Boy Scout Troop 411
Chapin, South Carolina
Meetings 4
Rules 10
Medical Form 16
Guide to Planning a Camping Trip 17
Edited
by John Ferguson (2021)
The purpose of this pamphlet is to explain the operation of
Troop 411. It is written for both the parents and the scout. Our objective is
to set forth the basic guidelines and procedures of the troop, so the new scout
and his family can quickly become involved. It also serves as a reference for
established families. If you have additional questions or comments, please notify
the Scoutmaster or the Troop Committee.
Boy Scout Troop 411 is the oldest and one of the best troops in Chapin. It was chartered in 1973 at Chapin United Methodist Church and has been in continuous operation since 1973. Lake Murray Presbyterian Church took over the charter of Troop 411 in 1988. Troop 411 is for boys from 11 to 18 years old. Since then we have added a Cub Scout Pack (Pack 411) for scouts 5 to 10 years old, a Venture Crew (Crew 411) for girls and boys from 14 to 20 years old and a second BSA Troop (Troop 412) for girls 11 to 18 years old. Mr. Robbie Johnson is our Scout Committee Chairman, the Cubmaster of Pack 411 changes yearly, Mrs. Judi Platt co-ordinates the leadership of Pack 411 and serves as the Scoutmaster of our Sister BSA Troop 412 for girls, Mr. Billy Higginbotham is our Scoutmaster for Troop 411, and Mr. Charles Weber is the Advisor for the Venture Crew 411. These along with several other Assistant SM and Committee Members and Parents provide the Adult Supervision for our Scouting Program. Many of our leaders have been trained in Scouting Fundamentals and have Youth Protection Training. The troop presently consists of 57 scouts ranging from 11 years old to 17 years. The Scouts who make up the troop come mostly from the Irmo/Chapin area. We strive to be a scout-led Troop. Troop 411 has awarded 128 Eagle Scouts since 1980.
Adventure! That is what Scouting is! (Official Boy Scout Handbook, Chapter 1, Page 1)
Troop 411 strives to camp monthly; we take at least three backpacking trips a year, along with canoeing trips. We hope to provide each Troop 411 scout with a trip to Philmont Scout Ranch, Northern Tier or Sea Base. We camp in the mountains of GA, NC, NM, SC, TN and VA, the coast of FL and SC, the lakes and rivers of GA, NC, and SC. We participate in service projects: “Scouting for Food”, Peak “highway clean-up, “Operation Christmas Child”, USA Flag Retirements along with numerous individual Eagle projects. We participate in the Chapin “Labor Day Parade”, Scout “Popcorn Sales”, Scouting for Food, Chapin Community Service Day and support Lake Murray Presbyterian Church with their Mission Project such as the GoOD Works Blitz and Thanksgiving at the HUB. We will attend church together on Scout Sunday and conduct a worship service on each camping trip that takes place on a Sunday. We also hope to provide each scout with the opportunity to advance to the rank of Eagle Scout. Along the way we hope to help these boys find manhood with good character, a reverence and duty to God and a sense of duty to others.
Web page
While Scouts usually hear details of our events at meetings, this important information is usually not passed along to parents. Our troop Website at www.troop411.org is a great way for you, our parents, to stay informed about our busy troop and become involved in our activities. The ‘Agenda’ page provides the plans for the next meeting, the ‘Calendar’ page provides a calendar of upcoming troop events, the ‘Eagle’ page provides a list and photos of our Eagle Scouts, the ‘Photo’ page provides pictures of recent outings along with past trips and the ‘Troop Stats’ provides many different lists of troop information including ‘Patrols’, ‘Jr. Leaders’, ‘Troop Rank’, ‘Order of the Arrow’ members, ‘Past Senior Patrol Leaders’ and your ‘Next Advancement’ which keeps up with requirements needed to advance to your scouts next Rank.
Because of the great concern the Boy Scouts of America has for the problem of child abuse in our society, the Youth Protection program has been developed to help safeguard both our youth and adult members. These guidelines are also in effect to ensure the adequate adult leadership is available in an emergency. Adult Leadership Requirements:
Troop Meetings - At least two Adult Leaders; one over 21yrs old.
