Wildwood Youth Named Scout of the Year

WILDWOOD — When Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Scout Movement, uttered the words “We must change boys from a ‘what can I get’ to a ‘what can I give’ attitude,” little did he know that a 13-year-old youth from Wildwood would be named Scout of the Year after not only living the Scout Oath, but going the extra mile to give to both his troop and his community.
Victor Aguilar, a student at Wildwood Middle School, will be honored Feb. 26 during the Baysea District’s annual fellowship dinner on Feb. 26. The seventh grader was named the district’s Scout of the Year for 2013.
Joining Cub Scouts as a third grader in 2009, Aguilar has participated in scouting for the past five years, said Margaret Clark, Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 75. Clark said Aguilar is an enthusiastic volunteer when it comes time to help others. She cited his recent participation in a spaghetti dinner fundraiser for the local charity Love of Linda.
“Adults would comment on how great he was and his work ethic,” said Clark. “People outside of scouting even notice how special he is.”
While he may live in a beachside community, Aguilar’s love of the wild is what called him to scouting. Clark said as a Cub, he was fascinated by the pack’s camping equipment. Once crossed over to scouting, Aguilar was named quartermaster for his Boy Scout troop.
Aguilar said his desire to spend time with likeminded peers was the impetus for his joining Scouts. “It was something that interested me, the outdoors and summer camp. And I enjoy spending time with others that like the same things.”
During his tenure as a Boy Scout, Aguilar has learned about the outdoor life. He said through scouting he has mastered pitching a tent as well as building a fire. “I know something no one else knows,” he said with a smile.
A Scout promises to duty to God, duty to others and duty to self, Aguilar said he enjoys living by the Scout’s oath. “I just try to do my best.”
The youngest of four children, Aguilar said he was surprised when he was told he was named Scout of the Year. “I didn’t know I was nominated.”
“Victor is just another fine example of our community’s children who work hard to get ahead,” said Wildwood Mayor Ernie Troiano. “We applaud his efforts and his family’s support. He represents what the majority of children are like in the City of Wildwood.”
With a newly-minted Scout of the Year award under his sash and it might be a few years away, Aguilar has set his sight for the rank of Eagle.
“Victor was always a leader in Cub Scouts,” said his former Cub Scout leader, Josepha Penrose. She added in addition to focusing on obtaining the coveted rank of Eagle, she hopes Aguilar will continue to stay focused on enjoying of all the experiences offered by scouting as he rises through the ranks.
When asked about scouting Aguilar was adamant of the joy he has received from being part of the organization that has helped young men grow into adulthood for the past 104 years. “It’s a great experience. It’s a lot of fun once you’re in it.”