Celebrating 55 Years of Boy Scout Troop 343: A Legacy of Leadership and Community

The upcoming 55th- anniversary reunion of Boy Scout Troop 343 (of Hauppauge) is poised to be an inspiring testament to the enduring impact of scouting on young minds and communities. Scheduled for September 22, 2023, the Troop Court of Honor promises to be an occasion of reminiscence, camaraderie, and celebration. We spoke with Paul Merget, the dedicated commissioner and assistant scoutmaster of Troop 343, to delve into the troop's rich history, its values, and the profound impact scouting has on youth in a digitally driven era.

"I've been involved with the troop for about 30 years now," shared Paul Merget, reflecting on his remarkable journey with Troop 343. With pride, he mentioned that both his sons earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, a testament to the troop's nurturing environment. In its 55 years of existence, Troop 343 has fostered over 105 Eagle Scouts, a remarkable achievement that underscores its commitment to molding young leaders.

The troop's history is replete with adventure and growth. Monthly campouts, including expeditions to the Philmont Scout Ranch in Arizona and annual sailboating trips to Florida, create a tapestry of unforgettable experiences. The trailblazing spirit is evident in their annual hike on Operation Trail, a testament to the troop's emphasis on survival skills and exploration. Merget recounted their excursions to various campsites nationwide, with Camp Missy and Pennsylvania being the consistent venues for their summer camp.

As he detailed the scout advancement process, Merget emphasized the importance of leadership roles. He explained, "Scouts work their way through ranks – from Scout to Eagle – while undertaking leadership roles such as assistant patrol leaders, patrol leaders, and senior patrol leaders. These roles equip them with valuable skills and prepare them for their future. He also highlighted the significance of the Eagle Scout badge, earned after completing various merit badges, including those focused on communication, personal management, and family life.

In a digital age, scouting's role in holistic development is more crucial than ever. Merget articulated, "Scouts learn to navigate beyond screens, adapting to various environments. The skills they acquire, from public speaking to survival techniques, hold them in good stead." He further noted that scouting contributes to strong families and communities, instilling values that resonate throughout life. "Eagle Scouts have gone on to become presidents and astronauts, contributing to society in remarkable ways. Many also choose the military, where being an Eagle Scout garners automatic leadership roles," he added.

Merget shared his anticipation for the reunion, eagerly looking forward to reconnecting with former scouts, volunteers, and their families. "Meeting these young men as accomplished adults is truly rewarding," he mused. The influence of scouting extends far beyond the troop's years, with alumni like Phil now leading the robotics class at their high school.

The Troop Court of Honor is not just a celebration; it's a manifestation of scouting's enduring influence. Reflecting on the journey, Merget noted, "It's about giving back to the community and building future leaders." As the troop's 55thanniversary approaches, the scouting spirit continues to thrive.

If you are an alumnus of Boy Scout Troop 343, mark your calendar for September 22. The celebration begins at 6:30 PM at St. Thomas More Church in Hauppauge, the troop's sponsor.

The evening will be filled with reminiscences, shared stories, pizza, cake, and a recognition of those who have earned badges and advancements. For those who wish to join, RSVP by September 10 to Assistant Scoutmaster Paul M. at 631-724-1789 or Assistant Scoutmaster Phyllis S. via email at troop343bsa55yearreunion@ gmail.com. The celebration of Boy Scout Troop 343's journey is not just a reflection of the past; it is a testament to the future it continues to shape.