An Atlantic man who, for years, served as a Scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts, was recognized Tuesday evening during the unveiling in the Atlantic City Park, of a wooden park bench bearing his name and likeness. Former Scouts from Troop 60 and others were on-hand for the ceremony honoring Bob Bebensee.

Bob and Dee Bebensee (Front) and the former Scouts who honored him.

Don Linke, Carl Voss, Tom Olmstead and Steven Hoegh who were Boy Scouts that also became Eagle Scouts, spoke about the bench and how the idea came about to honor Bebensee. Linke flew –in for the event from Atlanta, GA. Olmstead came from New Mexico, Steve Hoegh came from Clarinda, and Voss from Des Moines. Other former Scouts from Alaska and Georgia who were unable to attend, provided letters reminiscing about their experiences.

Voss said a trip around Atlantic with Atlantic Parks and Rec Director Roger Herring helped to narrow down the location for the bench. The bench, located on the northeast side of the park, near Santa’s cabin, includes a caricature of Bebensee created by cartoonist Brian Duffy and etched into the backrest, along with the carving of a square knot with the inscription says ‘Bob Bebensee, Troop 60 Scoutmaster, 1960-1964’. Bob tied the knot that kept us together through scouting’.

Voss said the bench was made in Seattle, WA. He said also, Roger Herring was in on the surprise from the beginning, and somehow the secret was kept until the bench unveiling Tuesday evening.

Don Linke said Bob provided him and the others an opportunity to learn and live by the Boy Scout motto. Bob Bebensee said he was floored when he saw the bench with his name on it. He said his memories of being a Scoutmaster in the late ‘50’s and early ‘60’s came flooding back. He said he was pleased to see the boys become successful men in life.

You can hear the full interview with Bob and the others on the “Heartbeat Today” link under the “Programs” tab at kjan.com.