Lincroft resident Dominic Kon has earned the Boy Scout’s highest honor, the rank of Eagle Scout. That achievement was celebrated at an Eagle Court of Honor ceremony held on June 25 at the Red Bank Elks Lodge.
Troop 246 Scoutmaster Michael Mead presided as the Master of Ceremonies before an audience of family, friends, fellow Boy Scouts and scout officials.
Middletown Township Deputy Mayor Rick Hibell presented Kon with a Certificate of Achievement and spoke of the support by a scout’s family to reach this goal. BSA Twin Lights District Director Robert Buob presented him with a Challenge Coin from Monmouth Council and a Certificate of Outstanding Achievement and Honor of the Eagle Rank.
Kon considered Scoutmaster Bill Jenkins as his mentor during his entire scouting career. Jenkins had also been Kon’s Cubmaster of Pack 210. Jenkins’ two sons have also achieved Eagle rank. The youngest son made Eagle two years ago, and Jenkins was set to “retire” from scouting at that time. However, he chose to remain with the program to continue his involvement with Kon’s progression.
Acknowledging his appreciation of Jenkins’ dedication and years of guidance, Kon presented him with the scout Mentor Pin. It was the most emotional and touching moment of the ceremony.
On his journey to Eagle Scout, Kon also achieved the Order of the Arrow. To be eligible for this distinction, a scout must be nominated and elected by his troop to join this fraternity. The elected scout then participates in a weekend of rigorous educational and physical training. Upon successful completion of the training, recognition and formal acceptance is made, and the scout is then a lifelong member of the order.
The fact that Kon achieved the Eagle Scout rank before the age of 16 is quite significant. However, this is not surprising considering that he is the sixth member of the Kon family to achieve the rank. His brother, Raphael, father Dan and three uncles are Eagle Scouts.
For his Eagle Project, Kon managed the rehabilitation of two storage sheds located at the Lincroft Presbyterian Church. He directed the work activities of fellow scouts and troop leaders to complete the project. The efforts included rebuilding the front of the sheds, replacing deteriorated side panels and painting the structures. Shelving was also installed to improve storage management.
“There are many people who I want to thank for helping me on my journey to Eagle,” he said. “First of all, my parents have been my biggest fans and strongest supporters since I was a Tiger Cub Scout. I would never have attained Eagle Scout without them because they knew better and would not let me give up. My brother, Raef, has always led by his incredible example and has been more than my big brother. He is a great friend. I’d also like to thank Patrick Fitzgerald and Zach Jenkins who treated me like their own brother and pushed me when I needed it. I had wonderful leaders and mentors in my scouting career. I am grateful to Mr. Jenkins, Mr. Mead, Mr. Sigua, Mr. Chaballa, Mrs. Gerin, Mrs. Fitzgerald and Mrs. Jenkins for their constant advise, guidance and patience. I appreciate all the work that Mr. Sullivan did in making this ceremony happen today. Finally, thank you to my extended family and friends for being here for me today and for celebrating with me. It means more than you know.”
Dominic is the son of Daniel and Theresa Kon.
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