Eagle Scouts salute the new Eagle in their ranks. Troop 328 member John Rockenstein (front) is joined by Scouting officials, friends and family for Court of Honor presentations at Our Lady of Assumption Parish, Carmichael.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Representing Scouting's highest achievement, no fewer than ten Eagle Scouts saluted at John Rockenstein’s recent Eagle Court of Honor at Our Lady of Assumption Parish, Carmichael.

Scouting peers included his father, Carmichael Honorary Mayor (and Troop 328 Scoutmaster) Mike Rockenstein, who ‘Eagled’ in 1986.  His brother Joey joined the coveted ranks soon after.

“The award was a high point of a big journey,” said John (15). “I had to do most of the work, but my family was always there to support me.”

John Rockenstein (second from left) joins Sixth Senatorial District Director Rob Olmstead (left) and Troop 328 Assistant Scoutmasters, Keegan Smith and Don Wake.

One of twins, John Rockenstein is known as ‘J-Rock’ to Jesuit High School chums. Maintaining a 4.5 GPA, he was sophomore class President and will be Junior president in the fall semester. He also plays football and golf for Jesuit.

“My parents always encouraged my twin Morgan and I to be involved in the community,” said John. “We helped out at our (OLA) school food locker and joined river cleanups. Morgan now works with the National Charity League.”

John became a Cub Scout at six years old. Bridging to Carmichael Troop 328 four years later, he earned more than 50 merit badges and has served in leadership roles.

Newly-awarded Eagle Scout John Rockenstein celebrates with Scoutmaster dad Mike Rockenstein and mom Jill.

“I couldn’t imagine my life without Scouting,” John told the court of honor that presented his Eagle colors. “I learned practical skills and improved my understanding of citizenship and leadership.”

Earning Eagle Scout rank includes a community service project. John chose to build a reflection garden for OLA, where his family worships. To fund plans, he raised more than $10,000 and organized Scouts and friends to assist. 

“I feel a sense of accomplishment when I’m in that garden” he said. “It’s awesome to see the long hours of work have come together so well. My dad and my Eagle mentor (6th Senate District director Rob Olmstead) guided me through many project decisions. Mom and dad drove me around suppliers for materials. They also helped me lay bark and plant roses.”

Newly-awarded Eagle Scout John Rockenstein receives certifications from Pioneer Express District representatives Steve Carter and Suzy Namba.

With his father as inspiration, J-Rock’s Scouting career will continue. “My father helped me lay the groundwork on my Scouting journey,” he said.  “Like him, I’ll help mentor younger scouts and encourage them to strive for the rank I’ve achieved.”

“I believe they’ll become better citizens because of it.  Scouting has been good to me. I hope to be good to Scouting for the rest of my life.”

For information on Carmichael’s Troop 328, email [email protected]