As part of a pilot program through Scouting America, formerly Boy Scouts of America, Oakdale’s Troop 43 (a boys-only Troop) is merging with Troop 2043 (a girls-only Troop). It will be the only co-ed Troop in Oakdale and one of only a few co-ed Troops in the Greater Yosemite Council.

Scouts from both Troops elected Nellaka Matthews to be the top scout: the Senior Patrol Leader. It’s the first time in its 80-plus year history that Troop 43 will be led by a female scout.

In 2023, Troop 43 set out to increase the quantity and quality of scouting experiences provided to its members. In doing so, it has earned “Journey to Excellence Gold,” the highest award available to Troops for program quality.

The units will be celebrating these accomplishments, recognizing supporters including Oakdale Mayor Cher Bairos and Scouting America Council Executive Robin Wilson, and awarding more than 75 merit badges to the scouts who earned them at a ceremony at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31 at the Oakdale Youth Building, 297 Gilbert Ave., Oakdale. The Troop Court of Honor ceremony will also include the installation of new officers.

Like many organizations, Troop 43 struggled through 2020 during the height of the pandemic, but in the time since has recommitted to offering the best possible experience for local youth. In the last year, the Troop has attended monthly campouts, conducted first aid trainings and emergency-response drills, hosted leadership trainings, and participated in a weeklong summer camp at Shaver Lake.

The Troop also sponsored two scouts to attend Scouting America’s coveted “National Youth Leadership Training” in Livermore, where they learned with more than 180 other scouts in a weeklong immersive experience.

Troops 43 and 2043 are chartered by the Oakdale Lions Club. To learn more, find them on social media at Scouting America Troop 43; or call Jeremy Matthews at 209-541-4329.