By Danielle Singley
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

John Erickson, founder and CEO of Erickson Retirement Communities, was recognized as a Distinguished Eagle Scout at the first annual Gathering of Eagles event in Baltimore City.

The Distinguished Eagle Scout Award is one of the most prestigious ranks and is exclusively presented to those who have dedicated 25 years or more to service in the community after becoming an Eagle Scout.

“There are so many life principles I have acquired that can be attributed to my experience as a scout,” says Erickson. “Because of that, I have devoted my life to service in the community. Receiving the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award is a very high honor.”

Gathering of Eagles
More than 100 guests were in attendance at the Gathering of Eagles networking and fellowship ceremony, which took place at the Marriott Waterfront Hotel. Among them were newly awarded Eagle Scouts and alumni from all over Maryland. Author Alvin Townley, who wrote Legacy of Honor: The Values and Influence of America’s Eagle Scouts, was the keynote speaker.

During the ceremony, Erickson was presented with an engraved plaque and a golden eagle that hung from a red, white, and blue ribbon.

An Eaglet among us
Barbara Kurz, a Charlestown resident, was the only Golden Eaglet Award recipient in attendance.

For Girl Scouts, the Golden Eaglet was the equivalent of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. It was only given during a portion of the early 20th century, and Kurz was among the last women ever to receive it, in 1939.

“As the only Golden Eaglet present at the gathering, I felt honored to be among all the Eagle Scouts. Seeing all the young men receiving their awards and distinguished honors was quite impressive. It was the perfect ceremony and a memorable evening,” says Kurz.