PARISHIONER BOB KOZA RECIPIENT OF NATIONAL AWARD FROM AMERICAN LEGION FOR HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO SCOUTING

At the May 26 meeting of Troop 107 ‘Mr Bob’, ‘God-loving Bob’, known to most of us as Bob Koza, was presented with the American Legion and Scouting Square Knot Award by Art Forman of South Buffalo Post 721. (Art is himself a product of Kanty’s Troop 107 who earned the rank of Eagle Scout.)

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Bob accepting award from Art Forman

The Square Knot Award recognizes members of the American Legion family who have made a significant contribution to the youth of this nation through the programs of the Boy Scouts of America. A square knot is the first knot learned in scouting and symbolizes unity within the troop. As a recipient of the award Bob received a certificate and a gold and purple square knot patch for his uniform. Bob also received a congratulatory letter from Dale Barnett, the National Commander.

In order for the award to be a surprise, and to ensure Bob’s attendance, he was told that Scout Master Randy Siejak was receiving an award and wrote a congratulatory speech…and after receiving his award (Bob STILL could not believe it!), he read the speech meant for Randy.

Troop 107 has been at St John Kanty for 91 years, starting 15 years after the founding of the Boy Scouts in 1915. Bob has been a member of the Troop for 35 years, serving in many capacities but most recently serving as Religious Emblems Coordinator, working with Scouts to complete the requirements for the Pope Pius XII religious emblem and Ad Altare Dei (to the altar of God) Award. He is a graduate of St John Kanty School and serves as a Eucharistic Minister, Reader and member of the choir.

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Scout Troop 107 and Leaders with Bob