Press Release:

Ryan Gringeri ’28 created a Veterans Memorial overlooking Ward Field on the campus of La Salle College High School as his Eagle Scout Project. The memorial was designed as a place of reflection and remembrance to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces, including a number of La Salle alumni. Every element of the memorial from the bronze guardian eagle statue on a granite pedestal to the patio and benches to the walkway of bricks engraved with the names and years of alumni veterans stand as a permanent salute to their sacrifice. Ryan is the recipient of the 2026 Eagle Scout Project of the Year Award as well as the Congressional Award Gold Medal in recognition for initiative and service. Ryan Gringeri was recognized as part of the 2026 Congressional Award Gold Medal Class and attended the Gold Medal Summit in Washington, DC during the summer.

Reflecting on what it means to earn the Congressional Award Gold Medal, Ryan shared: “I’ve learned that ambitious long-term goals are achieved through small, consistent steps, proper planning, and discipline. By pushing myself daily, I’ve built leadership skills and physical strength. Most importantly, service work showed me the profound value of volunteers and their lasting impact on thriving communities. I hope to inspire my peers to serve and engage locally. This has given me a new perspective on my blessings and motivates me to keep giving back and offering hope.”

The memorial is a symbol of leadership, perseverance, and community collaboration as the project required extensive planning, fundraising, budgeting, and scheduling. Through grants, sponsorships, and donations, Ryan raised over $25,000 and nearly 600 volunteer hours were contributed. One of the major donors was The Home Depot Foundation. In addition, alumni and local supporters who believe in honoring veterans contributed throughout the planning and construction process. The memorial weaves together Lasallian heritage by featuring plaques with quotes about service from Saint John Baptist de La Salle. His teachings on leading a life of selfless dedication mirror the sacrifices made by La Salle alumni who served in the military. Ryan commented, “it was my honor to build this memorial as a lasting tribute to our veterans and Lasallian brothers who bravely left to serve.” The memorial was dedicated at a service on May 30, 2026.

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Photo: LSCHS