Troop 240, Bronx, N.Y.  The Joseph G. Acquafredda Memorial  "Until We Meet Again ..."

As an "invisible member" of the T240 Family, I am rarely remembered as even belonging to the Troop, even though my son Jimmy, became Eagle Scout #111 under the tutorship of Mr. Acquafredda (and others). Yet despite my meager contributions, I frequently "spoke" to Joe, via e-mail, throughout the week. As an dynamic leader, Joe understood how to tap into my particular abilities -- the maintenance of the Troop's Web Site -- while circumventing those areas that others may be more suited to fulfill. He was visionary, and always extremely supportive of my efforts.

More importantly than that, Joe was my friend. We would talk, just to talk. Our backgrounds are similar in many respects: he was a Sergeant in the U.S. Army. My dad was a Master Sergeant, and for awhile I was an "Army Brat" ... he loved photography as much as I did ... Scouting became a core belief to his character, as it did in my life, during trying times in our lives ... and we both came "within inches" of becoming Eagle Scouts. (As "Life Scouts" we both felt we always had to prove ourselves a little bit more. Joe proved himself a lot more.)

When my Jimmy was critically ill in the hospital, it was Joe and Edna who came to offer him, and my family comfort. That's just the way they are. It's just one example of how Joe was important to me. He gave of himself unconditionally. His passing was premature. His influence is undeniable. But he will live forever through our memories, and our good deeds, and our actions to help others.

Joseph Acquafredda: Exceptional Leader ... Patriot ... Loving Family Man ... A Loyal Friend To Boys, And Adults Alike ... A Scoutmaster's Scoutmaster.

Mary Ellen, Jimmy, Emily, Liz, and myself wish Edna, and his entire family our deepest condolences ... and undying gratitude.

Al Willen

Last Updated: 6/1/10
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