We Own Adventure

Scouting News for the DC Metro Area

Articles

Director David Henrie Invites NCAC to Digital Movie Premiere

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Hey NCAC Scouts! Director David Henrie has teamed up with us for the live premiere of my new movie “This is the Year.” The movie will premiere this Friday, August 28 at 7:30pm!

We know this summer has been a little different than expected so  wanted to give you a chance to see a great summer movie with your family. Plus, for that extra Scout Spirit, you’ll get discounted tickets to join a live pre-show Q&A with the movie’s stars, an after party hosted by TikTok stars Charli & Dixie D’Amelio, a special performance from lovelytheband, and you might even get the chance to meet my onscreen little sister, Selena Gomez.

Every ticket purchased helps raise money for the PLUS1 COVID-19 relief fund, so you get to do a good turn too.

I hope you’ll all join me and invite your friends to be a Scout with us at the “This is the Year” movie premiere.

Purchase your tickets today at a discounted price! Just use the promo code: SCOUTS!

Missing Summer Day Camp or Resident Camp?

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 Get ready to have some FUN! This summer, Cub Scout aged youth and everyone in the family can have fun and participate in outdoor adventures. Some can be done virtually if that is safer, but try to get outdoors as much as possible!

The best news? You don’t have to be in Cub Scouts to participate. Simply visit https://www.ncacbsa.org/cubspa/ for full program details and download a passport to get started. Parents and siblings are invited to participate. And if you’ve completed any of these activities already since Memorial Day, those count too! The program runs through Labor Day. There is no cost to participate.

Simply choose two or more adventures from each category on the passport. As they are completed, parents and guardians will sign and date each box. When two boxes in each category completed, upload the completed passport and you’ve earned the patch.

Don’t wait until you’ve started your passport to reserve your patch. Order patches for the entire family now by clicking here. Patches are $5 each.

Bonus Advancement
In addition to the patch, most of these activities satisfy requirements in your Cub Scout’s handbook.
• Parents and guardians, go over your Cub Scouts requirements with them in their Cub Scout Handbook for specific requirements that you can work on while completing the passport.
• Email your Cub Scout’s Cubmaster or Den Leader with what your Scout completed and the date so your unit can track their advancement.
• Since we don’t have traditional camps this year, completing the passport meets the requirements for Day Camp, Homecamping and Webelos Resident Camp.

Not a Scout yet? Both girls and boys entering Kindergarten through 5th grade this fall can sign up now to start their Scouting journey. For more information, send a note to ncac.cub.summer.camp@gmail.com.
Connect on Facebook with other Cub Scout Parents in the National Capital Area: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ncac.cubscouts/

Share on social media: @NCACBSA #cubscoutsncac @ncacbsa #cubscoutsncac

Microscope + Camping = FUN !!!

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Hey Scouts! Have you ever wondered what nature looks like under a microscope? What tiny creatures are in a drop of water? What a blade of grass or a leaf looks like when you get REALLY close to it? What the wings of a fly look like up close?

This summer you can explore nature with a folding microscope. When you Family Camp at either Goshen Scout Reservation or Camp Snyder, you will receive a free, 140 power magnification microscope so you can see nature in miniature.

Cubs, Webelos, Scouts BSA, Venturers and even Sea Scouts can sign up for Family Camping at Goshen Scout Reservation or Camp Snyder!

We look forward to seeing you at camp with your microscope!

Photo by: Magical Child Hood

Family – Fun – Flag – FOURTH!

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ARE YOU READY FOR SUMMER? What are your plans for the 4th of July? We have some fun family activities planned all day for you and your Scouting family! A little exercise, cooking, crafts, advancement and fun all day!

FLAGS! Flags are FUN! Do you love flags? Most every rank has an activity or adventure involving a flag ceremony or learning about flags. (Cub Scouts, check out Wolf – Council Fire, Bear – Paws for Action, and Arrow of Light – Building a Better World. Scouts BSA check Scout, Tenderfoot, and Second Class.) Make a short video showing your own Fun Flag activity—special kudos if you do it while dressed as your favorite superhero or historical figure. Your videos will be featured on Facebook. So, get busy and show us your Scouting patriotism!!

