Como. Jean M. Tarantino Award Recipients
The Como. Jean M. Tarantino Award is a prestigious honor established by Sea Scout Ship 1908, Rising Phoenix, in memory of its first Skipper, Jean M. Tarantino, who passed away in 2016. This award represents the highest recognition that the Ship can bestow upon individuals who demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to the Sea Scout program. It is a tribute not only to the honorees but also to the enduring legacy of Jean M. Tarantino, whose pioneering spirit and dedication laid the foundation for the Ship’s success.
The Como. Jean M. Tarantino Award is designed to recognize individuals who, like Skipper Jean herself, go above and beyond in their service to the Sea Scout program, often working behind the scenes. These are the unsung heroes who:
- Offer unwavering support to the Ship’s activities and mission.
- Display a steadfast commitment to the program’s values and goals.
- Provide critical assistance without seeking acknowledgement or reward.
- Contribute to the growth, sustainability, and success of the Ship in unique and meaningful ways.
By honoring such individuals, the award ensures that their efforts do not go unnoticed, even if they prefer to remain out of the limelight.
The Award holds a special place within the Ship’s culture and history. It serves as a reminder of the importance of humility, selflessness, and dedication – qualities that Skipper Jean embodied throughout her life. The award not only celebrates individual achievements but also reinforces the values that the Sea Scouts strive to uphold.
Recipients of the award are seen as role models, setting a standard for others to follow. Their contributions, whether in mentorship, logistical support, financial assistance, or other forms of service, are vital to the continued success of the Ship. This recognition also emphasizes the idea that impactful leadership and service often occur behind the scenes, in the quiet yet essential work that keeps the program moving forward.
The process of selecting a recipient for the Como. Jean M. Tarantino Award is deliberate and thoughtful. Candidates are identified based on their sustained contributions to the Ship, Sea Scouting and their alignment with the values and spirit of Skipper Jean. The Award is governed by Sua Eccellenza il Barone di San Silvestro and the members of the Noble family of whom Skipper Jean was a member. Recipients are evaluated by the following criteria:
- Dedication: A consistent commitment to the Sea Scouting program.
- Impact: Tangible contributions that have significantly benefited the Ship, Sea Scouting and its members.
- Humility: A demonstrated preference for serving without seeking recognition or accolades.
- Alignment with the 4 Ss of Sea Scouting: Embodiment of the core values of the Sea Scouts including the 4 Ss of the movement.
The Como. Jean M. Tarantino Award ensures that the memory of its namesake continues to inspire and guide Sea Scout Ship 1908. By highlighting the importance of behind-the-scenes contributions, it encourages all members of the Sea Scout program to reflect on the value of service and the impact of their actions.
It reminds us that greatness is not always about standing at the forefront but often about quietly lifting others up, as Skipper Jean did throughout her life. Her spirit lives on in every award recipient, in every moment of service and in the enduring success of Sea Scout Ship 1908.
In honoring individuals with this award, the Ship reaffirms its commitment to the values that Skipper Jean cherished and ensures that her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Sea Scouts.
- Cav. David N. Tarantino – 2016
- Marc A. Tarantino (Jersey Shore Council) – 2016
- Linda J. Tarantino – 2016
- Lois A. Leggiero – 2017
- Dr. Noel E. Guzman MD PhD (Greater New York Council) – 2018
- Deidre Buchner (Patriots Path Council) – 2018
- Alexander Rothschild – 2019
- Laura Rothschild – 2019
- Ann Newman (Cradle of Liberty Council) – 2020
- Jan Rose (Suffolk County Council) – 2020
- Joel Lieberman (Norwella Council) – 2021
- Oliris Ramos (Seneca Waterways Council) – 2022
- Monica Couillard – 2023
- Raeana Tarantino – 2023
- Ragnar “Rags” Buchner (Patriots Path Council) – 2024
- Dama Victoria Wefer – 2024
- Maxwell H. Rothschild – 2024
- Daphne Kunukcu – 2025
- Lora Panepinto (Patriots Path Council) – 2025
- Capt. James Zatwarnicki (Patriots Path Council) – 2025