NORTH SMITHFIELD – Scouting America Narragansett Council Northwest District has named Troop 1139 Slatersville the 2025 Troop of the Year, also announcing individual awards for two adult leaders hailing from North Smithfield. Carol Dubois will be this year’s recipient of the Captain George Bucklin Award and former 1139 Scoutmaster Josh Silvia will receive the District Award of Merit.
The troop, which currently includes more than 30 Scouts along with 20 “Scouters” or adult leaders, was preceded by Troop 1, Slatersville, which began in the early 1900s. The original troop disbanded in 1960, but was revitalized in 1973 and rebranded as Troop 1139.
In the years since, 82 Eagle Scouts have risen through the 1139 ranks, with around six more currently in process, working on projects that include installation of village signage, improvements to town trails and creation of new lighting in a town park.
“The Troop of the Year Award honors a Scouts BSA troop that exemplifies excellence in recruitment, programming, and leadership,” noted an announcement on the award. “Troop 1139 stands out for its energy, creativity, and strong year-round programming.”
The announcement points to the work of the troop’s leadership team, including Scoutmaster Russ Wright and Committee Chair Bill Belamy, in bringing a balance of hands-on involvement and behind-the-scenes coordination.
“Whether it’s exploring new camping spots, taking on fresh challenges, or creating unique opportunities for Scouts to grow, the troop keeps things engaging and adventurous,” noted the District, which encompasses around 20 towns in Providence County and the Blackstone Valley. “That teamwork, along with strong Scout participation and support from families, has helped make Troop 1139 a vibrant and successful unit.”
Dubois, a town-based doctor with a private practice in Branch Village, is being recognized for her long term dedication to the program. The medal was provided for in the will of a Scout benefactor, Captain George Bucklin, and has been presented to one individual each district in the Narragansett Council every year since the 1940s.
“Dr. Carol Dubois has been a dedicated Scouting volunteer for decades, serving with distinction at both the district and council levels,” noted district officials. “As chair of the advancement committee, her guidance and commitment have helped countless Scouts reach their goals.”
Silvia, meanwhile, was named to the highest honor a district can bestow on a registered Scouter with the District Award of Merit. A senior fire protection sales rep with J.C. Cannistraro, Silvia began his time with the scouting program as a Tiger Den Leader in 2009. He preceded Wright as scoutmaster of Troop 1139 and has served with the Northwest District for some 15 years.
“Even after both of his sons earned Eagle Scout and aged out, he has remained deeply involved, driven by his belief in Scouting’s lasting impact on youth,” noted the district. “Today, he focuses on mentoring fellow Scouters through his work as a Commissioner and Wood Badge staffer. We’re proud to recognize Josh with the District Award of Merit for his continued dedication to strengthening the program at every level.”
All three achievements will be celebrated at the Northwest District Awards Dinner on Wednesday, May 14 at Twelve Acres in Smithfield.
