Assistant Scoutmaster Barbara Zeller, 2nd Class Scout Nicholas Perrotti, Eagle Scout Dan Matthews, Troop 82 Scoutmaster Justin Mostert, Life Scout Adrian Ridolfi and Eagle Scout Bobby Zeller.
Portsmouth Boy Scout Troop 82 celebrated 50 years of scouting at a special anniversary dinner on Jan. 2 at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Tiverton.
Over 200 guests, including 35 Eagle Scouts, three Scoutmasters and previous Senior Patrol Leaders reunited to honor the troop’s service to the community. A montage of photographs depicting five decades of troop activities, historical photo albums dating back as far as the 1940s, vintage patrol flags, and uniforms were displayed. Portsmouth Councilor James Seveney presented the group with a town council proclamation.
The evening’s guest speaker, Rep. John G. Edwards, R.I. House Majority Whip, spoke from the heart and testified to the importance of scouting. Edwards is Troop 82’s 21st Eagle Scout, awarded in 1973. The memorable evening culminated with Scoutmaster Justin Mostert presenting the annual scouting awards in recognition of 2015 achievements.
The Paul “Trey” Houtchens Camper Award: Trey was a scout in Troop 82 who really loved the camping program. He died tragically of Eastern Equine Encephalitis before earning the rank of Eagle Scout. This award recognizes the scout who has camped out the most days in a year. This year’s recipient is Eagle Scout Bobby Zeller.
The Edward R. Judge Scoutmaster Award: Ed Judge was the first scoutmaster of the troop and served a total of 20 years. This award recognizes the scout that demonstrates the most all-around scout spirit and looks at many factors including positive attitude, skills and leadership. This year’s recipient is Life Scout Adrian Ridolfi.
Cpl. Thomas A. Julian Leadership Award: Cpl. Julian was a scout in Troop 82 who joined the Marines. He was stationed in Lebanon, where he was killed during the 1983 attack on the Marine barracks in Beirut. This award recognizes the scout showing strong leadership. This year’s recipient is Eagle Scout Daniel Matthews.
Rev. Gordon J. Stenning Scouter Award: Rev. Stenning was the rector at St. Mary’s who encouraged Ed Judge to form the troop in 1966. The award recognizes the adult that has provided significant support. This year’s recipient is Assistant Scoutmaster Barbara Zeller.
The Troop 82 Grand Slam Seller Award for selling over $2,000 of popcorn was presented to 2nd Class Scout Nicholas Perrotti.
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