Troop 66 Scoutmaster retires after 35 years

The end of an era has just occurred in Troop 66, after 35 years as Scoutmaster, Bob Shea has stepped down as leader of the Troop that was first chartered in 1957 and recently celebrated its 151st Eagle Scout.

Bob first joined Troop 66 in the early 1980s when his oldest son crossed over from Cub Scouts. Bob was a Den Leader in Cub Scouts for all 3 of his sons, and enjoyed it so much he became an Assistant Scout Master when his oldest son joined the Troop. He then stayed even after all 3 of his sons earned their Eagle Awards in the 1990s. He became Scoutmaster because he wanted to spend time with his own boys, but he also enjoys the time he spends with all the other boys as well.

He also Coached local football, baseball and basketball teams for all 3 of his sons as well as hundreds of other Aberdeen/Matawan children. The Matawan High School Alumni Association inducted Bob into the Hall of Fame in 2000. The Hall of Fame recognizes graduates who have made important contributions to society, as well as non-graduates of the community who have distinguished themselves in their chosen fields and have made significant contributions to Matawan Regional. Bob was selected for his demanding FBI career as well as his contribution to the local youth in Aberdeen as Scoutmaster of Troop 66. Bob retired from the Bureau in 2000 and started his own Investigation Company, Rose Associates International, which he ran for 8 years.

In addition to his outstanding 33-year career as a FBI Special Agent in NYC, he was dedicated to the Troop and the Scouts. As an active Scoutmaster Bob has planned camping trips that provide scouts with practical experience, essential outdoor skills and a love of the outdoors. He exemplifies the Scout Law in his everyday life, mentoring young men and providing them with the tools they need to learn to become successful, independent and responsible adults.

Monmouth Council Boy Scouts honored Bob with the Silver Beaver Award in 1991. The Silver Beaver is an award given to those who implement the Scouting program and perform community service through hard work, self-sacrifice, dedication, and many years of service. It is given to those who do not actively seek it.

Bob & Diane have been happily married 48 years this July and they enjoy spending time with their family. Bob is extremely proud of his 3 sons Mike, Chris and Brian who are married to his wonderful daughter in laws Becky, Lisa and Stephanie. Bob and Diane are the proud grandparents to Bella, Katelyn, Tyler, Addison and Noah.

Troop 66 Scouts, Parents, Leaders and the local Aberdeen Matawan community thank Bob Shea for all he has done for the local boys for the last 35 years. We all wish him happiness in his future endeavors and we hope to see him at our special events throughout the years.

Thank you Mr. Shea!