I could not be more proud to share with you some very special news. Last night at a ceremony in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Chief Scout Executive Bob Mazzuca received one of Scouting’s highest honors — the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. The award was given at the 60th Annual Eagle Scout Recognition Dinner in a city where Bob served as Scout Executive for 10 years and that holds a special place in his heart. Surrounded by old friends and family, it was a perfectly fitting place to recognize him in this way.

There is so much I can say about why Bob is so deserving of this award. Bob's sincere dedication to living the tenets of Scouting has had a profound impact on countless lives and communities. We are all benefiting from his steady leadership and tireless efforts to strengthen our organization so our next 100 years are even better than the first. And, there is nothing better than seeing him light up a room when he speaks about his passion for Scouting and the tremendous value it brings.

Bob became Chief Scout Executive in September 2007 after more than four decades of service to Scouting.  It has been my great pleasure as his volunteer partner to collaborate with him as he invests all of his energy to build the character and integrity of America’s youth through the work of the BSA.  Bob has traveled the country to share his vision for the organization, inspire local councils, and support local efforts. He is a great ambassador within our own family and far, far beyond. And, we are all proud to call him, "Chief." 

Since the Distinguished Eagle Award was created in 1969, fewer than 2,000 of our 2 million Eagle Scouts have received this honor. It is reserved for very special recognition of those who make an extraordinary difference through their own personal commitment to the Scout law.  For his lifetime of service to Scouting, we congratulate our newest Distinguished Eagle Scout, Mr. Bob Mazzuca.

Yours in Scouting,
John Gottschalk, President, Boy Scouts of America