The Troop assembled at St. Paul’s School parking lot at 11:30AM to set up for the dedication ceremony.  They were all in their Class A uniforms; a look that always makes their parents and leaders proud.  It was a cloudy morning, but a nice crowd attended.  The mix was family, scouts and parishioners.  This significant event was also written up in the Journal News Newspaper.

Matt’s project was the construction of the Stations of the Cross for St. Paul’s School, something this Catholic elementary school only had in the gym.  Now, the Stations can be said in a more peaceful quiet area by all the parishioners.

Matt was ready and did not seem nervous; his 6’ 2” stance and sturdy posture showed the world the perfect picture of an Eagle Scout.  Matt began the dedication by thanking those that without whom he would not have been able to finish his project.  He was supported by the scouts from the Troop standing beside him.  Troop 29 always supports one another.  Mr. Mooney, the Scoutmaster, would not have it any other way. 

One person Matt thanked stood out from the others.  Matt thanked his father for his support and constant nagging to push him to finish.  Matt’s father, Dr. Charles O’Dowd, is a special person.  He works many hours a week as the Assistant Scoutmaster and Advancement Officer for the Troop.  He is key to the Troop’s growth and success. 

It was nice to see Matt thank his father.  Fathers are often noticed only for their nagging, but behind the nagging is the goal to take these young scouts and make them proper young men ready for the world.  

After the dedication by Fr. Mastrolia, Matt and the scouts led the crowd through the Stations of the Cross.  It was reverent and wonderful to witness.  Many people in the world have lost their faith, but not here.  In Troop 29 a Scout is Reverent.

After the ceremony, the scouts and guests enjoyed snacks of cup cakes and soda.  Mrs. O’Dowd knows how to keep a troop of scouts happy.

We, the leaders of Troop 29, are proud to acknowledge Matthew O’Dowd as an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America.