community service locally to numerous organizations, including the Lions Club, Zionsville Chamber of Commerce, Lincoln Memory Gardens, Zionsville Food Pantry, the American Legion, and Zionsville Community Schools.
