MEXICO — At a recent Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Richard Masterson II, Scoutmaster of Troop 580 Jennie Nisbet welcomed troop members, family, friends, community leaders and government officials to the ceremony honoring Masterson’s Eagle award.

After the posting of the troop and American flags, she turned the microphone over to Richie Philbrick, troop committee chair, who acted as master of ceremonies.

Philbrick said, “It takes a whole community to develop a child. Today we honor Richard but look around the room at all of the people who had a role in making his Eagle award happen.”

Nisbet explained the meaning of the Eagle award. “Not every young man can do it. An Eagle is a person who lives up to the Scout law and is of service to others. It’s about making scouting a part of his life every day.”

The requirements to become an Eagle Scout are earning 21 merit badges of which 11 are required and the other 10 are of the scout’s choosing. The Eagle Scout has to demonstrate leadership within his troop and finally organize and carry out a service project. In Masterson’s case, he built a small playground with a swing set and slide at the Mexico Recreation Park. All of the requirements must be complete before the scout’s 18th birthday.

Philbrick asked all Eagle Scouts to join him on stage for the administration of the Eagle pledge. They included Randall Smith, who became an Eagle in 1972, Robert Young and Mexico Town Manager John Madigan.

Nisbet made the actual Eagle presentation but first she reminisced about the young man she has watched grow over the last eight years. “As a Cub Scout, he was quiet and a little fearful of new experiences but he pushed out of his comfort zone. As a Boy Scout, he stepped out a lot and nothing would stop him. We could all learn from his willingness to challenge himself.”

“He accomplished this because he set a goal,” Nisbet added. “He walked to meetings, often without accepting offers of a ride, and he wore his uniform with pride. He didn’t require thanks for all that he did because he’s a humble guy.”

Nisbet continued, “With his 18th birthday approaching, time was running out but nothing would stop him. He finished the day before that important birthday.”

Troop Committee member Bonnie Gould read a series of letters of commendation from Boys Scouts of America, the Pine Tree Council, the National Eagle Scout Association and former President George W. Bush.

Then community organizations had their turn to honor Masterson. Past Commander of the American Legion Post 24 Kurt Thurston thanked Masterson for always being involved in the parades, placing flags on the local cemeteries and helping retire old flags. He presented the American Legion Citizenship Award.

Rumford Eagles President Becky Gallant presented Masterson with an award and a check for $100.

VFW Commander Bill Mock gave Masterson a plaque and a check, as well as a check for the troop.

Mexico Town Manager John Madigan explained how grateful the town is for Masterson’s work on building the playground equipment at the Recreation Park. He presented a plaque, a polo shirt with the Mexico logo and a jacket. He also showed Masterson a plaque that will be placed on the equipment in the spring.

Reggie Arsenault, vice chair of the Mexico Board of Selectmen, said, “Keep your head high and soar like the eagle that you now represent. We’re proud of you.”

State Sen. John Patrick and State Rep. Cheryl Briggs presented a Legislative Sentiment and a flag that flew over the State House on Nov. 12.

Rumford Elks Leading Knight Sandra Welch congratulated Masterson as she fought back tears. She and her late husband, Richard, helped him on various scout projects. “Someone would be very proud of you today,” she said.

Mountain Valley High School Principal Matt Gilbert said, “Last year you ran around the gym as the Falcon. Today you upgraded from one bird to another.”

Al Cayer, assistant principal, explained, “Last year I met Richard for the first time. He was a quiet and friendly young man. I was surprised when he came to the office and asked to be the Falcon mascot. That really brought him out of his shell.”

Finally, it was Masterson’s turn. He presented the Mentor pin to Richie Philbrook, “who talks a lot,” according to Masterson, and that got laughs from the audience.

Masterson then credited his father with his success. “When I became a Boy Scout there were only two older boys and me. I wondered if I should quit. But Dad advised me to keep on and I would eventually be proud of what I would accomplish.”