AM-POL Eagle: Troop 107, once the biggest in the state, continues serving St. John Kanty Parish

(Thu, Sep 15, 2016 – AM-POL Eagle) In 1925, just 15 years after the formation of the first Boy Scout Troop in the U.S., Troop 107 was established at St. John Kanty Parish in Buffalo, NY.

The first Scoutmaster was Adam Chmiel; Rev. Andrew Garstka was pastor and Rev. John Glazik was chaplain.

In 1929, a meeting room in the original school, built in 1894, was designated for the scouts. The Mothers Club was organized, and the first long-term camping took place at Camp K (Camp Kosciuszko). Soon, 107 became the biggest troop in NY State.

Many leaders of the troop left to serve their country during the war. Many who returned still had a strong interest in scouting (“A Scout is Loyal”), and a group was formed for the purpose of sponsoring events to finance the needs of the troop, affording the opportunity for more boys to enjoy scouting to its fullest (“A Scout is Kind”).

It was not unusual for scout leaders to remain for many years, and one man, veteran John Szymkowiak, stayed for 31. A testimony to his enthusiasm, energy and leadership is the troop’s construction in 2011 of the Sargeant John A. Szymkowiak Lean-to at Camp Schoellkopf.

In the late 1960s, troop camping increased to monthly outings. Around this time it was necessary for the troop to relocate its ‘furniture’, memorabilia and gear to the third floor of The Lyceum.

“Fr. Norm” Orsolits became Troop Chaplain in 1968; he attended all meetings, went to camp, and saw to it that all eligible boys earned the Ad Altari Dei religious award (“A Scout is Reverent”). That same year, 107 received the ‘Best Troop’ trophy from Bishop McNulty at St. Joseph’s New Cathedral.

The ‘70s saw many new Eagle Scouts, countless awards (The troop’s motto: Excellence is never an accident.) and participation in Camporees, Camporalls and Klondike Derbies.

In Y2K (2000) the troop celebrated its 75th anniversary. Adventures such as white water rafting, rock climbing, a canoe trip, polar bear (winter) camping, motor boating, water skiing, and a trip to Philmont Scout Ranch, an unparalleled opportunity for high adventure and training located in New Mexico.

The scouts have served as summer camp staff at Schoellkopf and Scouthaven, and one (Steve Slazak) is the current Camp Ranger at Schoellkopf (“A Scout is Trustworthy”).

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