FOOD! We are having a BAKE-OFF! At noon we will kick off our Scout Bake-off hosted by the NCAC Council Venturing Officers Association with a competition making Patriotic Pancakes.

FITNESS! Do you have what it takes to climb the Washington Monument? Try our exercise challenge!

FRIENDS! Let’s do a Good Turn for people who serve!

More FLAGS! Take our semaphore signaling challenge! Can you read messages sent with semaphore flags?

More FOOD! Homemade ice cream is a sweet treat on a summer day.

FIREWORKS! Have a blast on the 4th, and tell us about your day on Facebook and at weownadventure.com

Start working on your Fun Flag video. Send a link to your video to summer2020@ncacbsa.org by June 26 and start looking for pancake recipes.

Keep checking www.ncacbsa.org/summer/ for more information!

Guidance on Resuming In-Person Scouting Activities

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In March of this year, the National Capital Area Council Executive Board made the difficult decision to cancel or postpone all in-person Scouting meetings, events, and activities due to COVID-19.  Since that time, Scouting has successfully continued through our Scouting at Home program.  We appreciate the great effort of our volunteers and staff in making this happen.

Recently, the states and counties comprising NCAC have started to relax COVID-19 restrictions related to in person gatherings.  This is good news and has many people excited to resume face-to-face Scout activities.

As there is a significant variance in the state and county phased reopening programs being implemented across our Council’s territory, it is difficult to provide an “all inclusive” statement for all of our NCAC units. As such, we would like to provide the following general guidance regarding resumption of in person Scouting activities.

  • The Unit Key Three should determine what activities and in person gatherings are permitted for the county in which the unit is chartered. 
  • The Key Three should then work with the adult committee to determine if the unit is prepared to begin in person meetings or activities. 
  • If consensus exists among the adult committee members, the Key Three should consult with the Chartered Partner to secure their support for the resumption of in person meetings or activities.
  • It is the responsibility of the unit’s Key Three and adult committee to understand and ensure all state/county restrictions and required Covid-19 safety precautions are taken.  Units traveling to other states/destinations for camp/activities are responsible for knowing and adhering to the restrictions and precautions of those areas.
  • Units following the restrictions and administering the precautions are covered by the BSA insurance program.
  • In addition to precautions required by states and counties we ask you to incorporate the processes included in BSA’s Restart Scouting Checklist as you resume unit activities.

We know everyone is excited to begin outdoor, in person Scouting activities.  We ask that you “do your best” to follow the guidance provided here and work with your adult committee and chartered organization to ensure a safe Scouting experience.

NCAC Scouting at Home 2020 Award for Unit Scouters!

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In response to the Coronavirus Pandemic, the National Capital Area Council (NCAC)’s Scouting at Home Award was introduced to encourage Scouts of all ages to stay home and be safe, while continuing to be a Scout. Scouts seeking to earn the award are supported and mentored by Unit Scouters, who during the pandemic are going the extra mile to make a difference in their units, in Scouting families, and in their communities. The NCAC Scouting at Home 2020 Award for Unit Scouters recognizes these Unit Scouters for meeting the challenge of instilling the Scout Oath and Law in others while the pandemic requires social distancing to be in place.

Unit Scouters who lead their units in providing community service, promote Scout advancement during the pandemic, seek to improve as a leader by taking training, broaden Scouts’ capabilities by providing instruction in Scouting skills, provide Scouts opportunities through virtual meetings, and encourage Scouts to practice the Scout Oath and Law through individual acts of kindness, earn the Scouting at Home 2020 Award for Unit Scouters.

For specific details or to obtain the requirement sheet, see https://www.scoutingevent.com/082-scoutingathomeaward.

Introducing the NCAC Scouting at Home 2020 Award!

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In response to the Coronavirus Pandemic, the National Capital Area Council (NCAC) is encouraging Scouts of all ages to stay home and be safe, while continuing to be a Scout! Scouts are always prepared to explore, discover, learn, and grow, and serve our families and communities, no matter the situation, time, or place. The NCAC Scouting at Home 2020 Award recognizes Scouts for meeting the challenge of living by the Scout Oath and Law while the pandemic requires social distancing to be in place.

