BSA Troop 53 Of Castleton, NY | bsatroop53.com

Liam Connelly Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 0:00:00

Town of Schodack Resolution 2025-332

WHEREAS, Liam Connelly, son of Mark and Meghan Connelly on the 13th of November in the year two thousand twenty-five, was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank a boy can achieve in scouting; and

WHEREAS, Liam started his journey in scouting as a Webelo in 2018, with Pack 253, and

WHEREAS, Liam has earned the Arrow of Light award the highest Cub Scout honor, and

WHEREAS, Liam is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, and has earned 30 Merit Badges in his 7 years of Boy Scouting, and

WHEREAS, Liam has served the troop as Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, and Instructor, and

WHEREAS, as his Eagle Scout project, Liam, with the assistance of other Scouts, Scout leaders, and family and friends, built two eight-foot-long benches for the pickleball courts at the Schodack Town Park, and

WHEREAS Liam is a senior at Maple Hill High School, where he is a member of the track team, President of the National Honor Society, and will be attending SUNY Geneseo next fall, and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Schodack commends and congratulates Liam Connelly upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Supervisor Peter will transmit a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed to Liam Connelly.

Resolution was made during a Schodack Town Board meeting on December 30, 2025.
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Photos

Below are photos from Liam's Eagle Scout Ceremony, which took place on January 10, 2026. Photos are from the Rensselaer County Legislators Facebook Page and the Town of Schodack Supervisor Charles Peter Facebook Page

2025 Summer Camp at Rotary Scout Reservation

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 0:00:00

During the summer of 2025, the troop went to Rotary Scout Reservation during the week of August 3 - August 9.

Photos

These photos were originally posted to the Troop 53 Facebook Page here.

2025 Trip to Battleship Cove

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 0:00:00

Seventeen 17 scouts and 5 adults from Troop 53 visited Battleship Cove for an overnight adventure. Sounds like a lot of fun was had by all!

Photos

Photos were originally posted to the Troop 53 Facebook Page.

2025 Blue and Gold Dinner

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 0:00:00

The Blue and Gold Dinner is an annual dinner where Cub Scouts from Pack 253 cross over to become members of Troop 53.

This year, Troop 53 scouts served dinner at the Blue and Gold Dinner and congratulated Cub Scouts on crossing the bridge.

Traditionally, scouts from Troop 53 help remove the Webelos neckerchief from the cubs and replace it with a Scouts BSA neckerchief as they cross over.

Photos

Photos were originally posted to the Troop Facebook Page.

Benjamin Brewer Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 0:00:00

Town of Schodack Resolution 2025-193

WHEREAS, Benjamin Brewer, son of Jeffrey and Heather Brewer, on the Sixth of February in the year two thousand twenty-five, was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank a boy can achieve in scouting; and

WHEREAS, Benjamin started his journey in scouting as a Tiger in 2013, with Pack 253, and

WHEREAS, Benjamin has earned the Arrow of Light award, the highest Cub Scout honor, and

WHEREAS, Benjamin is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, and has earned 23 Merit Badges in his 7 years of Boy Scouting, and

WHEREAS, Benjamin has served the troop as Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, Den Chief, and Instructor, and

WHEREAS, as his Eagle Scout project, Benjamin with the assistance of other Scouts, Scout leaders, and family and friends, cleared an area for, and installed an ADA compliant swing and put a tetherball pole in, at The Stride Center, in Chatham, New York, and

WHEREAS, Benjamin is a senior at Maple Hill High School, where he is a member of the Track and Field team, and will be attending Nazareth University in the fall to pursue a degree in physical therapy, and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Schodack commends and congratulates Benjamin Brewer upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Supervisor Peter will transmit a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed to Benjamin Brewer.

Resolution was made during a Schodack Town Board meeting on June 12, 2025.
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Photos

Below are photos from the evening of Ben's Eagle Board of Review and the day of his Eagle Ceremony. His Eagle Ceremony took place on June 22, 2025.

Sources:

Troop 53 Celebrates 100 Years

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 0:00:00

March 7, 2024 was an important milestone in Troop 53's history. It was its 100th birthday! To celebrate, the troop celebrated with a dinner and court of honor at the Schodack Central School District's District Office (formerly Maple Hill Middle School). Current troop members, troop alumni, and friends of the troop were invited.

The night was full of speeches, food, desert, photos, and memories.

Here's to 100 more years of bringing scouting to Castleton, NY!

Photos

Anthony Basile Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sun, 13 Oct 2024 0:00:00

Town of Schodack Resolution 2025-113

WHEREAS, Anthony Basile, son of Andrew and Lynn Basile, on the 13th of October in the year two thousand twenty-four, was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank a boy can achieve in scouting; and

WHEREAS, Anthony started his journey in scouting as a Bobcat in 2012, with Pack 253, and

WHEREAS, Anthony has earned the Arrow of Light award the highest Cub Scout honor, and

WHEREAS, Anthony is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, and has earned 42 Merit Badges in his 8 years of Boy Scouting, and

WHEREAS, Anthony has served the troop as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, patrol Leader, Leader, Quartermaster, and Instructor.

WHEREAS, as his Eagle Scout project, Anthony with the assistance of other Scouts, Scout leaders, family and friends, installed a leading library and several vegetable gardens at Schodack Central Schools District office building for the benefit of Story Place School in Castleton, New York.

WHEREAS, Anthony graduated from Maple Hill High School, where was a member of the Indoor track and Cross Country Teams, he is attending Hudson Valley Community College studying Liberal Arts, and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Schodack commends and congratulates Anthony Basile upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, Scouting America; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Supervisor Peter will transmit a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed to Anthony Basile.

5 Ayes 0 Noes. MOTION CARRIED. Ayes – J. Bult, M. Kenney, S. Swartz, S. Haller, C. Peter. Noes – 0

Resolution was made on March 3rd, 2025
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Photos

These photos came from two Facebook posts on Troop 53's Facebook page, linked below. One set is from the evening of Anthony's successful Eagle board-of-review on the evening of October 13, 2024, the other set is from Anthony's Eagle Ceremony from May 17, 2025.

2024 Summer Camp at Rotary Scout Reservation

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 0:00:00

During the summer of 2024, the troop went to Rotary Scout Reservation during the week of August 4 - August 10.

Photos

2024 Memorial Day Parade

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Mon, 27 May 2024 0:00:00

Every year, the Troop marches in the Castleton / Schodack Memorial day parade. 2024 was no exception. This year was the troop's centennial year, and the troop was given purple centennial neckerchiefs to celebrate!

Below are a couple of photos of the Troop marching along the parade route in the Village of Castleton.

Photos

Photos were originally posted to the Troop 53 Facebook Page.

2024 Blue and Gold Dinner

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 0:00:00

The Blue and Gold Dinner is an annual dinner where Cub Scouts from Pack 253 cross over to become members of Troop 53.

This year, Troop 53 scouts served at the Blue and Gold Dinner and welcomed one new scout into the troop who crossed over.

Photos

Photos were originally posted to the Troop Facebook Page.

2024 Spring Highway Clean Up

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 13 Apr 2024 0:00:00

Troop 53 spent a Saturday morning participating in their annual road-side clean up on Rt 9J in Castleton, NY.

Photos

Photos were originally posted to the Troop Facebook Page.

Five Mile Hike at Rotary Scout Reservation

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 0:00:00

On April 1st, 2024, some scouts from the troop went for an early spring 5-mile hike at Rotary Scout Reservation.

Photos

These photos were originally posted to the troop's Facebook Page.

Fire Safety Merit Badge at Museum of Firefighting

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 0:00:00

The FASNY Museum of Firefighting hosted an event on Feburary 20th, 2024 that allowed scouts to work on the Fire Safety Merit Badge. Scouts from a variety of troops attended, including some scouts from Troop 53.

Photos

These photos were originally posted to Troop 27 of Greenwich's Facebook Page, and include scouts from Troop 53.

