Eagle Scout Jason Hertzog will organize a supply drive for those serving in the military overseas on Friday, Nov. 11, from noon to 6 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 12, from noon to 4 p.m., at 200 Willow Valley Square, Willow Street. The Troop 146 trailer will be stationed in the Willow Valley Square parking lot to accept donations.

The list of suggested items includes instant coffee, Keurig coffee cups, tea packets, hot chocolate, Slim Jims, crackers, travel-size hand sanitizer bottles, protein bars, trail mix, beef jerky, hand and foot warmers, combs, toothbrushes, lip balm, and vitamins. Monetary donations will also be accepted, and funds raised will be used to ship the donated items overseas. Donations can be made payable to Troop 146 and sent to Bethel Church, 3716 Main St., Conestoga.

Hertzog credits his inspiration to collect donations for those serving overseas to the number of his family members who have served in the military; his grandfather served in the Army, two of his cousins and his brother served in the National Guard, and his mother's stepfather was in the Air Force. Hertzog himself hopes to join the National Guard. "I always knew I wanted to go into the service. A couple years ago, my brother joined the National Guard, which inspired me to join," said Hertzog.

Hertzog has been an active member of the Scouts for 11 years, beginning his journey as a Cub Scout. "It's been hard, and sometimes I wanted to leave," Hertzog said. "It's a lot of work, and as I've grown up, I've realized how much it's helped me."

Before joining the Scouts, Hertzog was terrified of public speaking. Now, as an Eagle Scout and after more than a decade of involvement with the program, he said he loves talking in front of people. "It took me out of my comfort zone," Hertzog said. "Being a part of the Scouts sets you up for life. You learn practical skills like survival tactics as well as how to be a good leader." Hertzog is a senior at Kennard-Dale High School and noted that he looks forward to applying everything he's learned with the Scouts to his life moving forward.

Troop 146 is currently looking for new members. For more information, search for "Boy Scout Troop 146" on Facebook.