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Scouting News for the DC Metro Area

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Troop 1831 Scout Leads Cemetery Cleanup Service Project During Juneteenth Weekend

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Life Scout Lance W. of Troop 1831, Accotink Bay District, recently led the primary service event for his Eagle Scout project at the Dumfries Slave & Free African American Cemetery in Dumfries, Virginia.

Held on Saturday, June 20, during Juneteenth weekend, the cemetery maintenance and cleanup event was conducted in partnership with the Friends of Dumfries Slave Cemetery. Volunteers from Troop 1831 and the surrounding community worked together to clear overgrowth, remove debris, and help restore the grounds of the historic cemetery.

The Dumfries Slave & Free African American Cemetery is the resting place of enslaved and free African Americans. According to Lance, “the timing of the project during Juneteenth weekend made the day especially meaningful”.

The project brought Scouts and community members together in service to help preserve an important historic site while supporting Lance’s journey toward earning the rank of Eagle Scout.

Pack 55 Explores American History Aboard the USS Wisconsin

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Scouts from Pack 55 in Great Falls, Virginia recently traveled to Norfolk, Virginia for an overnight campout aboard the USS Wisconsin, as part of an America 250 experience.

During their visit, Scouts learned about the history and legacy of the USS Wisconsin, a battleship that served in World War II, the Korean War, and Operation Desert Storm. The experience provided a hands-on opportunity to connect with American history and understand the role the ship played across multiple eras of service.

A highlight of the trip was a flag ceremony held on the main deck. Scouts learned how to properly raise the American flag on a battleship, gaining insight into the traditions and respect associated with military service.

Throughout the campout, Scouts learned firsthand about the service and dedication of America’s heroes. The experience reinforced important Scouting values, including duty, citizenship, and respect, while helping Scouts better understand the contributions of those who have served the nation.

Eagle Scout Project Enhances DC Fire and EMS Engine 24

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Community service and support for first responders were at the heart of a successful Eagle Scout project completed by Troop 544 in Washington, D.C.

On Saturday, May 30, 2026, Troop 544 member Jaron completed his Eagle Scout project at DC Fire and EMS Engine 24. Located in the Petworth neighborhood of Northwest Washington, D.C., the station is part of the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department and serves the surrounding community.

The day began with Troop 544 officially raising the flag at the fire station.

Explaining the purpose of the project, Jaron said, “I planned this painting and planting event to support neighborhood first responders.”

Jaron’s beautification project focused on improving the appearance of the station for both firefighters and community members. Volunteers repainted the handrails on the station’s ADA-compliant ramp and staircase and planted new flowers and greenery around the property.

When asked why he selected Engine 24 for his Eagle Scout project, Jaron explained, “I chose Engine 24 because it looked like it needed help.”

The project drew strong support from firefighters, Troop 544 members, mentors, and local residents who came together to help complete the work.

Captain Mike Bozarth of Rescue Squad 2 expressed his appreciation for the effort, saying, “We’re really grateful that Jaron thought of us when he was deciding where to do his Eagle Scout project. We’re happy to be involved.”

Kevin Magby, an Eagle Scout and mentor, praised Jaron’s commitment to service and leadership.

“I want to keep Jaron encouraged because he’s doing a great job,” Magby said. “Young men like himself need to be showcased more as doing the right thing. We see a lot of negative things in the media. We want to showcase the positive aspects.”

The completed improvements will provide lasting benefits for the firefighters who work at Engine 24 and Rescue Squad 2, as well as the residents they serve. The success of the project highlights the positive impact that Scouting, community partnerships, and volunteer service can have in strengthening neighborhoods and supporting local first responders.

 

 

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.