2024 Winter Camping Trip at Rotary scout Reservation

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 17 Feb 2024 0:00:00

Scouts had a blast enjoying a winter camping trip at Rotary Scout Reservation. They stayed in the Seneca Lodge. The scouts enjoyed sledding, Dutch oven cooking, and outdoor fun!

Photos

Photos came from the Troop 53's Facebook page from the following posts:

2023 Christmas Tree Sale Setup and Campout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 18 Nov 2023 0:00:00

Every year, Troop 53 sells Christmas Trees at Maple Hill Trees on Maple Hill Road in Castleton, NY.

This year, after setting up the farm to sell Christmas Trees, the scouts camped out on the tree farm.

Photos

Photos were originally posted to the Troop Facebook Page.

Wet Morning Hike at Schodack Island State Park

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 21 Oct 2023 0:00:00

Photos from a (wet) morning hike at Schodack Island State Park.

Photos

Photos were originally posted to the Troop 53 Facebook page.

Ciaran Sweet Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 0:00:00

Town of Schodack Resolution 2024-119

WHEREAS, Ciaran R. Sweet, son of Kevin R. Sweet and Michele Guy, on the 18th of September in the year two thousand twenty-three, was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank a boy can achieve in scouting; and

WHEREAS, Ciaran started his journey in scouting in 2016, with Troop 53, and

WHEREAS, Ciaran is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, and has earned 28 Merit Badges in his 7 years of Boy Scouting, and

WHEREAS, Ciaran has served the troop as Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, Scribe, and Instructor.

WHEREAS, as his Eagle Scout project, Ciaran with the assistance of other Scouts, Scout leaders, and family and friends, cleaned headstones, cataloged all veterans, and raised military foot markers at Horizon View Cemetery, in Castleton, New York, and

WHEREAS, Ciaran an honors graduate of Maple Hill High School, a past member of MHHS Key Club, and currently attending Hudson Valley Community College as a member of the Honors College, studying computer information systems, and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Schodack commends and congratulates Ciaran R. Sweet upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Supervisor Peter will transmit a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed to Ciaran R. Sweet. 5 Ayes 0 Noes. MOTION CARRIED. Ayes – J. Bult, M. Kenney, S. Swartz, S. Haller, C. Peter. Noes – 0.

Resolution was made on March 14th, 2024.
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Photos

Below are photos from the posted to the Troop 53 Facebook page from the evening of his successful Eagle Board of Review.

Ethan Maier Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 0:00:00

Town of Schodack Resolution 2023-196

WHEREAS, Ethan Maier, son of Kurt and Regina Maier, on the 4th of June in the year two thousand twenty-three, was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank a boy can achieve in scouting; and

WHEREAS, Ethan started his journey in scouting as a Bobcat in 2011, with Pack 253, and

WHEREAS, Ethan has earned the Arrow of Light award the highest Cub Scout honor, and

WHEREAS, Ethan is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, and has earned 28 Merit Badges in his 7 years of Boy Scouting, and

WHEREAS, Ethan has served the troop as Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, Instructor and is now registered as Assistant Scoutmaster, and

WHEREAS, as his Eagle Scout project, with the assistance of other Scouts, Scout leaders, and family and friends, cleared an area for handicap access near a pond, build a handicap picnic table and a bench, at The Stride Center, in Chatham, New York, and

WHEREAS, Ethan is a senior at Maple Hill High School, where he is a member of the Wrestling Team, and will be attending UAlbany this fall to study Emergency Preparedness, Cybersecurity & Homeland Security, and

WHEREAS, Ethan participated in Drama Club and is an active volunteer with Kiwanis.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Schodack commends and congratulates Ethan Maier upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Supervisor Peter will transmit a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed to Ethan Maier.

2021 Christmas Tree Sale

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 0:00:00

Every year, Troop 53 sells Christmas Trees at Maple Hill Trees in Castleton. 2021 was no different! Below are photos from 2021 sourced from the Maple Hill Trees Facebook Page.

Sources

Photos

Peter Basile Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sun, 18 Jul 2021 0:00:00

Town of Schodack Resolution 2021-162

WHEREAS, Peter Basile, son of Andrew and Lynn, on the 20th of March in the year two thousand twenty-one, was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout with Bronze palms, the highest rank a boy can achieve in scouting; and

WHEREAS, Peter started his journey in scouting as a Cub Scout with Pack 253, and earned Arrow of Light, and

WHEREAS, Peter is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, and has earned 28 Merit Badges in his 7 years of Boy Scouting, and

WHEREAS, Peter is an Ordeal member of Kittan Lodge 364 of the Order of the Arrow, and

WHEREAS, Peter has served the troop as Troop Guide, Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader, and

WHEREAS, as his Eagle Scout project, Peter with the assistance of other Scouts, Scout leaders, family, and friends, repurposed a fire pit by turning it into a table and four benches that were placed around it to be used by religion classes and church groups for outside activities, and

WHEREAS, Peter is a Senior at Maple Hill High School, where he is a member of the Indoor Track, Outdoor Track and Cross Country Teams, and

WHEREAS, Peter will attend SUNY Plattsburgh in the Fall, where he received the Academic Excellence Scholarship and plans to study Ecology, and be a member of the Cross Country Team. award, and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Schodack commends and congratulates Peter Basile upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Supervisor Harris will transmit a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed to Peter Basile at his Court of Honor on July 18, 2021.

Video

A clip of Peter's Court of Honor was posted to the Rensselaer County Legislators Facebook Page. It can be viewed on the Facebook page here.

2020 Christmas Tree Sale Opening Weekend

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sun, 22 Nov 2020 0:00:00

Every year, Troop 53 sells Christmas Trees at Maple Hill Trees in Castleton. 2020 was a tricky year since it was the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wearing masks and keeping 6 feet apart, open weekend was still a success!

Sources

Seth Roberts Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 16 Feb 2019 0:00:00

Town of Schodack Resolution 2019-170

WHEREAS, Seth Thomas Roberts, son of Gary and Victoria Roberts, on the 16th day of February in the year two thousand nineteen, was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank a boy can achieve in scouting; and

WHEREAS, Seth started his journey in scouting as a Cub Scout in 2007, with Pack 253, and

WHEREAS, Seth has earned the Arrow of Light award the highest Cub Scout honor, and

WHEREAS, Seth is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, and has earned 28 Merit Badges in his 7 years of Boy Scouting, and

WHEREAS, Seth has served the troop as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader and Webmaster, and

WHEREAS, as his Eagle Scout project, Seth solicited donations to purchase a Public Address system, planned and arranged hour long concerts with musicians whom entertained the residents at Riverside Nursing and Rehabilitation in Castleton-on-Hudson, New York, Seth continues to perform for the residents as a Volunteer and further conveyed a BINGO set to the Activities Director; which residents continue to use, and

WHEREAS, Seth also serves the community as a Volunteer Firefighter with South Schodack Volunteer Fire Company, and

WHEREAS, Seth is currently a Senior at Maple Hill High School, where he serves as Vice President of the Class of 2019, President of the National Honor Society, and is a three sports Athlete on Varsity Soccer, Varsity Indoor Track and Field and Varsity Outdoor Track and Field, and

WHEREAS, Seth, plans to attend University of Rochester in Fall, pursuing degrees in the areas of Audio and Music Engineering and Computer Science.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Schodack commends and congratulates Seth Thomas Roberts upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Supervisor Harris will present a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed to Seth Thomas Roberts at Town Board Meeting on May 9, 2019.

Seth Roberts's Eagle Project

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 31 Mar 2018 0:00:00

For Seth's Eagle Scout service project, he organized a series of concerts at the Riverside Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing. He and his fellow students played a concert once a month for six months.

Darlene Miller, the former librarian at the Castleton Public Library, was the activities director at Riverside and helped Seth achieve his goal. His first concert was on December 27th 2017, and was Christmas themed.

Source

This information was originally posted to an old Troop 53 Website located at the links below.

Photos

Below are photos of Seth performing for the residents with volunteers during his first four concerts.

