The Scoutmaster

Today, February 8th, 2010 is the 100th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America!  In 1910 William D Boyce brought back from England Lord Baden-Powell's Scouting For Boys.  Getting together with Ernest Seton and Dan Beard (and other like minded folks) that took the fragmented youth groups of the time and formed one big organization to serve boys (and eventually Girls).  100 years later that program is still going strong.  While some things have changed the basic ideals of Faith, Service, Outdoors and Citizenship remain the same!

Scouting has been a part of my life since I was a Bobcat.  I made it to Eagle and then enrolled my son as a Tiger when he reached that age.  My parents were involved, first as Den/Webelos Leaders, then Mom as a Cubmaster and Dad a Scoutmaster.  My brothers joined too, though I am the only Eagle.  I have 2 cousins who made Eagle as well.  Today I am a Scoutmaster and my wife a Committee Member.

I also have a connection to one of the founders, Dan Beard.  My first Troop was Troop 1, Flushing NY.  Said to be co-founded by him in 1910.  Whether the truth or not Troop 1 was a favorite of his, our history is full of Uncle Dan stories and at his funeral it was Troop 1 Scouts that were his honor guard. Not only were we brought up in the Scouting way but also deep into the history of Scouting.

While Scouting has a bad rep in certain circles and might not be considered the 'cool' thing I've never met a man who regretted his time in Scouting but I have met some who wish they took more advantage of all Scouting had to offer them.  In the end Scouting is about helping to make a man!  By instilling in them the sense of Duty and Honor and by helping them live by simple words like Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean and Reverent I think it does that.  Look at some great men today: Presidents, Senators, CEO's, Super Bowl athletes, Astronauts and Olympians; Filmmakers,  Explorers, Coaches, Teachers, Priests and Volunteers.  You will find Scouting in many of their backgrounds!

To the organization that has helped shaped me and millions of others I say Thank you!  And Happy 100th Birthday!  Here is to 100 more!

YIS
Bryan

Loading mentions Retweet