Boy Scout Troop 52

James G. Parsons has retired as Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 52 after 20 years of serving in that position. At the Scout’s regular meeting on Wednesday night they held a “Court of Honor” to acknowledge the Scouts achievements and to recognize Mr. Parsons dedication to our Troop.

Jim Parsons has been involved in Boy Scout Troop 52 for just over 31 years; the last 20 of those years as scoutmaster of our troop. Jim is loved and respected by the 800 or so boys that have been a member of the troop throughout his tenure as scoutmaster.

“Jim is the quintessential example of a dedicated scout leader” said Dr. Craig Zunka, a 50+ year member of the troop; “His dedication to the boys and to scouting is a shining example all of us strive to emulate”. Jim has been active with scouting on a national level serving on the National Jamboree staff and locally serving as range-master at our Boy Scout Camp Rock Enon as well as adviser to the scouts in the Order of the Arrow. He is a recipient of the Sliver Beaver, the highest  recognition for adult volunteers in scouting from the Shenandoah Area Council of the Boy Scouts.

48 young men have earned Eagle Scout, the highest rank achievement in Scouting, while Jim Parsons was Scoutmaster. Only about 4% of Scouts earn this rank nationally.

“Mr. Parsons was my scoutmaster when I was a boy in Troop 52 and he taught me a great deal about living the Scout Oath. I have used the Scout skills he taught me and often utilize this training in my job as a paramedic.” shared Andrew Feldhauser.

“Jim is the living example of the Scout Law; by his actions he leads the boys to becoming stronger Scouts” said John Thompson, Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 52.

Over the 30 years Jim has been active in the troop it is difficult to estimate the total of nights Jim has spent camping with the Scouts; but it easily exceeds 50 nights a year. Jim is well known for his calm demeanor and his ability to communicate with the Scouts.

Gary Neal, who served as Assistant Scoutmaster in the 80’s and 90’s said that “Jim’s leadership of the Troop taught the Scouts how to live by the Scout Law. The boys always looked to him for guidance”.

At the Court of Honor Wednesday night Jim was presented a BSA commemorative rifle.

Scout Damon Schneider and Scout Colin Parsons and Jim Parsons

“We are truly proud of his sincere dedication, unselfish service, and the untold number of hours he has given in mentoring Scouts to reach their highest goals! As leaders, we are equally proud of him for the words of wisdom that he imparts in helping us to better the Scouting movement!” said long time Committee Member Barry Harrison.

Although Jim has retired as Scoutmaster he continues his dedicated service to e the Scouts in the Troop as an Assistant Scoutmaster.