Patrick Curtin Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 0:00:00

Town of Schodack Resolution 2010-366

WHEREAS, Patrick Curtin, son of Patricia O'Neil and Dan Curtin, on the 21st day of November, in the year two thousand ten, was promoted to Eagle Scout, the highest rank a boy can receive in scouting, and

WHEREAS, Patrick started his journey in Cub Scouting as a Tiger Scout with Troop 253 in Castleton, New York, earning his Arrow of Light and Bobcat, Wolf and Bear Patches, and

WHEREAS, Patrick is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, and has earned 26 Merit Badges in his 12 years of Boy Scouting, and

WHEREAS, for his Eagle Scout project, Patrick chose to build five outdoor benches, three for the Schodack Town Park and two for the Castleton Elementary School. The benches were constructed out of decking materials recycled from the Castleton Elementary School's temporary modular school decking. Over 115 man hours were utilized to complete the project, and

WHEREAS, Patrick is a senior at Maple Hill High School where he has achieved the Honor Roll and the High Honor Roll in each quarter of high school, and

WHEREAS, Patrick is a three-season sports athlete, participating in soccer, basketball, baseball and serves as co-captain for soccer, and

WHEREAS, Patrick is a member of Key Club, National Honor Society and the Science Olympiad Team,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Schodack commends and congratulates Patrick Curtin upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Supervisor Dowds presented a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed, to Patrick Curtin at his Court of Honor on November 21, 2010.

Corey Haughton Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 0:00:00

Town of Schodack Resolution 2010-275

WHEREAS, Corey Phillip Haughton, son of Diane Haughton and Phillip Langenbach, grandson of Marion Haughton, on the Twenty-fifth of April in the year two thousand ten, was promoted to Eagle Scout, the highest rank a boy can receive in scouting; and

WHEREAS, Corey started his journey in Cub Scouting as a Cub Scout in second grade, with Pack 253, and

WHEREAS, Corey is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, and has earned 21 Merit Badges in his eleven years of Boy Scouting, and

WHEREAS, Corey has completed the National Youth Leader Training Conference, and

WHEREAS, Corey has earned the Boy Scouts of America Life Guard Certification, the Snorkeling Boy Scouts of America award, and the Kayaking Boy Scouts of America award, and

WHEREAS, Corey has worked as a Life Guard for two years at Camp Wakpominee, teaching Swimming, Rowing, Canoeing, Kayaking, and Snorkeling preparing other Boy Scouts to be awarded additional Boy Scouts of America awards and merit badges, and

WHEREAS, Corey has served the troop as the Senior Patrol Leader and Viper Patrol Leader, and

WHEREAS, Corey has earned the Arrow of Light award, the highest Cub Scout honor, and

WHEREAS, as his Eagle Scout project, Corey rehabilitated the storage shed for Sunshine Day Care. The project refurbished necessary sections and added shelves, increasing storage capacity, and

WHEREAS, Corey is a graduate, class of 2010, from Maple Hill High School, where he has been a member of the Band, Key Club, SADD, and DARE, and

WHEREAS, Corey has been recognized twice by the Kiwanis Club for community service, performing more than 75 hours of service in each year, and

WHEREAS, Corey is a first degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, and

WHEREAS, Corey has held a leadership position in the First United Methodist Church Youth Group, and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Schodack commends and congratulates Corey Phillip Haughton upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Supervisor Dowds will present a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed to Corey Phillip Haughton at his Court of Honor on August 22, 2010.

Seth Hendrick Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 0:00:00

Town of Schodack Resolution 2009-495

PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, Seth Robert Hendrick, son of Seth and Ann Hendrick, on the twenty-seventh of November in the year two thousand nine, will receive his Eagle Scout badge, the highest rank a boy can receive in scouting, and

WHEREAS, Seth started his journey in Cub Scouting, as a Tiger Cub in first grade, with Pack 253 in Castleton-on-Hudson, New York, and

WHEREAS, Seth is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53 and has earned 35 Merit Badges in his twelve years of Boy Scouting, and

WHEREAS, Seth enjoyed many camping trips that contributed greatly to his growth as a Scout, most notably the Pharoah Lake Wilderness Area, and

WHEREAS, Seth enjoyed educational trips to include Gettyburg battlefield and the nation's capital, Washington D.C., and

WHEREAS, as his Eagle Scout project Seth chose to improve and beautify his place of worship, Sacred Heart Church, by improving the main walkway and improving the landscape with flowering tree and other plants, and

WHEREAS, Seth is a graduate of the class of 2009, from Maple Hill High School, where he excelled in academic achievement, and

WHEREAS, Seth entered and now attends Hudson Valley Community College in the Engineering Science program, and

WHEREAS, Seth now continues, as an adult leader, to serve the Scouts of Troop 53 as an Assistant Scoutmaster,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Schodack commends and congratulates Seth Robert Hendrick upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Supervisor Secor shall present a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed to Seth Robert Hendrick at his Court of Honor on the 27th of November 2009

TOWN OF SCHODACK

By: Beth Knauf Secor, Supervisor

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Rensselaear County Proclamation

PROCLAMATION COMMENDING SETH ROBERT HENDRICK UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS INVESTITURE AS AN EAGLE SCOUT FOR THE BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA, NOVEMBER 27, 2009

WHEREAS, As it is the sense of our unique society to recognize the contributions and achievements of the citizens of Rensselaer County, this Legislative Body acknowledges with profound respect and admiration a milestone in the life of a member of the Rensselaer County community; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and fully in accord with our longstanding traditions, it is the intent of the Rensselaer County Legislature to convey its compliments and congratulations to Seth Robert Hendrick upon the occasion of his investiture as an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is acquainted with the rigorous and demanding requirements necessary to attain the prestigious and highly honored rank of Eagle Scout; and

WHEREAS, Seth will be installed as an Eagle Scout at an Eagle Scout Court of Honor ceremony to be held at the Sacred Heart Church in Castleton, New York on Friday, November 27, 2009 at seven o’clock in the evening. The Eagle Scout badge is the highest rank a boy can receive in scouting; and

WHEREAS, Seth is the son of Seth and Ann Hendrick. The Hendrick family resides in Castleton, N.Y.; and

WHEREAS, Seth started his journey in Cub Scouting as a Tiger Cub in the first grade, with Pack 253 in Castleton, NY; and

WHEREAS, Seth is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, and has earned 35 Merit Badges in his twelve years of Boy Scouting. He continues as an adult leader serving the Scouts of Troop 53 as an Assistant Scoutmaster; and

WHEREAS, Seth enjoyed many camping trips that contributed greatly to his growth as a Scout, most notably to the Pharoah Lake Wilderness Area. He enjoyed educational trips to both the Gettysburg Battlefield and to the Nation's capital in Washington D.C; and

WHEREAS, Seth for his Eagle Scout project, chose to enhance and beautify his place of worship, the Sacred Heart Church, by improving the main walkway and the landscape with a flowering tree and other plants; and

WHEREAS, Seth is a graduate, class of 2009, from Maple Hill High School, where he excelled academically. He entered and now attends Hudson Valley Community College where he is earning credits in the Engineering Science program.; and

WHEREAS, Through his long and dedicated commitment to the ideals and principles of scouting, Seth has so unselfishly advanced the spirit of united purpose and shared concern, which is the unalterable manifestation of our American experience; now, therefore, be it hereby

PROCLAIMED, That pursuant to the authority vested in me as Chairman of the Rensselaer County Legislature, as recommended by District Four Legislators, Martin Reid, Alex Shannon, and the entire Legislative Body, the Rensselaer County Legislature most joyously congratulates and commends Seth Robert Hendrick upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America.

Neil J. Kelleltér Chairman of the Legislature

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Photos

Below are photos from Seth's Eagle Scout Ceremony, which took place on November 27, 2009.

Eagle Scouts Return from High Adventure Trek in New Mexico

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 0:00:00

Eagle Scouts Daniel and Dusty Albertine have just returned from a 2-week, high adventure, backpacking trip at the 137,493 acre Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimaron, New Mexico, located in the Sangre de Cristo range of the Rockies. As members of Troop 53, Castleton, both leaders have participated in numerous outings with the troop, which helped prepare them for this trip.

