Scout Salute by Fran Chow Wong ’69
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riday night. Light streams from an open door leading to the basement of Bachelot Hall. Inside there is a clutter of long tables, chairs, and benches. It is a small, modest room. It is the home of Troop 42. Seventy-five years ago, Brother Moroni, Maryknoller and former wrestler, organized the Scout troop as a way of involving eleven- and twelve-yearold boys in a wholesome activity. He’d take them camping and teach them a little wrestling on the side. The boys would learn Scouting skills and earn merit badges. That was 1927. Since then, at least 99 boys have attained the coveted Eagle rank. Records prior to 1954 are not available. No matter. What is on record is Troop 42’s high success rate of graduating Eagles, one that far surpasses the national average of 2%. Here’s why.
Receiving the Ad Altare Dei Religious Award (c1950s).
“Troop 42 has given me a solid foundation of discipline, self-motivation, service, and morals that will always steer me true.” BERT UYENCO ’99 Eagle Scout April 13, l998
Dedicated Scoutmasters who remain with the troop for a lengthy period of time. Brother Venard Ruane, Scoutmaster for 18 years (1952-1970), is one such example. His notable recollections include hiking from Sacred Heart Church to Hanauma Bay where the boys eventually camped on the beach and used sand and ocean water to clean their mess kits. Brother Venard is also remembered for establishing the drum and bugle corps, the nucleus of which were Scouts. Another long time Scoutmaster is Mr. Francis Mau, who has been with the Troop for 15 years, the last 10 as Scoutmaster (1987-2002). Under his leadership, Troop 42 trekked on Alaskan glaciers and set sail as crew for Catalina Island via the three mast sailing vessel, The American Pride. After orchestrating many lively adventures, Mr. Mau will be retiring at the end of this Scouting year. Dependable Assistant Leaders. Past and present Scoutmasters have always been able to surround themselves with strong assistant leaders, each enriching the troop in his own special way. In the 1980s, Edward Hoo ’83 was known for always packing black bean sauce, because you just never knew when the boys would bring a fresh catch to the campfire, as they once did in Waihole Valley. The boys dammed the stream and snared shrimp. Tony Laitila ’87, age 16 at this memorable camp, later became an assistant leader himself. Currently serving as Advancement Officer, Laitila is now in his 23rd year of scouting with T42. Involved Parents. It is well known that the dedication of the parent committee furnishes the support so essential to sustaining Troop 42’s success. Parents provide transportation for outings, profes4
Knoller
Drum and Bugle Corps with Br. Venard.
Troop 42 backpacking in Alaska (1998).
