Windham man honored with National American Legion Award by Lorraine Glowczak

Libby on right receiving award

Chuck Libby of Windham was in for a big surprise when he discovered that he was the recipient of the American Legion Scouting Square Knot Award on Saturday, September 30 at the American Legion Thomas W. Cole Post No. 19 in Sanford. The award recognizes the dedication and work of an American Legion member who is actively involved in the Boy Scouts of America, fostering leadership among youth.

Libby was presented the national award by American Legion National Commander Denise H. Rohan, the first woman in 99 years to be Commander of the Legion. She traveled from out of state to participate in the ceremony. “The Commander for the American Legion was coming to Maine and she wanted to present it [the award] because it's not an award they give out often,” stated Michelle Libby, wife of the recipient and American Legion Auxiliary member. 

According to many area Legion members, this was the first award ever to be received by someone in Maine.

To receive this award, the individual must be an American Legion member and exemplify leadership as well as furthering the Scouting program. A few of the long list of requirements also was comprised

of completing a number of scouting courses in leadership including youth protection training, attend and complete a Woodbadge training program, serve a total of three consecutive years in a Scouting leadership as well as assist the local post, district or department to raise funds to support Scouting.

Libby has been with the American Legion for three years and he is a Marine who was deployed during the first Gulf War in 1990. He is also an Eagle Scout from Troop 805 in Windham and has been the Scoutmaster for the last six years, spending over 24 years in Scouting. Libby presently works for the City of Portland.

Libby stated the fact that American Legion and the Scouts encourage good citizenship and love of country is a motivating factor in his active participation in both organizations.

He does his best to share his leadership knowledge and skills with the young members of the local Boy Scouts. “The boys learn about leadership through the various activities they do and the positions they hold within the troop,” said Libby. “From the first days as a Boy Scout they begin to work teaching others​. I try to set a good example and pass on lessons I have learned over the years.”

Libby believes participation in the Scouts plays an important role in shaping young lives. “I believe Scouting is the premier youth organization in the country today. I would encourage any boys between five and 18 and any girls from 14 to 21 and their parents to look into it.” ​

Libby’s substantial support of Windham’s Scouts is worth the recognition he received. The American Legion’s Past National Commander stated it best when he told Libby on Saturday, ​"Know that you have made a significant contribution to the youth of this nation through the programs of the Boy Scouts of America. Thank you for your service."