A couple of weeks ago the message came through. Despite continued efforts, Troop 319 was shutting down and merging with Troop 568. There were various reasons. Four of the feeder packs had disbanded, even Pack 210 where Toby started. Fewer kids, aging demographics, COVID, etc.
Toby wanted to know if we should go to their last meeting. It was a “court of honor,” where Scouts would be recognized, medals handed out and Eagles announced. Since Toby had aged out, neither of us had been to a troop meeting in a couple of years. “Of course,” I said, glad to have a free day between airport visits.
We walked into the cafeteria of the middle school where the troop meetings were held. A few Eagle Scouts from when the troop was formed came. The honor guard was called, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, hugs were given and received, touching speeches were given, and fathers tried to dry their eyes without anyone noticing. I’d forgotten how much I missed the “civic” nature of these meetings. The laughter, the endless applause, and the inside jokes carried on since 1986, when the troop was formed.
When Toby went on the Philmont trip, a 12-day hike that really is the pinnacle of the Scouting experience, he came back different. More confident, and a bit more sure of himself. He still wears his Philmont belt buckle with pride. At the event he took a photo with a bunch of his friends and the volunteer parents who chaperoned the trip. Good memories.
The Scoutmaster, Todd Jardine, was Toby’s Den leader too, back when he started in kindergarten. A nice bookend.
I was never a Boy Scout myself growing up, but I learned to appreciate the mottos and traditions through the eyes of my son.
One classic slogan is “Do a Good Turn Daily.”
In honor of Troop 319, I’m asking anyone reading this post to try to help someone out today. Big or small, it doesn’t matter.
Troops may fold. Good turns don’t.
#realscoutswearbackpacks
Pillmont. Fond memories with my don!
I recently learned my father was a Scout in the 50’s & 60’s eventually achieving Order of the Arrow. Honestly, I had no idea. We found his scouting memorabilia including his belt and OA sash when we went through his things. One of his scouting buddies shared fond memories of their scouting adventures at his Celebration of Life. Thanks for sharing this, Greg.
Greg,
Thank you for sharing such personal memories and for reminding all of us to “do a good thing daily.” It’s a simple message, yet one that is so easily overlooked in today’s fast-paced world.
Your reflections serve as a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity can have a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Thank you for sharing your story and for encouraging us to be a little more intentional each day.
A shared experience from across the country – Campbell (23), our youngest, made Eagle Scout in 2018. The growth he experienced during those years through BSA was absolutely amazing! He truly lives the Boy Scout Oath:
On my honor, I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.