Cub Scouts who meet specific requirements for home conservation and preparedness, learn about STEM, pursue a Cub adventure, learn Scouting skills, participate in a den virtual meeting, and participate in community service earn the Scouting at Home 2020 Award patch.

Youth in Scouts BSA, Venturing, or Sea Scouts who meet specific requirements for home conservation and preparedness, assist with a family virus prevention plan, make progress toward advancement, learn Scouting skills, take part in a Patrol virtual meeting, and participate in community service earn the Scouting at Home 2020 Award patch.

For specific details, to obtain the requirement sheets, or to pre-order patches, see https://www.scoutingevent.com/082-scoutingathomeaward.

NCAC Response to COVID-19

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UPDATE 5/14/2020: NCAC summer camp programs have been cancelled for 2020. Alternative summer programs will be announced soon.

UPDATE 4/30/2020: “Scouting at Home” has been extended until further notice. Please see this post for details.

UPDATE 4/2/2020: The Marriott Scout Service Center will be closed until further notice. Please contact your District Executive or staff adviser for assistance.

As always, your safety and the safety of all our members, volunteers, and employees is our top priority. We know there are questions and concerns about how COVID-19, commonly known as the coronavirus, could affect local Scouting programs in National Capital Area Council. Please know that we are monitoring developments regarding COVID-19 both locally and through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The following information regarding local events and prevention measures is based on the latest available guidance. As this is an evolving situation, this information is subject to change. We will continue to update you on relevant developments, and we appreciate your understanding of any necessary adjustments in the interest of health and safety.

Status of Council Events

After much discussion by NCAC’s Executive Board, it has been decided that all in-person Council and District events, activities, and meetings will be postponed or cancelled. This decision has been made out of an abundance of caution and concern for the health of our Scouts, Scouters, and their families.  [Note: this paragraph has been edited. Please see this post for details.]

Further, NCAC strongly suggests that individual Scout units follow this policy. The final decision on continued unit activities will be the responsibility of the unit committee in consultation with their chartered organization and, in some cases, their meeting facilities until such time as new guidance is issued by the CDC. 

We strongly encourage that districts, units, and council committees consider using technology to continue with as many of their normally scheduled meetings and events as possible. Free or low-cost options include Free Conference Call, Skype, and Google Hangouts.

Summer Programs

Currently, all summer programming – day camps, summer camps, etc. – will continue as planned. We will be extending the Goshen early bird registration deadline to April 30 in order to give units more flexibility in planning. The Reduced Price Early Bird Deadline for all NCAC Day Camps and Twilight Camps has been extended through Thursday, April 30.  The Priority Deadline for all NCAC Day Camp and Twilight Camp camperships has also been extended through Wednesday, April 15. 

Council Facilities

The National Capital Scout Shop, and North Virginia Scout Shop will closed indefinitely. Please feel free to find all your Scouting needs on scoutstuff.org!

Our council camping facilities will be closed through April 30. If you have an existing reservation, we will give your unit credit for a future date.

Event Refunds

When possible, we are encouraging events to reschedule for a later date. If you are registered for an event that gets postponed, your registration will be transferred to the new date. If you are unable to attend the rescheduled event, you may request a refund according to our standard policy.

For events that are cancelled outright, we are in the process of reviewing our council refund policy. Given the number of events, and that many events have already incurred substantial costs for supplies and reservation fees, it may be difficult to issue full refunds. Our team is working to determine what is possible.

If you are able to do so, please consider not requesting a refund and allowing your registration fee to support Scouting. This will help us offset the costs and lost income from cancelled events.

BSA Polices to Prevent the Spread of Illness

The Boy Scouts of America continues to have policies and procedures in place that help protect participants from contracting an illness at large Scouting events. These include the Annual Health and Medical Record and the Pre-Event Medical Screening Checklist.

Everyday Preventive Measures

Even with those important policies in place, it is critical that we all take these everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases:

  • Stay home when you feel sick.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and wash your hands before and after doing so. 
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve/elbow, not your hands.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe. 
  • Do not share personal items such as cups, water bottles, eating utensils, etc.
  • Avoid shaking hands. A Scout salute or wave will suffice.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

If you have a fever, cough, or other symptoms associated with COVID-19, or if you believe you may have been exposed to COVID-19, you should isolate and not attend any Scouting events. People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately.

