September / October 2005
Volume 23, Number 5

Michael Sagan of Boy Scout Troop 15, sponsored by Sacred Heart Church, Gloversville, New York, was honored at an Eagle Court of Honor held on August 14, 2005, at Woodworth Lake Boy Scout Reservation. Michael, who has Down syndrome, began his Scouting career as a Cub Scout in 1996, entering Boy Scouts in April 2002, and advancing from the rank of Tenderfoot to Scouting’s highest rank, Eagle Scout, on June 7, 2005.

    In order to earn the rank of Eagle Scout a Scout must be an active member of a Boy Scout troop, demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath and Law, earn a total of 21 merit badges, eleven of which are specifically required, actively serve in a position of responsibility in the troop, and complete a service project helpful to any religious institution, school or community. Michael served as his troop’s Scribe for two years and earned a total of 29 merit badges. Michael also earned the following Faith-based awards: Light of Christ, Parvuli Dei, and Ad Altare Dei award.

    Michael’s community service project was the collection and retirement of worn, old American flags. Specifically designed collection boxes were placed in four locations throughout Johnstown. A total of 966 flags was collected. A flag retirement ceremony was conducted at the
conclusion of the Johnstown Memorial Day Parade, including a 21-gun salute by a special unit of
the Johnstown Police Department and the playing of Taps by the Johnstown High School Marching Band. Remaining flags were respectfully retired during separate ceremonies at Woodworth Lake Boy Scout Reservation with the help of Troop 15 and family members.

    Michael is extremely grateful to all the leaders, committee members, parents, volunteers and Scouts who have given him the opportunity and support to achieve Scouting’s highest rank. Michael is the son of John and Karen Sagan of Johnstown.