Aliso Viejo, Calif. – Seven young men from Troop 77 of Laguna Niguel were honored with Boy Scouts of America’s top award of Eagle Scout, Saturday (October 15) night.

Chad Ames, Thomas Blackwelder, Luke Hamilton (not in attendance due to serving an LDS mission in Bentonville, Arkansas), Blake Hawkins, Ethan Hoopes, Ethan McBride and Luke Myer were recognized at a Court of Honor at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint’s Laguna Niguel Stake Center. The Court of Honor included a beautiful rendition of The National Anthem performed by Maddie Vance, along with a presentation of colors and Pledge of Allegiance by Troop 77 and led by Senior Patrol Leader, Darin Patel.

A slide show of the newest Eagles Scouts’ experiences during their years in Boy Scouts was presented to the audience of more than 100, along with an invitation to the Eagles Nest where Eagle Scouts in the audience were invited to stand up and share when and where they earned the award.

The honorees were bestowed the award of Eagle by Scout Master, Brian Hawkins which was followed by remarks by each new Eagle Scout of their favorite scouting memories and an introduction of their Scout Mentor.

“I love baseball, I love my family, I love church, I love school and I love scouting,” reflected Eagle Scout, Ethan Hoopes.

That sentiment was felt throughout the night as the Eagle Scouts talked about their memories, their extensive Eagle Scout projects and their characters that have been shaped during the years in Boys Scouts of America.

The ceremony concluded with remarks by Bishop Troy Simmons and the retiring of colors by Troop 77.

The audience was treated to a reception with refreshments and tables that represented the Eagle Scouts with mementos, photos and displays of personality.

A highlight of the event included a five-table exhibit of Boy Scouts of America memorabilia dating back to the beginning of scouting, by Laguna Niguel Stake Scout Leader, Roger Miller.

Congratulations to the seven new Eagle Scouts and their families.