Ridge, NY - October 6, 2017 - On Sunday, October 1, Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker joined Boy Scout Troop 187 at the Ridge Fire Department for an Eagle Scout Court of Honor Ceremony to recognize Eagle Scout Thomas Michael Hart IV. Eagle Scout is the highest rank that can be earned by a Boy Scout, and only a small percentage of scouts are granted this rank after earning 21 merit badges and a lengthy review process.

“I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Thomas for earning the rank of Eagle Scouts with Troop 187. Only those who demonstrate true hard work, skill, and commitment to the community earn this prestigious rank,” said Legislator Anker. “I thank him for his contributions to the community, and I would also like to thank the parents and volunteers who are involved with our scout troops and help guide our children to become community leaders.”

In order to earn the rank of Eagle Scouts, Boy Scouts must complete a service project that creates a lasting contribution to the community. For his project, Thomas built a lean-to for the Longwood Estates to store chopped wood. The wood is needed for the historic cooking demonstrations at the Longwood Estates. These demonstrations allow participants to have a more accurate understanding of the 17^th and 18^th century time period. For more information about the Boy Scouts of American and the rank of Eagle Scout, please visit www.scouting.org.