LEWISTON – More than 60 people gathered at the Lewiston Elks Lodge 371 for an Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Andrew Cotterly of Boy Scout Troop 125 on April 22.

Cotterly, 16, a resident of Poland and the son of Wayne and Kathleen Cotterly, was presented with Scouting’s highest rank by Abnaki District Executive Matthew Mower of Lewiston.

During the ceremony, Cotterly was also presented with his first Eagle Palm by Scoutmaster Michael Limerick of Poland for work he has completed since passing his board of review in December.

In addition to receiving his Eagle Rank and Palm, Cotterly was presented a sentiment from the Maine Legislature by Sen. Lois Snowe-Mello of Poland and House Rep. John C. Robinson of Raymond.

Cotterly was also presented an Americanism Award and Flag by Exalted Ruler Robbie Gagne of the Lewiston Elks Lodge. He was presented with a life membership in the National Eagle Scout Association by Cindy Kersting of Beverly, Mass.

Cotterly has been involved in Scouting for 11 years, beginning as a Tiger Cub at age 5 and progressing through the ranks in Cub and Boy Scouting.

For his Eagle community service project, Cotterly organized a variety show that was held last fall at the Poland Regional High School. The purpose of the show was to support the Poland Community Church Food Bank and admission was the donation of a food item. A total of 300 food items and $100 were donated.

According to statistics, only 5 percent of boys who enter Scouting ever achieve Eagle rank. A Boy Scout must fulfill requirements in the areas of leadership, service and outdoor skills.

Although many options are available to demonstrate proficiency in these areas, a number of specific skills are required to advance through the ranks: Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life and Eagle. To advance, a Boy Scout must pass specific tests that are organized by requirements and merit badges.

A minimum of 21 merit badges must be earned to qualify for Eagle Scout. Cotterly has earned a total of 28 merit badges over the past five years. An Eagle Scout must also demonstrate leadership through the development of a community service project, serve in leadership positions in the troop and pass a board of review.

For more information on Boy Scouting in Maine, visit the Pine Tree Council’s Web site at www.pinetreebsa.org.