Paul F. Sujan Scout Lodge

Directions to the Scout Lodge

Paul F. Sujan Scout Lodge at the Presidio of Monterey

Paul F. Sujan, a long-time instructor at the Defense Language Institute, worked tirelessly for forty years to bring Scouting to the youth of Monterey, including service families at the Presidio. In 1956, Mr. Sujan joined the faculty of the Army Language School and taught Hungarian until 1979. "Uncle Paul", as he was affectionately known, served as Scoutmaster, Unit Commissioner, and Assistant District Commissioner. He also served for forty years as Quartermaster for the White Stag Leadership Development Program. As a testament to his service, we dedicate this lodge in honor of "Uncle Paul" Sujan, whose selfless devotion to Scouting never ceased.

A constant presence for more than 40 years, Paul Ferenjc Sujan was Quartermaster for White Stag Leadership Development from 1957 to 1996. He vigilantly oversaw all of the equipment and program resources. He saved twine, fabric, anything of any use, and if you needed it, he could find it and produce it for you in short notice. He was a ready source of materials for patrol flags, and proudly each year ran a long line of flags from past year's patrols around the Quartermaster's shack.

"Uncle Paul", as everyone knew him, could procure almost anything. When arrangements needed to be made, he knew who to talk to and arrangements were made. He single-handedly took over management of the Presidio of Monterey Arts and Crafts building and turned it into a Scout Lodge, hosting uncounted Scout meetings and events over several decades. Though never a driver, he was always driven, working behind the scenes to facilitate Scouting for service members and their families.

Uncle Paul received numerous citations and letters of appreciation for his continued, selfless devotion to helping community youth. He was awarded Scouting's highest honor, the Silver Beaver, and was selected as Distinguished Commissioner. He received the Defense Language Institute's Coin of Excellence Award.

For these many accomplishments, the community remains extraordinarily grateful, and dedicated the Paul F. Sujan Scout Lodge in September, 2002. A permanent plaque honoring Uncle Paul was placed on the Scout Lodge in October of 2003. He was in good enough health that he could attend the ceremony honoring his years of dedicated service.

In recognition of White Stag's contributions to the Peninsula Community, it and other Scouting organizations were granted a long-term, low-cost lease on the World War II-era building. The White Stag Academy maintains the building in cooporation with other Scouting organizations.