Should you have any questions or concerns about a specific upcoming event or activity, please reach out to your district executive. We will do everything we can to answer your question using the information available to us. 

Scouting At Home Challenge!

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Are you ready for the 30 day Scouting At Home challenge? Scout families take on the challenge of keeping your skills sharp by Scouting at Home and including the entire family. Participate in activities and adventures that are fun, exciting and informative!

If your family is up for the challenge for the next 30 days at 5pm share a picture or video of your family’s Scouting At Home activity on Facebook and hashtag #ScoutingAtHome! We can’t wait to see all the NCAC challengers and share them with other Scouts. Challenge begins Thursday, 3/19/2020 at 5pm!

Follow us @ncacbsa on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates and be sure to hashtag #ScoutingAtHome!

Scout Service Center Closing

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The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recently recommended canceling all gatherings of 10 or more people. As that maximum will apply to most Scouting units, we are strongly recommending that in-person unit activities be suspended. We are investigating resources to facilitate distance learning and collaboration. The ultimate decision lies with your unit committee, but we encourage you to model good citizenship and public health in your decisions. 

National Capital Area Council is committed to keeping our Scouting families safe and modeling Citizenship in our Community. To that end, the Marriott Scout Service Center will be closed to the public until further notice.

Our office may be shut, but we are not closed for business! All staff will be working remotely. If you need assistance from your District Executive or other team member, please contact them via email or cell phone. Staff contact information is located at https://www.ncacbsa.org/staff.  
To support units in their fundraising efforts, the Camp Card sale will be extended through June 15. Please contact Barb Perez for more information. If you have not yet received your camp cards, your District Executive will contact you to arrange delivery. It is very important to the continuation of our units and Council program to ensure the success of this fundraising event. Life Scouts and others working on awards with an age or time deadline should contact their District Executive with questions. Many requirements for these awards can be completed virtually. We are currently working with BSA to secure guidance on extensions and other challenges caused by this unprecedented public health event.

Watch the NCAC Facebook page or https://www.ncacbsa.org/covid for updates.
If you have an emergency or a youth protection issue, please contact Deputy Scout Executive Mario Perez immediately. He can be reached at 915-491-4473.

For all other issues, you are encouraged to call MSSC at 301-530-9360 and leave a message. We will have limited staff coverage but will do our best to return your call within 48 hours.As we work together to get through this challenge, it is important to remember the values of the Scout Oath and Law. Let’s do all we can to support each other and help those who need our assistance most.

As we work together to get through this challenge, it is important to remember the values of the Scout Oath and Law. Let’s do all we can to support each other and help those who need our assistance most.

Help Celebrate NCAC Camping Centennial at Camp Snyder’s Work Days for All

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Celebrate 100 years of NCAC summer camping by helping Camp Snyder get ready for the summer! Earn service hours and a free Camping Centennial patch for working on projects.

Open to all Scouts, Cubs through Venturers, and Families. Projects for all skill levels, which may include building and installing bird houses, splitting and stacking logs, staining and painting, digging and installing sign posts, assembling traffic barriers.

Be sure to bring work gloves, lunch, water, sunscreen and insect repellant. Check for ticks when departing. And, wear old clothing that can get dirty or stained with paint. No scout uniforms and no open toed shoes or sandals. Check In/Out at the Admin Building at the Camp Entrance.

Join us on Saturday, April 4th and/or Sunday, May 17th, from 9am to 4 pm. Come for the day or just part of the day!

Free registration at https://scoutingevent.com/082-35883

See you on April 4th and/or May 17th!

 

General David L. Goldfein Receives the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award

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The D.C. chapter of the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) was proud to present the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award to Gen. David L. Goldfein, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force, yesterday evening at the Air Force Association in Arlington, VA.

The Distinguished Eagle Scout Award is the National Eagle Scout Association’s highest recognition. The Award was established to recognize Eagle Scouts who, after 25 years or longer of having received the Eagle Scout Award, have reached the highest national level of success in their field. In addition, these recipients have demonstrated a strong record of volunteer leadership service to their community.

