By Jill VanDewoestine, April 2025
Rogan Trunzo, an Eagle Scout in Troop 58 (Tonawanda, NY), decided to honor area veterans at White Chapel Memorial Park for his Eagle Scout project in spring 2024.
Rogan was inspired by Gricela “Gigi” Dickis, who had been placing flags at veteran’s graves each year to prepare for Memorial Day celebrations. Her step-son, Alan Dickis, served in Afghanistan and is buried at White Chapel Memorial Park. As a member of Troop 58, Rogan had helped Ms. Dickis place flags and had noticed that many grave markers had become covered with grass and debris over the years.
“The condition of these markers are heartbreaking to see each and every year. Soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for our country deserve a dignified and respectable state for their final resting places,” said Rogan.
Rogan Trunzo’s Eagle Scout ceremony
Before and after photos of grave marker
Rogan’s project included removing grass and weeds and cleaning the markers, planting a tree, and writing a guide for other groups to use for similar future projects.
On May 11, 2024, over 30 Scouts, adult volunteers, and family members assembled at the Veteran’s Place section of the Memorial Park with scrub brushes, trowels, and weed-whackers. VFW Downriver Post 7847 provided tools and food for the crew. The team cleaned over 500 grave markers under the supervision of Rogan and others. White Chapel donated a memorial plaque to be placed by the newly-planted Japanese Maple.
Rogan’s father, Fred Trunzo, serves in the U.S. Army and holds the rank of Operations Sergeant Major in the Army National Guard. Rogan is attending the University of Buffalo, majoring in aerospace engineering, and plans to graduate in 2028.
Rogan giving instructions on cleaning process
Volunteer hard at work
Rogan with memorial tree
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