Troop 90 Life Scout builds pergola for local veterans

UTICA/STERLING HEIGHTS — Marcus Arambulo, of Boy Scout Troop No. 90, decided for his Eagle Scout project that he would help veterans by building a pergola at the American Legion Victor I. Rieck Post 351 in Utica.

The pergola is outside the front of the post on Cass Avenue and is made of wood. Its design provides full cover to those underneath it. Arambulo was at the post Oct. 7 as the pergola’s construction entered its final phase.

Arambulo is a 17-year-old senior from Sterling Heights at the International Academy of Macomb.

John N. Myroniuk, the post commander, said the post had “sincere gratitude” for Arambulo.

“Selecting our Veterans organization for his Eagle Scout project is heartfelt. And we are impressed with this young man’s support of our Community and Veterans,” Myroniuk said via email.

Mandy Shugart, the committee chair for Troop 90 in Utica, said that in her short time as committee chair and in four years of building a relationship with Arambulo and his family, it is encouraging to know he is continuing the troop’s legacy of giving back.

She said that Arambulo stuck with the troop through the pandemic and through a family health issue.

“In July of this year, he drove 2 1/2 hours both ways to sit at summer camp with us to complete his project planning presentation for his Eagle Scout Project,” Shugart said.

She said he never lost dedication to the troop and his end goal.

Doug Gettleson, the former Scoutmaster and current Eagle Scout adviser for Troop 90, has known Arambulo for a number of years.

“I can honestly say he is one of the most hard working and self-motivated Scouts I had the pleasure of working with. He always has a positive disposition and is willing to assist younger scouts when needed. Marcus is and has always been a great asset to Troop 90 and I am extremely proud that he has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout since he truly is the definition of what an Eagle Scout should be,” he said in an email.