The two Eagles participated in an Order of the Arrow (OA) Trek, in which they worked for one week on hiking trail maintenance and then continued on with one week of “trekking”, or exploring the vast wilderness, to complete their trip. Daniel and Dusty logged approximately 72 miles of backpacking and summited Philmont’s highest peak, Mt. Baldy at 12,441 feet.

In 2006, both Daniel and Dusty participated in an OA Trek to the Boundary Waters of Minnesota, spending one week repairing portage trails, then canoeing for a week, covering 132 miles by the end of two weeks.

Daniel (20) and Dusty (19) are both youth members of the Boy Scouts honor camper society, known as the Order of the Arrow, which members are elected, become candidates, and then must fulfill a weekend-long ordeal to become members. Daniel is a “Vigil” member and Dusty a “Brotherhood” member of Kittan Lodge 364, which serves the same area as the local BSA Twin Rivers Council, Inc.

After flying to New Mexico and traveling 4 hours by van to the BSA’s Philmont Scout Ranch, the brothers were put into a “crew” consisted of 9 OA members or “arrowmen”, along with two adult guides or “foreman”, also OA Members. They hiked out to their first location and stayed for one week, while getting down to the dirty business of trail repair.

That task completed, they took off exploring the vast Rocky Mountain area, along the way the two were treated to spectacular sunsets, scenic vistas, rainbows, and wildlife sightings, including bear, deer and small mammals.

The boys returned, bearded and well-tanned from two week’s exposure, with 1400 photos, 30 minutes of video and 9 new friends.

A future goal of Dusty’s is to try to complete an “OA Triple Crown” by attending an OA Trek at all three High Adventure Bases: New Mexico’s Philmont Scouting Ranch, Florida’s SeaBase and Minnesota’s Wilderness Trek.

Seth Hendrick's Eagle Project

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 0:00:00

Sacred Heart Church a local Catholic church located in the Village of Castleton at 3 Catholic Way. It is here that Seth Hendrick's Eagle Scout project is located.

The project consisted of adding a chain railing along a footpath between the church's parking lot and the church itself. In addition, a garden was next to the path with a tree planted.

This consisted of several work days across multiple weeks. The main work day was in April 2009, where the Troop helped Seth after cleaning up 9J. It was a busy day for all involved.

Seth Hendrick became an Eagle Scout in June 2009. As of March 2024, the railing is still standing at the church.

Photos

2008 Campbell Island Canoe Camping

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 0:00:00

Markdown Editor

In early October, 2008, the troop did a canoe camping trip to Campbell Island, an island along the Hudson River in the north-western corner of Schodack.

Photos

Matt M. McKnight Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 0:00:00

TROOP 53, CASTLETON ON HUDSON, NEW YORK IS PROUD TO CONFER UPON Matthew M. McKnight THE RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

Matt’s Eagle Court of Honor is scheduled for:

Saturday, August 2nd, 2008, 7:30 P.M. Schodack Island State Park Rte 9J, Castleton on Hudson, NY

Matthew McKnight is the son of Donald and Patricia McKnight of Castleton on Hudson, New York.

Matt was born in San Diego, California. He joined the Scouting program as a Tiger Cub with Pack 16 in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania.

Upon moving to New York, he joined Den 10 of Cub Pack 253. After also being a part of Den 7, he subsequently earned his Arrow of Light with Den 6, under the leadership of Scott Simpson.

After Crossing the Bridge into Boy Scouts with Troop 53, he worked up the ranks of scouting.

He has earned the Den Chief Award, the Snorkeling BSA award, and the Kayaking BSA award; in addition to his service as Patrol Leader, and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader.

Matt was a member of Northeast Region Jamboree Troop 108, where he participated in the 100th anniversary celebration of global scouting at the 2007 World Jamboree in Chelmsford, England. Matt also completed the National Youth Leader Training Conference.

Matt is a Brotherhood member of Kittan Lodge 364 of the Order of the Arrow.

Outside of Scouting, Matt was a member of the Middle and High School Drama Clubs for the past four years, and has had speaking roles in both “The Sting”, and “Get Smart”. He has also been a member of the Key Club. He has earned the Varsity Letter with the Patroon Conference Champion Maple Hill Wildcats wrestling squad, and as a pole vaulter with the Section TWO Champion Maple Hill Track and Field team.

Matt is also a Second Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do.

2008 Mahikan District Spring Camporee

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sun, 18 May 2008 0:00:00

Approximately 350 scouts and adults attended the Mahikan District Spring Camporee at Schodack Island State Park, on 16-18 May 2008.

The following troops came to the camporee:

32 Elizaville
41 East Greenbush
49 Valley Falls
53 Castleton on Hudson
102 Hudson
113 Kinderhook
121 Claverack
122 Germantown
166 Nassau
222 Petersburg
502 Troy
522 East Schodack
525 West Sand Lake
526 Averill Park
528 Poestenkill
529 Defreestville
530 Wynantskill
537 Brunswick
611 Lansingburgh
632 Waterford
670 Cohoes

Image Gallery

Brett C Wagner Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Wed, 07 May 2008 0:00:00

TROOP 53, CASTLETON ON HUDSON, NEW YORK IS PROUD TO CONFER UPON Brett C. Wagner THE RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

Brett’s Eagle Court of Honor is scheduled for:

Sunday, May 25th, 2008, 3 PM First United Methodist Church 1 Gilligan Road, East Greenbush, NY 12061

Brett is the son of Bruce and Janet Wagner of Schodack. Brett started in scouting as a Tiger Cub with Cub Scout Pack 253 in 1997, and has been active for 11 years. He has earned 29 merit badges, 21 of which are required for the rank of Eagle. He has served the troop as Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, Instructor and Librarian. For his Eagle Service Project, he designed and led a team in the construction of a 60’ x 30’ sand volleyball court on the grounds of the First United Methodist Church in East Greenbush. The project required the clearing of a field, bulldozing (donated by Vincent Brewer), 6 3/8 tons of sand (a substantial portion of which was donated by Jude Clemente of Troy Sand & Gravel), 200 linear feet of railroad-tie type wood (some donated by Curtis Lumber in Schodack) and much hard labor. On January 1, 2003, Brett was one of the 62 Scouts (equal numbers of Boys & Girls) carrying a county flag (Washington) in the color guard for Gov. Pataki’s last inauguration.

Brett is a junior at Maple Hill High School, where he has been named to the Principal’s List (95% or greater average) in each quarter of high school and is a member of the National Honor Society. He participates in Key Club, Chorus, Swing Choir and in Band (1st Clarinet, an instrument he has played for 7 years), and has studied piano for 10 years. Brett has devoted much time over the last 10 years to dance, and has for the past 6 years been a member of the Isabelle School of Dance Competition Team, through which he competes in tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, modern, musical theatre and ballroom styles. Having just completed his 3rd year as an assistant teacher at the Isabelle School, he has helped to instruct tap and jazz classes. Brett performed his own choreography for incidental tap dances in the high school Drama Club’s performances of The Sting and Get Smart.

Daniel Roth Receives Scouting's Highest Rank

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 0:00:00

2008-068

WHEREAS, Daniel M. Roth, son of Steven and Gail Roth, on the twelfth of September in the year two thousand seven, was promoted to Eagle Scout, the highest rank a boy can receive in scouting; and

WHEREAS, Daniel is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, and has earned twenty-seven Merit Badges in his twelve years of Boy Scouting starting as a Tiger Scout, and

WHEREAS, Daniel earned the Arrow of Light award, the highest Cub Scout honor, and

WHEREAS, as his Eagle Scout project, Daniel chose to construct two new foot bridges at Maple Hill Middle School on the Cross Country trail where the previous bridges had collapsed, and

WHEREAS, Daniel is a senior at Maple Hill High School, where he has been a member of the National Honor Society, Band and Jazz Band and has earned his Varsity Letter as a team member of the soccer, and wrestling teams and is also a member of the Varsity Track team,

WHEREAS, Daniel is interested in pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice at the State University of New York at Brockport, and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Schodack commends and congratulates Daniel M. Roth upon the auspicious occasion of being awarded the rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Supervisor Secor present a copy of this resolution, suitably engrossed to Daniel M. Roth.

