We Own Adventure

Scouting News for the DC Metro Area

Featured

Camp Catoctin Honors America 250 with Flag Retirement Ceremony

by

Against the backdrop of Catoctin Mountain Park, Scouts, Scouters, staff, veterans, first responders, and community partners gathered at Camp Catoctin for a moving America 250 Flag Retirement Ceremony commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States and reflecting on the enduring ideals of citizenship, service, sacrifice, and responsibility. The ceremony featured remarks from three distinguished guests: Marcia Deppen, Interim Director of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security; Joe Darling, Chief Ranger at Catoctin Mountain Park, National Park Service; and Mario Perez, Scout Executive for the National Capital Area Council. Each offered a unique perspective on service, citizenship, leadership, and the responsibility we all share in strengthening our communities and our nation.

Their remarks connected the history and symbolism of the American flag with the values Scouts strive to live each day. The ceremony also included participation from veterans, first responders, Scouts, Scouters, and Camp Catoctin staff—representing generations of individuals committed to serving others. The presence of veterans and first responders made the ceremony especially meaningful, offering Scouts a visible reminder that service takes many forms—from military service and public safety to volunteerism, civic engagement, and leadership within our communities.

As American flags that had reached the end of their service were respectfully retired, Scouts experienced the principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law in a powerful and tangible way. The ceremony was about more than retiring flags; it was an opportunity to understand what those flags represent and to recognize the responsibility each generation carries to preserve the ideals of citizenship, service, and respect. As America marks its 250th anniversary, Camp Catoctin was proud to commemorate this historic milestone in a way uniquely suited to Scouting: gathering together in the outdoors, honoring those who serve, reflecting on our shared history, and inspiring young people to consider the role they will play in our nation’s future.

It was a fitting reminder that while we honor the history represented by our flag, its future rests in the hands of the young people we are preparing to lead, to serve, and to make their mark on the world.

Written by Jeffrey Huggins, Camp Director of Camp Catoctin

Pack 905 Takes Flight with NOVAAR

by

This summer, Pack 905 of Sterling, Virginia, blasted off for an exciting day with the Northern Virginia Association of Rocketry (NOVAAR) in The Plains, Virginia.

Before launch day, Scouts worked with their families to build their own rockets at home. They then brought their creations to the launch field, where they had the opportunity to watch them soar into the sky. The cloudy weather provided an ideal backdrop for tracking the rockets as they climbed high above the field.

In addition to launching their own rockets, Scouts also watched NOVAAR members fly larger and more advanced rockets. Throughout the day, participants learned about rocket safety, how rockets work, and the mechanics behind a successful launch.

The event combined hands-on STEM learning with teamwork and family involvement, giving Scouts the chance to apply science concepts in a fun and memorable way. It was a high-flying day filled with discovery, excitement, and plenty of countdowns.

About the Northern Virginia Association of Rocketry

The Northern Virginia Association of Rocketry (NOVAAR) is Northern Virginia’s public rocket club and a chartered section of the National Association of Rocketry. NOVAAR hosts rocket launches at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia, on a monthly basis, and its launches are open to both members and the public. Scouts, families, hobbyists, and anyone interested in model rocketry are welcome to attend and learn more about the hobby.

Scouts Build More Than Woodworking Skills at Camp William B. Snyder

by

At first glance, a bat box may seem like a simple woodworking project. But for Scouts participating in the Woodwork Merit Badge program during Specialty Week at Camp William B. Snyder, projects like these are about much more than measuring, cutting, and assembling wood.

They are opportunities to learn about conservation, wildlife habitats, research, problem-solving, and community stewardship.

That was the experience of James, a Scouts BSA member who recently completed a bat box as part of his Woodwork Merit Badge requirements in Michael’s Woodshop. Before a single board was cut, James and the volunteer staff researched what bats need in order to thrive and how to design a structure that would provide a safe habitat.

“I am happy to provide a home for 3-4 bats,” James said.

The project helped James discover that successful woodworking often requires understanding the purpose behind what is being built. Creating a bat habitat meant learning about local wildlife, conservation practices, and the threats bats face in their natural environment.

