JACKMAN — An Eagle Scout Court of Honor ceremony recenlty was held for Parker Jeffrey Desjardins and Hunter Edwin William Cuddy, both of Troop 497, at Forest Hills Consolidated School, according to a news release from Chuck Mahaleris.

Guests came from as far away as Houlton to attend the ceremony. The award is a performance-based achievement whose standards have been well-maintained over the years.

Pine Tree Council Scout Executive Eric Tarbox, center, with Eagle Scouts Parker Desjardins, left, and Hunter Cuddy, right. Contributed photo

Parker Desjardins presents Stephanie Desjardins with the Mother's Pin in recognition of her support over the years while his father Jeffrey Desjardins watches. Contributed photo

Hunter Cuddy presents a pin to his father Ed Cuddy for all of his support during Hunter's Scouting career, as his mom Michele Cuddy looks on. Contributed photo

“My project involved the restoration of the Forest Hills School Nature Trail,” Cuddy said, according to the release. “This included widening the existing path, removing downed trees, replacing and making new tree and plant identification signs and adding benches.”

Desjardins’ project also benefited the school — he built a new trophy case for the middle school and a new banner. “We took an old, cluttered trophy case and salvaged some of the material to save money. Next, we set up a bottle donation box and went searching for materials. Then we began building the trophy case in my uncle’s wood shop,” said Desjardins, according to the release.

Together, these Scouts provided more than 300 hours of service to benefit Jackman.

“This was wonderful,” said Troop 497 Scoutmaster Karla Talpey, according to the release. “Both Hunter and Parker worked very hard. I am so proud of them. I was caught speechless. Not only was I honored to receive one mentor pin but I received two. Seeing these two young men step forward as leaders — this is why I stay in Scouting.”

Both have earned enough merit badges beyond the number required for Eagle to receive one Eagle palm, as well.

Sen. Rod Whittemore, Rep. Brad Farrin and a representative from Sen. Susan Collins’ office were on hand to honor the pair. Pine Tree Council Scout Executive Eric Tarbox came from the council headquarters at Camp Hinds in Raymond to help take part in the ceremony.

“This was a superb Eagle Court of Honor,” Tarbox said, according to the release. “Hunter and Parker are truly deserving of Scouting’s highest honor.”

Cuddy plans to pursue a degree in physical therapy after high school so he can help athletes, and Desjardins wants to play basketball in college.

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