Saint David’s on-the-Hill was filled with celebration several weeks ago as 13 Cub Scouts took their next step into Scouting by achieving the rank of Arrow of Light on Jan. 30

“All of this crew is in fifth grade. They go to different schools within the state, but have all worked hard to achieve the rank of Arrow of Light. It is the highest rank in Cub Scouting,” said Kate Caito, assistant Den Leader to Bryan Mills, an Eagle Scout himself.

Mills, who’s son – Emmett – is in the program is very proud of the troop and its accomplishments.

“Cub Scouts is all about having fun while working to achieve goals. Emmett has learned about teamwork, leadership, outdoor skills, self-reliance and good citizenship over the six years he’s been involved in Cub Scouts,” said Bryan.

Bryan’ wife, Stephanie, is also impressed with the program.

“Scouts has given Emmett ideals to live up to, self confidence, leadership skills and he realizes the importance of service before self,” she said.

Earning the Arrow of Light rank is a two year process. For many of these scouts, they have been involved in scouting for more than two years.

“Seven of this crew have been scouts since they were Lions (kindergarten). The ranks go along with their school years Lion (K), Tiger (1st), Wolf (2nd), Bear (3rd), Webelos (4th), Arrow of Light (5th) The arrow of light is also one of only two badges that a Cub Scout can wear on their uniform as a boy scout, and as an adult,” said Caito.

Karen Carnevale started the boys on their journey of scouting when they were Lions and Bryan has been the group’s leader since the kids were Tigers.

Through scouting, boys and girls have learned skills relating to civic duty, altruism, survival skills, camping, cooking, how to cooperate with others, leadership, cyber safety, knife skills, fire building and responsibility, care of the outdoors and being a good friend.

The gratitude from parents was overflowing for Bryan and the Scouting experience.

“The ceremony was a perfect reflection of all the hard work and accomplishments of the scouts. As a parent, seeing their growth through the years was particularly rewarding. Joining Scouts helped Cooper socialize during Covid and has built his confidence. When he started Scouts, we would have never imagined Cooper speaking up in public and announcing the start of last night’s ceremony, but he did just that. We are so fortunate to have connected with Mr. Bryan and the troop. He was instrumental in getting the kids involved, motivated, and giving them experiences and tools they can use,” said Alicia Hawkins, Cooper’s mom.

The praise continued with another parent.

“It was impressive seeing their transition from Lion Cubs in kindergarten to AOLs (Arrows of Light) in fifth grade. It’s great to have seen the transformation from Lions who needed help with everything, to becoming the ‘big kids’ who are confident in the skills they’ve learned throughout the years,” said Rachel McNally.

The evening itself was a culmination of all the time and effort the kids put in.

“This was a celebration of all their hard work. Each Scout has made a shadow box with the story of their time in scouting. In addition a plaque has been made (each with an arrow personal to each individual’s scout journey) to honor their achievement. Each Scout had a table display to show the works they have done while in Scouts (pinewood derby cars, trophies, patches, art projects, tool boxes they have built, etc.),” Caito said.

During the ceremony, Bryan had the Scouts face the wall with arrows on it and explained the significance of how an arrow works, and the results you get.

“The next step in your journey as you cross over to BSA (Boy Scouts of America) is where the arrow is headed. But, tonight we are going to take a step back and look at all you’ve accomplished along the way. Sometimes taking that step back is what propels you forward,” Bryan said.

Representatives from Mayor Hopkins and the Secretary of State offices were on hand to present citations to each of the Scouts.

The kids all took something different away from their scouting experience.

“Cub Scouts was a lot of fun. Camping was my favorite activity and Mr. Bryan was a good den leader,” said Matt McNally.

 “Cub Scouts was super fun and I’m sad to leave but excited to learn new things in Boy Scouts,” said Anthony DeCesaris.

Bryan made sure to acknowledge the parents who assisted in either running a meeting, or through a special skill helped the kids. He gave extra thanks to his wife and colleagues Weston and Kate.

“It was amazing to see everything we have accomplished over the years in one room. We are so grateful for everyone who has helped and volunteered their time to help us reach this goal. I will always remember the experiences I had with Pack 6 Cranston,” said Cooper Hawkins.

The Scouts who reached this level are as follows: Harrison Caito, Samuel Carnevale, Nicholas Cocca, Anthony DeCesaris, Blake Douglas, Carson Espinal, Michael Fearon, Thomas Gendron, Cooper Hawkins, Matthew McNally, Emmett Mills, Jackson Stomberg and Alexandra Velino.