Many gathered in celebration of Gen. Goldfein’s accomplishment including the Honorable Barbara Barrett, Distinguished Eagle Scouts: Brigadier General Charles McGee, Michael Pocalyko, and Bray Barnes as well National Capital Area Council, BSA Cub Scouts Liam Finley of Pack 1101 and Caden Coffee of Pack 1344.

Goldfein left the Scouts with sound advice and continued a military tradition gifting them a Challenge Coin, challenging the young Scouts to pursue Eagle rank.  Brig. Gen. Charles McGee, also graciously awarded Gen. Goldfein with picture of an Eagle, along with a picture of the two.

This award ceremony brought together civic-minded individuals and constituents from throughout the DMV community in an event that recognizes and celebrates the importance of Scouting in guiding and developing youth from generation to generation.

To learn more about the National Eagle Scout Association please visit https://nesa.org/ or https://www.ncacbsa.org/about-ncac/nesa/.

TUSKEGEE AIRMAN RECEIVES NCAC LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

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Troop 96 of the National Capital Area Council (NCAC) today honored retired Air Force Brigadier General Charles McGee with its Lifetime Achievement award. The Lifetime Achievement Award, presented at his home in Bethesda, MD, was established in 2013 and is given in recognition of individuals whose accomplishments embody the ideals of the Scout Oath and Law.

General McGee stated, “If more people lived their lives by the Scout Oath and Law, the world would be a lot better off.”

As an active member of Boy Scouts in his youth, McGee earned the title of Distinguished Eagle Scout and received the Silver Beaver award for his outstanding service. The veteran continued to display his leadership capabilities throughout his 30-year military career, earning numerous decorations from the Bronze Star to the Hellenic Republic WWII Commemorative Medal. Most recently, McGee received the honorary promotion to Brigadier General in December 2019, which was announced last week during President Trump’s State of the Union address. The 100-year old Brigadier General McGee has had a busy couple of weeks – from his appearance presiding over the coin toss at Superbowl LIV to being recognized at the State of the Union address to a book signing ceremony this past Saturday at the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum celebrating Black History month, where he was featured as part of its African American Pioneers in Aviation and Space program.

“We are extremely proud to recognize retired Brigadier General Charles McGee for his tremendous accomplishments on behalf of this nation and in the world of Scouting,” said Scout Executive Craig Poland. “Brigadier General McGee not only meets the criteria for this selective award – he more than surpasses it. The values embodied in Scouting are reflected in his daily life and work.”

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Born in Cleveland in 1919, McGee enlisted in the Army on October 26, 1942. Upon earning his pilot’s wings, McGee joined the Tuskegee Airmen, the first group of African American military pilots in the Armed Forces. During his extensive military career, he accumulated over 6,300 total hours, flew tactical missions attacking enemy airfields, and took part in top-secret rescue missions. In 2011, McGee was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in Dayton, Ohio.

McGee, a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the Military Order of World Wars, and the Tuskegee Airmen Inc., now spends his time sharing his life experiences by speaking in support of the Black Heritage and Youth Career motivation programs.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is given in recognition of a person’s noteworthy personal and/or professional accomplishments, his dedication to America and because he lives the ideals of the Scout Oath and Law. Past recipients of this award include Bill Marriott Jr., former Gov. Haley Barbour, Thomas J. Donohue, Jacob Stein and Michael Daniels.

Troop 1775 Participates in America250 History Fair

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On April 26, 2026, Scouting America Troop 1775 for girls participated in the America250 History Fair at Carroll Creek Linear Park in Frederick, MD. Hundreds attended the event, which brought together historical organizations, community groups, and families from across the region to celebrate the nation’s history ahead of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Troop 1775 helped support several activities throughout the day. Scouts participated in the event’s flag ceremony and welcomed visitors to learn more about Scouting programs and opportunities for youth to get involved. Scouts also assisted children with a hands-on activity making rolled beeswax candles, giving families a chance to experience a traditional craft connected to early American life.

