Tom’s roots with Troop and Pack 215 in Bethel Park run very deep. As a youth, Tom was a Scout in Troop 215 only to later emerge as an adult leader to start up Cub Scout Pack 215 at Bethel Presbyterian Church, where his troop also operates. Tom has been an extremely active Assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 215 for almost 20 years where he regularly attends campouts and summer camps. A fully-trained adult leader, Tom has also worked several years as an instructor at Camp Semiconon. Tom served on staff for the 2001 National Scout Jamboree and as a Troop leader with the 2005 Jamboree contingent.
Tom can be found at almost every OA function where he serves as a crew leader and gives tirelessly to work in the kitchen helping to prepare the meals for lodge functions. It’s not unusual for Tom to take a vacation day from work the day prior to ceremonial weekends so he can help with the cleaning and preparation necessary to open some of the more remote camp kitchens. Tom’s son is a Life Scout and has been deaf since birth. When his son assumed the role of Troop OA Representative, Tom stepped up to interpret for his son.
The principles of the Order Of The Arrow continue to guide his life outside of scouting. Tom has served on session leadership for the Bethel Presbyterian church for seven years. In addition Tom is an active volunteer and hard worker at Eagle projects throughout the Bethel Park community.
Tom not only serves as an interpreter between the hearing world and his son, but Tom interprets the principals of the Order Of The Arrow into living examples that he demonstrates in every aspect of his life. It is these qualities that make Tom worthy of the Vigil Honor.
