154 New Eagle Scouts Honored at Annual Recognition Dinner

Manny Bagaco, David Paulson and Stephen Hinger Honored with National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award

CRANSTON, R.I. – The Narragansett Council, Boy Scouts of America celebrated the achievements of 154 young people who earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout in 2023 at their annual Eagle Scout Recognition Dinner on Tuesday. This year’s class included two female Eagle Scouts, highlighting the growing inclusive spirit and diversity of the Scouting community.

This year’s National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award (NOESA) recipients, Manny Bagaco, David Paulson and Stephen Hinger were also recognized at the event. The NOESA honors Eagle Scouts who have made notable contributions to their communities and professions, reinforcing Scouting’s tradition of shaping leaders who go on to contribute to society.

“Manny, David and Stephen’s dedication to Scouting’s principles has left an indelible mark on the Narragansett Council and the broader community,” said Tim McCandless, Scout Executive and CEO of the Narragansett Council.

The evening’s keynote speaker was David Preston, an Eagle Scout and 2022 recipient of the National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award (NOESA). Preston, the founder of the Providence-based communications and public policy firm New Harbor Group, has been a key advisor to the Scouts on public-facing issues for 25 years.

“The successful relationship between the Narragansett Council and New Harbor Group, which began in 1999, has been built on shared principles and mutual respect,” said David Preston. “Watching the rising generation of Scouts grow, serve their community and develop into leaders gives me great optimism for the future of our community and our country.”

National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award honoree David Paulson, an Eagle Scout since 1999 from Troop 40 in Taunton, MA, holds the Vigil Honor in the Order of the Arrow and advises the Tulpe Lodge. He’s on the Narragansett Council Executive Board and a member of the Camp Norse Alumni. With a B.S. in Biology from Framingham State and an M.S. in Wildlife Conservation from UMass, he’s a wildlife biologist for the State of Massachusetts. As a senior biologist, David specializes in monitoring endangered species and now leads the wildlife unit at the state’s Department of Transportation, focusing on conservation and policy for rare species. He lives in Wrentham, MA with his family.

“The Eagle Scout rank was a summit in my Scouting adventure, but the NOESA is a testament to the enduring impact of that journey. It’s a privilege to be recognized along with peers who share a lifelong commitment to the principles of Scouting,” said Paulson.

Manny Bagaco began his Scouting journey at 14 and became an Eagle Scout at 17. A graduate of the Massachusetts Military Academy, he served as an instructor for the 1st Special Forces and as Executive Officer of the 26th Yankee Division, earning numerous honors and awards during his service. In his 41 years at Shaw’s Supermarket, Manny has held key leadership roles and was honored as Associate of the Year. He remains active in Scouting, serving on the Narragansett Council Executive Board and contributing to national Scouting committees. He has earned the prestigious Silver Beaver and Vigil Honor. A philanthropist, Manny supports camperships and other causes. He enjoys family life in Westport, MA, with his wife Cecily and their family.

“Scouting is more than an activity; it’s a journey that has shaped my character and guided my footsteps towards service and leadership,” said Bagaco. “Receiving the NOESA is not just an honor for me, but a reflection of the values that Scouting instills in all of us.”

Stephen Hinger, a dedicated leader and President of Drum Rock Products in Warwick, RI for 42 years, was also honored with the National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award. A proud alumnus with a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Rhode Island, Steve’s commitment to service shines through his active role in the Warwick Rotary Club and his tenure as its past president. His lifelong dedication to Scouting, marked by earning his Eagle Scout in January of 1973 and his ongoing support as a committee member for Ship 1909 in his hometown of East Greenwich, RI as well as serving as a member of the Narragansett Council executive board, exemplifies the spirit of this prestigious recognition.

Hinger stated, “Receiving the National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award is not only a personal honor but a testament to the enduring values of Scouting that have guided me throughout my career and service endeavors.”

While Hinger could not attend the dinner, his contributions were also recognized and celebrated.

The event was fully sponsored by 12 benefactors, underscoring the community’s support for Scouting, ensuring that all Eagle Scouts could attend at no cost. The sponsorships reflect a shared commitment to fostering leadership, character development, and civic engagement among youth, said McCandless.

“Our local Scouts and their adult volunteer leaders are a beacon of excellence in the Scouting world, and our Eagle Scouts reflect that excellence,” said Tim McCandless, the Council CEO. “As we celebrate Manny, David and Stephen’s achievements with the NOESA, we’re reminded of the ripple effect that one Eagle Scout can have on their community and the world.”

“The rank of Eagle Scout is not merely an accolade but a testament to the perseverance, leadership, and service embodied by each recipient,” McCandless added. “The positive influence of Scouting on young men and women is immeasurable, preparing them with the skills and values necessary to become tomorrow’s leaders.”