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NetCompass
Comments
MaryAnn Gardner
May 25, 2000 |
| Editor's Note: I have
several questions about Scouting that I would like someone to answer. If you would like to
volunteer to help, request the "I Asked a
Scouter..." list. I'll send it by return email along with more details I Asked a Scouter . . .
About
His Memories of Summer Camp
I visited with a Scoutmaster of 15
years who is also an Eagle Scout Dad. He began his Scouting career as a young Cub Scout
and continued through the Boy Scout program. He's a veteran of many long-term Scouting
experiences. I asked him about Scout Camp. This is what he had to say:
The Dining Hall
Even though the cooks seemed to be
gruff and strictly business, there always seems to be some extra little treat at each meal
for the crew of waiter's. Meals were always a fun time at camp.
Shy, introverted Scouts blossom with confidence as they learn the songs and can fully
participate in the fun. They are even more confident after they get that first "waiter's
call" under their belt and can advise those who are performing the duty for the first
time.
The
Friendships
Scouts move beyond their friendships
within the Troop and meet Scouts from all across the Council. I watched my sons' circle of
friendship widen to where we ran into familiar faces while on family vacations outside the
USA. Getting to know Scouts from other Troops makes the next Camp-o-ree or Scout Show that
much more fun because you meet old friends while attending.
The Rifle Range
As a Scout, I loved to go to the rifle range but, because of an eye problem,
could not get the hang of aiming the rifle. As a result, I very seldom hit the paper of
the target. I ultimately abandoned the rifle range for the handicraft shop. I thoroughly
enjoyed working with the leather on various projects and creating lanyards, etc.
As a Leader, and not having shot a 22
for more than 10 years, I was challenged by a Scout (who knew of my shooting prowess) and
surprised both the Scout and myself when I consistently placed all five shots in the
black. This Scout went on to earn his Rifle shooting merit badge later that week when he
achieved the goal of placing 5 rounds of 5 shots on the black within the circumference of
a quarter. Maybe he figured if someone with my record could actually hit the target, he
HAD to succeed.
The Storm
My most impressive experience happened
the day severe weather struck Woodlake Scout Reservation, in the Northern Indiana Council.
I know that plans are prepared with great care, and instructions are given at the start of
every session of Camp. However, nothing prepared me for the efficiency with which the
Leaders and Camp Staff handled a very severe storm (which included some tornadoes). They
quickly and efficiently moved the entire Camp to the mess hall and kept the Scouts
occupied while the stormed attacked. The cleanup effort the next day was also impressive.
Every one helped to get the Camp back to normal. It made me extremely proud to be part of
the Scouting organization.
* * * * *
If
you have a memory(s) of Scout Camp to share,
please send it to MaryAnn.
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