A Book
of Frequently Asked Questions, Guidelines, Requirements and Responsibilities
for Scouts and Scouters
Table of
Contents
This document is intended
to provide helpful information about practices, policies and procedures for
Scouts and parents of Scouts in Troop 603. While every attempt has been made to
comply with Boy Scouts of America guidelines, policies, and procedures,
conflicts may occur inadvertently. In such event, BSA guidelines, policies, and
procedures will take precedence over this document.
In the event that
information on this web site conflicts with the printed document, the web site
will take precedence as it is updated more frequently and is likely to reflect
the latest decisions of the Patrol Leaders Council and the Troop Committee.
Printed copies are
available on request from troop adult leadership.
As adult leaders we believe
in and try to practice the ideal that Scouts is "boy led and adult
supervised." This means that from time to time we let the boys make
mistakes and as adults we work with them as mentors to learn from those
mistakes. We also ascribe great importance to the principle that Scouting
should be a safe place, so as adults we try to react quickly to situations that
might be unsafe or insensitive, we follow closely the "Guide to Safe
Scouting" and we encourage all adults to be trained in as many supervisory
skills as possible.
Troop 603 has a web site
which we encourage all parents (and boys) to visit often - http://www.troop603.net. The web site is
our marketing tool, and it also has the troop calendar and other useful
information such as this guidebook. Be sure to check the calendar for upcoming
events. Please take the opportunity to read this troop handbook (found also on
the web site). Please notice that for safety reasons the public web site will
not contain boys full names or contact information.
One question that will come
up almost immediately is "what equipment does my son need?" The troop
is well supplied with equipment for most outings. The boys will need a few
items of personal gear - we suggest a Sierra (or similar) cup that can also be
used as a bowl, a spoon made of Lexan, a modest sized plastic insulated mug, a
sleeping bag or blankets and a ground pad, and the boy's personal hygiene kit.
We don't recommend that the boys use down bags as they are expensive and will
fail when wet - the boys will do fine with polyester or similar fiber bags.
Please see the section on Camping
Equipment for more information.
Troop 603 believes in
providing opportunities and encouragement for advancement, but also expects a
boy to show initiative in completing his rank requirements and earning merit
badges. We will encourage him to set goals for advancement and to work toward
those goals, but encouragement from parents is especially important for the
first rank advancement to Tenderfoot. We also know that it is important for
parents to be encouraging and active in troop activities. You will be asked to
share your time, skills and support - providing transportation and camping,
serving on the troop committee, signing up to be a merit badge counselor,
working with the troop on service projects and helping with family outings.
Again, welcome to Troop
603! Call on us with questions and suggestions. As adult leaders, we are always
looking for ways to improve the Boy Scout experience. We look forward to having
your son in the troop and working with him AND YOU during his Scouting career.
Troop 603 has a long legacy. Troop 603 has been chartered to Kingswood United Methodist church since February 1964, over 40 years! Troop 603 uses the facilities of the KUMC to conduct the Scouting program. We are deeply grateful to the members and church committee for the financial support, use of facilities and efforts that allow Troop 603 to operate. The Church also sponsors Cub Scout Pack 603.
The Troop meets Thursday
evenings in Fellowship Hall. Meeting
times are
Parents should be prompt
in picking up their son after the Troop meeting, and any other activity. Troop
and Boy Scouts of America policy dictates that no Scout will be left at the
meeting without two-deep adult leadership present. A late pickup means that two
adults are delayed in getting home to their families.
Guests are always welcome at Troop 603 meetings.
Troop
603 participates frequently in special events, such as the annual Zero to Hero
event, District Camporees, and our own Troop 603 campouts and treks.
All the activities
necessary to prepare for these events count as regular Troop activities. Scouts
are responsible for understanding all instructions pertinent to the event, and
for working together to earn their way to these events.
Troop 603 participates in a resident summer camp each year. This is a traditional camp, featuring meals provided by Troop 603’s “Kitchen Krew” and advancement activities. Summer camp is available to every Scout in Troop 603. This camp is very important, particularly to new Scouts, in that they are able to earn advancement and Merit Badges here that are difficult to obtain at other times. Scouts also learn many basic outdoors skills at this camp.
Troop 603 scouts are regular participants in "High Adventure" summertime treks. These are usually to one of the Boy Scouts of America "High Adventure" facilities (such as Philmont Scout Ranch, Florida Sea Base, or Boundary Waters Canoe Base) and attendance is subject to the rules set by the BSA (some are available only to scouts over age 14).
It is recommended that the prospective Scout and parents visit a minimum of one or more Troop meetings.
Once a Scout and his parent
have chosen to join Troop 603, a conference with the Scoutmaster and membership
committee persons will be held. A packet of membership materials will be given
to the Scout and his parents and will be reviewed. During this meeting the
Scout, and Scout Parent(s) will review the roles and responsibilities of the
Scout, duties of Scout Parent(s) and the role of the Troop in providing a
successful scout program.
The Scout will fill out the
application form, pay the applicable registration fee, buy his uniform (some
uniform parts are available through the adult quartermaster; see details under
the section on Uniforms),
an official Boy Scout Handbook and if desired the current, official Boy Scout
Requirements book. He will then be integrated into a Patrol and begin to
actively participate in and support the Troop.
Scouting is Participation!!
Scout Participation
When a boy joins Troop 603, he is expected to participate in as many Troop events as possible and to attend his Patrol meetings when called. Records are kept of his attendance. It is Troop policy that attendance is considered part of Scout Spirit, which means that attendance will affect advancement. Each Scout will be a member of a Patrol. The program of the Troop is run by the Scouts for the benefit of all who wish to participate. Participation makes it work!
Parent Participation and
Responsibility
As a parent, you "join" the Troop when your son joins.
Your assistance is needed in making Scouting a success. The Boy Scouts of
America has stringent guidelines regarding adult supervision and "two-deep
leadership." Most Scouting activities will be canceled if there are
not at least 3 registered leaders over 21 years of age and another adult leader
18 and over.
A partial list of areas
for parent participation include:
- To complete the required forms
in the membership packet and turn them in as soon as possible.
- Attend Courts of Honor, Parent
meetings, Family camp outs, etc.
- Volunteer to lead or actively
participate as a key contributor in any of the following committees:
Camping, Summer Camp, High Adventure Treks, Equipment, Advancement, Merit
Badges, Eagle Scout Candidates, Leadership Training, Service Projects,
Fundraising, Newsletter, Board, Mailing, Phone Bank, Calendar, Roster, and
Treasurer to name a few.
- Volunteer to provide assistance
with transportation to and from Troop 603 sponsored events.
- Maintain an awareness of your
son's participation, progress and behavior within the troop.
- Teach some skill at which you
are an "expert" (Knots, First Aid, etc.)
- Serve as a Merit Badge
Counselor
- Help with equipment repair and
maintenance.
- Be aware of your son's
fundraising activities and encourage him to help support the Troop.
- Help serve refreshments at
various Troop functions.
Parents should make it a point to attend each Court of Honor. Parents should have the calendar of events issued by Troop 603 (published on the web site at http://www.troop603.net/) so that they will know what events call for their attendance. Parents are encouraged to attend regular meetings, to allow the boys to demonstrate the Scouting program in action and for the parent to be aware of his son's level of participation and behavior within troop activities.
The Troop schedules activities that allow for family participation, and parents are welcome to come to any camping and hiking events to "observe". Troop 603 strives to be strictly boy run by The Patrol Method. Parents should keep in mind that they are visitors and they should not interrupt the Troop's tasks such as cooking, fire-building, and other duty roster responsibilities. As each Patrol member shows respect for other Patrol members and campsites, parents are expected to do likewise. For example, you may not enter a Patrol campsite without specific permission from that Patrol and Scoutmaster.
It is Troop 603 policy that all adults (over the age of 18) attending an overnight outing must have taken BSA Youth Protection Training. This training is offered frequently both within the troop, and at District and Council level events, and takes only about 90 minutes to complete. For events within the DelMarVa Council, Youth Protection Training is valid for 3 years. Validity for events outside the Council will vary but may be as little as one year in some situations. The only exception to this requirement is that parents of visiting Webelos camping with the troop are encouraged but not required to have Youth Protection Training.
Adult
Training
The Boy Scouts of America provides a wide variety of training for adults involved in scouting. The minimal set of training can be accomplished in only a couple of hours - this is Youth Protection Training and Fast Start training. All adults participating actively should have at least these, and they are offered in the troop frequently.
The next step is a class called "New Leader Essentials" which builds on the concepts introduced in Fast Start. Adults involved with the outdoor program will want to take the scoutmaster/assistant scoutmaster training offered each year by the Freedom Trail District. This training covers the basics of how Scout troops operate, as well as covering the basic set of outdoor skills involved in Scouting. It is designed to be a fun course, with a chance to get to know other scouters in the area. You'll enjoy being involved with troop outings much more after taking this class, because you'll understand why things are done the way they are. You don't have to be registered as an assistant scoutmaster to take this course - troop committee members can take it too!
After you've gone through the basic training, you can also take advanced training, such as Wood Badge, considered the ultimate scout leader training. This training focuses on leadership and team development, and is relevant not only to scouting but to most careers.
