Congratulations to the Honorable Judge Gerard J. Boyle – 2024 Silver Buffalo Award Recipient

It is with great pride and admiration that we congratulate the Honorable Judge Gerard J. Boyle of New Hampshire, one of the state’s most distinguished leaders across multiple sectors. Judge Boyle’s dedication to his community, Scouting, Veterans, the judicial system, and youth is unparalleled.
 
ABOUT JUDGE BOYLE:

Key Accomplishments:

  • Daniel Webster Council President from 2010 to 2012
  • Daniel Webster Council Executive Board Member from 2004 to Present
  • Trustee of the George W. P. Magee Memorial Trust (2015-Present): Under his leadership, Judge Boyle has helped distribute over $2 million to six Massachusetts Council Camps, ensuring the growth and success of these vital organizations.
  • Twenty Years as a New Hampshire Circuit Court Judge: Judge Boyle presided over the state’s third busiest court, establishing himself as a founder of both the Teen Court and the Mental Health Courts, paving the way for transformative justice in New Hampshire.
  • Retired Colonel, Judge Advocate, United States Marine Corps: As a Marine Corps officer, Colonel Boyle served as the liaison officer for all of the Navy and Marine Corps Reserve units for five years across six New England states, New York, and New Jersey. He also commanded Team Yankee for several years, overseeing the largest joint-service reserve mass casualty field exercise on the East Coast, involving 3,000 service members and agencies from all branches of service.
  • Youth Advocacy and Education: Judge Boyle has spoken to thousands of middle and high school students annually, addressing critical topics such as alcohol abuse, drug use, theft, DWI, child abuse prevention, and other critical social issues. His outreach is a testament to his commitment to preventing harm and guiding the next generation.
  • Organizer of New Hampshire’s First Annual Safeguarding Youth Symposium (2023 and 2024): Judge Boyle was pivotal in organizing the state’s inaugural Safeguarding Youth Symposium in November 2023 and hosted the second annual event in 2024. The symposium brought together over 100 volunteers and professionals from organizations such as scouting, churches, schools, YMCA, Boys and Girls Clubs, and other youth-serving organizations, as well as the state’s Division of Youth and Family Services and the State’s Child Advocate. This impactful event will continue in 2025 as part of an ongoing initiative to improve child welfare and keep youth safe.
  • National and Regional Scouting Leadership:
    • Multiple roles in National Jamboree inclusive of Base Camp Chief, Philmont Staff, Normandy France Camporee, and countless National level trainings
    • NYLT Course Director (2010-2015): Over 300 scouts from various states trained under his leadership.
    • Philmont Training Center Staff – 2013
    • Normandy, France Camporee, Transatlantic Council (2017 and 2019): Serving as a key organizer and leader in international scouting events.
    • Scoutmaster in Four States and Multiple Foreign Countries
    • National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, Presenter at National Training
  • Honors and Awards:
    • Numerous Civic and Service Organization Awards from the Rotary Club, Knights of Columbus, and others
    • Silver Antelope Recipient, Scouting America (2017)
    • Silver Beaver Recipient, Daniel Webster Council (2010)
    • Vigil Honor Member, Order of the Arrow (2012)
    • New Hampshire Bar Association – Vickie Bunnell Award for Community Service
    • Knights of Columbus – Knight of the Year Award
    • United States Marine Corps – Distinguished Service Medal
    • Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, and Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
    • Pop Warner Football – Board Member
    • New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery – Board of Directors
    • New Hampshire Police, Fire, EMS Foundation – Board of Directors
    • Military Officers Association of America – New Hampshire Chapter – Board of Directors
    • Knights of Columbus, Grand Knight and Faithful Navigator
    • Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, Knight Grand Cross
    • National Catholic Committee on Scouting – Member

ABOUT THE SILVER BUFFALO AWARD:
The Silver Buffalo Award is the highest honor that Scouting America can bestow upon an individual. It recognizes exceptional service to youth on a national level and is awarded to those who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, dedication, and contributions to the Scouting movement.

Established in 1925, the Silver Buffalo Award is presented annually by the National Court of Honor to individuals who have had a significant impact on the development and welfare of Scouting and have furthered the ideals of Scouting through their work, influence, and personal example.

Recipients of the Silver Buffalo Award have often made major contributions not only to Scouting but also to their communities, states, and the nation. The award is typically given to individuals who have devoted much of their time and efforts to youth development, leadership, and character building, aligning with the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

The Silver Buffalo is typically awarded to individuals who have achieved significant success and distinction in a wide range of fields, including business, government, education, the military, and various charitable endeavors. Recipients include prominent figures such as political leaders, public servants, philanthropists, business executives, and others who have shown a commitment to the betterment of youth and society.

The award itself is a silver buffalo-shaped medal that is worn on a ribbon around the neck. The medal symbolizes the strength and significance of those who have contributed to the growth and mission of Scouting America, embodying the values of service, leadership, and community.

Receiving the Silver Buffalo Award is a prestigious achievement. It acknowledges the lasting influence and legacy of individuals who have helped shape the future of Scouting in America.

We celebrate Judge Boyle’s unwavering commitment to public service, his leadership across so many vital areas, and his tireless efforts to improve the lives of countless individuals. His contributions to New Hampshire, in scouting, and beyond are immeasurable, and we look forward to his continued impact in the years ahead.

Congratulations, Judge Boyle! Your dedication is an inspiration to all.

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