By Irene Morales Ward, Northern Virginia Real Estate
August 1, 2007
For Jonathan Sharp, a 17 year old rising senior at Stafford Senior High School, planting 20 trees and a number of flower beds into rock hard soil was a labor of love. The Fredericksburg Veterans of Foreign Wars was a busy place last Saturday!
As a part of his Eagle Scout project, Jon decided to pay tribute to those from our area who have lost their lives fighting to protect us from terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan. The War on Terror memorial became a reality on Saturday afternoon under a scorching sun with the help of other members of Boy Scout Troop 170 and friends.
An Eagle Scout badge is the highest ranking badge attainable in the Boy Scouting program. Prequisites include earning a number of merit badges and demonstrating "Scout Spirit, service, and leadership." This includes an extensive service project which demonstrates the Scout's ability to plan, organize, lead, and manage. All these requirements must be completed by the candidate's 18th birthday. For Jon, that is in October of this year.
Special plaques will be placed at each tree in remembrance of the fallen soldiers. One special tree was planted at the rear of the VFW to honor those still fighting. Jonathan's goal is to have the memorial dedicated on September 11th to honor not only the soldiers who have lost their lives in the fight on terror but for their families, as well.
Stafford Nursery generously offered a significant discount on the trees. However, donations are being accepted for the cost of the trees and materials. If you would like to contribute to this worthy tribute, please contact Randy Strock, Troop 170 Scoutmaster, at 540-371-5310 or Contact Me for more information on making a tax deductible contribution.
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