Camping Trips - At least two Adult Leaders; one over 21yrs old. Three leaders are preferable and usually at least one adult for every 8 -10 scouts.
Merit Badge Classes - At least one adult and at least two scouts
When Driving – At least 3 three people per car unless its parent and son.
Internet Electronic Mail (E-Mail)
We will send you an E-mail newsletter, usually with the newest agenda attached, if you provide us with your E-Mail address. You may communicate with the Scoutmaster or other Scout leaders over the Internet, however if a quick answer is needed, you probably should call.
Troop Dues
Registration Dues are paid on a yearly basis to cover new memberships or renewals. The troop's "business operating year" is from January 1 through December 31. These Dues of $45 are due on the last Troop Meeting before Thanksgiving each year. Families that register more than one scout with our Troop, Pack or Crew will get a $10 discount for each additional scout and only one Boy’s Life magazine will be sent for that family. Scouts who do not pay by November 30 will owe $50. All new boys who do not join by this date will have their dues prorated for the remaining portion of the scout "business operating year". Dues cover the cost of badges, certificates, insurance, portions of troop food, fuel, gas, and other supplies. There are also the Troop Dues that are paid weekly by the scouts, mostly to help instill the ideals of money management. These dues (of 25¢ a week) are placed in the Troop account to help offset the short falls mentioned above. These dues are tracked by the Troop Scribe and are used to determine a Scout’s worthiness for Personal Management Merit Badge. But the dues we collect do not entirely cover the cost to run the Troop. The cost of food for camping trips; fees for state or national parks; and special Scout outings like Camporees are paid by only the scouts who attend these activities.
Fund Raising
There are many financial contributions to Scouting; United Way and Friends of Scouting are just a few. However, these are Council funds and do not help our troop, except indirectly through services. We must provide our own operating funds. We do this through annual individual dues and fundraisers. One way Troop 411 tries to keep the costs of scouting reasonable is by promoting fundraisers during the year. A scout may use these fund-raisers to earn money for his ‘Camping Fund’, which can be used to pay for Registration, Summer Camp, Philmont or even food on Camping trips. No one has to participate, since most of our costs are shared by the entire troop, so your family may prefer to simply pay fees without the help of the fund-raisers. None of the money earned by scouts in fund-raisers is taxed, however the money can only be used by your son. It cannot be transferred except to a sibling who is also a member of Troop 411 or Crew 411. Unused funds remain in the Troop Fund because we are a non-profit organization.
Scouts who are unable to attend Summer Camp, Philmont, Sea Base or other long-term camp due to financial reasons can apply for a Troop 411 Camp Scholarship / Loan. At present this will be awarded as a no interest loan to the scout for 1 year. The scout family will be expected to return the money in full within one year, so that the money can be loaned to another scout. The scout should request the loan when he signs up for the camp. He can request up to one half of the camp’s cost. The Scout Committee will decide how the money is dispersed.
Troop Meetings are held every Monday from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the Scout Hut at Lake Murray Presbyterian Church. Regular Troop Meetings generally run from around the mid week of August through the first week of June. During July and August, we will have optional Merit Badge Meetings to complete unfinished Merit Badges from Summer Camp and complete any “needed” Required MB to advance to the next Rank. The NEW Scout Patrol (those under First Class Rank) usually meet form 6:00 to 7:00 PM on the same night to work toward advancement to First Class. These meetings are open to all parents. Scouts NEVER wear a hat inside the Scout Hut. Scouts NEVER sit on the desks or tables or put their feet in the chairs or on the benches. The ONE exception is the Speaker may sit on the Scoutmaster Table.
Patrol Leaders' Council meetings (PLC) are held before each troop meeting at 6:30 PM. All Patrol Leaders and the Senior Patrol Leader are expected to attend these meetings, as this is where the activities for the coming weeks are planned. The Troop Guide is also a part of the PLC but usually has duties elsewhere during the Council meetings. Parents are welcome to attend.
Patrol Meetings are generally held during the Troop meetings and last only 10 - 15 minutes.
