August 16, 2010

Troop 454,

Summer is over, back to school is here. I met a lot of really great people this summer at the National Jamboree. What amazed me was the random group of adults from all over the country who came together with a single purpose in mind, to provide a memorable experience to as many boys as possible.

As with every large project there are logistical problems or personality issues. In my small part of the jamboree I watched 30 total strangers get together not knowing the skills or personalities of any of the other individuals. Because of our common goal we set out working together. Our motto: “We the willing led by example did so much with so little, so fast, that we are now qualified to do anything with nothing!”

We had major equipment issues. Try cutting down trees with no saw, when we finally received our bow saws we were surprised to see we had two saw blades no bows. In genuine Pioneering fashion we built the saws and were able to continue on. When it came time to start digging holes, you would think a shovel would be required, Not if you are on the pioneering staff!

Just a couple of examples of problems we overcame. The amazing part is that thru the 104 degree temperatures and the dining hall not having food delivered on time, no one complained, everyone worked hard and in two days we became a team. By the end of the two weeks we became true friends. Many times I talk of the goals of scouting: To produce young men of character who are leaders with self confidence, self reliance and common sense. Along the trail you will also meet people who will become lifelong friends. The kind of friend you can truly count on. That is what the patrol method is all about.

Scoutmaster Elvis