“It was a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community and show youth how early Americans lived,” said Scoutmaster Talisha Kellogg.

The fair featured exhibits and educational activities focused on American history and the role local communities have played in shaping the country. Organizers described America250 as an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s past while inspiring future generations to stay engaged in their communities.

Troop 1775 was honored to be part of the celebration and to support an event that encouraged learning, citizenship, service, and community involvement.

 

       

Scouting C.A.R.E.S. Pack 5600 Explores Great Falls National Park

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Scouting C.A.R.E.S. Pack 5600 from E.W. Stokes Elementary School recently visited Great Falls National Park for a day of hands-on learning and outdoor exploration. The experience gave students the opportunity to connect classroom concepts with the natural world through guided activities and outdoor engagement.

During the visit, students participated in the park’s Flower Adventure Program, where they learned about native and invasive flowers found in the local environment. In addition to the educational programming, students enjoyed fishing and took part in field games, making the day both informative and fun. The trip provided a meaningful setting for students to build teamwork and confidence while developing a deeper appreciation for nature. By experiencing learning outside the classroom, students were able to see real-world applications of what they study and strengthen connections with their peers.

What Is Scouting C.A.R.E.S.?

Scouting C.A.R.E.S.—which stands for Character, Achievement, Respect, Education, and STEM—is an initiative of the National Capital Area Council designed to expand access to Scouting for all youth. The program partners with schools and community organizations across the DMV to bring hands-on, character-based Scouting experiences to communities that would benefit from a vibrant Scouting program. Through Scouting C.A.R.E.S., youth participate in programs that emphasize character development, leadership, ethics, and moral values, while fostering curiosity, resilience, and a sense of belonging. The initiative reflects the diversity of the communities it serves and works to ensure Scouting is inclusive and available to all young people, regardless of background or circumstance. Scouting C.A.R.E.S. provides in-school, afterschool, and community-based outreach programming led by positive adult role models. Youth enrolled in the program enjoy the same Scouting experiences as Scouts throughout the Council, including outdoor opportunities such as Day Camp and Resident Camp.

To learn more about our National Capital Area Council’s Scouting C.A.R.E.S. program, visit NCAC’s website: https://ncacscouting.org/scouting-cares/

               

America250 in Action: Building Informed Citizens with Troop 1107 at the U.S. Capitol

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Scouts from Troops 1107B and 1107G had the opportunity to see the government in action during a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building, facilitated by the staff of Rep. James Walkinshaw (VA-11) as part of the Citizenship in the Nation Merit Badge. The tour was held on April 21, as many scouts had the day off for the state’s special election.

Led by Scoutmaster and Merit Badge Counselor James Dreier, the scouts visited the Old Supreme Court Chamber, the Old Senate Chamber, the crypt and several other locations inside the Capitol Building.

Walkinshaw’s office presented the scouts with passes to the House of Representatives gallery to have the experience of watching a debate on bills as they unfolded on the floor of the lower chamber.

In all, more than two dozen scouts, scouters, and parents were able to take part in the tour.

Troop 1107 B and Troop 1107G are chartered by St. John’s Lutheran Church, 5952 Franconia Road, Alexandria, VA. In addition to the troops, the church also charters Pack 867, Crew 80 and is the meeting place for the Order of the Arrow – Accotink Bay Chapter.

For more information on the units, email troop1107ncac@gmail.com.

   

Pack 55 Scouts Celebrate America250 with History, Service, and Honor

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In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, Cub Scouts from Pack 55 in Great Falls, Virginia took part in a meaningful outing focused on history, citizenship, and service at the Balls Bluff Battlefield. Through hiking, learning flag etiquette, and honoring fallen soldiers, the Scouts experienced an important piece of American history while living out the values of Scouting.

Cub Scouts from Pack 55 explored the Balls Bluff Battlefield, a historic Civil War site with wooded trails and views of the Potomac River in Leesburg, Virginia. As they hiked together, Scouts enjoyed being outdoors, moving along the winding paths, and experiencing the natural setting of the battlefield. The hike gave Scouts a chance to stay active, work together, and appreciate being outside while visiting a place that has been part of American history for generations.

