Adult Scout Leader of the Year
2009 Honoree of the Queens Federation of Churches

Henry Zalak

Henry joined scouting in 1957 as a Cub Scout in Pack 223, Central Islip. He started as a bobcat and graduated as a lion with the arrow of light. He continued on into Boy Scout Troop 223 and earned the Eagle Scout award (1968). He also held various troop positions from patrol leader to Assistant Scoutmaster.

In 1968, Henry enrolled at St. John’s University and joined ROTC. He graduated in 1972 with a degree in Management and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Henry was sent to officer basic for combat engineering. He continued to serve in the U.S. Army Reserves and National Guard. He retired as Lieutenant Colonel in the year 2000 after completing 28 years of service. He now belongs to various military associations including the 71st Infantry Battalion Veteran’s Association and 42nd Infantry Division “Rainbow” Association.

He was married in 1973 to his wife Patricia. They have two sons Anthony and Joseph. In 1979 Henry became a member of the Our Lady of Hope Athletic Association. He volunteered as a coach for both boys and girls sports for the Catholic Youth Organization for over 20 years. In 2006, Henry became an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion and continues to serve today. Henry is also a 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

Henry returned to scouting in 1990 with his sons Anthony and Joseph as members of Pack 106 Middle Village. He served in various positions such as an Assistant Webelos Leader, Webelos Leader, Assistant Cubmaster and Cubmaster. As Cubmaster, he was awarded the Cub Scout Leadership Award for Trailblazer District. Together with his sons Henry moved up to Troop 106. Currently, for over 10 years, he is serving as the Troop Treasurer.

In 1999 Henry became a member of the District Committee as a member at large. He then served as a Unit Commissioner, Assistant District Commissioner and currently serves as the District Commissioner for Pathfinder. He was awarded the District Award of Merit and Silver Beaver. Currently he is also a charter member of the Queens Historical Society.

In 2004, Henry became a member of the Catholic Committee on Scouting in the Brooklyn/Queens Diocese. He helps to promote Catholic Scouting and the annual scout retreat. He was awarded the Bronze Pelican in 2007 and the Saint George Award in 2008. He has served as the Vice Chairman for Queens. In October of 2008 he was appointed as the Chairman of the Catholic Committee on Scouting.