Another area of parental involvement is discipline. Discipline should not be a problem in a Scout Troop. Since a boy's participation is voluntary, it is reasonable to assume that he wants to be a good Scout. A Scout's behavior is expected to conform to the Scout Oath and Scout Law, which each Scout is expected to know from memory.
Discipline is maintained by the Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leaders, and Troop Guides with supervision by the Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters. In certain circumstances parents may be called to come and get their son, obtain details of the situation and counsel with their son concerning his behavior, his compliance with the Scout Oath and Law, and his continued participation in the Troop.
Reasons for counseling
include violations of the Troop 603 Code of Conduct such as:
- Blatantly disobeying leaders
- Fighting
- Foul language (vulgar and or profane language)
- Stealing
- Vandalism
- Violating safety procedures (fire, fuel, placing
ones self or another person in harms way, etc.)
- Continued disruptive activity
- Multiple violations of Camping Rules "Don’ts"
Moving
large groups and multiple vehicles is always slower than travel with a family
in a single car. We have to work together to avoid significant loss of time. We
want to be comfortable, but we don't want to be unnecessarily delayed either.
Your cooperation on the following points is essential.
- The trip leader is responsible
for determining which vehicles will be going. If you want to drive, you
must arrange that in advance with the tour leader. The trip leader is
responsible for seeing that we take the minimum vehicles necessary to
comfortably accommodate everyone and everything. Extra vehicles add both
complication and expense, neither of which we need. Also, the tour leader
will be filing a tour permit with the council. This permit is the basis
for our insurance coverage. If your vehicle is not on it, then you are not
a part of the tour, you are not covered and you may not transport any
scouts - not even your son. Please don't show up at departure time and ask
to drive if you have not already made arrangements with the trip leader!
- Late Arrivals and Early
Departures. If you need to leave early, or to arrive late, you must
arrange this in advance with the trip leader. Please don't just
pack up your son in the middle of the outing and leave. Remember that the
outing is not over and the scouts are not released until the SPL has
closed the outing and dismissed the scouts.
- Please make sure that the trip
leader has your cell phone number and that you have the trip leader’s cell
phone number. You should also have
the cell phone number of the other drivers as well.
- Get extra keys for your
vehicle. Give the extra to another adult. Each driver should have a
counterpart (adult or driving age son) who can move your vehicle if need
be.
- At pit stops, our goal will be
to keep things moving, to leave as soon as the last Scout has been to the
bathroom. These are not tourist stops. As soon as all the cars are ready,
an assigned "loadmaster" will do a sweep of the station, check
with all drivers to see that all Scouts are accounted for, and then signal
departure. No one leaves until the loadmaster says, "go."
- Unplanned pit stops. These do
happen. That's one reason we want cell phones. When possible we will try
to use roadside parks so we don't get bogged down in another round of
drink and snack buying. If we must stop at a service station or fast food
joint, we will make every effort to see that it is a pit stop, not a snack
stop.
- Unplanned side trips: the GROUP
STAYS TOGETHER. As a driver, do not take it upon yourself to leave the
group without approval from the trip leader and notification to the lead
car and the "tail end Charlie." The trip leader is responsible
for all the Scouts, including your son. If you have a vehicle
problem, need other supplies, or whatever, discuss your need with the trip
leader. If necessary, the entire group will go with you, wait for you, or
alternate plans will be made. Please, do not leave the group; your
independent action can negatively affect the entire trip.
- Snacks and drinks. Each driver
has the option to allow or not allow these items in the car. It's your
call. Coolers are also your call. When we make stops, discourage the
Scouts from purchasing the extra large drinks that will hasten their need
for an unplanned pit stop. If you have a cooler in the car, please monitor
drink consumption for the same reason.
- Snacks and drinks for Scouts at
stops. We will allow reasonable purchases at gas stops, as long as the
purchases do not delay the group. Sometimes a gas stop will occur just
before a major event stop where food and drink will be available. We will
coordinate these situations. At times we may ask you to keep the Scouts in
the car except for the bathroom. In those cases, adults will be asked to
police the situation so that we don't get bogged down at the register with
snack purchases.
- While we travel generally
together, we don't want to be six or seven cars lined up on each other's
rear bumper. We want to spread out and leave plenty of room for other
vehicles to move around us. A chain reaction would be a disaster. The cell
phones will keep us in touch, and usually we will be in visual range of
much of the group. Once we set up a pattern, keep the pattern so we are
used to watching out for the vehicle in front and in back. The "tail
end Charlie" needs to tell the lead car when all the group has made
an exit, an entrance onto a major highway, turned a corner, pulled into a
rest stop, etc. The lead car needs to have a good navigator that tells the
others what is happening in enough time for all to follow. The lead car
should set the pace and notify others of the pace. Please don't pass the
lead car, and don't fall behind the "tail end Charlie."
- Scouts will be assigned to the
cars and they will travel in that vehicle the entire trip. The driver is
responsible for ensuring that everyone is counted prior to departure. The
loadmaster will know head counts in each car also. We don't even want to
think about leaving a Scout behind at a stop.
- We would all be fresher if we
take turns driving. Please rotate drivers if you have an extra adult in
your vehicle. Work with your passengers and other adults via cell phone to
keep awake. The BSA refers to the Risk Zone - driver fatigue particularly
after lunch when it is all too easy to fall asleep while driving.
Membership Cost
The costs of Boy Scouting tend to be significantly lower than many other organizations because of the volunteer work of many individuals throughout the nation, the council, the district and in the troop. Troop 603 does its best to keep costs, both for dues and for campouts, as low as possible. Scholarships are available for scouts who do not have the resources to pay all costs associated with scouting. It is Troop 603's goal that no boy should miss out on the scouting experience due to finances!
Dues are currently $22.00 per year; and are paid in September. The dues include:
|
|
National Boy Scout Dues |
|
|
Troop 603 Dues |
|
|
|
|
|
Scout Insurance |
Annual dues are prorated for scouts joining at times other than Troop 603’s annual rechartering.
Outings and Camps
Monthly Campouts: Troop 603's policy is to have a flat fee for campouts, currently set at $10. Certain campouts may have special fees or charges. (Examples: a campout to go Whitewater Rafting will include the fee from the outfitter; our annual ski trip will add the cost of skiing, snowboarding or tubing to the Activity Fee. Scholarship funds ("Camperships") are available; application should be made to the Scoutmaster, Activities Coordinator or the Treasurer.
Summer Camp: Usually $250.00 to
$260.00 depending upon the summer camp location. Generally summer camp fees are
payable in two or three installments prior to the camp. Camperships
(scholarships) may be applied for by May 1 of each year from the
High Adventure Camps: Costs are usually $1000.00 to $1500.00 (for older Scouts only). Scouts are expected to earn moneys toward their Scout account with participation in Troop fund-raisers.
Scout Account
Each Scout may open and maintain an account with the Troop Treasurer to deposit funds into for use towards camping fees, camping equipment, scout uniforms or other scout related expenses. Funds earned from Troop fund-raisers will be deposited into the Scout's account in proportion to his participation and responsibility.
Payments
The Troop 603 Committee
has instituted some guidelines for campout sign-ups and payments, with the
intent of helping with the planning process - both for scout families and for
the Troop.
|
|
|
|
|
Permission slips will be handed out 4 meetings before a normal, monthly
campout. |
|
|
Signed Permission slips and payment are due to the Activities
Coordinator 2 meetings before a normal, monthly campout. |
Exceptions for additions
to a campout attendee list will be at the discretion of the Activities
Coordinator and Scoutmaster.
As of two meetings
before a campout, reservations will be reconfirmed with the campsite and the
troop will be obligated to pay for those campsites whether someone participates
or not. A signed permission slip and payment is your commitment to attend this
campout. Late payment and late submittal of a signed permission slip may not
allow us to have a spot for you on the trip. Exceptions will be at the discretion
of the Activities Coordinator and Scoutmaster.
Cancellations after 2
meetings before a campout will normally not entitle you to a refund. However,
refunds may be extended based on actual funds spent at the discretion of the
Treasurer.
Special
Events / Camps
From time to time, we
will have special events, which will have a different sign-up and fee payment
schedule, i.e. Summer Camp, Whitewater Rafting and
****************Note that all costs and fees quoted are as of January 2006 and are subject to change. ******************
The Scout uniform is one of the “eight methods of Scouting.” What this means is that the outward principles of the uniform are helpful in instructing the Scout Law and Oath and that it is up to adult leaders to see that uniforms are worn. As youth, Scouts understand that to participate on sports teams or to serve in church they are expected to dress a certain way. Boy Scouts is no different. Scouts should expect wearing the uniform to be a part of the scouting experience. Scouts should wear some aspect of the uniform to every Troop 603 event.
|
“The uniform is a steady reminder that you have pledged yourself
to the same high ideals of living as have your brother Scouts and that
dressed as a Scout, you must act as a Scout. It challenges you to do those
things that stamp you in the eyes of the world as a real Scout and it keeps
reminding you that you have promised to do your best.” - from the Boy Scout Handbook, Sixth Edition, 1959. |
Overview
To help boys remember to
wear uniforms and to be consistent the Troop 603 leadership has designed a
uniform classification. The classifications take into account the type of
activity involved and the need for boys to be consistent in what they wear. The
classifications are “Class A”, Class “B”, and Class “C.” The youth
leadership, in consultation with adult leaders, will announce the proper
uniform ahead of each activity.
