RIDGWAY — The Elk County Commissioners presented a citation to Robert Bowser III in recognition of his attainment of Eagle Scout rank for his restoration of the Veterans Memorial at the Johnsonburg American Legion.

Robert Bowser refurbished the Veterans Memorial at the Johnsonburg American Legion for his Eagle Scout project.

DuBois Courier Express

Bowser is the son of Robert and Amber Bowser of Johnsonburg, and he noted that he’s been involved in Scouting from a young age, from Cub Scouts to Webelos and Trailblazers.

He served as a counselor in training (CIT) working at summer Scout camp for three months while earning badges and attaining the Life Scout rank.

Bowser explained that when he started thinking about an Eagle Scout Project, the fact that there are several veterans in his family, and “my father is an adjunct at the Johnsonburg Legion, I decided to restore the Veterans Memorial located in front of the Legion. There (were) a bunch of sunken spots in the ground at the Memorial, so we raised those up (and) fixed them. Then names were being added to the back of the Memorial because they ran out of space in the front, so we added some steppingstones (for access) there, and we replaced the old lights with newer, brighter LED lights. There were wall caps that needed to be glued back down, and we did a general painting of the area.”

Commissioner Fritz Lecker commented that, “The rank of Eagle Scout is not something that is earned easily or lightly, so it’s a huge reflection on your dedication and persistence. I’m sure mom and dad had a lot to do with it…and it’s really a wonderful achievement.”

Commissioner Greg Gebauer said that as a father, he was heavily involved in both of his sons’ Scout troops.

“As you get older, at 16 or 17, there are other things on your mind than going through that ‘dumb Eagle Scout Project,’ but I’m telling you, it is of the utmost importance.”

Gebauer added that when he was warden of the Elk County Prison, he looked through many applications from individuals seeking employment.

“If their resume included attaining the rank of Eagle Scout, they got an interview, because I knew if they were able to make the rank of Eagle Scout, that told me that the person had integrity and a (good work ethic) … So, congratulations, and feel proud that you have that. And absolutely include that on any job applications or resumes.”

The citation presented to Bowser read, in part: “The Board of Commissioners take great pride in recognizing outstanding achievements by residents of Elk County whose actions…contribute to the well-being of their communities and the betterment of others. Robrt W. Bowser is a member of Boy Scout Troop 83 in Johnsonburg and has held the position of Order Master and Camp Counselor in training… The honor of Eagle Scout is only attained by the most dedicated and community-minded Boy Scouts and includes the requirement of an Eagle Scout Project to demonstrate the scout’s leadership, planning, and problem solving (abilities) and to provide a service to the community…The restoration of the Veterans Memorial at the Johnsonburg Legion demonstrated his commitment to the Boy Scouts and his community. Completion of this project as part of obtaining the rank of Eagle Scout truly exemplifies the admirable spirit and essence that makes the young men of today the leaders of tomorrow.”