[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 42 (Monday, April 18, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: April 18, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                       TRIBUTE TO OTIS CHIDESTER

                                 ______


                             HON. ED PASTOR

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 18, 1994

  Mr. PASTOR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
honor Mr. Otis H. Chidester, who on April 5, 1993, became the oldest 
man in history fo receive the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award from the 
National Council of the Boy Scouts of America. This award recognizes 
men who have been an Eagle Scout for at least 25 years, have 
distinguished themselves in their chosen profession, and have 
accumulated an exceptional record in community service.
  On June 12, 1912, in Susquehanna, PA, Otis Chidester joined the Boy's 
Brigade which later merged with the Boy Scouts of America. Over the 
years, Mr. Chidester received numerous honors in connection with his 
service. Today, over 80 years later, Otis is still actively involved 
with the Boy Scouts. He is only the sixth man to accomplish 80 years of 
service. Currently, Mr. Chidester is in his 31st year as Scout 
historian and is acknowledged as the dean of all Boy Scout Council 
historians in the United States.
  Mr. Chidester received an M.A. degree in education at the University 
of Arizona and taught for 43 years before his retirement in 1973. He 
and his wife, Martha, spent many of their summers at Camp Lawton where 
he served as camp director. In 1940, Mr. Chidester founded the graphic 
arts department at Tucson High School and served as departmental 
chairman for 28 years. He is also the founder, curator, and benefactor 
of the Otis H. Chidester Scout Museum of Southern Arizona.
  At 91 years of age, Otis is the Nation's and the world's senior 
living active Boy Scout. His distinguished contributions to society 
serve as an example to the youth of Arizona and should be commended. 
Mr. Chidester, thank you for your years of dedication and hard work and 
service to our community, State, and Nation.

                          ____________________