The official Boy Scout shirt and pants form the core of the uniform and are required. Younger scouts (those below Star rank) may substitute clean, non-ornamented blue jeans
Items of apparel that are not considered to be in keeping with Scouting Ideals or Spirit are not appropriate. Camouflage clothing is not allowed by BSA nor by Troop 603.
These uniform
requirements are effective as of
Class A Uniform
This is the full uniform and is required for troop meetings, travel to and from events (unless otherwise announced), training sessions, camporees, summer camp evening flag ceremonies and dinner, etc. It should be worn anytime the troop is appearing in public. The full Class A uniform is required for Boards of Review. This uniform consists of:
|
|
Official Boy Scout uniform shirt (long or short sleeve) with
correct insignia and badges |
|
|
Official Boy Scout slacks or shorts (as noted above, blue jeans
may be substituted for Scouts below Star rank) |
|
|
Official Boy Scout cloth belt or Scout-related leather belt with
Scout buckle (such as Philmont) |
|
|
Official Boy Scout socks (optional but encouraged with long
pants, required with shorts) |
|
|
Troop green neckerchief with slide (or Red/White/Blue
troop-issued “Blue Hen” neckerchief) |
|
|
Closed toe shoes (hiking boots or shoes, athletic shoes, dress
shoes) |
Troop 603 requires that boys wear their Class A uniform during travel to and from outings (Unless otherwise announced). Generally this means that the uniform shirt and neckerchief may be removed while in the vehicle but must be worn while at stops at restaurants or rest breaks (that is, any time outside the vehicle). The Class A shirt must always be worn properly buttoned and tucked in.
For formal occasions such as troop and Eagle Courts of Honor, public flag ceremonies, and district and council events, Scouts should wear their merit badge sashes along with the Class A uniform. An Order of the Arrow sash cannot be worn along with a merit badge sash, and the merit badge sash may be worn only over the shoulder - never on the belt. OA sashes are to be worn only at OA related functions and are never worn hung from the belt. Service at flag ceremonies and similar duty may require removing the merit badge sash so that it will not interfere with duties or to enforce greater uniformity between scouts.
Class
B Uniform
This is a more casual uniform and is required for informal events when in a troop setting. This uniform is the Troop 603 red “Polo” shirt and blue jeans. Loud colors, swimming trunks and the like are not appropriate for Class B. The class B uniform is intended to be consistent for the troop as a whole. Shirts must be tucked in.
Class
C Uniform
Class “C” is the standard wear for summer camp classes, and for activities during weekend campouts. This uniform consists of the Troop 603 tan tee shirt. The pants, belt, socks and shoes are the scout’s choice as appropriate for the activity. Swimsuits might be appropriate for pants with this uniform (but swimsuits are never appropriate for wear with the Class A uniform nor with the Class B uniform). This is the uniform that would often be worn for backpacking, fishing, canoeing and other active, outdoor activities.
Other
Situations
Some situations, such as heavy-duty service projects (most Eagle projects, for example) require clothing appropriate for the activity. For these situations, blue jeans would likely be an appropriate work pant. Shirts and hats are encouraged to be Scout or outdoor related, however, if painting is involved it might be best to not risk a Scout shirt and certainly uniform items are to be avoided.
At no time will T-shirts or other garb that advertises or depicts products, actions or events inconsistent with Scouting values be allowed. For example, a cap advertising beer or cigarettes would be unacceptable in any Scouting situation.
Headgear
When a Scout is wearing a Class A or B uniform outdoors, the official Boy Scout hat should be worn. With class C and below, a BSA Hat/Cap should also be worn (or activity-appropriate headgear such as a broad-brimmed hat). Any non-BSA headgear is expected to be in keeping with the Scout code. As befits young gentlemen caps and hats are removed when entering and while inside any building.
Neckerchief
Troop 603 has its own, distinctive neckerchief, a blue, white and red combination. Neckerchief slides should be official BSA, Scout commemorative, patrol-specific, or of a Scouting or outdoor nature. Non-official slides must be approved by adult leadership. Patrols are strongly encouraged to develop their own special patrol-specific slides!
Insignia
Shirts must have the
proper insignia sewn (not glued!) on. The right shoulder should have the
American flag and the patrol emblem; the left shoulder the DelMarVa Council
patch, below that the troop numerals "603", and below that, if the
scout holds a troop office such as Patrol Leader, the patch for that office. If
the scout has been trained for that position, he may wear the
"trained" strip below the patch of office. On the left pocket goes
his badge of rank (scout, tenderfoot, 2nd class, 1st class, star, life, eagle).
Above the left pocket the round purple World Crest emblem would be placed.
Also, if the boy has earned a religious award, in scouts or cubs, he may wear
the appropriate square knot patch immediately above the left pocket. If he
earned the Arrow of Light award in Cub Scouts, that patch goes immediately
below the left pocket. If he is a member of the Order of the Arrow who has paid
dues for the current year, that patch (the “Lodge Flap”) goes on the right
pocket flap, and on the right pocket itself can go a temporary patch, such as
Camp Henson Summer Camp, etc. The inside front and back pages of the Boy Scout
Handbook show the proper location for the various insignia and awards that are
earned by the Scouts and used on the uniform. You may also consult the Official
Scout Insignia Guide for proper position of the insignia if there are any
questions. Additional badges of rank, badges of office and patrol insignia are
available for purchase from the Advancement Committee chair. Note that while
patch glue (“badge bond”) seems like a good idea, it does not allow for easy
removal of patches. Sewing is a useful skill and it is not at all unreasonable
to expect boys to sew on their own patches.
Adult
Uniforms
Adult leaders are
encouraged to follow the same uniform standards (Class A, Class B, etc.) as the
boys, especially those adults acting as Assistant Scoutmasters and working with
boys as part of the troop program. Adults may substitute Scout bolo ties for
neckerchiefs if desired, and may substitute non-BSA green shorts or trousers if
desired (but try to keep the color as close to BSA green as possible). In formations
with the scouts (such as dinner at summer camp, troop photos, Courts of Honor)
the troop neckerchief is recommended. Setting a good example is the main adult
leadership role. It is understood that sometimes adults will need to come
directly from work and that full uniform isn’t feasible.
Uniform
Assistance
Troop 603 recognizes
that young men are growing rapidly during their early scouting years and that
the uniform is an expense that can become overwhelming. Please contact the
Scoutmaster or Troop Committee Chairperson if the purchase of a uniform creates
a financial hardship. Troop 603 will provide assistance where needed. Troop 603
also maintains a uniform exchange supply. Please see the Adult Quartermaster
for details, and please donate outgrown uniform items to the uniform bank.
Parents may also wish to
consider purchasing used uniforms. The online auction site eBay is a good
source of affordable used uniform items - see the Collectibles > Historical Memorabilia >
Fraternal Groups > Boy Scouts > Uniforms category. Uniform
parts can occasionally be found at used clothing stores such as Goodwill.
Wearing
the Uniform Appropriately
The Boy Scout uniform
has a long and honored history. Troop 603 encourages every boy to wear his
uniform proudly and correctly. It is a symbol that marks him as belonging to a
select group of young men. The uniform tells the world what the Scout believes
in and what he lives by. We strongly endorse the wearing of the uniform.
Conscientious and proper display of the uniform is considered part of Scout
Spirit, which is a prerequisite for rank advancement.
Troop
Organization
Troop 603 is organized into
several operating units, including the Patrols, the Patrol Leaders Council, the
adult leaders, and the Troop Committee.
Patrols are groups of
approximately 8 to 12 Scouts that are the smallest democratic unit of the
Troop. Patrols are selected so that, as nearly as possible, boys that enjoy
being together are in the same Patrol. If there is a problem, the Scout will
need to confer with the Patrol Leader and the Scoutmaster. The Patrols operate
using the "Patrol Method" which is described later in this guide.
Qualifications for Scout
leadership positions are described in the section entitled Troop 603
Scout Leadership Positions.
All leadership positions
have a 30 day probation period. It is the Scoutmaster's option to remove a
scout from a leadership position if needed. The Scoutmaster will have a
conference with the Scout first.
The PLC (Patrol Leaders'
Council) is comprised of the Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol
Leader, Quartermaster, and the Patrol Leaders. Assistant Patrol Leaders should
attend so that they are aware of plans and thus are able to step in when their
Patrol Leader is unable to attend a meeting or outing. It is their job to plan
and run the programs of the Troop, under guidance of the troop's adult
leadership. The PLC (along with the Troop Scribe who is a non-voting member)
meets periodically, generally monthly, to plan the Troop meetings and the
upcoming monthly weekend activities.
Adult
Leaders
The adult leadership is
comprised of adults 18 years of age or older, whose function is to guide the
Scouts in the execution of the program, especially with regard to the aims of
Scouting (
The Troop Committee acts as
the "ways and means" committee of the Troop. It is the committee's
responsibility to provide the resources to run the Troop's Scout program,
including leadership, activities, funding, equipment, facilities and sites,
training and communications. All parents are urged to register and attend all
committee meetings. The Adult Leaders request that parents volunteer for
committee positions and may ask parents to fill a committee position.
