This past Friday The International Fellowship of Scouting Rotarians recognized Commander Peterson for his “Distinguished and Dedicated Service to Scouting”.
“Papa John”, as many of Boerne’s Elementary students call him, has a long and stellar association with Boy Scouting, which began as a youth who became an Eagle Scout with a Bronze Palm. He has received the Silver Beaver Award, the highest award given by a local council, the Scout’s Key for Commissioner Service, the District Award of Merit and Distinguished Commissioner Service Award. He has served in a myriad of positions throughout his Scouting years and is currently the Assistant District Commissioner in the Boerne Area where he serves 3 Cub Scout Packs, 3 Boy Scout Troops, 1 Girl Scout Troop, 1 Venturing Crew and 1 Sea Scout ship. He is also Chairman of the Eagle Scout Board of Review for the Boerne area.
John has been a Rotarian for 28 years and served a variety of leadership roles – among them was serving as Assistant District Governor for 3 years and District Governor during Rotary’s Centennial year. He has been active in many Rotary service projects benefitting Boerne. He is particularly known among Boerne students for his involvement in creating the Early Act First Knight Program wherein students are encouraged in positive character development and behaviors in our schools. Students are then “knighted” at a school ceremony attended by students, teachers, and parents.
This year Commander Peterson was able to combine his love for two great organizations in Boerne when the Rotary Club of Boerne (Noontime) became sponsors of Boerne Troop and Pack 102. Nationally, Rotary Clubs have sponsored 1500 Scout groups. This partnership makes perfect sense due to the shared values of the Boy Scouts and Rotary. Thus, this award from the International Fellowship of Scouting Rotarians is particularly meaningful in recognizing the many years of service he has given to both the Boy Scouts of America and Rotary International.
The photos show Commander Peterson standing with the Boys Scout leaders with the Rotary sign behind them. The other two photos are of Commander Peterson's Daughter putting his award on him and then standing next to him at the Boerne Noontime Rotary Meeting.