Prophet receives prestigious Bronze Wolf
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President Ezra Taft Benson was recognized for his long-time support of Scouting during the priesthood session of general conference as he was awarded the Bronze Wolf - the highest honor in international Scouting.
President Benson was selected for the award by the World Scouting Bureau in Geneva, Switzerland. He received a medallion and plaque from Edward C. Joullian III, international commissioner for Boy Scouts of America and a member of the World Scouting Bureau Committee. E.F. "Bud" Reid, also a member of the international committee, praised President Benson for his many years of service to Scouting worldwide.After Joullian placed the medallion around President Benson's neck, the prophet quipped, "May the Lord bless you, and the devil miss you."
The comment drew hearty laughter from the congregation of priesthood holders assembled in the Tabernacle.
President Gordon B. Hinckley at the beginning of his remarks said, "I add my congratulations to our beloved president, Ezra Taft Benson, on the recognition he has received. It is an honor well-deserved, and it compliments not only him, but also the entire Church.
"It is a great tribute to the consistency of his life. I congratulate the Scout organization in selecting a man whose entire life has been a shining example of the finest teachings of Scouting," said President Hinckley, first counselor in the First Presidency.
President Thomas S. Monson, second counselor in the First Presidency, said during his address to priesthood holders: "Tonight we have witnessed the highest honor Scouting is able to bestow, conferred upon our president, Ezra Taft Benson. This recognition is not a response to a single deed or a temporary commitment to service. Rather, it recognizes a lifetime of constant and selfless service to youth."
President Benson, who is a member of the Boy Scouts of America Advisory Committee, has been involved in Scouting since he became an assistant Scoutmaster as a young man. He subsequently served as Scoutmaster and in other leadership positions on a number of regional and national boards and committees.
He has also served on the BSA National Executive Committee, National Executive Board and International Committee.
