Boy Scout Troop 82 Begins New Chapter in 51 Year History

Portsmouth's Boy Scout Troop 82 is steeped in history, serving our Aquidneck Island community.  The evening of March 9th marked the closing of a very active phase in its history and the beginning of a new chapter.  Troop 82's Committee Chairperson, Donna Matthews, oversaw the Change of Scoutmaster Ceremony in which Justin Mostert relinquished command to the new Scoutmaster, Francis (Sam) Obert.  The formal ceremony, held at the Green Valley Country Club in Portsmouth, included numerous Troop 82 Eagle Scouts and active adult scout leaders.

Sponsored by St. Mary's Episcopal Church, Troop 82 has guided the development of numerous youth into civic minded citizens through leadership training, community service and a multitude of outdoor activities.  Justin Mostert, serving as Troop 82's 7th Scoutmaster since January 2009, enjoyed mentoring young scouts and welcomed "graduates" as adult assistant scoutmasters and scouters.  Under Mr. Mostert's seven years of steadfast guidance, 34 boy scouts earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout.  The well attended March 9th Change of Scoutmaster Ceremony was a testament to Mr. Mostert's dedication and commitment.  The Master of Ceremony, Rick Hammond, Troop 82 Assistant Scoutmaster (Program), assisted by 10 Troop 82 Eagle Scouts, led a heartfelt tribute of the scouting community's gratitude for Mr. Mostert's unwavering support of Portsmouth's youth.  Mr. Mostert thanked the boys scouts for this rewarding opportunity and wished Mr. Obert well in his new tenure as Troop 82's 8th Scoutmaster.  The evening concluded with Mr. Obert pledging his dedication to the continuance of developing tomorrow's young leaders.

Note:  Boys from ages 11 to 17, looking for something fun, rewarding and adventurous, may join Portsmouth's Boy Scout Troop 82.  Weekly meetings are held Wednesdays at 6:30pm in St. Mary's Episcopal Church's Parish Hall located at 324 E. Main Road in Portsmouth.  This year's calendar of activities includes numerous campouts, rock wall climbing, caroling for senior citizens and Scouting For Food supporting the Rhode Island Food Bank.  New scouts are always welcome.  For more information contact Troop 82 Scoutmaster Sam Obert at fxobert@juno.com or 808.225.4751.

Photos courtesy of Christine Carceller.

.