Another Eagle Scout Court of Honor. The troop marches in rank behind the color guard. We stand for their procession. We remain standing for the pledge of allegiance and their recitation of the scout oath and law.

The ceremony proceeds. Adult leaders proclaim the five responsibilities of the Eagle Scout, and the charge to the “marked man.” We witness the new Eagle Scout’s first recitation of his eagle oath. I stand with my fellow eagles. Even in civilian clothes, I raise my right hand in the scout sign and recite that oath with them all. The Bride holds my left hand in her right.

The new Eagle receives his medal, delivers his mentor and parent pins, shares his reflection.

Bitter-sweet almost-tears glisten in my eyes. Will we leave this village, this county, this troop? Will our son maintain his commitment to scouting.

Will he have his own Eagle Scout Court of Honor someday?

fading daylight

I press him to complete his

merit badge selection