Bangladeshi-origin youth Rayan earns prestigious `Eagle Scout` rank in USA
Special Correspondent
প্রকাশিত: ০৮:০৫ পিএম, ১৬ আগস্ট ২০২৩ বুধবার আপডেট: ০২:৪৪ এএম, ১৭ আগস্ট ২০২৩ বৃহস্পতিবার
Rayan Rehman, a Bangladeshi-origin youth in the United States, has earned the rank of 'Eagle Scout' in the Boy Scouts of America. Rayan, a New Jersey native, achieved this rank after excelling in all areas during his 10-year scouting journey. The Eagle Scout rank is the highest in Boy Scouting.
Rayan achieved this rank as a member of Troop 101 in the Boy Scouts of America. It's worth noting that his elder brother, Aymaan Rehman, also earned the 'Eagle Scout' rank previously, making this accomplishment by two siblings quite rare.
Rayan Rehman embarked on his Eagle Journey as a Scout in 2013 and has now attained the rank of Eagle Scout this year, following his achievements of other ranks such as Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star Scout, and Life Scout one after another. Since 1912, more than two million Boy Scouts have earned the Eagle Scout rank. Notable figures like Bill Gates, Neil Armstrong, and some past US presidents have also received the title of Eagle Scout during their childhood.
On Sunday, August 13, Rayan Rehman was honored with an Eagle Court of Honor ceremony at the Manalapan Battleground Country Club in New Jersey. State scouting officials and a group of young scouts attended, along with NJ public officials and members of the Bangladeshi community in New Jersey as guests.
The proud parents of Rayan Rehman, Aziz Ahmad and Panna Aziz, both eminent figures in the Bangladeshi-American community in the United States, hosted the event. They celebrated their child's achievements with loved ones and held a lunch, including a cake-cutting ceremony.
Prior to the event, Rayan Rehman was announced as an Eagle Scout during the Eagle Court of Honor ceremony. The event began with a presentation on the Eagle project, highlighting the motto "Better Scouting for Better Citizenship," emphasizing how Eagles strive to make their training an example in daily life.
Monmouth County Commissioner Ross F. Licitra presented Rayan Rehman with the rank certificate, and State Senator Vin Gopal issued a special proclamation. During a candle-lighting ritual, Rayan Rehman adhered to scouting laws and pledged his commitment to them.
The oath of office was administered by Rayan's brother, Aymaan Rehman, who is also an Eagle Scout. Rayan then took on the Eagle charge, and his parents participated by presenting him with the rank badge and a special scarf in the colors of the American flag. He also gave his parents eagle pins.
Aziz Ahmad, in his speech, highlighted that Rayan Rehman's achievement is not just his own but also a victory for the entire community. Congratulating his son, Aziz encouraged him to uphold the principle of selflessness throughout his life and extended thanks to the Scout authorities.
In her speech, Township of Marlboro Council Vice President Antoinette Dinuzzo congratulated Rayan Rehman, while Capt. Shital Rajan, Chairman of the Marlboro Open Space Committee, presented a pilot's pin and special congratulations. Councilman Michael Scalea was also present.
After being sworn in as an Eagle Scout, Rayan Rehman expressed gratitude to his parents for their continuous support in his progress and accomplishments. He expressed hope that this achievement would enable him to fulfill his assigned responsibilities as expected.
Scoutmaster and Monmouth Council District Commissioner of the Boy Scouts of America, Ray Gloede, presented a letter of appreciation to Rayan Rehman, describing him as an obedient, industrious, and responsible mentee.
The guests praised Rayan Rehman's achievement and enjoyed taking pictures with him, making the occasion a joyful one.