Scouts also learned about the Civil War from representatives of the Friends of the Balls Bluff Battlefield, who shared information about the site and its importance. Hearing from local experts helped Scouts better understand why the battlefield is preserved today and how communities work to protect historic places.

A meaningful part of the visit included learning proper flag etiquette and placing American flags at the Balls Bluff National Cemetery. This respectful activity allowed Scouts to honor the soldiers buried there and recognize the service and sacrifice of those who fought for the country. Taking time to place flags gave Scouts a hands-on way to show respect and gratitude.

The activities reflect key elements of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. By learning about history and honoring those who served, the Scouts demonstrated being respectful, reverent, and helpful. Working together throughout the outing showed cooperation and kindness, while caring for a historic site reflected responsibility and citizenship.

This experience also connects to the spirit of America250, which encourages reflection on the nation’s history and the people who shaped it. By visiting a historic battlefield and honoring soldiers from the past, Pack 55 Scouts participated in remembering America’s story while building their own understanding of service and community.

Way to go, Pack 55 Scouts!

Cub Scouts In Action: Community Cleanup and Nature Exploration

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group of Cub Scouts standing in front of a pond during their trash pick up nature hike.

Earlier this month, a group of Cub Scouts from Pack 160 in Herndon, VA came together for a 2.5‑mile spring hike along the ponds and trails in their community of Franklin Farm. The goal was simple: enjoy the nice weather, help clean up the neighborhood, and learn more about the wildlife around us.

Working Together and Helping the Community

All of our Scouts put on gloves, grabbed trash bags, and teamed up in small groups to scour the trails for litter. By the end of the hike, we filled two trash bags with wrappers, bottles, and other trash found along the trails and ponds. Several neighbors stopped to thank the Scouts for helping keep the area clean, which gave everyone a great chance to practice being polite and representing Scouting well.

The most memorable find of the day was the bottom half of an early‑2000s Sony PSYC CD Walkman. None of the Scouts knew what it was, so we paused for a fun “old‑school music” lesson. The parents got a good laugh from the guesses!

Fun Wildlife Discoveries

Spring wildlife was everywhere along the trails. The Scouts spotted turtles sunbathing on logs, deer and dog tracks in the mud, a fallen bird egg, and even a crawfish shell left behind on a bridge. During a quick snack break, a large flock of Sandhill Cranes flew overhead, calling loudly — a rare and exciting sight.

Practicing Leave No Trace

Throughout the hike, we talked about the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace principles. And our Scouts practiced staying on the right side of the path, giving space to dogs and other walkers, and respecting both nature and the people around them.

A Great Day Outdoors

It was a perfect spring afternoon to serve the community, learn about nature, and enjoy being outside together. Scouts from all age groups worked as a team, explored the outdoors, and showed what it means to “leave the world better than you found it.”

 

              

2026 Supernova STEM Event Hosted by Piedmont District

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Warrenton, VA — Cub Scout Pack 1161 and Pack 1166 enjoyed a Saturday afternoon at Rady Park learning all about our Solar System, Circuitry, Geocaching, preforming Rocket Nozzle Experiments and so much more! Thank you to Phil McBride for hosting such a wonderful event – the Scouts had a BLAST!

STEM learning is an essential part of Scouting because it encourages curiosity, creativity, and hands‑on problem‑solving — skills that help young people understand the world around them. Activities like exploring our solar system, experimenting with circuitry, and practicing navigation through geocaching give Scouts the chance to see science, technology, engineering, and math come alive in memorable ways. These experiences don’t just teach concepts; they help Scouts build confidence as they test ideas, try new methods, and learn through discovery.

Each Cub Scout rank now includes at least one STEM Elective Adventure, ensuring that every young Scout has opportunities to dive into science, technology, engineering, and math at an age‑appropriate level. Whether they’re wiring simple circuits, learning how GPS technology works, studying the planets, or experimenting like real engineers, these adventures lay the foundation for future interest in STEM fields. More importantly, they spark excitement — showing Scouts that learning can be active, imaginative, and fun. Opportunities like our Piedmont District event at Rady Park reinforce that spirit of exploration and inspire our Scouts to keep asking questions, building things, and looking toward the stars!