Photos

Below are photos from Dan's Eagle Scout Ceremony, which took place at Sacred Heart Church.

2008 Assorted Photos

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 0:00:00

These are assorted photos throughout the year 2008 that do not fit into a specific event or outing.

Trip to Washington DC

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 12 May 2007 0:00:00

In May 2007, scouts Brett Wagner, Rob Shaw, Seth Hendrick, Corey Haughton, and Will Noll visited our nation's capital. They were joined by adult leaders Kevin Shaw, and Dave Haughton.

The troop visited many attractions including:

The troop camped nearby for two nights.

Photo Gallery

Photos were taken by Seth Hendrick.

KC Lucas Shafer Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Mon, 07 May 2007 0:00:00

Summary

KC Lucas Shafer, a junior at Maple Hill High School will be recognized with the Eagle Scout award in a special Order of the Arrow ceremony. KC has earned the Vigil rank, the highest rank in Scouting’s honor society, the Order of the Arrow. On Sunday, he will be presented with the highest rank in scouting overall. Unlike other Eagle Scout ceremonies, this one will have an Order of the Arrow focus, with an emphasis on Native American Indian themes.

Biography

KC L. Shafer is the 16-year son of Kris and Craig Shafer, of Tina Lane, Schodack, N.Y. He has been very active in a variety of youth programs and volunteer organizations, while also earning noteworthy academic achievement in his short lifetime.

KC has been involved in the Scouting program since 1998, when he joined Castleton Pack 253, where he earned the highest Cub Scout honor, the Arrow of Light award.

Joining Boy Scout Troop 53 in 2001, KC continued his rise through the ranks. In 2003, his dedication and expertise in Scouting earned his selection to the Scouting honor society, the Order of the Arrow. Particularly active in Haudenosaunee Lodge 19, KC earned the respect of his peers and was subsequently selected to the most exclusive rank in the Order of the Arrow, that of the Vigil Honor.

In 2004, KC was selected as the Troop 53 Scout of the Year, and was presented the Michael Dikant Award as recognition. He was a member of the Twin Rivers Council contingent to the National Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill, in Virginia, in 2005.

As a Scout youth leader, he has served as Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and as troop Order of the Arrow Representative.

For his Eagle service project, KC raised funds and subsequently built much-needed bookshelves for the Castleton Public Library. He also raised funds and purchased genre books to fill those shelves.

In January 2007, KC Shafer passed his Board of Review for the Eagle Scout rank, making him the 42nd Eagle Scout in the 83-year history of Troop 53.

Academically, Eagle Scout Shafer has twice been nominated to the National Young Leaders Conference, in Washington, D.C. He has been a Who’s Who in American High Schools, in both 2004-05 and 2005-‘06.

As an athlete, KC participated in East Greenbush Little League and Babe Ruth Baseball from 1999-2004. He was on the soccer team at both Loudonville Christian School and Maple Hill High School. He was on the Maple Hill Junior Varsity Tennis Team in the 2004-05 year, and on the wrestling team in both the 2004-05 and 2005-06 years. He has earned the Varsity Letter as a member of the Cross-country Team in both 2005-06, and 2006-07. He has also been a member of Varsity Track in 2005-06 and 2006-07.

KC has also volunteered in the community; for three years as a Leader in Training at the East Greenbush YMCA; by assisting with the Homeless Action Committee in 2006; as a fundraiser for a service project in Valatie; and as a Castleton Clipper for “Hands for Hunter” in 2007. KC is completing his junior year at Maple Hill High School, in Castleton.

Eagle Scouts Return from High Adventure Trek in Minnesota

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Fri, 30 Jun 2006 0:00:00

Eagle Scouts Daniel and Dusty Albertine have recently returned from a 2-week, high adventure, canoe trip in the Minnesota Boundary Waters. As members of Troop 53, Castleton, both boys have participated in troop canoe trips in the Adirondacks, which helped prepare them for this trip.

The two Eagles participated in an Order of the Arrow (OA) Trek, in which they worked for one week on portage trail maintenance and then continued on with one week of “trekking”, or exploring the vast wilderness, to complete their trip. A “portage” is where canoes and gear must be carried over land from one lake to another, or around an obstacle, such as rapids or a waterfall.

Daniel and Dusty are both members of the Boy Scouts honor camper society, known as the Order of the Arrow, which members are elected, become candidates, and then must fulfill a weekend-long ordeal to become members. Daniel is a “Vigil” member and Dusty a “Brotherhood” member of Haudenosaunee Lodge 19, which serves the same area as the local BSA Twin Rivers Council, Inc.

After flying to Minnesota and traveling 5 hours by van to the BSA’s Charles L. Sommers High Adventure Base, the brothers were put into separate “crews” to start their adventure. Each crew consisted of 6 OA members or “arrowmen”, along with two adult guides or “foreman”, also arrowmen. They paddled out to their first location and stayed for one week, while getting down to the muddy business of trail repair. Each crew took a stretch of muddy portage trail and filled it with stone that they crushed by hand, to make passage both safer and easier.

That task completed, they took off exploring the vast Minnesota/Canadian border area, along the way the two were treated to spectacular sunsets, scenic vistas, Native American “pictographs”, and wildlife sightings, such as Bald Eagles and a cow moose with her twin calves. Although they did visit some of the same locations along the way, their paths crossed only once in their two-week excursion, when the brothers got to share dinner and a campsite for the night.

Their final night in base camp they were treated to a banquet, with guest speaker Dustin Counts, the OA Southeastern Region Chief. Not willing to let he office get him preferential treatment from him fellow arrowmen, Dustin chose to travel “incognito”, so that he might better get to know his fellow arrowmen. Dustin Counts was a member of Daniel’s crew.

The boys returned, bearded and well-tanned from two week’s exposure, with 3 CD’s full of memories, since each photographer downloaded and shared their photos before parting ways.

A future goal of the brothers is to try to complete an “OA Triple Crown” by attending an OA Trek at all three High Adventure Bases: New Mexico’s Philmont Scouting Ranch, Florida’s SeaBase and Minnesota’s Wilderness Trek.

Two Brothers Receive Eagle Scout Award

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Tue, 30 May 2006 0:00:00

The South Schodack Fire House was the setting for a May 28 dual Eagle Scout Award Ceremony. The Sunday evening ceremony honored brothers, Daniel and Dustin Albertine, of Castleton Boy Scout Troop 53. Troop 53 is chartered with the Boy Scouts of America through the Kiwanis Club of Castleton.

The Eagle Scout Award, Scouting’s highest youth honor, was presented to the young men before a gathering of family, friends and dignitaries, at a traditional Court of Honor staged by the boys and leaders of Troop 53.

Daniel and Dusty represent the 40th and 41st Eagle Scouts in the 82 year history of Troop 53. It also represents the culmination within the Albertine family of a strong scouting tradition. Daniel and Dusty’s older brother, David, in addition to their father, Paul D. Albertine have also earned the Eagle Award as members of the troop.

Daniel’s Eagle Scout project was to map and mark all of the fire hydrants in the Castleton water system. Daniel came up with this idea after the scouts were not able to find most of the hydrants covered by the snows of the 2003-2004 winter season. Daniel has earned 28 merit badges, and is a Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow, Haudenosaunee Lodge 19. Daniel is the first scout from Troop 53 to have received this honor. Daniel’s leadership positions include Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and Junior Assistant Scoutmaster. Daniel has also has earned the Bronze Palm for completing 3 months since his board of review, 3 hours of community service and 5 additional merit badges over the 21 required for Eagle. Daniel earned his God & Me, and God & Family religious awards as a scout.

