Cover photo: Eagle Scout Jake Shabronsky stands by the beautiful rebuilt bridge. (Credit – Madison Warren)
A new bridge now connects hikers at Blydenburgh County Park, thanks to the efforts of Boy Scout Troop 125. The Eagle Scout project, led by member Jake Shabronsky, was officially dedicated this past weekend in memory of the troop’s late scout leader, Mr. Chacon.
The bridge not only improves accessibility along the park’s hiking trails but also stands as a lasting tribute to Mr. Chacon’s impact on the scouting community.
Back in 2022, when Michael Chacon passed away, Boy Scout Troop 125 was left shaken by the loss of a man who had been so impactful and influential in their lives. Many of the scouts remained in the program as long as they did because of Mr. Chacon’s guidance. He taught them countless life lessons and helped create memories they will carry with them forever.
Troop members and families shared stories and memories of the amazing person Mr. Chacon was, reflecting on the lasting mark he left on everyone who knew him.
One troop member shared how, on scout trips, he often felt very homesick, and Mr. Chacon became the support system he needed on days when he wanted to quit and go home. With Mr. Chacon’s constant reassurance, the scout eventually learned to enjoy and even love being away on trips.
He reflected, “I consider Mr. Chacon to be one of, if not the most influential people in my scouting career.”
Since then, Jake Shabronsky knew he wanted to do something special with his troop to honor the legacy of their former leader. One day, while walking through Blydenburgh Park with his mom, grandmother, and family dog, he noticed that the bridge they were about to cross was rickety and potentially unsafe. After giving it some thought, Jake decided to embark on a project, which he later dedicated to someone near and dear to his heart.
Jake said, “Now I stand here three and a half years later [since Mr. Chacon passed away] with all of you to dedicate this bridge to Mr. Chacon for the love and the dedication he gave to the troop and community. For me, once a shy and unconfident little boy who has now grown into the young man I am now, he built that bridge for me. He helped me grow into the confident person that I am today and to build a real bridge dedicated to him. This bridge is truly a reflection of what Mr. Chacon did for me and my people.”
Emotions ran high as friends and family reflected on cherished memories with Mr. Chacon, honoring him as a devoted nurse, loving father and husband, dedicated leader, role model, and true inspiration—just a few of the many qualities that made him so remarkable.
Now standing at 51 feet long and 4 feet wide, the beautiful rebuilt bridge is ready for hikers to enjoy. More than just a crossing, it will serve as a lasting reminder of Michael Chacon’s legacy—his guidance, kindness, and the profound impact he left on Troop 125 and the community.
