by Mike Matzinger
Thomas “Tommy” Maher, a proud Irish Catholic and longtime Scout leader, receives the Shofar Award from the National Jewish Committee on Scouting during the Northeast Region conference at Ten Mile River Scout Reservation in Narrowsburg, New York.
For more than four decades in Scouting, Tommy has been known for his no-nonsense, old-school leadership and deep commitment to service. This recognition highlights a project that reflects those values and his belief in respect for all faith traditions.
Tommy led a volunteer crew that rehabilitated the historic Captain Jacob Joseph Memorial Jewish Chapel at Camp Keowa. What was once a dilapidated structure is now fully restored and once again serves as a place of reflection and community for Scouts of all backgrounds.
The chapel honors Capt. Jacob Joseph, a Columbia University student and U.S. Marine who was killed in action at Guadalcanal on October 22, 1942. During the restoration, Tommy and his team also researched Joseph’s story and learned he was the great-grandson of Rabbi Jacob Joseph, the first and only Chief Rabbi of New York City.
Each August, Scouts from many faiths gather at the chapel for a memorial service honoring Capt. Joseph’s sacrifice. The service has become a meaningful tradition at Camp Keowa and a reminder that Jewish youth have a place in Scouting. And as Tommy likes to say, there is always rugelach. He will also tell you he has developed quite a liking for Jewish pastries.
At 85, Tommy’s life of service continues to inspire. In addition to more than 40 years in Scouting, he served in both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marine Corps and later in the reserves. His honors include the Silver Beaver Award, the Shepherd Award from the Queens Council of Churches, the Presidential Call to Service Award, and the Legion of Honor from the Chapel of the Four Chaplains.
A well-deserved recognition for an Irish Catholic Scouter whose work helped preserve an important piece of Jewish Scouting history and strengthen the spirit of inclusion in the movement.
Scouting America is proudly nonsectarian and welcomes youth and volunteers from every faith tradition. Since its founding, the movement has encouraged respect for religious belief while remaining open to people of all backgrounds. Scouts are supported in practicing their own faith and learning to appreciate the traditions of others, helping build a culture of mutual respect, inclusion, and shared service.
https://www.jns.org/wire/old-school-irish-catholic-to-receive-prestigious-jewish-scout-award/