Dusty’s Eagle Scout project was to raise funds to assist the Nassau Police Department’s K-9 unit, Officer Tai Slagen and K9 Officer Emma, a German Rottweiller. Dusty came up with this idea after Officer Slagen inquired about receiving scout assistance in fundraising. Dusty raised over $1300 through T-Shirt sales, a car wash, speaking at civic organizations and writing local businesses requesting support. Chief Peter presented Dusty with a plaque, on behalf of the Nassau Police, thanking him for his fundraising efforts. Dusty has earned 29 merit badges, and is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow, Haudenosaunee Lodge 19. Dusty’s leadership positions include Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, Senior Patrol Leader and he was recently appointed as Junior Assistant Scoutmaster.

Daniel and Dusty have been members of the Boy Scouts since they were in the first grade, starting as Tiger Cubs in Castleton Pack 253. Both boys earned the Arrow of Light award as Webelos scouts, during which time Daniel set his goal on earning every Webelos activity pin.

Both Daniel and Dusty were part of the Twin Rivers Council contingent to attend the 2005 National Jamboree in Fort A.P. Hill, VA. Both boys have recently returned home from a two-week Order of the Arrow Trek into the Minnesota Boundary Waters Canoeing area, where they spent one week repairing portage trails and one week exploring the wilderness, seeing a cow moose with her calves and several Bald Eagles on their trek.

Photos

Troop 53 Scoutmaster Remembered

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Fri, 17 Mar 2006 0:00:00

William R. Monty, Sr. (Ret. Captain, USAR), World War II Combat Pilot, Eagle Scout '36, and Past Scoutmaster of Troop 53, Castleton, died Sunday, February 26th, 2006, at the age of 84, in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Mr. Monty was born in Mechanicville, NY and earned his Eagle Scout on 10/28/1936 as a member of Troop 1, Albany, NY. He graduated from Albany High School in 1938. He later served with Fort Orange Council and was part of the crew that initially "surveyed" the land that became Stratton Mountain Scout Reservation. A Scoutmaster of Troop 53, Castleton for 5 years, he was instrumental in the formation of Troop 253, South Schodack, NY, serving as Asst. Scoutmaster with his long-time friend & neighbor, the late Earl Simpson as Scoutmaster. He is remembered by Troop 53 veterans for flying an Army helicopter over to Stratton from Fort Drum and dropping a bleach bottle down to the waterfront that said "Hello, Troop 53".

A 1942 graduate of Norwich University, Northfield, VT, Mr. Monty entered service in the United States Army and graduated from U.S.A.A.F. Pilot School in 1943. He served with the USAAF 55th Fighter Group in Europe in 1944, including D-Day. He landed the first U.S. aircraft at Normandy Beach, and flew P59 jet fighters in 1945. He served in the New York Army National Guard from 1947 until his retirement, as a Captain, in 1981.

He was predeceased by his oldest son, an Army Aviator, CW3 William R. Monty, Jr. (Eagle '78), who was killed in the crash of an Army MH-47E helicopter, March 7, 1996. His younger son, LTC Raymond Monty (Life Scout), also an Army Aviator, recently retired from the US Army.

Graveside service with military honors, will be held at Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville, NY at 1:00pm, March 17, 2006.

Scouts Meet with Sister of an Honored Veteran

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Mon, 02 Jan 2006 0:00:00

Five scouts and as many leaders, sat silently listening to Anna Perrella tell of her memories of her brother, CPL Peter Andrews, one of five former Troop 53 boy scouts who have died in service to their country during World War II.

The purpose of this visit was to have troop historian, Mike Fish capture information on one the troops “Gold Stars” who went off to war following his time as a scout. Daniel Albertine, Dusty Albertine, William Noll and Matt McKnight were also on hand to represent the troop.

Mrs. Perrella told of how Peter was eager to enlist in the Marines, but had to wait until he turned 18 years old to do so. Later, he was injured twice, receiving a Purple Heart each time, once on Marshall Islands and again on Saipan. He could have requested to return home following the second injury, but instead choose to remain with his fellow Marines. He was killed by a Japanese sniper near his foxhole on the black sands of Iwo Jima, in February 1945.

The battle of Iwo Jima is known to every Marine and many Americans alike, and Rich Noll was able to add that this battle represented the only time that Marines had suffered more casualties then they inflicted in a battle that they had won. The fighting was brutal and the photo of five Marines and one Navy Corpsman raising an American flag on the top of Mount Suribachi is one of the most published photos in history.

Mrs. Perrella also told the boys of what her family’s life was like prior to the war and shared some family photos with the boys. She spoke of the sacrifices required during WWII and spoke of the other men who gave their lives in the war. Some of them she remembers well. A total of nine Castletonians gave their lives in WWII: Peter Andrew, George Earing (a Bronze Star recipient), Edwin Fulgo, William Grooten, Jr., William Stolp, all prior scouts and Harold Dorn, Carl Jewett, Willis Lamberson and Frank Price. The Andrews family donated a plot of land that was to be Peter’s, and on that land was built the Castleton VFW Post 7337, which carries Peter’s name. The Vietnam War claimed the life on one Castletonian, Kenny Jaros, also a former scout, who died as a result of hitting a land mine while in a vehicle.

Mrs. Perrella also shares this information with seventh graders of the Schodack Central Schools and with the Castleton historical committee. She showed the boys the Western Union telegram that informed her parents of Peter’s death, and the limited information that accompanied that. “Loose lips sink ships” was the statement of the day, so parents would have to wait months or years to find out exactly what happened to their sons and daughters. CPL Peter Andrews was originally interned in the cemetery on Iwo Jima, but was later repatriated and buried in Castleton’s Mountainview Cemetery, site of Castleton’s Memorial Day ceremonies. She also told the boys of the many veterans who are buried in Arlington National Cemetery. Mrs. Perrella also related how the US Government assured the family that dental records had confirmed that the body brought back to the states was indeed that of her brother. Peter was home.

Robbie Roth Receives Scouting's Highest Rank

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sun, 12 Dec 2004 0:00:00

Boy Scout Troop 53 is pleased to announce that Robert J. Roth will be presented with the prestigious Eagle Scout award at this ceremony. Rob is the 36th member of Troop 53 to earn the Eagle Scout honor in the troop’s 80-year history.

Rob is the son of Steve and Gale Roth, of Schodack. Rob started scouting as a Tiger Cub with Cub Scout Pack 253, and has been active in scouting for twelve years. He has earned 24 merit badges, 21 of which are required for the rank of Eagle. In 2000, he was awarded the Michael Dikant Honor Scout Award from Troop 53. He has served the troop as Senior Patrol Leader, Instructor, and Junior Assistant Scoutmaster. For his Eagle Service Project, he designed and led a team in the construction of the sign at the entrance to the Greenbush Soccer Club fields on Phillips Road and also designed and constructed signs for each of the four fields on which to post schedules, scores and standings. He was a member of the Twin Rivers Council contingient to the 2001 National Scout Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia.

Rob is a senior at Maple Hill High School, where he has earned his place on the High Honor Roll. He participates in chorus, band and jazz band, and has earned the Outstanding Sophomore Chorus Award. He competes in cross-country, and has earned the varsity letter in wrestling and track. He is listed in the Who's Who Among American High School Students for 2002-2003 and 2003-2004. He has twice been nominated to attend the National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, DC.

For the past two summers Rob has been employed at Funplex, in East Greenbush, and he also worked as a counselor for the Town of Schodack Summer Camp in 2004.

2004 Summer Camp at Rotary Scout Reservation

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Wed, 28 Jul 2004 0:00:00

During the summer of 2004, the troop went to Rotary Scout Reservation for a week.

The scouts camped, shot archery, swam, canoed, and made baskets at handicraft. This year, the troop stayed at the Algonquin campsite within camp Rotary, which is just outside of center camp. The camp also had a pirate theme as well for the week.

On Wednesday, as is tradition, parents of the scouts were invited to the camp for a cook-out. Many of the photos below were from that day.

