Members of Scouting America Troop 63 gathered at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church on Paxson Avenue on Nov. 29 to honor Nottingham High School graduate Harrison Bomm, who achieved the Eagle Scout rank—the highest honor in Scouting America.
The Court of Honor ceremony was led by assistant scoutmaster John Taylor III, who served as master of ceremonies. Rev. Joseph Jeung of St. Mark’s offered the invocation, emphasizing the positive impact that scouting has on the local community.
During the program, Senior Patrol Leader Patrick Dinan led the pledge of allegiance, scout oath and scout law. All Eagle Scouts in attendance were then invited to join the Eagle’s Nest, including Olivia Dzbenski, the troop’s first female Eagle Scout in its 71-year history.
Several speakers offered reflections on Harrison’s journey, including the following Troop 63 Scout Leaders:
Assistant Scoutmaster Matthew Fox delivered the traditional Eagle Charge. Michael Immordino discussed the meaning of Eagle rank. Kevin Mellan, troop commitee chairman, shared the history and ideals of Scouting.
John Taylor IV explained the Scout Law. And Damian Bomm, Harrison’s father, reflected on his son’s years of dedication and personal growth.
Troop 63 scoutmaster Ross Maszczak formally presented Bomm with his Eagle rank and neckerchief.
A meaningful moment came when Bomm’s mother, Jessica, pinned the Eagle badge onto his uniform. Bomm then affixed an Eagle parent pin on both his mother and father to honor their support.
For his Eagle project, Harrison designed and built two large wooden benches encircling the fire pit on the grounds of St. Mark’s. The benches now serve as a gathering space for Troop 63 meetings and also support church events focused on fellowship and community-building.
Magne Gunderson, Scout executive and CEO of the Washington Council, shared remarks. “Remember—once an Eagle, always an Eagle. We are proud of you. Keep up the good work.”
Bomm received letters and citations from several government officials including Gov. Phil Murphy, Sen. Cory Booker, N.J. Sen.Linda Greenstein, Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo, Assemblywoman Tennille McCoy, Sen. Shirley Turner, Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli, and Hamilton Township Mayor Jeff Martin.
Bomm, now a freshman studying philosophy at Rowan University, expressed gratitude for his years in scouting and shared his hope to continue serving as a leader and mentor for younger scouts on their journeys toward Eagle.
“The whole ceremony meant a lot to me,” Bomm said. “Seeing my family, friends, and leaders there reminded me of how much support I’ve had along the way. Scouting has been a huge part of my life—it’s given me a tremendous source of pride.”
* * *
Only about 4–6% of all Scouts achieve the Eagle rank, making it a rare and distinguished honor. The Eagle Scout award has existed for over 110 years, dating back to 1911. Earning the rank requires a minimum of 21 merit badges, extensive leadership responsibilities, and completing a significant service project that benefits the community.
Troop 63 on the web: troopwebhost.org/Troop63Hamilton.
Harrison Bomm poses with John Taylor III, who served as Scoutmaster throughout most of Harry’s time with the troop.,