Parents are welcome and
encouraged to observe Troop meetings. Meeting times are noted on the calendar,
and are usually held Thursday evenings from
The "Chain of
Command" revolves around the Senior Patrol Leader who leads the PLC in
conducting the program. He serves as the channel of communication between the
patrols and the adult leaders. Scouts with questions or needing assistance or
guidance should go first to their patrol leader, who in turn should go to the
Senior Patrol Leader, who will then go to the Junior Assistant Scoutmaster and
then to their assigned Assistant Scoutmaster, if it is needed. The success of
the program revolves around the effectiveness of the Patrol, PLC, and Adult
leadership.
It is important that
everyone be informed of news and events concerning the Troop. Information flows
through several channels in Troop 603.
The Troop issues activity,
event and other important information at scout meetings throughout the year.
Scouts are responsible for listening to instructions and schedules at meetings,
and understanding and remembering them. A pocket or spiral notebook will help.
Scouts are responsible for transmitting messages, newsletters, and calendars to
parents. Parents should ask their son if there is any information that they
need to know when he returns home from a meeting. These meeting announcements
are the primary form of communication for the troop.
Patrol Leaders are
responsible for informing their members about Troop events and special
requirements, instructions, or equipment needs. This typically happens during
patrol meetings but may also take the form of phone calls between meetings.
The Senior Patrol Leader is
responsible for informing the Patrol Leaders, and the Scoutmaster is
responsible for informing the Senior Patrol Leader and the Adult leadership.
If a Scout misses a
meeting, it is his responsibility to call his Patrol Leader or senior patrol
leader to acquire any information, handouts, newsletter, permission forms
and/or other information necessary for participation in troop activities.
Informational handouts are
sometimes given out at meetings. These informational sheets are intended to
inform the scouts, parents, and friends of the Troop about events,
instructions, achievements, needs and news of the Troop and Troop membership.
Please read these newsletters and keep them handy. From time to time, a
calendar and directory of Troop members will be issued. An online troop
calendar is kept up-to-date on http://www.troop603.net
and is the definitive troop calendar.
Troop 603 conducts a full program of camping activities year round. Campouts are held at least 10 times each year. Consult the current calendar (http://www.troop603.net) for dates. Campouts feature competitive events in Scouting skills, campfires, camp wide games, advancement, worship services, special activities and tours, and lots of fun.
Part of the camping program is designed to teach young men how to deal with adversity such as bad weather. This requires participation. Campouts are held rain or shine. A scout should be prepared to protect himself adequately from the elements. He receives instructions in these methods by regularly attending scout meetings. Campouts are only canceled in the event of unsafe conditions.
Adult
"coordinators" are assigned to each campout. They are responsible for
insuring that all permission slips and other required forms are turned in, all
fees are paid, and that there are adequate vehicles and seat belts to transport
the scouts to and from the campout. Coordinators are also expected to attend
the campout to serve as adult leadership. Two coordinators are assigned to each
campout during the August planning meeting but more are always welcome.
Campouts are organized via the Patrol Method wherever and whenever possible. The patrol method gives Boy Scouts an experience in group living and participating citizenship. It places responsibility on young shoulders and teaches boys how to accept it. The patrol method allows Scouts to interact in small groups where members can easily relate to each other. These small groups determine troop activities through elected representatives. In general, this means that patrols set up their tents together, separate from other patrols, and that patrols will be assigned specific duties for specific times.
The Patrol Method with respect
to cooking consists of the following:
- The Patrol meets in the weeks prior to the
campout and all members participate in the planning of the menu using a
balanced menu plan. Menus are planned for each meal of the campout.
- The menu and supply list is then approved by a
member of the adult leadership. A shopping list for both food and any
needed supplies should be attached to the menu.
- Patrol members should establish a budget based
on the number of meals to be prepared during the trip and allocate an equal
per scout cost to all patrol members and guest(s).
- After the menu and budget has been reviewed and
approved, the Patrol Leader should collect funds from each patrol member
and guest.
- A member of the Patrol is designated (generally
one that needs to complete the Second Class food purchase
"camping" requirement) to buy the food for the Patrol.
- The food buying Patrol member will go to the
store and purchase the food and supplies for the meals for the campout.
- Patrol members share in the preparation of the
meal. All scouts should get a balanced meal. Scouts share in the clean up
as listed on the duty roster set by the boys in their planning session.
- Following the campout, unused food and supplies
should be returned to the store for credit if possible. Any remaining
perishables that cannot be returned should be divided among the Patrol
members as equally as possible. Non-perishables that cannot be returned
should be placed in the food chuck box for use at the next campout.
Policies That Relate To
The Patrol
- Scouts should plan together so
that most of the members like what is on the menu. If a scout is not
present when the menu is planned, he needs to be prepared to accept what
is planned.
- Scouts should never bring their
own food
unless the troop camping plan calls for a special arrangement. For
example, a "feed-bag" (sack lunch) may be needed for travel to a
distant campout or for a first meal during winter camping months due to
limited daylight.
- If a Scout commits to come to a
campout and then later becomes unable to attend, he should immediately
notify his Patrol Leader so the shopping list can be modified. If the
food has already been purchased, the Scout must pay the campout fee. In
other words, the Patrol should be able to plan on the Scout's participation.
The Patrol and Patrol
Method is a central feature in accomplishing the aims of Scouting. Every effort
is made by the adult leadership to encourage Patrol participation and identity.
Patrol names that fit the spirit of Scouting are appropriate. It is critical
that Scouts be happy in their Patrol and that they contribute to their Patrol.
Immediate problems need to be handled through the chain of command.
|
|
Patrol Leader |
|
|
(Troop Guide
for new scout patrols) |
|
|
Senior Patrol
Leader |
|
|
Junior
Assistant Scoutmaster |
|
|
Scoutmaster |
Ongoing/constant problems need to be
discussed with any adult leader. One of the most important ways of solving a
problem is to know what the problem is. For this, it is imperative that the
boys follow the chain of command. One of the goals of this Troop is that every
boy learn how to communicate and learn to solve problems with boy leadership.
This teaches them reliance on peers, decision-making, independence, and
responsibility.
One
question that will come up almost immediately is "What equipment does my
son need?" The troop is well supplied with equipment for most outings. The
boys will need a few items of personal gear - we suggest the following: a
Sierra (or similar) cup that can also be used as a bowl, a spoon made of Lexan,
a modest sized plastic insulated mug, a sleeping bag or blankets and a ground
pad (preferably a closed cell foam pad, not an air mattress), a flashlight (the
two AA cell sized maglite is ideal) and the boy's personal hygiene kit (deodorant,
toothbrush, comb, etc.). We don't recommend that the boys use down sleeping
bags, as they are expensive and will fail when wet - the boys will do fine with
polyester or similar fiber bags. A mummy-style sleeping bag with hollow
polyester fiber filling (Hollofill II or Polarguard for example) that is rated
to 20 or 25 degrees will work well year round in
On most campouts, especially those designated as "backpacking", the Scout will need to bring his equipment in a backpack; for new scouts and for occasional other campouts, a duffel bag is satisfactory. Troop 603 recommends that parents not spend a great deal of money on equipment until the Scout gains some experience. For the first year or so of scouting, many Troop members rent or borrow the equipment they need. This provides them with the opportunity to become familiar with different types of gear and minimizes the expenditure.
Before being allowed to
use a knife in Troop 603 boys will be expected to earn their "Totin'
Chip" card. An adequate camping knife will have a blade no longer than
three inches and be a lock-back or pocket knife. Sheath knives aren't allowed
and "technical knives" - those with mostly serrated edges - aren't
recommended. Multi-tools are acceptable as long as the knife isn't excessively
large.
See the section later in
this Handbook for a Camping Checklist. A similar
checklist is found in most camping guides and in the Boy Scout Fieldbook.
Special
guidelines and rules for Troop 603 activities:
Do's
- Always bring a complete change of clothing (2 in
wet weather) packed in zip-lock bags or weatherproof bags.
- Always bring several pairs of dry socks in
waterproof bags.
- Boots-above-the-ankle are preferred footwear.
- Cameras are allowed, at Scout's own risk -
consider the waterproof, disposable cameras.
- Always bring a ground cloth, poncho (or raincoat
of some type), and work gloves.
- Always bring the Scout Handbook, notepad, and
pencil.
- Come prepared for the weather, and come prepared
for fun! Sports equipment is welcome unless it interferes with the
individual's or the patrol's participation in the patrol and troop
activities.
- If a Scout is on any prescribed medication,
place the medication, in it’s original container, in a clear plastic bag
with complete instructions and give to the adult leader in charge of the campout.
It is the Scout's responsibility to go to the adult leader when it is time
to take medication; the adult leader is only responsible for keeping track
of the medications.
- Scouts should write their name on everything
they bring, include the Troop number if it is a council or district
activity where other Troops will be present - such as summer camp.
- The Class A uniform is always worn to and from
camp and for Sunday chapel (unless otherwise announced).