Photos

2004 Memorial Day Parade

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Mon, 31 May 2004 0:00:00

Every year, the Troop marches in the Castleton / Schodack Memorial day parade. 2004 was no exception.

Below are a couple of photos of the Troop marching along the parade route in the Village of Castleton.

2003 Summer Camp at Rotary Scout Reservation

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Wed, 23 Jul 2003 0:00:00

During the summer of 2003, the troop went to Rotary Scout Reservation for a week.

During this trip, the troop was in the Thunderbird camping site, one of, if not the, furthest camp site away from center camp.

This particular camping trip had a bad thunder storm, which may have had a tornado warning. The entire camp had to seek shelter. The troop had to brave the long hike from the Thunderbird camping site to the Seneca lodge's basement. Thankfully, no one got hurt, but some shoes got very muddy from the rain.

Photos

David Albertine Receives Scouting's Highest Rank

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Mon, 10 Mar 2003 0:00:00

After twelve years on the trail to Eagle, eighteen year old P. David Albertine, II received BSA Eagle Scout at a Court of Honor held on March 8th, 2003 at the South Schodack Firehouse. David, a member of Troop 53 of Castleton, NY has been a member of the Boy Scouts since 1991 when he became a Tiger Cub in Pack 253, also of Castleton. Troop 53 is sponsored by the Village of Castleton. Pack 253 is sponsored by the Castleton Kiwanis Club.

On hand for the ceremony were Rensselaer County Legislators Margaret Van Duesen and Edward Schwartz, Jr., Schodack Town Supervisor Eileen Natoli, Retired Justice from the Town of Schodack and Village of Nassau Alexander A. Shannon and Castleton Mayor Robert Sancomb.

David's Eagle Scout project was to create a Nature Trail and trail improvements at the Schodack Town Park. David has 23 merit badges, is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow, Haudenosaunee Lodge 19, has served on Rotary Scout Reservation Staff for 2 summers. David's leadership positions include Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and Junior Assistant Scoutmaster. David, who is an active member of Clearview Christian and Missionary Alliance's youth group, spent the summer of 2002 on an 8 week long teen missionary trip to Honduras. David has participated in the NRA Youth Shooting Program sponsored by the Nassau Sportsman Club and has achieved Sharpshooter Bar 9. David is a senior at Latham Christian Academy, where he received the Pastor's Award in 2002. David is also a member of Vedder Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol. David is a second generation Eagle Scout. His father, Paul D. Albertine, serves as Scoutmaster of Troop 53 and earned his Eagle Scout in 1976, also as a member of Troop 53. David is the 27th Eagle Scout from Troop 53, during it's 79 year history.

David, who completed the requirements for Eagle just days before the deadline of his eighteenth birthday, shares these words with fellow scouts seeking BSA's highest rank "If there is one valuable lesson that I can pass on it's "Don't wait to the last minute"". David's requirements were completed just 4 days before his 18th birthday. David also presented a gift to honored guest, Eagle Scout Russell Van de Wal, who earned his Eagle in 1941 as a member of Troop 53.

David's plans for the future include college and a career in aviation, possibly as a Missionary Pilot. David has not ruled out a career in the military.

Photos from the Eagle Ceremony

2002 Spring Highway Clean Up

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 27 Apr 2002 0:00:00

Troop 53 is part of the Adopt-A-Highway program, where once or twice a year the troop picks up garbage along route 9J that runs on the western border of Castleton and Schodack. The stretch of road is roughly two miles, and it starts from the Schodack/East Greenbush border, and goes south until the Village of Castleton.

In 2002, the troop continued with this tradition. Fourteen scouts and adults helped pick up trash along route 9J.

Photos

1999 Memorial Day Parade

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Mon, 31 May 1999 0:00:00

Every year, the Troop marches in the Castleton / Schodack Memorial day parade. 1999 was no exception.

For this parade, Troop 53 and Pack 253 marched together. Both the troop and the pack worked together to march a giant American flag along the parade route.

Photos

1995 Summer Camp at Rotary Scout Reservation

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Tue, 25 Jul 1995 0:00:00

Photos

Castleton Scouts Celebrate 70th Birthday

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Mon, 16 May 1994 0:00:00

CASTLETON - The Castleton Boy Scout Troop 53 marks its 70th year with a birthday party at the South Schodack Firehouse Sunday, June 12 at noon.

The day includes a chicken barbeque at $7 per person.

Any organizations who wish to participate in this recognition ceremony should call Scoutmaster Rick Herr, or Chairman David B. Harris.

The firehouse is on Bame Road.

Original Article

This is a transcription of an article posted to the now-defunct newspaper The Independent's Monday, May 16, 1994 edition.

Below is an image of the original article, which was on page 30. You can also see the entire page archived on archive.org or IPFS.

Cub Pack 253 Celebrates 50 Years of Service

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Thu, 03 Mar 1994 0:00:00

CASTLETON - Cub Scout Pack 253 celebrated 50 years of service at its annual Blue & Gold Dinner with Mrs. Ruth Spieake, one of two Den Months from the original pack in 1944, in attendance.

Mrs. Spieake was presented with a "dime and stick pin," a cub scout craft item.

Also attending were the Rev Leslie Richard, District Executive Melinda Fant, and Mr. and Mrs. Paul K. Albertine. Rev Richard is from Trinity Lutheran Church.

Paul Albertine represented the Castleton Kiwanis Club, sponsors of the Cub Scout Pack for at least 47 years and was presented with the pack's official charter by Melinda Fant, Mahikan District Executive, Twin Rivers Council, Boy Scouts of America.

Almost 200 Cub Scouts and their parents participated in the evening's festivities which included a magic show by Jason Ravida of Jason's Magic.

Awards for the Pack's Pinewood Derby were give as follows: Tiger Cubs. 1st, Andrew Krug; 2nd, Ryan Gaschel, 3rd, Robert Roth. Wolf Cubs:1st, Eric Sharer; 2nd, Jonathan Flandersm 3rd; Alan Roehr. Bear Cubs: 1st, Brian Seibert; 2nd, Jack Goodall; 3rd, Matthew Gaschel.

First year Webelos: 1st, Jeff DeLisle; 2nd, Dean Lebrecht; 3rd, Randall Semeiks. Second year Webelos: 1st, Eric Vaughn; 2nd, Ben Van Den Briel; 3rd, Toby Goodall.

The Pack Championship was won by Brian Seibert, followed in second place by Eric Vaughn, and in third place by Jeff DeLisle.

The Pack will be traveling to Boston in June to ride on a While Watching boat and visit the Aquarium.

Original Article

This is a transcription of an article posted to the now-defunct newspaper The Independent's Thursday, March 3rd, 1994 edition.

Below is an image of the original article, which was on page 31. You can also see the entire page archived on archive.org or IPFS.

1993 Summer Camp at Rotary Scout Reservation

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Tue, 27 Jul 1993 0:00:00

Photos

1992 Summer Camp at Rotary Scout Reservation

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Tue, 28 Jul 1992 0:00:00

Photos

Scott Simpson Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 24 May 1980 0:00:00

Scott Simpson presented Scouting's highest award

Scott S Simpson of Kingman Road Nassau, was recently presented the Boy Scouts highest honor the Eagle Scout Award. Scott, a member of South Schodack Boy Scout Troop 253 received the award during formal ceremonies in which fellow Scouts, family, and friends attended at the South Schodack Fire Hall on May 24.

Presenting the citation was Dale Goodall, local Troop 253 Committeeman. Taking part in the formal presentation was Edward C. Swartz. a long-time family friend of Scott and his parents, Mr and Mrs Earl Simpson.

Scott, an 18-year-old student at Maple Hill High School is a member of the 1980 graduating class. He has been involved in Scouting for the past seven years during which he became an Order of the Arrow member, has served a Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and presently serves as Assistant Scoutmaster for the South Schodack Troop 253.

