Maine Maritime Academy Student From Islip Terrace Earns Eagle Scout Rank

ISLIP TERRACE, NY — Evan Casdia of Islip Terrace has officially earned the rank of Eagle Scout, becoming the 120th Eagle Scout in the history of Troop 205, which serves Great River, East Islip and Islip Terrace.

Evan completed his Eagle Board of Review on Nov. 24, 2025. His Eagle Court of Honor will be held Tuesday, March 3, at 7:30 p.m. at Timber Point Elementary School in East Islip.

A member of Troop 205, sponsored by the Great River Fire Department, Evan advanced under the leadership of Scoutmaster Mark Businski. During his years in Scouting, he served as Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Troop Guide, mentoring younger Scouts as they progressed through their ranks.

Over the course of his Scouting journey, Evan logged 93 camping nights and participated in several high-adventure experiences. Among his favorites were a seven-day Philmont Scout Ranch Cavalcade adventure in Cimarron, New Mexico; a Florida Keys Sea Base expedition that included scuba diving, snorkeling and sailing; the World Scout Jamboree in the Republic of Korea; a Gettysburg Historic Trails campout; a spelunking trip to Virginia; annual Montauk fishing trips; and summer camps at Wakpominee, Baiting Hollow and Onteora Scout camps.

He also served as Scout Crew Leader during both his Philmont and Sea Base expeditions.

To earn the rank of Eagle Scout, a candidate must complete at least 21 merit badges — including 14 required badges — progress through six ranks, and plan and lead a major community service project. Evan exceeded the minimum requirement by earning 35 merit badges.

For his Eagle project, Evan led the renovation of Town of Islip property in front of the American Legion building on Main Street and Bayview Avenue in East Islip. The project included completely refurbishing all benches with new wood, planting flowers, replacing mulch around memorials, and constructing two picnic tables. The project totaled more than 105 hours of service.

In addition to his Eagle accomplishments, Evan earned the Webelos Arrow of Light, Firem’n Chit, Totin’ Chip, and the NOA Camping Gold Award. He was also elected by fellow Scouts into the Order of the Arrow, Scouting America’s national honor society.

“Throughout my time in Scouting, I have had many memorable experiences such as Philmont, Sea Base, and even the World Jamboree in the Republic of Korea," Evan said. "From Philmont and Sea Base, I learned a lot about being a leader and developed the skills to be one."

Perseverance, he said, was the most important lesson he gained.

“At the start of my Scouting career in sixth grade, the rank of Eagle Scout seemed so far out of reach that it felt impossible," Evan said. "Slowly but surely, I got closer to my goal, and it seemed possible. I learned that constant effort is the key to success.”

Evan is currently a freshman at Maine Maritime Academy, majoring in Marine Engineering Operations. During his first semester, he served as Midshipmen Under Guidance (MUG) Charlie Company Commander, helping his company earn Honor Company during Regimental Induction. He also achieved Dean’s List honors.

After graduation, Evan plans to work in the maritime industry as a third engineer.

A June 2025 graduate of East Islip High School, Evan earned Honor Roll or High Honor Roll status every quarter throughout middle and high school. He served as principal cellist in the Honors Symphony Orchestra, played viola in the Standard String Orchestra, was a member of the Tri-M Honor Society, and is also a pianist and guitarist.

Athletically, Evan competed on the track and cross-country teams and earned All-League honors in pole vaulting. He is an advanced skier and has been scuba diving since age 12. He is nearing completion of his Wreck and Deep-Water scuba certification, which will extend his diving limit to 130 feet.

Beyond his Eagle project, Evan logged more than 80 hours of additional community service through Troop 205.

He is the son of Kristine and Kevin Casdia and the brother of Wyatt Casdia, a First Class Scout in Troop 205. His father, Kevin, serves as an assistant Scoutmaster and has accompanied Evan on several high-adventure trips.