by Mike Matzinger
Just after midnight during a Scout campout at Scusset Beach State Reservation in Massachusetts, a vehicle unexpectedly drove into a campsite where about 35 Scouts were sleeping.
Two Scout leaders, Daniel Sciortino and Scoutmaster Stacy Jones, quickly recognized the danger and took action. Running through the field, shouting warnings, and redirecting the driver, they were able to wake and evacuate those most at risk and guide the vehicle out without any injuries.
They then followed the driver, staying on the phone with the police, until officers safely stopped the car. It was later determined that the driver was suffering from dementia, not intoxication. Thanks to the calm, courageous, and selfless actions of these leaders, every Scout made it home safely.
In recognition of their exceptional concern for the safety of others, Sciortino and Jones were later awarded the Medal of Merit.