Don'ts
- Never bring personal radio's, TV's, or electronic
games (these are allowed for in-car use only on long trips - if in doubt
ask the adult leader in charge of the trip)
- Never bring any knives other than those approved
under BSA guidelines. Troop 603 specifically prohibits large sheath
knives. In most cases knives with blades no longer than three and one-half
(3½) inches are adequate for camping.
- Never bring an axe or hatchet of any kind. Axes
and hatchets may only be used by Scouts who are trained and qualified by
the Scoutmaster and will be used only in the axe yard.
- Never bring soda, candy, or snacks on any of the
campouts. This attracts ants and varmints and is potentially dangerous.
Chewing gum on hikes is OK if trash and litter do not become a problem. If
it does, gum will be added to the "don't" list.
- Never go on a campout without required daily
medications taken or brought. Parents will be called to bring the
medication out to the campout location.
Hiking
Program
Troop 603 often hikes on
campouts. However, hikes may occur independent of campouts. Any specific
requirements for equipment will be covered with the Scouts prior to the hike.
On any campout where hikes are planned, Scouts will need to bring some sort of
fanny pack or day pack, adequate for carrying drinking water, lunch, personal
first aid kit, camera, and anything else they wish to carry. They will also
need to bring some sort of water bottle - the disposable water bottles from the
supermarket are usually adequate. Don't forget that an all day hike will
require quite a bit of water - one bottle might not be enough.
Advancement
This
is an Overview of the Advancement Guidelines. Additional details on advancement
may be found in the Boy Scout Handbook, in the current edition of Boy Scout
Requirements, and on the internet at the U.S. Scouting Project Home Page, www.usscouts.org.
Scout advancement materials may also be obtained from the troop advancement Chairperson
or the scoutmaster. The specific rules for advancement come from the most current
"Boy Scout Requirements" book (as of this writing, dated 2002, BSA
Publication 33215E), and "Advancement Committee Policies and
Procedures" (BSA Publication #33088C or later). This document is intended
to explain those requirements and procedures, but does not supersede them in
any way. In the event of conflict, the BSA Policies and Requirements will
prevail.
Troop 603 offers a
complete advancement program, based on the regulations and procedures of the
Boy Scouts of America.
Rank Advancement
progress from New Scout through First Class, and culminating in the Eagle award
depends upon a scout's participation in the various troop activities and his
demonstration of and adherence to the BSA Code of Conduct (Scout Oath, Scout
Law, & Scout Motto) as a way of life. Advancement is not possible without
going on troop outings, and participation in troop sponsored service and fund
raising activities.
Troop 603 provides a
climate that encourages the scout to advance as a natural course in his mastery
of scout programs. In spite of this, the scout's ability to advance will depend
mainly on a Scout's own initiative. If a scout takes advantage of the troop
programs and participates actively, he may reasonably expect to attain the rank
of First Class within the first year. Advancement to Eagle may be achieved
within another 2 years; however, 4 or 5 years is not an unreasonable time to
accomplish the requirements for Eagle Scout.
All new scouts must
accomplish the Joining Requirements. Scouts then begin working on the Tenderfoot,
Second, and First Class ranks, which are basic skills requirements. The Star,
Life, and Eagle ranks are characterized by having leadership, service, and
merit badge requirements.
The leadership of Troop
603 places great emphasis on the individual scout demonstrating his ability to
live by the 12 points of the Scout Law and the Scout Oath. This level of
conduct must be demonstrated to be a way of life and not only adhered to during
Scout related activities. Advancement beyond First Class will be dependent on
how well the individual scout upholds and propagates the Scout Code of Conduct.
It is the Scout's
responsibility to learn the advancement program. He can learn through
discussions with his Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader, troop guides or Instructor
Scouts or members of the adult leadership. His Scout Handbook and Boy Scout
Requirements books are his best sources of information. It is the adult
leader's responsibility to provide a means for the Scout to set and accomplish
his goals. Scouts earning rank advancements will be recognized at a Court of
Honor after successfully completing the Board of Review and Scoutmaster
Conference.
Primary
Rank Advancements
Troop 603 encourages
more experienced scouts to mentor younger scouts in basic scout skills. Some of
the senior scouts will be designated as Troop Guides or Instructors, with the
explicit duties of teaching these skills. As advancement opportunities occur
frequently in the course of troop events and campouts, at the discretion of the
Scoutmaster other scouts who have achieved 1st class or above may sign off on
Tenderfoot, 2nd Class, and 1st Class requirements. All rank advancement is
tracked by the advancement committee. It is the scout's responsibility to
submit periodic updates to the records to the Troop Advancement Assistant Chairperson.
Please note that until a rank is achieved, the only definitive record of which
requirements have been signed off is in the scout's handbook. It may be worth
occasionally photocopying the signoff pages as insurance against loss or
damage.
Advanced
Ranks
Star, Life & Eagle
requirements will need to be signed off by the Scoutmaster or an Assistant
Scoutmaster.
For advanced ranks the
scout must serve satisfactorily in a BSA troop leadership position for four or
six months while in rank to advance to the next rank. It is the scout's
responsibility to make sure that he is in a position that will meet the rules.
By the time a scout is progressing through the advanced ranks, he should be in
direct position of line of authority such as Den Chief, Patrol Leader, Troop
Guide, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader or Instructor.
Participation in all forms of troop activities is crucial to obtain the
required position.
To advance in rank all
scouts must demonstrate rank and age appropriate understanding and application
of the 12 Points of the Scout Law, The Scout Oath, and Scout Motto. The Troop's
Senior Scout leaders and Adult leaders should be in strong agreement that the
scout demonstrated the values that Troop 603 is trying to instill in each scout
prior to his advancement in rank. Additionally this level of character and
self-control should be evident not only in scout sponsored activities but in
all activities outside of scouting. (i.e. church, community, home, school,
sports, social and work.)
To assist the scout in
advancement through these ranks the Troop's Adult leadership will conduct
formal and informal appraisals of each scout that should assist both the scout
and his parent's understanding of his ability to meet the rank advancement
requirements. The focus of this appraisal will be primarily on the values of
scouting and the application of the Patrol Method to achieve intended results
to successfully accomplish projects, assignments, task and the execution of
leadership requirements. The application of this appraisal is intended to
provide an assessment of the individual scout by several leaders to assure fair
appraisal of each scout as relates to scout skills, spirit and values.
Service Projects and project
participation are required as is a demonstration of Scout Spirit. Also, for
Star and Life ranks, a Scout must perform 6 hours of service to others. Star
and Life service hours may be approved for scouts assisting in the Eagle
service projects. Many other community service projects will apply, but please
seek scoutmaster approval before starting the project.
Eagle
The requirements for
Eagle are covered in a special publication. Upon reaching Life rank, you will
receive the "Life to Eagle" packet, which includes the Eagle
application and Eagle Service Project Workbook. Immediately upon reaching Life
rank obtain your complete advancement record from the Advancement Chairperson
and request an audit of the Troop (and personal record) with the District and Council
records. The records should be consistent. If there are discrepancies now is
the time to resolve them. Use the audited record report only to begin
completion of your Eagle application. The District will confirm your
application based on their records, not yours. Eagle awards will only be given
to the scout during a special Eagle Court of Honor.
Boards
of Review
Each rank advancement is finalized by the Scout going before a Board of Review. This is simply a panel comprised of three or more members of the Troop Committee. The members of a Board of Review should have the following objectives in mind:
|
|
To make sure the Scout has completed the requirements for the rank. |
|
|
To see that the Scout is having a good experience in the unit. |
|
|
To encourage the Scout to progress further. |
Additionally, the Board
of Review provides "quality control" on advancement within the unit,
it provides an opportunity for the Scout to develop and practice those skills
needed in an interview situation, and it is an opportunity for the Scout to
review his accomplishments.
The Board of Review is
NOT a retest; the Scout has already been tested on the skills and activities
required for the rank. However, the Chairperson of the Board of Review should
ensure that all the requirements have been "signed off" in the
Scout's handbook. Additionally, the Chairperson should ensure that leadership
and merit badge records are consistent with the requirements for the rank.
The Board of Review is
an opportunity to review the Scout's attitude, accomplishments and his
acceptance of Scouting's ideals.
Troop 603 will schedule
a Board of Review as needed. Scouts ready for a board must apply to the
Advancement Chairperson to be added to the schedule. On occasion, Boards of
Review will be convened on campouts if time permits. Scouts interested in this
option should discuss it with the Advancement Chairperson.
Courts
of Honor
Courts of Honor are held
at least twice per year, to recognize Scouts for their personal achievement.
Scouts achieve "ranks" by completing advancement requirements. The Ranks available in Boy Scouting are:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
. |
. |
. |
. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As a general guideline, Troop 603 is oriented
toward having new Scouts join the Troop in the February/March time frame.
Ideally these Scouts earn their Tenderfoot badge prior to the beginning of
Summer Camp in the summer of the year they join. We provide the opportunities
for these Scouts to complete their Second and First class ranks prior to the
next group of new Scouts joining. Scouts can then proceed on their Star, Life,
and Eagle requirements. As a general rule, the Troop would like to make it
possible for a Scout to earn his Eagle rank prior to his 16th
birthday, if this is of interest. This is very possible if the Scout and his
parents work toward this objective.
