Thursday, October 1, 2026
A Seaford teenager has reached one of Scouting’s highest milestones, earning the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout after years of dedication, leadership and service.
Andrew Viggiano of Seaford Troop 690 was honored during his Eagle Scout Court of Honor ceremony, where local officials recognized his achievement and commitment to giving back to the community.
New York State Sen. Steve Rhoads attended the ceremony to congratulate Viggiano on earning the rank, which represents the culmination of years of work within Scouting. Fewer than five percent of Scouts nationwide achieve the Eagle Scout designation.
“Andrew’s dedication to serving others and improving his community embodies the very values that the Eagle Scout rank represents,” Rhoads said. “His leadership, hard work, and commitment to making a difference are truly commendable.”
To earn the Eagle Scout rank, Viggiano completed a service project at St. Martin of Tours Church in Bethpage. Leading a team of volunteers, he helped improve the grounds surrounding the parish flagpole and the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The project included landscaping the area, repainting the statue and installing collection boxes to enhance the church grounds. The improvements are expected to benefit the parish community for years to come.
Town of Hempstead Councilman Chris Schneider also recognized Viggiano’s accomplishment, noting the dedication required to reach Scouting’s highest rank.
“Becoming an Eagle Scout takes years of hard work, commitment, service and leadership,” Schneider said. “Attaining scouting’s highest rank is something only a select few ever accomplish.”
Schneider said Viggiano’s achievement reflects the qualities Scouting aims to instill in its members.
“Andrew attained an honor with very high standards that requires leadership, service to others, commitment and years of hard work,” Schneider said. “Meeting those standards shows that he is a leader and role model, and achieving something that very few ever accomplish speaks volumes about his character, work ethic and ambition.”
For local leaders, recognizing young people who reach milestones like Eagle Scout is an opportunity to highlight the importance of service and leadership in the community.
“We want children to grow into leaders who work hard, help others, give back and make a positive difference,” Schneider said. “Becoming an Eagle Scout is impossible without doing every one of those things.”
The Eagle Scout rank has been awarded to Scouts who demonstrate leadership, character and community involvement through years of advancement and service. Viggiano’s accomplishment marks a significant achievement for both him and Troop 690.
Rhoads congratulated Viggiano and his family, praising the countless hours of effort and dedication required to earn Scouting’s highest honor.
“Andrew’s leadership and commitment to service are qualities that will continue to make a difference in his community,” Rhoads said. “I wish him continued success as he carries these values into the future.”
