Stevensville Youth Has been awarded Eagle Scout Award

Mr. David Harshbarger, 17 years old, of Stevensville, Michigan, has earned the highest advancement award the Boy Scouts of America offers to scouts, the Eagle Scout Award.  Harshbarger was recognized in ceremonies on Saturday, April 12, 2014 at Stevensville United Methodist Church.  Harshbarger is a member of Southern Shores Council, Troop 603.  He is only the 49th Boy Scout in that troop to receive the award since 1907.  The difficulty of this accomplishment is magnified, as approximately only two percent of all Boy Scouts will attain the Eagle rank throughout the United States. Each candidate must earn 21 merit badges and successfully complete a community, church, or synagogue-related service project to earn his Eagle rank.  Harshbarger completed 24 badges and chose the Pocket Flag Project as his Eagle Project.  He organized the project of over 1,000 8-inch x12-inch American flags to be folded into a 3-inch triangle by a large group of volunteers.  A signed note expressing thanks and a folded flag were placed into a 3-inch x 3-inch plastic bag.  The folded flags were sent to a post in Afghanistan as a memento to remind US troop’s they are appreciated.  As a special keepsake for this Eagle Scout, an American flag was flown over the same post in Afghanistan, which was presented to David at his award ceremony. Numerous community awards were given during David’s ceremony.  State Senator John Proos representative, Adam Mensinger, presented a Legislative Tribute.  Mr. George Rice of Elk’s Lodge #541 delivered an inscribed knife.  Ms. Ann Castelluccio, David’s teacher, spoke of his accomplishments and his excitement in the classroom.  Troop 603 Scoutmaster, Mr. Doug Weingart, recognized David as a “teacher” during the ceremony.  He noted how David has taught everyone in Troop 603 the importance of trusting your instincts, always being sincere, showing your feelings, allowing others to help, recognizing the unlimited love of parents, and the importance of having and being a role model.  David started scouting as a Tiger Cub Scout in Pack 618 at Steward Elementary in 2004.  In 2008, he earned his Arrow of Light award and moved up to Boy Scout Troop 603.  He has served in various leadership roles in Troop 603; including Quartermaster, Scribe, Librarian, and Webmaster. Harshbarger enjoys bowling, basketball, attending Notre Dame football games, and being a member of the Drama Club at Lakeshore High School.  He is the son of Randy and Suzanne Harshbarger.  David has an older brother, Adam, who is also an Eagle Scout. For Further Information Contact:       Scoutmaster Doug Weingart 269-326-0661