Troop Committee Meetings are held on a periodic basis for the adult leadership to discuss the progress of the Troop and the Scouts in the Troop. The meetings are open to every parent of a registered Scout within the Troop.
A Scout is expected to attend all Troop meetings and activities. If a Scout is going to be absent from a Troop meeting or activity for any reason, he must notify his patrol leader in advance. Parents should arrange to pick up their sons promptly at the scheduled end of the meeting since no Scout will be left unattended. There is NO penalty for missed meetings, however it is up to the scout to contact the Patrol Leader for information missed. Attending Scout functions is an integral part of advancement. Scouts will not advance if they do not attend meetings and camp outs. Summer camp is a vital part of the Troop outdoor program. No amount of homework, parent involvement, or meeting attendance will replace the experiences and learning the Scout receives at summer camp and on monthly campouts. High Adventure Camps such as Philmont and the others mentioned above are not required for advancement but can be a wonderful experience that we strive to provide for each Troop 411 scout.
Because of the great concern the Boy Scouts of America has for the problem of child abuse in our society, the Youth Protection program has been developed to help safeguard both our youth and adult members. These guidelines are also in effect to ensure the adequate adult leadership is available in an emergency. Adult Leadership Requirements:
Troop Meetings - At least two Adult Leaders; one over 21yrs old.
Camping Trips - At least two Adult Leaders; one over 21yrs old. Three leaders are preferable and usually at least one adult for every 8 -10 scouts.
Merit Badge Classes - At least one adult and at least two scouts
When Driving – At least 3 three people per car unless its parent and son.
Uniform
Each scout will need a Uniform, hopefully before summer camp. Troop 411 has two uniforms. The first is the Class "A" or Formal Uniform consisting of:
Scout shirt (usually short sleeve)
Scout shorts (worn from Spring to Fall), or Blue jeans or scout pants (worn in Winter)
Scout belt, Troop 411 hat and BSA neckerchief - dark green with gold trim
The Class “A” uniform shall be worn to all District and Council sponsored events, Summer camp, Order of the Arrow meetings, Courts of Honor, parades, fund raisers, and when directed by the Scoutmaster. Scouts should always wear the Troop Neckerchief to Council and District events, however any ‘Special’ Neckerchief may be worn at Troop functions.
Class "B" or Informal Uniform consisting of: Scout T-shirt (Expo and Cub Scout shirts allowed)
Blue jeans or solid color pants or shorts
For most meetings, all Scouts should be in Class “B” Uniform. The Class A uniform shall be worn to the special Class “A” meetings as indicated on the Troop Calendar by an “*”. When in uniform, the shirt will be tucked in and only official insignia and patches may be affixed to the uniform.
We need all parents to take an active interest in their son's achievements. The more the parents
are involved, the more success their son will find in Scouting, which, in return, benefits the entire
Troop. Without help of all kinds from our parents, Troop 411 would not exist. We hope you will take an active part in encouraging your son. Your role as "cheerleader" is a big reason for your son's interest and success. Our troop needs parents to help counsel merit badges, assist with special events, and drive to and from activities. Many of our best ideas come from parents who just spoke up! Because the scouts run the troop, "helping" is usually just "watching". Your help makes the difference. National B.S.A. rules require at least two adults at every meeting and two adults on all activities. EVENTS MUST BE CANCELLED if sufficient leaders are not available.
Upon registering their son, parents are expected to volunteer some time. We have big and little jobs, but all are important. Let us know where you can help.
This is an official troop/family (the whole family is invited) function that occurs approximately every two (2) months. At this event Scouts are recognized for their accomplishments and rank advancements. All Scouts, along with at least one parent, should attend.
Camping and Major Activities
Parents are encouraged to TRY to attend at least one camping trip or major activity with your Scout each year. Besides letting him know you are behind his efforts and share his interests, much fun can be had. Mothers are welcome too.
There are three levels of parent involvement in which you as a parent can participate.
The First is to your son. When your son joins Troop 411, you become obligated to contribute to the program of the Troop. Every parent must be willing to:
* Be aware of your son's progress in rank advancement
* Provide encouragement to continue advancement.
