Dr. Gerald "Bummy" Burstein proudly showing his Eagle Scout uniform with a smile.

Dr. Gerald "Bummy" Burstein shares his photo story about being an Eagle Scout. He proudly shows his Eagle Scout badge and uniform which he worked hard in earning. The newspaper article (below) explains more about his Eagle Scout honor.

Photo courtesy of Jane Norman.

"Scout Unable to Talk Passes His Test for Eagle Rating"

Newspaper Article: Although unable to talk since birth, Gerald Burstein, 17, of 38 Bay 26th St., has just passed the last and most difficult merit badge examination before he comes up for his badge as an Eagle Scout, top rank in scouting, June 12. His feat consisted of going afield with an expert examiner and describing 40 species of wild birds. In order to do this he took along his father, Moe Burstein. Gerald identified and described the bird to his father in sign language which Mr. Burstein interpreted to the examiner. Gerald, now a Life Scout, is a member of Troop 234 of the Bath Beach district. He joined the scouts five years ago. At present in the fourth term at Textile High School, he plans to make accounting his life work. Photograph of newspaper clipping courtesy of Jane Norman.

     "Although unable to talk since birth, Gerald Burstein, 17, of 38 Bay 26th St., has just passed the last and most difficult merit badge examination before he comes up for his badge as an Eagle Scout, top rank in scouting, June 12.

     His feat consisted of going afield with an expert examiner and describing 40 species of wild birds.  In order to do this he took along his father, Moe Burstein.  Gerald identified and described the bird to his father in sign language which Mr. Burstein interpreted to the examiner.

     Gerald, now a Life Scout, is a member of Troop 234 of the Bath Beach district.  He joined the scouts five years ago.  At present in the fourth term at Textile High School, he plans to make accounting his life work."

New York Times, 1944.

Eagle Scout pin. Red-White-Blue ribbon with "Be Prepared" metal scroll at top. Bottom of Ribbon is Eagle Medal attached. This is an Eagle Scout medal which Dr. Burstein earned.

 

Below is Dr. Burstein's certificates as an Eagle Scout with Troop 234 in Brooklyn, New York and Troop 302 in St. Paul, Minnesota.  He also obtain certificate as member of "Order of the Arrow" in 1954.

Photo of medal, pin and Eagle Scout membership cards.