Merit Badges
Merit Badges are the fun part of scouting. The
lower ranks of scouting are characterized by having a check-off list of things
that must be accomplished while the more advanced ranks (Life, Star, and Eagle)
are achieved through earning merit badges, service projects, and leadership. A
scout that is working on any rank can earn merit badges.
Merit badges fall into two general categories:
Eagle Required and non-Eagle Required. Troop 603 attempts to make available the
opportunity for all scouts to earn the Eagle Required merit badges. This will
be done through programs at monthly campouts, summer camp, monthly camping
trips, and at special classes. The non-Eagle Required merit badges may be
earned at any time the scout desires. Scouts aiming toward earning Eagle rank should
pay particular attention to earning the Eagle Required merit badges.
The parents and friends of the troop should make
themselves available to counsel the Scouts on particular merit badges. This may
be done by registering your commitment with the Advancement Chairperson of the
Troop Committee. The Advancement Chairperson will provide the instructions on
how to go about counseling a merit badge, particularly the procedures required
to make sure that the Scout is approved to work on the badge and that this
progress is tracked. Only registered merit badge counselors may sign off on the
completion of a merit badge. Registration is a simple, and free process, but
without it, there is the potential that a merit badge could be questioned at a
later date. A merit badge signed off by a registered merit badge counselor
cannot be revoked.
Leadership Positions
Duties and
Responsibilities… Leading the way... What does that mean?
Think about being a Cub
Scout. You came to den meetings and did a lot of different and fun things. But
who decided what to do and who planned the activities? The Den Leaders, right?
Sports teams are a lot
of fun, too. But who decides who plays what position, who's on the starting
lineup and when to substitute? The coach, right?
There is one thing that
makes Scouting different from all other youth groups. Do you know what it is?
Well, it is not the
uniform. Every soccer, basketball, and baseball team has a uniform.
It is not the fun
activities. There are a lot of other things that are fun.
And it certainly isn't
cleaning dirty pots and pans on a campout.!!
What makes Scouting
special is that the Scouts make the decisions!
That's right! The Scouts
should run the troop. Baden-Powell made it very plain in Aids to
Scoutmastership when he wrote,
"The best progress
is made in those Troops where power and responsibility are really put into the
hands of the Patrol Leaders."
This is real decision-making power. And it's not just Patrol Leaders. All of the troop leadership positions have a hand in making the Troop run. As a troop leader your son will:
|
|
Plan and run troop meetings, |
|
|
Pick troop outings, where to camp, what to do, |
|
|
Plan advancement opportunities for all troop members |
|
|
Select High-Adventure programs |
|
|
Determine troop policy |
|
|
Help other Scouts along the trail to Eagle. |
Sound cool? It really
is! The adults are there to provide support but the Scouts should be making the
decisions.
Because being a leader
is more than just sewing on a patch we have put together job descriptions for
the troop leadership positions. They will give you a good idea of what each job
is all about and what your Scout will be required to do.
Here's how to be
considered for a position. First, your Scout should read the job descriptions,
qualifications, and job responsibilities. Then decide what he wants to do and
talk it over with you, his parents. He can also talk it over with other Scouts
who have served in that position. Finally, he should get a troop job
application form, fill it out, have you (parent(s)) read and sign it and turn
it in.
So, are you ready to
"Lead the way"? We sure hope so!
The
Order
of the Arrow is a national brotherhood of Scout honor campers that
originated in 1915 to strengthen troops and encourage outdoor experiences. It
is based on brotherhood and cheerful service to fellowmen. It is the one award
in Scouting that a Scout cannot earn on his own. Troop members are nominated
and elected to membership by fellow Scouts in their own troop. They must meet
certain entry qualifications that are established by the Order of the Arrow.
The Order of the Arrow
program in the DelMarVa Council is conducted through the Nentego Lodge under
the authority of the Scout executive. Each troop may hold an election once a
year under supervision of the Nentego Lodge. The election itself is conducted
by the Order of the Arrow lodge committee. There is a very rigid set of
balloting criteria that must be met and the process for determining the scouts
elected for membership is defined by the Order of the Arrow. Following the
election of Scouts (and, occasionally, an adult leader), the OA election team
will inform the Scoutmaster who was selected.
It is Troop 603's policy
to not inform the Scouts of their being chosen. They will be "called
out" at a ceremony that is held at Boy Scout summer camp (or a District
camporee). Parents are notified so that they may be present at the "call
out". Scouts elected to the Order of the Arrow have one year from the date
of the election to take part in an OA "Ordeal".
Service
projects consist of good deeds that benefit the Chartering Organization, the
community, religious organization, or a school. These must always be discussed
with the Scoutmaster before actually being done to ensure that they can be
counted toward rank advancement. A Scout may work on one by himself if the
opportunity arises, but he must seek approval of the Scoutmaster in advance in
order to count it for rank advancement. The Troop will also arrange for service
projects to help the Scouts with advancement. There are different time lengths
for different ranks. A Scout may only accumulate the hours needed for the rank
he is working towards. He cannot "save" hours for his next rank.
Scouts working on their
Eagle Scout rank need to have a counselor work with them to insure that the proper
requirements are being met. The Scout will then propose the project to the
committee. The Advancements Chairperson will then submit the Advancement
Booklet to the Council office for the proper approval. After receiving this,
the Scout may go ahead with his planning and encourage the boys in the Troop to
help him. It is very important that every Scout help a fellow Scout by helping
work when needed, due to the fact that they one day will be planning an Eagle
Scout Service Project.
The
twelfth point of the Scout Law is "A Scout is Reverent." It is the
intent and policy of Troop 603 to observe this point of the Scout Law as a part
of all campouts and official troop meetings. Patrols are encouraged to
incorporate a grace into their meals.
As many troop activities
carry over into Sunday, Scouts elect a Chaplain's Aide who is responsible for
planning and conducting a chapel service during Sunday morning's activities.
The Chaplain's Aide plans the chapel in consultation with the adult leadership.
The service is intended to be non-denominational and thus should be acceptable
to most scouts. Contact the Chaplain's Aide or Scoutmaster if you have
concerns.
We believe
that a Scout should receive recognition for his
achievements.
Advancement sets a
pattern of setting positive goals and reaching them throughout life. Even
though it is not one of the primary aims of Scouting, advancement is a natural
byproduct when your Scouting experience is acquainting you with the BSA ideals,
the patrol method, the outdoors, association with adults, personal growth,
leadership development, and the Scout uniform. It's easy to advance by
following these four basic steps:
- Learning
- Testing
- Review
- Recognition
Rank
Advancement
The requirements for the
ranks of Tenderfoot through First Class prepare you to take full advantage of
all that Scouting has to offer. Star, Life, and Eagle requirements focus on
service to others and developing leadership skills.
Requirements for each
rank are outlined in the Boy Scout Handbook. You can work on advancement
requirements with your parents or other family members, with other Scouts and
with adult Scout leaders. This can be done on your own, in patrol and troop
meetings, and during other troop functions such as campouts. A good rule of
thumb is to try to complete one or two rank requirements at each troop meeting.
Scout skills cannot be
mastered by performing them just once. You will have many opportunities to
practice each skill, and you will be thoroughly tested on each requirement
before it is "signed off". In addition, expect to practice each skill
repeatedly, even after it has been signed off. As you progress, you will also
have opportunities to teach these skills to less experienced Scouts, which will
further reinforce your knowledge and skill.
As you complete each
requirement, you will be tested and signed off in the BACK section of your
handbook (pp. 438 - 449) by the Scoutmaster or by someone he designates. This
person may be an Assistant Scoutmaster, a Troop Committee Member, or another,
more experienced, Scout. (In Boy Scouts troop leaders, rather than parents,
sign off advancement requirements. In order to avoid the appearance of
impropriety, in most troops, troop leaders will not normally sign off rank
requirements for their own sons. Infrequent exceptions may be made in the case
of a leader who is teaching skills to several Scouts at once at a patrol or
troop meeting or other Scouting function, but every effort should be made to
have another leader sign off the instructing leader's son(s) if possible.)
It's up to you to take
advantage of the advancement opportunities available to you, and to take
initiative to ask for someone to test you when you are ready. You are
responsible for keeping your own personal advancement record in your handbook.
You should also record your service hours, campouts, troop activities, and
leadership positions in your handbook.
You must earn the ranks
in order, but you may complete any requirement for Tenderfoot through First
Class at any time. (For example, you may complete a First Class requirement
before finishing your Tenderfoot requirements, but you must earn Tenderfoot
rank before you are awarded Second Class and First Class ranks.)
You will be meeting
regularly with the Scoutmaster to discuss your activity in the troop and your
understanding and practice of the ideals of Scouting. This Scoutmaster
conference is also used to discuss your goals and accomplishments and is
required for each rank advancement.
You do not have to wait
until you have completed the requirements for a rank in order to ask for a
Scoutmaster conference. You may talk with the Scoutmaster at any time that is
convenient to both of you. However, for a Scoutmaster conference to count
toward rank advancement it must take place after all other requirements are
complete and before the Board of Review. At this required conference the
Scoutmaster will also help you determine whether or not you are ready to go
before the Board of Review.
