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Scouting News for the DC Metro Area

Scouting Programs

Scout Wins Sons of the American Revolution Essay Contest – George Washington Chapter

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Troop 1577 Eagle Scout Russell Welland was recognized by the George Washington Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution on May 11. He participated in the Arthur M. & Berdena King Eagle Scout Contest, and his essay was chosen for recognition by this chapter. At their monthly meeting, he read his essay and received a $500 scholarship.

To participate in this contest, Eagle Scouts write a 500-word essay about an aspect of the American Revolution. They must also document their family tree for four generations. In addition, they can earn additional points if they have earned these merit badges: American Heritage, Genealogy, and Law.

Russell’s essay was about Daniel Morgan from Virginia. Morgan fought in many battles, but he is most famous for the Battle of Cowpens in South Carolina. This was a turning point that shifted the war in favor of the Patriots. It helped the Patriot Army change their strategy for how to better engage militiamen (the untrained volunteers) to win in traditional field battles.

As part of his application, Russell earned his American Heritage merit badge with Jim Quinn. Mr. Quinn is an excellent merit badge counselor who also worked with Russell on his Railroading merit badge.

If you are interested in this contest, click here. The George Washington Chapter’s website is here.

The contest is open to all Eagle Scouts until they turn 18 years old.

Photo by Thomas Roth, SAR

Scouting C.A.R.E.S visits the Naval Academy!

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On May 2nd, Scouting C.A.R.E.S. Pack 2700 out of St. Francis Xavier in Southeast, D.C., took their end-of-the-year Scouting field trip to the United States Naval Academy. The students experienced a top university that’s also an active military establishment. The Scouts were lucky enough to participate in marching, naval jargon, and saluting exercises. They were also given a brief tour of the campus athletic facilities, which they absolutely loved. The highlight for Pack 2700 was getting the civilian boats to honk their horns, which sent the Scouts into a frenzy.

“This experience should have a lasting impact on Pack 2700,” commented Michael Fazio, Scouting C.A.R.E.S. Director.

 

 

Patuxent Cub & Pal

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A wonderful, albeit soggy, time was had at the Patuxent Cub & Pal on Saturday! “A Sailing” we went, so it makes sense there was water involved! From knots to fishing, treasure hunting to pirate games, there was even a Raingutter Regatta! Fun was had by all, and many thanks to all the volunteers!!

Twinkie’s at the Church: Troop 1444 Camp-In Event

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During the last weekend of April, Troop 1444 held a Camp-In Event at the Transfiguration Parish. Instead of setting up tents, the troops settled inside the church for the weekend, playing games and enjoying the interior!

For breakfast, the Troop enjoyed some fried Twinkies and later went on a nice hike. Events like these may be simple, but they stick with the Scouts, giving them a unique view of how Scouts can camp.

Troop 360 Attended NCAC Outdoor Ethics Guide Summit, Then Taught it to Pack 1166!

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Inspired by the NCAC Outdoor Ethics Summit last month, Troop 360 Senior Patrol Leader Cam, Outdoor Ethics Guide Troy, and Den Chiefs Leigh and Tucker developed a program to teach outdoor ethics to Pack 1166. They started by training their fellow Den Chiefs, Anna and Evan. At the March Pack 1166 meeting, Troop 360 Scouts led the Cubs in learning hand motions for the Outdoor Code and hand motions for the Leave No Trace principles, then explained their meaning. Engaging games like “Camp Oh-No!“, “Surface Hopscotch” and “Trash Timeline” (learned from the Summit) reinforced the lessons in a fun way. Troop 360 further encouraged all Cub Scouts to pursue the NCAC Outdoor Ethics Awareness Award for Cubs. Bravo Troop 360 & Pack 1166!

Pack 578 Year in Review

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In alignment with the Boy Scouts of America’s mission, Pack 578 embarked on a journey throughout the year to instill values of the Scout Oath and Law among young boys and girls from kindergarten to fifth grade. Chartered by Richlands Baptist Church and meeting at Rocky Run Elementary, the pack orchestrated a series of events and activities aimed at fostering personal growth, community engagement, and a spirit of service.

The pack’s commitment to safety and skill development was evident through two “pack the pool” events and a summer canoeing expedition, ensuring that scouts acquired essential swimming and boating competencies in a secure environment. Additionally, multiple pack hikes through local national and state parks provide opportunities for physical activity, appreciation of nature, and camaraderie among members.

Demonstrating a proactive approach to safety extended to the streets, Pack 578 collaborated with the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office for a bike rodeo, enlightening scouts on bike safety amidst traffic, thereby equipping them with crucial knowledge for navigating urban landscapes responsibly.

Acknowledging the invaluable service of first responders, the pack organized a special pack meeting. At the meeting, scouts expressed gratitude and donated $1000 worth of popcorn to the local Stafford County Fire Department, symbolizing appreciation for their unwavering dedication to the community’s well-being.

Pack 578’s commitment to alleviating food insecurity manifested through their participation in Scouting for Food, which resulted in the collection of over 500 pounds of food and $100 for a local food pantry. This underscores their unwavering dedication to addressing pressing societal needs.

In a heartwarming gesture of compassion, the pack donated 17 winter coats to children in Stafford County Public Schools, embodying the Scout principle of kindness and demonstrating solidarity with those in need during colder months.

Honoring the nation’s fallen heroes and preserving historical legacies, Pack 578 participated in Wreaths Across America by laying down and cleaning up wreaths at Oak Hill Cemetery in Fredericksburg. Additionally, they undertook the solemn duty of cleaning up Fredericksburg Battlefield Cemetery, paying tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Moreover, the pack contributed to Fredericksburg Luminaria by folding 250 bags and aiding in the filling of 18,000 sandbags, illustrating their commitment to community beautification and remembrance.

During a poignant moment at their spring campout, Pack 578 reverently retired 14 American Flags that had served their purpose, honoring the nation’s symbol with dignity and respect, thereby instilling a sense of duty and reverence among scouts towards their country’s emblems.

Pack 578’s Year in Review encapsulates a journey marked by learning, service, and camaraderie, embodying the core tenets of Scouting while leaving an indelible impact on their community and beyond.