09/29/2026
I want to thank everyone who attended the celebration recognizing my time as the 33rd Scoutmaster of Troop 1201.
I want to give a special thanks to each of my speakers, as they all had something meaningful to share. Thank you to Shawn Arballo from Troop 1814, Jenette Lopez from Troop 1238, Chuck Bennett from the OA, Maxkalamiat Chapter, and our Unit Commissioner, Jeff Wolf. Your words meant a great deal to me.
My five-year as Troop 1201’s 33rd Scoutmaster has been a great adventure. This adventure would not have been possible without the support of my wife, Jen. I am especially proud that I was able to guide our two boys through the Scouting program. They have grown, developed, and learned so much through their experiences with the troop.
The words Jen shared at the Court of Honor truly resonated with me and reflected so much of what this journey has meant to our family. Thank you for always being there, for supporting me through this adventure, and for sharing it with me. I love you.
I also want to thank all the parents of Troop 1201 who supported my vision of helping our Scouts grow into young men of character, confidence, leadership, and service to others.
Many thanks to all the parents, adult leaders, volunteers, and families who make these opportunities possible. Scouting is truly a team effort, and your time and support give our Scouts opportunities to challenge themselves, experience new adventures, develop their leadership skills, and grow into outstanding young men.
I would like to finish with a poem that was presented to me by the troop. It meant a great deal to me and beautifully captured many of the experiences we have shared over the years:
The Master of the Troop
The campsite is calm as the embers grow bright,
Reflecting the years that you guided the light.
From trailheads to summits, through shadow and sun,
The legacy stands for Troop 1201.
You taught us the square knot, the bowline, and hitch,
Through paths in the forest and through every ditch.
You guided our footsteps through valleys of snow,
And gave us the courage to venture and grow.
With Mr. Kottke out leading the line,
We conquered the ridges of cedar and pine.
The lessons you granted on trailside and peak,
Became the strong values we carry and seek.
Through rainy-day hikes and the pack’s heavy weight,
You showed us that character makes a man great.
The Scout Law was more than a phrase on a card—
You lived it out daily, when easy or hard.
So pack up your gear as the twilight descends,
Surrounded by history, honors, and friends.
The patch on your sleeve may be changing its place,
But the trail that you blazed time can never erase.
It was truly a great night for Troop 1201, and a wonderful way to close one chapter and begin another.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of this adventure. I will always be proud to call Troop 1201 my troop.