“I learned bats can be eaten by predators, so you need to make sure you don’t put the bat box on a tree because birds, raccoons, and other creatures could get the bats,” he explained.

That research shaped decisions about both the design of the box and how it should ultimately be installed. By studying conservation guidelines and best practices, the Scout and adult volunteers ensured the project would provide an effective and safe habitat for bats in the region.

For James, the project also carried a personal connection. “I did the project to help my Dad because he said he wanted to build a bat box,” he said.

What began as an idea became a hands-on learning experience that took patience and dedication to complete. “It took a couple of weeks but I built it!” James added proudly.

The project reflects the broader mission of Michael’s Woodshop, which serves Scouts of all ages and skill levels throughout Scouting America National Capital Area Council. While woodworking skills remain at the heart of the program, volunteers emphasize that every project incorporates lessons that extend far beyond the workshop.

“The Woodshop at Camp William B. Snyder continues to fulfill Michael Snowden’s vision of providing a safe and empowering environment for exploring the craft of woodworking,” said volunteer Shop Steward Gene. “The dedicated all-volunteer staff are committed to sharing their individual interests and passion for woodworking with all levels of Scouting, from introductory projects at the Cub Scout level through Woodwork Merit Badge and Eagle Scout service projects.”

Gene noted that projects such as bluebird nesting boxes and bat houses are more than woodworking exercises. “Projects such as Bluebird Nesting Boxes and the Bat House are modeled after established designs to align with regional and state level conservation practices,” he said.

Located at Camp William B. Snyder, Michael’s Woodshop provides the tools, equipment, and workspace needed to complete almost any woodworking or carpentry project. The facility can be reserved by Scouts, units, and districts for a variety of programs, including Eagle Scout service projects, Cub Scout den activities, troop events, and district-level programs.

For many youth participants, the workshop becomes a place where craftsmanship meets education. While learning how to safely use tools and complete a project, Scouts also develop skills in research, planning, environmental awareness, and critical thinking.

As interest in the shop continues to grow, the volunteer team is seeking additional support from both adults and youth. Michael’s Woodshop is operated entirely by volunteer Shop Stewards, and opportunities are available for individuals who want to share their skills, mentor young people, or help keep the shop running year-round. New opportunities are also available for adults to serve as Seasonal Volunteers during Pinewood Derby season or as Merit Badge Counselors supporting Woodwork and Wood Carving Merit Badge programs.

For Scouts like James, projects such as the bat box demonstrate that woodworking is also about building knowledge, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. By combining craftsmanship with conservation education, Michael’s Woodshop continues to help young people create projects that leave a lasting impact on both their communities and the environment.

From Campouts to the School Board: How Scouting Shaped a Student Leader

by

 

As Anuva Maloo finishes up her one-year term as the student member of the Board of Education for Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland on June 30, 2026, she was able to reflect on how an unexpected journey through Scouting helped guide her voice, her values, and her impact. An Eagle Scout from Troop 1444, she has spent her term representing students and demonstrating how leadership skills can translate into meaningful change in complex systems.

For her, Scouting went beyond being an extracurricular activity to become a framework for decision-making which resulted in the opportunity to serve at one of the highest levels of student representation in her community.

“The Scout Law… it’s burned into my brain,” she said. “Trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, kind… those values really represent the kind of leader I hope to be.”

She even referenced those principles during her swearing-in speech, using them as a guidepost for how she approached the role. Whether weighing policy decisions or listening to community concerns, Scouting gave her a moral compass that encouraged her to think not just practically, but ethically.

That perspective proved especially valuable when navigating some of the most sensitive issues facing the district.

Seeing Systems as More Than Structures

One of the most challenging topics during her term was redistricting which was a complex and often emotional issue involving school boundaries, closures, and community identity. While many approached the issue through data and logistics, she brought a different lens.

She recalled a lesson from an architecture merit badge, where she learned how even the smallest structural component of a building plays a critical role.

“If you remove what seems like a tiny piece, the whole structure can fall,” she explained.

