Imagine looking back on nearly 90 years of Scouting memories – remembering the camping trips, friendships and adventures from your youth. Very few people can look back on such an extensive Scouting background, but at 101 years old George Dennis sure can.
The centenarian met up with the South Florida Council to share his heartwarming story and what a lifetime of Scouting memories means to him decades later.
The oldest son of two siblings, Dennis understood the importance of leadership and helping others and decided to embark on his Scouting journey at age 12.
Dennis quickly grew to love the organization that introduced him to new friends, experiences and skills. He earned 31 merit badges and among those badges, his favorite was blacksmithing. After earning the badge he spent an entire summer sharpening his new skill as a young blacksmith.
And just like thousands of Scouts can say today, attending summer camp was his favorite Scouting activity. Denis enjoyed camping at Camp Tuscazoar the most. He also fondly remembers the leaders that helped shape the program and strengthen kids like him. Among them, his Scoutmaster Mr. Star of Troop 2 made a lasting impression.
Dennis excelled in the program and earned his Eagle Scout rank in 1930. Denis remarked that he still cherishes the Eagle Scout letter he received for the honor, signed by James E. West in 1931. He still has a copy of the letter today.
The Eagle served in the Navy in World War II in 1944 and as an aerial photographer in 1945. Once he returned back to the states, he worked in sales at J.C. Penny and was also a graphic artist for 50 years.
Dennis served as Scoutmaster of Troop 152 in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, leading 150 boys on the same Scouting adventures he grew up loving.
Dennis married and had two sons. They moved to Florida where he volunteered with Troop 299 in Pompano Beach.
Although Dennis looks back on Scouting with nostalgia, Scouting is still is a very important part of his life. In fact, Dennis continues to don his uniform proudly today.
Check out the gallery to the left to see Dennis’ Scouting photos from the past and then head to www.nesa.org to learn more about the Eagle Scout rank he cherished fondly.