Taking part in the ceremonies at the Court of Honor were Richard J Dailey, an organizer of Troop 253; Rev Sylvester D Van Oort of the Muitzeskill Reformed Church; John Hudson. Senior Patrol Leader for Troop 253; Kenneth Wood, Assistant Patrol Leader; Donald A Shields, Troop Committeeman. Richard Galkiewiez presented Scott with the Knights of Columbus Councils Award. Supervisor Jeffrey G. Haber. the Town of Schodack Award. Arthur S. Turner and Gerrit Rooreboorn Jr. the American Legion Award and Robert Van Beusichem, Boy Scout Unit Commissioner presented letters of recognition.

Original Article

"Scott Simpson Presented Scouting's Highest Award." The Chatham Courier, 05 Jun 1980 , p. A11. fultonhistory.com.

The above article is a transcription of an archived copy of The Chatham Courier Rough Notes, which was printed on Thursday, June 5, 1980. The archive copy is tough to read, so it is possible there are some typos in the above transcription.

You can read the archived original article by visiting any of the links below:

1973 Assorted Photos

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Mon, 31 Dec 1973 0:00:00

These are assorted photos throughout the year 1973 that do not fit into a specific event or outing.

1973 Summer Camp at Stratton Mountain Scout Reservation

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sun, 01 Jul 1973 0:00:00

In the summer of 1973, Troop 53 attended summer camp at Stratton Mountain Scout Reservation.

The camp has since closed. Here's a brief overview of the camp, according to former Troop 53 Scout Master, Paul Albertine.

The site of Stratton Mountain Scout Reservation, from 1950-1979. First owned by Fort Orange Council, Albany, NY, then Fort Orange - Uncle Sam and finally, Governor Clinton Council. Few of the buildings survive today. Traces of the old sites exist and the trail structure remains intact. A clean lake to swim in and fun to canoe at. Located near the Long Trail and a short hike to Somerset Reservoir. I attended summer camp there in 1971, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976 & 1977.

Source

Photos

Robert Koss Becomes Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Wed, 20 Jun 1973 0:00:00

CASTLETON - Robert Koss, 18, son of Castleton Fire Chief Walter and Mrs. Koss of 6 Anderson Ave., has been awarded the Eagle Scout Award.

Robert, who will graduate from Maple Hill High School, Schodack, on Friday and who plans to attend Delhi Agriculture & Technical College, received the award at a court of honor Saturday evening.

He is a member of Troop 253 of Schodack. The presentation took place at South Schodack Firehall.

Making the presentation was Dr. Richard Bamberger, principal of Maple Hill High School.

Norman Beaudry, committee chairman, was master of ceremonies.

Robert has received the Pro Deo Et Patria Award from Trinity Lutheran church.

As a special Eagle Scout project he supervised construction and erection of Sukkoth for a rabbi in Albany.

His brother, Thomas, also received the church award in 1966 and the Eagle Scout Award in 1967. He is now active as an explorer adviser in Jamestown

Original Article

"Robert Koss Becomes Eagle Scout." The Times Record, 20 Jun 1973 , p. 23. fultonhistory.com.

The original article was posted to The Times Record on Wednesday, June 20, 1973. You can view an archived version of the article by clicking any of the links below:

Robert Koss Earns Religious Emblem

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Thu, 12 Nov 1970 0:00:00

SCOUT HONORED: Robert Koss, son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Koss, and a member of Boy Scout Troop 253, South Schodack, was presented the God and Country Award at an investiture at Trinity Lutheran Church, Castleton.

Robert, a 10th grade student at Maple Hill, is one of 1,800 Lutherans who have received the coveted award.

Original Article

This was a transcription of a newspaper article posted in the Chatham Courier - Rough Notes, page A10 on November 12, 1970. The original article can be viewed at the links below:

Photos

Castleton Tenderfoot Spots Unit To Victory in Helderberg Derby

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Mon, 08 Feb 1965 0:00:00

An 11-year-old tenderfoot, who has only been in the Boy Scouts a month, spotted the Raven Patrol of Troop 53, Castleton, to victory in the Klondike goldrush derby.

Billy Vadnais spotted all the observation posts set up on the 4.5-mile course Saturday at Camp Allen in the Helderberg Mountains for his patrol.

Aided by the sharp eyes of the tenderfoot, the patrol scored 265 points to take first place in the competition.

More than 250 Boy Scouts took part in the derby. Patrols of eight were judged on their ability to perform Scout problems as they pulled a 50-pound sled loaded with equipment and supplies.

The derby, sponsored by the Fort Orange-Uncle Sam Council of the Boy Scouts, was watched by more than 300 spectators.

Scout patrols encountered seven "towns", named after Alaskan towns, during the "mush" derby and were asked by the "mayor's" to complete such tasks as first-aid, cooking, tenting, compass reading and observation.

Tenderfoot Vadnais spotted all five observation posts set up near one of the towns.

Led by his 11-year-old brother John Vadhais, the patrol leader, the Ravens scored 47 more points than the second place Apache Patrol of Troop 40, Albany.

The Flaming Arrow Patrol of Troop 74, Rensselaer, was third with 221 points.

Robert J. LaCasse of North Greenbush, chairman of the event, said the tenderfoot had done "exceptionally well" on his first major Scouting test.

Other members of the winning patrol were: Chris Martin, Steve Rose, Larry Bollman, Ken Russ, Mike Cory, and Andy Russ.

Original Article

This was a transcription from The Albany Times Union, page 13 on Monday, February 8, 1965. The original article can be viewed at the links below:

Sea Scouts Enjoyed Camporee Near Bridge

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sun, 28 May 1944 0:00:00

Monday night Sea Scout Ship 109, sponsored by the Brotherhood, St. John's Lutheran church, joined with Sea Scout Ship 153, of Castleton, in a camporee held at their camp at the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, on the west side of the river.

The Castleton group of eight men arrived Sunday afternoon at 5 o'clock and camped overnight at the bridge

Eight apprentice seamen, with Skipper Jack Lowe in charge, made the trip. The men present were Hans Jenke, George Barnes, Harold Koss, Warren Howe, Dick Leonard, Lou Kiesch, Chet Bridlebeck, and Don Eustice.

Six men from Hudson Ship in charge of Clayton Propst, were present. They were Jack Hathaway, Louis Nero, Bill O'Neil, George Wischhusen, Tom Velez and M. Hermance.

Boats used in the cruise by the Cashusen. Tom Veiz and M. Hermance launch and an outboard motorboat.

Original Article

This was a transcription from The Hudson, NY Evening Register, page four on Thursday, June 1, 1944. The original article can be viewed at the links below:

Photos

1935 Assorted Photos

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Tue, 01 Jan 1935 0:00:00

These are assorted photos throughout the year 1935 that do not fit into a specific event or outing.

Thurston Paul Jr. Attains the Rank of Eagle Scout

admin@bsatroop53.com (bsatroop53.com) — Sat, 28 Mar 1931 0:00:00

CASTLETON BOY ATTAINS EAGLE SCOUT RANKING

Thurston Paul, Jr., Given Highest Rating at Court of Honor.

Five Reach Second Class, Two First Class at Recent Session.

Thurston Paul Jr,. son of Mr. and Mrs. Thurston Paul of Castleton attained the rank of eagle scout at the March session of the Rensselaer District Court of Honor last Saturday night.

Paul, who is a member of Troop 53, Castleton, is seventeen, and entered scouting as a tenderfoot, March 3, 1926. In April of that year he entered second class and on Decemember 19, 1928, first class.

Scout Paul has earned the following thirty-six merit badges: First aid, athletics, personal health, public health, life saving, pioneering, agriculture, angling, automobiling, bird study, camping, carpentry, civics, cooking, electricity, firemanship, handicraft, interpreting, marksmanship, path finding, photography, plumbing, poultry keeping, scholarship, signaling, swimming, aviation, radio, journalism, farm home and planning, reading, weather, beekeeping, cycling, textiles, and first aid to animals.

Edward M. Dufur is scoutmaster of Troop 53, which is sponsored by the American Legion Post of Castleton.

Original Article

The above article is a transcription from a newspaper clipping, shown below. The newspaper that printed the article is unknown. The date of the newspaper article appears to be April 4, 1931.