Where are NDSS Original Scouts Now?
NOEL EMMANUEL PENCO
By
Clarence Davis
Scouter Extraordinaire
As Clarence Davis, one of Notre Dame's founding members recall, "the young scout Noel Penco seemed always to have a natural inclination to the uniformed and military lifestyle. He had respect for authority and in turn was respected by others. He could take and follow orders and was equal to the task when it was his turn to take charge. Noel, he added could have a good laugh and make fun but when it was his time to get things done it was easy for him to focus on the task ahead. Thes qualities allowed him to internalize his scout training and successfully pursue an array of proficiency and progress badges and scout awards. The scouts of his day pursued many badges and Noel was never outdone. He was 'Mr. Queen Scout' and enjoyed his scouting with a passion."
As a scout leader, he was able to bridge the gap between scouts and the leadership. He never demanded respect but was always respected. He always made time to share in games with the scouts, however it never prevented him from taking stern action when necessary
Noel possessed the leadership skills that made you enjoy his presence, and there was always something that you can learn from him. He was the classical mentor, influencing the junior leaders in a positive way. One observed, listened, questioned and there was always something to learn through his practice of leadership by example. Although he may not have been aware of the scope of his "pep" talks, he was in fact constantly building the concept of team spirit through his favorite quotation to the troop "a chain is as strong as its weakest link."
As a visionary, he saw the opportunity for growth and was instrumental in the aquisition of the first boat "Dom Jerome" and the Bugle Band. Noel epitomized the old proverb "where there is a will, there is a way" and added, "if there is no way, I will make one."
Noel Penco receiving the Shaffick Rahaman Flag from Henry King in 1969
Penco loved his work as a Coastguards man and his family with a similar passion and though gone, his invaluable contribution to Notre Dame will never be fogotten.
Noel Penco showing the young drummers how to roll - 1974
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