After this Scoutmaster
conference, you should arrange for your Board of Review following the established
procedures. Boards of Review for all ranks except Eagle Scout, are held as
needed, and are composed of three to six registered members of the troop
committee. (Eagle Scout Boards of Review are arranged through your Council or
District Advancement Committee and can have other members.) The Board of Review
may not include the Scoutmaster or your family members.
The purpose of the Board
of Review is not to retest you but rather to ensure that you have completed all
of the requirements, to determine the quality of your troop experience, and to
encourage you to advance toward the next rank. (Sometimes you will meet a Board
of Review even when you are not ready for the next rank, in order to check your
progress and to see how things are going for you in the troop and in your
patrol. The troop Advancement Chairperson may schedule you for such a Board of
Review when (s)he feels that an extended period has passed since your last
Board of Review.)
You need to have your
Boy Scout Handbook and should be in your full uniform when you appear before a
Board of Review. At the beginning of the review, the Chairperson of the board
will bring you into the room, introduce you to the board, and invite you to be
seated. During the review the board will discuss your development along your
trail to Eagle, ask you questions about skills that were required for your
particular rank, and evaluate you in terms of troop activities and readiness
for the next rank. It is also a time for you to ask any questions you might
have and to give feedback to the troop committee about activities and your
Scouting experience in your troop and in your patrol. At the end of the review
you will be asked to leave the room while the board discusses your
qualifications. The board will then call you back into the room and inform you
either that you have been approved for the next rank or what additional actions
you must take to qualify.
After passing the Board
of Review, you will be recognized in front of the troop as soon as possible.
You will receive your new rank patch shortly after, usually at the next troop
meeting. You will be formally recognized for your rank advancements and merit
badges in front of family and friends during a ceremony at a Court of Honor. At
this time you will be presented with your wallet-sized certificate card. Troop
603, like most troops, schedules two or three Courts of Honor each year. Your
parents, other family members, and friends are invited and encouraged to attend
all Courts of Honor.
After reaching the rank
of Life Scout, you will meet with one of the adult leaders in the troop. At
this meeting you will receive your Life to Eagle packet and discuss ideas and
suggestions for your Eagle Service Project. This project must conform to
special guidelines that have been outlined by the Boy Scouts of America. Your
Scoutmaster, troop Advancement Chairperson, and a representative of your
District Advancement Committee, as well as the benefiting organization, must
approve your project before you begin carrying it out.
Merit
Badges
Earning merit badges
allows you to explore many fields, helps you round out your skills, and
introduces you to subjects that will perhaps become lifelong interests or a
rewarding career.
There are more than 100
merit badges for you to choose from. You may earn any merit badge at any time,
with Scoutmaster approval. Don't wait for someone to tell you when and which
merit badge to work on. You don't need to reach a certain rank in order to be
eligible. However, you should concentrate on achieving the rank of First Class
before devoting a lot time to working on merit badges.
Don't overwhelm yourself
by trying to complete too many badges at one time. We recommend that you
actively work on no more than two at one time until you reach the rank of First
Class, and no more than five at one time thereafter.
You can find information
about merit badge requirements in the appropriate merit badge pamphlets and in
the current year's Boy Scout Requirements book. Some of these should be
available in your troop library or at your public library. (NOTE: Troop 603
Advancement Committee keeps current requirement checklists and publications for
your use - see the Librarian to get them.) All of them are available from the
Scout Shop. If you are finished using merit badge pamphlets that you own, the
troop encourages you to donate them to the troop library. There are also
excellent merit badge resources on the Internet at
www.meritbadge.com.
Here are the steps to
earning a merit badge:
- Get a blue merit badge card
from the Advancement Chairperson, or Scoutmaster, fill in your name,
address, and the name of the badge, and ask the Scoutmaster to sign it.
Then get the name and phone number of a qualified counselor from the
Advancement Chairperson or Scoutmaster.
- Call the counselor and set up
an appointment. This can be at any place that is suitable to both of you.
Along with a buddy (another Scout, a family member, or a friend), meet
with the counselor. The counselor will explain the requirements for the
merit badge and help you get started.
- Work on the badge requirements
until you complete them, meeting with the counselor (along with your
buddy) whenever necessary. You must complete the stated requirements and
satisfy the standards of each merit badge. The merit badge counselor may
encourage you to do more than the requirements state but he or she may not
require it. YOU (not the counselor, Scoutmaster, or Advancement Chairperson)
keep the merit badge card until you have completed the requirements and
the counselor has signed the card. If you lose this card, you will have to
start the badge over unless the counselor is willing and able to vouch for
what you already completed.
- If you change counselors for
any reason, it is up to the new counselor whether or not he or she will
accept the work you did with the previous counselor. Normally the new
counselor will ask you a few questions, and if the counselor is satisfied
that you actually did the work that was signed off, he or she will accept
it.
- After you complete the merit
badge and the counselor signs your merit badge card, he or she will keep
the Counselor's section and return the rest of the card to you. Bring the
rest of the card to the Advancement Chairperson, who will keep the troop
section and return the Scout section to you.
You will receive your
merit badge shortly after you turn in the blue card (usually the next troop
meeting). Your wallet-sized certificate card will be presented to you at the
next Court of Honor.
Record-Keeping
Your advancement records
are kept in three places - your Council office, the troop Advancement Chairperson,
and yourself. The Council office keeps records supplied to them by the troop
Advancement Chairperson, who also keeps copies of these records for the troop.
Many troop Advancement Chairpersons also maintain their advancement information
on computers. You will receive three kinds of documents that you need to KEEP
IN A SAFE PLACE UNTIL AFTER YOU TURN 18 (or receive your Eagle Scout Award,
whichever is later)! These documents are: your Scout Handbook with requirements
signed off, your portion of completed blue merit badge cards, and the
wallet-sized certificate cards for rank advancement and merit badge completion.
Make sure all of them are signed or initialed by the appropriate Scout leader.
All of the cards are the same size and can be safely kept in plastic protector
pages (available at Wal-Mart, etc.) which are designed for baseball and other
sports cards. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP THESE
Recommended
|
|
Boy Scout Handbook (No. 33105) |
|
|
Current year's Boy Scout Requirements (No. 33215) |
|
|
Merit badge pamphlets |
|
|
Acknowledgements
|
|
The Scoutmaster Handbook, (No.33009) |
|
|
Advancement Committee Policies and Procedures, (No. 33088B) |
|
|
Troop 336, Longhorn Council, |
|
|
Troop 125, Crossroads of |
This checklist should be tailored to the individual campout and used every campout. The Scout should do his own packing and bring only what is necessary.
Outdoor Essentials
|
___ |
Rain Gear |
|
___ |
Flashlight and extra batteries |
|
___ |
Sunscreen |
|
___ |
Extra clothing appropriate for the weather |
|
___ |
First Aid Kit |
|
___ |
Canteen or water bottle |
|
___ |
Matches(will be held by adult leadership) |
|
___ |
Compass |
|
___ |
Twine, cord |
|
___ |
Sturdy, comfortable shoes |
Overnight Camping
|
___ |
Tent (assigned from Troop gear by Quartermaster) |
|
___ |
Cooking gear (assigned from Troop gear by Quartermaster; may
include backpack equipment or a full chuckbox setup depending upon campout
requirements) |
|
___ |
Duffel bag or Backpack |
|
___ |
Sleeping bag or blankets |
|
___ |
Knife, fork and spoon (or backpacking spoon) |
|
___ |
Plate, bowl and cup (or cup only) |
|
___ |
Toilet paper (in a zip lock bag) |
|
___ |
Trash bag |
|
___ |
Ground cloth |
|
___ |
Sleeping pad |
|
___ |
Cleanup kit |
|
___ |
Toothbrush and toothpaste |
|
___ |
Soap, |
|
___ |
Scout Handbook, Merit badge notebooks |
Optional Items
|
___ |
Watch |
|
___ |
Insect repellent |
|
___ |
Binoculars |
|
___ |
Swimsuit |
|
___ |
Camera |
|
___ |
Sunglasses |
|
___ |
Hammer for pitching tent |
|
___ |
Bird or plant ID books |
|
___ |
book or magazine |
|
___ |
Notebook and pencil |
|
___ |
Magnifying Glass |
|
___ |
Musical instrument |
Items NOT To Bring
|
___ |
Electronic games |
|
___ |
Hatchets/Axes |
|
___ |
Sandals or open toe shoes (except shower shoes) |
|
___ |
Weapons |
|
___ |
Sugary or caffeinated drinks |
|
___ |
Snacks with excessive packaging |
|
___ |
Expensive or delicate clothing |
|
___ |
Junk food |
|
___ |
Fireworks |
|
___ |
Pets |
Boy Scouting differs from
Cub Scouting in a number of ways. One is that in Cub Scouts, the adults are the
leaders, while in Boy Scouts the boys are the leaders. Another is that in Boy
Scouts, parents don't have to attend campouts. While we encourage parents to be
involved with the troop, and you are invited to attend any campouts, please
make sure that you stay home for one or two of your son's first few campouts.
