ARCHIVE – New Birth of Freedom Council, BSA Website for the New Birth of Freedom Council, BSA
It may seem to most people that Paul Kolva is a permanent fixture as an adult volunteer with Troop 138, chartered to the Hamilton Ruritan Club in Chambersburg. In fact, Paul first joined the Troop 138 committee in 1983 and would later go on to serve as the Troop’s Committee Chair and Assistant Scoutmaster.
When the troop was in jeopardy of folding in 1989, Paul stepped forward to serve as the troop’s Scoutmaster and served with distinction in that role for six years, receiving the Scoutmaster Award of Merit. Paul then rejoined Troop 138’s committee in 1995 and he has served in that capacity ever since.
A retired educator, Paul has always had a keen interest in Scouting’s advancement programs, serving as a merit badge counselor since 1985 and as member of the District’s Advancement Committee, beginning in 1999. He has also served on faculties for the Carlisle and Newville Merit Badge Colleges for many years.
A recipient of the District Award of Merit, Paul’s unique skills are put to good use in reviewing proposed Eagle Scout service projects, his advice helping Eagle Scout candidates succeed in completing their projects.
Paul’s service to youth outside of Scouting is equally impressive, serving 33 years as an elementary school basketball coach. He also served for 33 years as an elementary school track and field coach and for 25 years, Paul served as the Tuscarora School District Coordinator for the Franklin County Science Fair.
A resident of Chambersburg, Paul has given 44 years of service to Trinity Lutheran Church – 10 years as the Assistant Sunday School Superintendent and 34 years as Sunday School Superintendent.
The New Birth of Freedom Council is pleased to present the Silver Beaver Award to Paul E. Kolva, Jr.