That idea became a powerful metaphor. To her, schools are not just buildings but are ecosystems of relationships, culture, and community. Removing or redistributing even a small group of students could fundamentally alter the identity of a school.

“It’s not just about the physical structure,” she said. “It’s about the people. Even one small community – if you take it away – you lose something important.”

This ability to connect technical decisions with human impact became one of her defining strengths as a board member.

Turning Personal Experience into Policy Change

Her leadership wasn’t limited to big-picture issues. Some of her most meaningful work stemmed from deeply personal experiences, especially around equity and access.

One of the initiatives she championed focused on menstrual hygiene products in schools. Despite state requirements mandating their availability, many students reported that supplies were inconsistent or unavailable. She understood the issue firsthand.

She shared a story from an early camping trip, when she was with one of the first groups of girls in her Troop. Faced with an uncomfortable situation and unsure who to turn to, she and her peers came up with a simple solution: create their own supply as part of their first aid kits.

“It was such a small thing,” she said. “But it made a difference.”

Years later, that same mindset guided her work on the board. Instead of waiting for a perfect system-wide fix, she pushed for immediate, practical solutions like placing baskets of supplies in schools so students would have access even when dispensers failed.

“If we can focus on something small and make an impact right here, let’s see where it goes,” she said. “That’s how change starts.”

Representation Matters

As one of the few recent female student members of the board and an Eagle Scout, she is keenly aware of the importance of representation.

“I’m really proud to say that I’m an Eagle Scout,” she said. “I hope to continue to spread that message and encourage other students, especially girls, to join.”

The Power of Community

Ask her what keeps her grounded, and she doesn’t hesitate: the people.

From fellow Scouts to Board colleagues to mentors and community leaders, the relationships she’s built have been just as impactful as the skills she’s learned.

“Scouting gave me a community that’s always pushing you to be better,” she said. “Even if it was just a few other girls when I first joined, that was enough to make me stay.”

Years later, she still sees Scouting as a lifelong network that transcends age, background, and experience. “In Scouting, it doesn’t matter if someone is older or younger,” she said. “We’re just Scouts. And that connection stays with you.”

A Message for Young People

For students considering whether to try Scouting or any new activity her advice is simple: “Just go and experience it,” she said. “If you spend even one day with that community, you’ll understand.”

For her, Scouting provided a community that was always pushing her to be better and who she could always truly rely on. She leaned on her fellow Scouts and hopes they will be friends for a lifetime.

As she looks ahead, she carries forward not just accomplishments, but also a mindset rooted in service, resilience, and a belief that even small actions can create lasting change.

From campouts to Board meetings, her journey is proof that leadership doesn’t start in the boardroom. Sometimes, it starts around a campfire.

Local Hero Credits Scouting for Split-Second Life-Saving Action

by

Last Wednesday at a D.C. neighborhood movie night, teens threw a Roman candle firework into the crowd of parents and children. Josh grabbed it and threw it away from everyone else. When asked why he acted to help, he credited Scouting.
When we invest in youth through Scouting, we build communities where people step up for one another. Scouting prepares youth to lead and serve when it matters most. Get involved in Scouting today.

Vienna250 Uncovering History One Brick at a Time

by

What started as a simple service project turned into a powerful discovery for Troop 1539 from Vienna, Virginia.

While recovering bricks from a long-lost 18th-century Vienna, Virginia home of Jeremiah Moore (1746–1815) a Baptist minister who advocated for the separation of church and state, Scouts uncovered something unexpected – handmade bricks bearing fingerprints and even children’s footprints from more than 250 years ago. These hidden marks tell a deeply human story tied to our nation’s early history and the lives of those who were often forgotten.

It’s a moving reminder of how service can connect us to the past in meaningful ways as Scouts across our Council are involved in special acts of service for America250.

👉 Read the full story from Connection Newspapers to learn about the discovery and the incredible impact it had on everyone involved: https://www.connectionnewspapers.com/news/2026/jun/16/vienna-scouts-unearth-enslaved-legacy-at-moorefield/