Chartiers Valley sophomore Justin Bonkoski, 15, of Collier, recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout — the highest rank in Scouting, following his project at Webb Field in Collier.
Justin said his Eagle Scout project stemmed from the efforts of his brother, Michael, to clean up and repaint the dugouts at Webb Field a few years ago.
“(Michael) did the other set of dugouts at Webb Field, and I said, ‘Let’s finish the field,’” Justin said.
“It was a lot of work, a lot of planning, but I had a great time doing it.”
His project included painting and rehabilitating dugouts and a shed at the field. It took him and his troop about two days to complete the work.
A Court of Honor ceremony for Justin was held on Feb. 21 at the Collier Township Community Center.
Township commissioners presented Justin with a proclamation during their meeting on Feb. 26. The township also recognized Michael and Troop 860 for their help in improving the park at a July meeting.
“When (Collier commissioners) said they wanted to personally honor me, I said, ‘That’s crazy.’ It was pretty cool,” Justin said.
Justin is believed to be the youngest person in troop history to earn the rank of Eagle Scout, according to his mother, Cindy Miklos. She said Justin wants to stay involved in Scouting and mentor some of the younger Scouts.
Only about 6% of Boy Scouts earn the Eagle rank.
“He set his mind and was determined that he was going to get it done before he was 16, and he did,” Miklos said.
Justin has been involved in scouting for about nine years. His father, Jerry, was also a Scout, and Justin wanted to follow in his footsteps.
“It gives a good sense of community involvement and morals,” Jerry said of scouting. “(Justin’s) a fantastic kid.”
Jerry also thanked the leadership in the troop for their mentorship of Justin and Michael.
Scouting has given Justin the opportunity to learn life skills and develop friendships for life, he said.
Justin said it’s satisfying to see his effort benefit the community. In addition to his work with Troop 860, Justin participates in Collier’s Clean Up Day, where volunteers pick up trash along roadsides.
“I always feel like the more you give back, it makes you feel better. It makes you feel accomplished,” he said.