He needs to adjust to the idea that when he needs help, he should get that help
from his patrol leader, not from Mom or Dad. And he needs to start developing
independence and being responsible for his own advancement, which will happen
faster if he finds himself in situations where he has to depend on himself and
the troop infrastructure. Your boy will tend to come to you and ask things like
"when are we going to eat?" or "how do I set up my tent?"
The appropriate response from a parent (and the response he'll get from any of
the adult leaders) is "Why are you asking me that? Go ask your patrol
leader."
For the first few ranks
(Tenderfoot to First Class), most advancement happens on campouts. It is
imperative that scouts bring their scout handbooks along, so that advancement
achievements can be signed off. Please make sure your son's book has his name
in it, so when it gets misplaced we can see that it is returned to him! In Cub
Scouting, parents sign off for many advancement requirements. In Boy Scouts,
parents can't sign for anything (except for merit badge requirements, and then
only if you are a registered counselor for that merit badge). In Troop 603,
adult leaders usually won't sign off on advancement requirements either (except
for scoutmaster conferences and boards of review). The older boys are supposed
to not only teach skills to the younger boys, but also to ensure that the
skills have been learned by testing them and signing off on them. The patrol
leader is ultimately responsible for advancement within the patrol, but can and
should delegate to any qualified scout to teach skills and to sign off for
them. Qualified means that the scout signing off must already have the rank
being worked on. Thus, a 2nd Class scout could sign off on a requirement for a
Tenderfoot scout working on his 2nd Class rank. This is an important
responsibility, and one that represents a beginning of the scout's leadership
career.
New scouts should begin
immediately working on their Tenderfoot rank. It isn't hard, but will require
them to participate in at least a couple of outings, and it will give them an
idea of how the advancement system works. Once they have completed the
requirements, they will need to arrange for a scoutmaster conference, and once
that has been done, they will need to go before a Board of Review. The board is
not an ordeal, rather, it is a chance for the adult leadership of the troop to
get to know the scout, help him set goals for his scouting career, and
generally to make sure that things are working well for him within the troop.
Boards of Review are scheduled as needed, but are also convened on campouts
when appropriate. The scout must be in uniform for both the scoutmaster
conference and board of review.
It is important to realize
that the scout can begin working on 2nd Class and 1st Class requirements
immediately - there is no need to wait until achieving Tenderfoot. He should be
looking ahead and taking advantage of opportunities to do things like cooking
over an open fire or other requirements for which opportunities may not be
frequent. He can also begin working on merit badges at any time - summer camp
is a great opportunity to get started on this. We find that once scouts reach
Tenderfoot, they understand the system and will advance on to Second and First
without problems, but occasional parental encouragement and reminders are
always good.
Back to the campout. You
already know he'll need his book, and will need to think a little before he
goes about what requirements he might be able to achieve on the trip. He'll
need a few basic items as mentioned before (sierra cup, spoon, mug, flashlight,
toothbrush). Of course he'll need clothes. Scouts are required to wear their
uniforms (at least, the khaki shirts) during the travel phase of any trip
(unless otherwise announced). Usually, when we reach the camp or trailhead, the
scouts will change into something more trip appropriate, like a troop t-shirt,
and will leave the khaki shirt in the car. Usually, for Friday evening travel,
he'll need to bring a sack lunch that can be eaten in the car or on arrival -
the troop usually does not attempt to cook on Friday nights, although sometimes
snacks ("cracker barrel") will be served. Other than this, he should
not bring along any personal food or drink (other than water) of any kind.
Scouts are supposed to participate in their patrol's meal planning process
(which is the time to speak up about any special food needs or preferences),
and are expected to cook and eat with their patrol. There is an old scouting
saying "No scout ever starved to death on a weekend campout" although
probably many thought they would. Of course if a scout has special dietary
needs he should speak to the scoutmaster about accommodations - this should be
done well in advance of the campout. Such requests made after food has been
purchased for the trip probably cannot be accommodated.
He'll need at least one
change of clothes. Possibly, he won't use them. Despite Mother's best wishes,
they don't change clothes on outings very often. Clothes should be packed in
waterproof bags - the sturdy large size Ziploc bags are ideal. Pack a day's
change per bag, so that the scout can grab one bag and have clean underwear,
t-shirt, and socks. If you pack all the socks in one bag, all the shirts in
another they'll all end up dumped on the floor of the tent while he searches
for a complete outfit. Don't forget to pack some kind of sleepwear (pajamas,
gym shorts, or whatever he prefers, and if it is winter, extra dry socks for
sleeping). He'll probably want at least a small pillow too. The Ziploc thing is
important - even in a properly set up tent there will often be condensation and
wet places, and clothes will get wet if not protected. Pack the clothes in a
duffel bag or anything else that is sturdy and will hold them all. A backpack
is fine too but isn't required. Make sure your son doesn't take too much stuff
- it is common for new scouts to overdose on the "be prepared" thing
and to try to bring everything they own, just in case. Do make sure he brings
warm clothing if there is any chance he could need it, and be certain that he
brings rain gear (at least a poncho) on every trip, no matter what the forecast
says. After a few trips he'll probably know pretty much what he needs and can
be responsible for his own packing, but it is helpful for a parent to supervise
packing or at least inspect the results for the first few trips.
We are blessed with a
variety of good camping spots that are not very far away, so most troop travel
is relatively short. Boys are expected to be able to entertain themselves
during longer travel, and the ideal mechanism is with a good book. Handheld
electronic games are permitted as long as the boy turns the sound off, but they
must be left in the car. A deck of cards or a magnetic chess or checkerboard
can also be a good choice if other boys in the car share the same interest.
All boys are expected to
pitch in and help with camp chores - in fact, each patrol will have a duty
roster with specific assignments for cooking, cleanup, and other camp work. The
boys need to understand that this cooperation is what enables everyone to have
free time for hiking, playing, fishing, and working on advancements. Your boy
will likely come home and talk about all the work he had to do, but hopefully
he'll also talk about how much fun it was and how much he learned. If you get
one without the other, please bring it to the attention of one of the adult leaders
so we can make sure all is well.
There are lots of good
references available about camping skills and equipment. The Scout Handbook,
which your boy should already have, is a great starting place. See also the Boy
Scout Field Book and of course this Troop 603 Handbook.
That should be enough to help you be ready for his first trip. One last piece of advice: remind him to keep track of his camping trips with the troop. The Camping merit badge requires 20 nights of camping, and is an Eagle-required badge. In about a year, he'll be trying to put together a list of his camping nights, and having some notes will help!
The Basis of the Troop 603 Code of Conduct is the Scout Oath and Law that every Scout knows from memory. Scouts show that they live by the Oath and Law by their personal actions and behavior. Scouts are to demonstrate appropriate control and personal responsibility while at all Scout meetings and activities. Parents may be required to participate with their Scout if their boy's behavior warrants such action. Adherence to the Code of Conduct is upheld by the Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leaders, and Troop Guides with supervision by the Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters. When attending all scouting activities or meetings, the Scout will participate as required in cooperation with other unit members and leadership.
In order to provide a positive, safe, and enriching environment for all scouts, while offering opportunities for wonderful adventures, the Patrol Leaders' Council established the following Code of Conduct:
|
|
I will follow the Scout Law, Scout Oath, and Outdoor Code, and I
will remember that these are the basis for all of my actions as a Scout. |
|
|
I am expected to follow the posted or verbal schedule of
activities and assignments specified by the troop leadership. |
|
|
I am expected to be on time for all troop events. |
|
|
I may not use or possess any alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or
illegal drugs. If found, my parents and/or the police will be notified
immediately. |
|
|
I understand and agree that normal lights out time and quiet
hours during outings is |
|
|
I understand that no visitors will be allowed in other people's
tents from |
|
|
I know that sounds that can be heard outside my tent after
lights out are disrespectful and disturbing to others and failure to observe
quiet hours will be dealt with by troop leaders. |
|
|
If I damage any property owned by a camp I am visiting, the
troop, or another individual, I will pay for it. |
|
|
I know that the use of profanity or any harmful insults will not
be tolerated. |
|
|
I will not bring any electronic devices like radios, walkmans,
game devices, etc. to any troop events. (The only exception is for long car
trips as explained in the Troop Handbook.) |
|
|
I will use matches and lighters only when it is appropriate and
safe to do so and only if I have my Fireman's Chit. |
|
|
I will follow "Totin' Chip" rules and regulations when
using knives, saws, and axes. |
|
|
I will use the buddy system on all camping events. |
|
|
At District or Council events, as well as at BSA camps, camp
staffers have the right and responsibility of helping and correcting any
problem they encounter. I will follow the directions of those leaders as if
they were my troop's leaders. |
I have read the Troop 603 Code of Conduct and understand that I am primarily responsible and that troop leaders are ultimately responsible for the behavior, safety, and welfare of all troop members at all events. I understand that my failure to abide by the Code of conduct may result in my parent(s) or guardian being called to come and get me at a Scout event. I have also read the Troop 603 Handbook topic on Discipline.
|
Scout's Signature |
|
Date |
|
|
Parent's Witness |
|
Date |
|
|
Scoutmaster's Witness |
|
Date |
|
This form is to be
signed once a year at recharter time.