Long-time volunteer, coach named 2023 Distinguished Citizen by BSA

Published 8:30 am Saturday, August 5, 2023

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At the Clark County Fish & Game Club on Waterworks Road, it’s not uncommon to see get-togethers.

However, Tuesday night’s particular gathering had unique circumstances.

Awarded each year, the Winchester Area of the Blue Grass Council for BSA, or Boy Scouts of America, named longtime Winchester resident Charles Eury as its 2023 Distinguished Citizens Honoree.

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“Tonight, we’re gathered to honor a person of the highest caliber [and] a person who exemplifies character, honor, and public service”, said host Ernie Sammons. “That person is Charles ‘Charlie’ Eury…Charlie is an exceptional man and someone I’m proud to call my friend.”

The Bluegrass Council represents 55 counties across central and eastern Kentucky.

Each year, a community member receives the honor mentioned above based on several criteria.

Chip Armishaw, the Scout Executive/Chief Executive Officer with Bluegrass Council, explained.

“We recognize citizens from many communities because they share the values of the Boy Scouts of America just overall leadership and service to the community, more than anything,” Armishaw said. “We had a local committee of volunteers and they made that selection.”

While Eury has long been qualified for the position, his selfless demeanor, in many cases, kept him off the radar.

“Charles is the type of guy that likes to stay in the background, getting the heavy lifting done,” Sammons added. “The only reason Charlie gets involved in anything is to make a difference in the lives of youth and their families. Charlie doesn’t do the things he does for attention…he does it for the kids and their families.”

Eury’s connection to the Boy Scouts of America goes back many years, having been rewarded an Eagle Scout rank in 1963.

Eventually, his interests would lead him to a 34-year career with the United States Forestry Service, 24 of them having taken place as an administrative officer for the Daniel Boone National Forest in Clark County.

Beforehand, he held positions in Roanoke, North Carolina, Atlanta, and Snellville, Georgia.

With Aleene, his wife of over 50 years, Eury has two children, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

“Along the way, I’ve met many wonderful people,” Eury said. “Many of you are here tonight…I’ve developed many, many friendships through volunteer activities.”

Eury’s volunteer experience goes back to his teenage years when he assisted in coaching women’s softball.

Eventually, he would meet his wife on the softball field.

Since moving to Clark County, his experiences have included coaching baseball at George Rogers Clark High School for 12 years and continuing to be involved in Winchester Little League after 18 years.

He also coached Babe Ruth League baseball for three years.

Beyond athletics, Eury spent ten years on the Clark County Fair Board, twenty years as Chairman of the Winchester-Clark County Parks Department and actively raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for youth programs while a member of the Winchester Elks Lodge.

Thankful for his many years of service, individuals such as former Winchester Mayor Ed Burtner and current Director of Winchester-Clark County Parks and Recreation Jeff Lewis were present to demonstrate appreciation.

While accepting his award, Eury wished to leave his listeners with a few points worth mentioning.

“My main satisfaction with coaching young people is seeing them give back to the community after their playing careers are done it’s really a great satisfaction,” Eury said. “I want to be known as a facilitator.”

Ending his speech, Eury demonstrated gratitude.

“I appreciate the honor that you guys have bestowed upon me,” Eury said.