BARNEGAT – Mayor Frank Caputo and the members of the Barnegat Township Committee honored local volunteer groups and first responders at a recent committee meeting. Also recognized was Barnegat High School senior James Lynch, who recently earned the highest ranking a scout can achieve.
Lynch received his Eagle Scout honor in a ceremony on May 20 at the American Legion Post #232 in Barnegat. The Legion serves as headquarters for Troop 26, of which Lynch is a member. To earn this honor, Lynch has worked hard over the years, earning more than 30 merit badges and contributing to the town through community service.
“The Eagle Scout award is the highest level of scouting attainable,” said Caputo, congratulating him on this accomplishment.
“I crossed over from the Pack 26 to Troop 26 in the spring of 2011, ever since then, I have accumulated over 30 merit badges which is basically classes designed to enhance your knowledge in different career fields such as welding, lifesaving, swimming,” explained Lynch.
He noted that the troop is active 11 out of 12 months a year, getting out into the community.
“In order to get the rank of Eagle you need to take it one step above and beyond that,” said Lynch. His Eagle Scout service project helped him achieve this.
Lynch planned and constructed nine greenhead traps which are now located at the Barnegat Bay Beach, the Barnegat Docks, and the Lower Shore Sports Complex as part of his big project.
During the meeting, the committee also recognized local organizations including the Barnegat Food Pantry, the Barnegat Fire Company, and the Barnegat Volunteer First Aid Squad.
“Some of you don’t realize all of the individuals that all combine together to do so many things on a voluntary basis,” said Caputo. “It means they dedicate their time and their energy to all of us.”
The Barnegat Food Pantry, located on Route 9, was started in 1996. The food pantry is a 501c nonprofit organization. The committee thanked the volunteers of the pantry with a certificate of appreciation for dedicating their time to members of the community in need.
Also recognized were the members of the Barnegat Fire Department.
“While some of us may be sleeping, they are keeping us safe,” 24/7, said Caputo.
The department, founded in 1909, consists wholly of volunteers serving more than 41 square miles of the township. In attendance was Chief Robert Lilley, assistant chief Dan Rooney, Capt. Ron Hill, and Lt. Matt Lynch.
The committee took a moment to honor Barnegat Volunteer First Aid, awarding them with a certificate of appreciation as well.
The squad was founded in 1944 and has been providing emergency medical service and community support to Barnegat resident since that time.
“It is their dedication in helping neighbors that has allowed the Barnegat First Aid Squad to thrive over 70 years, we thank you,” said Caputo.
