By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor

After years of preparation and months of planning, lifelong Pennsauken resident Gio Marinelli has earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

Eagle Scout is Scouting’s highest rank. First created in 1912, Eagle Scout “has represented a milestone of accomplishment—perhaps without equal—that is recognized across the country and even the world. Those who have earned the Eagle Scout rank count it among their most treasured achievements.” Scouts must complete a variety of requirements before their 18th birthday, including being an active participant in Scouting; completing specific merit badges; taking on a leadership role in their Troop; as well as developing, organizing, and leading a service project. Gio’s project was installing a message board at the Pennsauken Community Recreation Complex.

“I talked with Duke Martz [from the Township] about a couple different ideas and settled on a message board,” explained Marinelli. “It’s something that the Township needed and is a good addition to the soccer complex.”

After the project was approved by the Boy Scouts of America, Gio began fundraising, reaching out to generous family and friends. He raised over $2,000 for the needed materials, tool rental, etc. Marinelli then assembled his team of fellow scouts and volunteers. Michael Ciarrocca, Eagle Scout and former assistant scoutmaster, helped provide invaluable guidance during Gio’s service project.

“Mr. Ciarrocca was a tremendous help. He helped me figure out exactly what I was going to need,” said Gio. “My main concern was that I wasn’t going to have enough people, but Scouts from Troop 119 came out and I got a lot of volunteers. I was taken aback on how many people were able to come out.”

One special person who lent a hand was Gio’s brother, A.J., who became an Eagle Scout in 2021.

“My brother definitely inspires me. Him achieving Eagle was a big driving force for me,” explained Gio. “His being there for my project meant a lot to me. He was there for the whole day and really worked hard. It shows a lot about his character.”

After documenting the project and submitting his report, Gio participated in a successful Board of Review, earning the rank of Eagle Scout.

“I feel like I’ve accomplished something. People dedicated a lot of time and effort to see me accomplish this goal,” said Gio. “A lot of Scouts definitely have a hard time considering whether going for Eagle is worth it. It really is a tremendous amount of effort, but it’s definitely worth it. It’s a personal accomplishment that all Scouts should strive to achieve.”