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By Jay M. Woodward Pony Express Editor

May 22, 2010 was a very special day for Outpost 11, as Steven Kroh was awarded the highest honor for a boy in Royal Rangers, the Gold Medal of Achievement. He is the 39th boy in Northern New England, and only the second in Outpost #11 history to have achieved this distinction.That alone puts Steven in some pretty elite company! Steven’s road to the GMA began in 1998 at the age of five as a Straight Arrow Brave. From there, he learned skills and leadership opportunities that enabled him to grow Mentally, Physically, Socially, and Spritually. In addition, Steven has also played trumpet for the Manchester Central High School band, and has built and programmed robots with his schools First Robotics Competition team called CHAOS! In a word, Rangers has made Steven “Ready!”

At Steven’s GMA ceremony, held at First Assembly in Auburn, NH, he was showered with words of praise from his Pastor, Garry Hamilton, Youth Pastor Matt Ellis (who was also a GMA recipient in 2001), and Commander Bruce Paquette, who was the Master of Ceremonies. Commander Mark Lacombe read several congratulatory letters from National Royal Rangers Director Doug Marsh, Governor John Lynch, Senators Judd Gregg and Jeanne Shaheen, and State Senator Dave Boutin. Even Sarah Palin sent Steven a letter to congratulate him on his achievement!

Following the presentation of citations and awards by Commander John MacGilvary, it was time for the big prize, the GMA itself. District Director Jerry Love directed remarks to Steven, advising him that, “though today may seem to be the pinnacle of your Royal Ranger endeavors, the work that the Master Ranger has for you, has only begun.” Commander Love then led him led him in the Gold Medal Promise, alongside Ryley and Pastor Matt. He also received the GMA jacket that is presented as a gift from the entire District to all GMA recipients, a fine compliment to the Gold Medal! Steven then gave his remarks before the closing benediction, and then it was time to celebrate! At the celebration dinner that followed, there was a display of many of Steven’s awards and recognitions, including his Bronze and Silver Medals of Acheivement, and flags that were flown over the state and national Capitol buildings in his honor!

As for the future, Steven has already started looking ahead. He has begun his college search, and plans to pursue a major in computer science or engineering. Indeed, boys like Steven are success stories for the Royal Rangers ministry. As Commander Jerry commented”quote” Congratulations, Steven! NNED is proud of you!