Post Messenger Recorder -

Newly ranked Eagle Scout Abe Morrick said that this was a pinnacle of a long and worthwhile journey as his achievements were recognized by family, friends and fellow Scouts on January 3rd, at the American Legion Post 460 in Belleville.

"Abe is a great example of living the Scout Law and Oath," said Assistant Scout Master Tim Young. "We are very proud of his accomplishment of receiving the rank of Eagle Scout and look forward to his continued support of Troop 61 as an adult leader."

Eagle Scout is the highest advancement rank in Boy Scouting, with about 7 percent of all Boy Scouts earning the Eagle Scout rank. To earn the rank, a Boy Scout must progress through the ranks in the following order: Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life and Eagle.

"Scouting has become a very central part of my life and has changed me in a million ways for the better," said Morrick. "Along with learning a wide range of life tips and tricks, I also have been fortunate enough to meet some of my closest friends and enjoy many unique experiences through the Boy Scouts of America. Boy Scouts is something that many people underestimate and take for granted, not realizing how influential and special it truly is. Earning my Eagle Scout is something I will always hold pride in, and I fully accept the expectations and responsibilities that come with it." 

Candidates must earn 21 merit badges, including First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, Communications, Environmental Science, Personal Fitness, Camping, Family Life, Personal Management, Emergency Preparedness or Lifesaving, serve six months in a troop leadership position, and Cycling, Hiking or Swimming. 

Morrick's mom added that it was always part of Abe's plan to make the rank of Eagle Scout.

"We are very proud of Abe and how hard he worked to achieve his goal," said mother, Angie.

Candidates also must plan, develop and give leadership to a service project for any religious organization or any school or community, and take part in a Scoutmaster conference and successfully complete an Eagle Scout board of review.

Morrick's Eagle project was a canoe landing and he explained that the scouts were approached by Village President Howard Ward for a number of possible projects to improve the lake restoration project.

"My particular project was a canoe landing on the Sugar River to allow canoeists to exit the river just before the dam so that they could portage around the dam and continue on their journey," said Morrick.

He worked with many individuals, including village staff, for the initial plan of how the landing world be designed, Ernie Pulfer of Bob's Masonary, Tim Jelle of Verona Septic and Dave and Don Nolden of Harold's Excavating

"Former Village Administrator April Little also deserves special recognition for her help in completing all the necessary legal paperwork and getting the project approved by the village," added Morrick.

Marian Viney

Assistant Scout Master Tim Young congratulated Eagle Scout Abe Morrick and his parents, Angie and Bart Morrick, during a recognition ceremony on January 3rd.

Morrick's dad, who also participated in Scouts and is active with the Belleville football program, said that Abe worked very hard during the past 12 years through Cub Scouts and Boys Scouts to get to the point where he could earn the rank of Eagle Scout.

A few years ago, two of Morrick's cousins, Jacob and Neil Pulfer, earned the ranking of Eagle Scout. Another cousin in his mom's family, Franz Jaggi, was one of the first two Eagle Scouts in the Belleville Troop, with Andy Ziehli being the second one.

"Abe was blessed to have so many caring and thoughtful leaders over the years and many older boys that were good examples for him as he went through this process," said father, Bart.

As a senior at Belleville High School, Morrick says that this is just the beginning, a sign of things to come.

"I also am so thankful to everyone who has been a part of my life throughout this journey," added Morrick. "I couldn't have done it without the help and support of my leaders, troop members, family and friends. Thank you all so much. I promise I won't let you down."