* Attend Courts of Honor and Eagle Ceremonies with your son.
* Have your Scout on time for all Troop activities that he attends.
* Pick up your Scout no later than 8:15 on Troop meeting nights.
* Help with the fundraisers.
* Be willing to drive to or from weekend campouts attended by your son.
* Know your son's adult and boy leaders.
The Second is to assist during meetings or teach a Merit Badge. Here all the Scouts are your responsibility, and you must attend to ALL - not just your son. A parent may teach his son a Merit Badge, but we expect you to teach that badge to three or more other scouts as well.
The Third is to become a registered leader. In this case we expect you to get some training and be available to supervise segments of the meetings and lead camping trips.
With everyone's sincere interest and cooperation, we can make our troop one of the best and provide a good, healthy environment for our boys to have fun. At the same time, they will have an opportunity to develop skills in personal management, teamwork, and leadership.
Boy Scouts of America has a specific advancement
plan. This program is designed to encourage Scouts to participate in a
progressive series of learning experiences. The plan also provides a specific
means of measuring and recognizing achievement in these experiences. There are
four steps that a Scout must go through to advance.
A. Learning by
doing:
Here the Scout practices the skill, participates in
an activity, and completes the assignment with his patrol, counselor or through
independent study.
B. Being Tested:
The Scout is tested on the requirements he has
completed. If the Scout is completing a
skill requirement; another Scout, such as PL, Troop Guide or SPL may do the
testing. Testing may also be done by the
SM or ASM. In the case of merit badges, the MB counselor is responsible for
determining whether the Scout has satisfied the requirements. (Merit badges
require independent study and introduce the Scout to specialized subjects that
broaden his knowledge and interests) The Boy Scout Handbook contains a listing
of all requirements for advancement in rank and a record of the Scout's
progress. The Handbook should be brought
to each Scoutmaster Conference and each Board of Review so it can be signed.
C. Participating
in a Scoutmaster Conference:
When a Scout has
completed all requirements for advancement in rank, he meets with the
Scoutmaster for a conference. This conference is designed to involve the Scout
in a review of his progress to date. Here the Scout and Scoutmaster work
together in setting goals for further development. Thus, the Scoutmaster
conference is used mainly to review and set goals.
D. Appearing
before the Board of Review:
As a final step
toward advancement, the Scout goes before a Board of Review, which is a panel
of experienced adult Scouters. The Board of Review has three objectives, which
are:
Determine the extent to which the boy has had a
positive and effective experience in the troop, make certain that all
advancement standards have been met, and Encourage further progress. Advancement in rank is not automatic. If the
Board feels that the Scout is not ready to be advanced, they will offer
constructive suggestions designed to strengthen perceived areas of weakness.
2) New Scout Program
Our new scouts work
with an Assistant Scoutmaster, and a Troop Guide to learn the skills you need
to advance and grow in the troop. This working together is called the
"Patrol Method" and is a cornerstone of successful scouting. A Scout in Troop 411 is expected to attend
all troop meetings/activities; however, we realize there are a lot of other
activities in our area. That is why a
scout can advance at his on pace. This
is easy after attaining the rank of First Class. The first year is structured to allow the new
scout to advance to FIRST CLASS rank within one (1) year from joining the
troop. Since most of our new scouts are
Webelos Scouts who earn the Arrow of Light award are well on the way to
Tenderfoot, so we do not award a ‘Scout’ badge for joining. The New Scout Program at Troop 411 is
conducted weekly from 6 – 7 PM prior to the regular Scout meeting by one of the
assistant Scoutmasters. Parents are
encouraged to attend these meetings.
3) Merit Badges
Once you reach
First Class, Merit Badges become the main advancement tool. Merit Badges fall into two categories – Those
Required for the rank of EAGLE and all others called Electives. All scouts are encouraged to attain the rank
of First Class before working on required MB.
The one exception is Swimming
that you should try to earn at your
first Summer Camp even if it is before you are First Class. As a First Class
scout consider 1st Aid or Personal Fitness next, then
Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship
in the World, Communications, Cooking and Camping. Hiking or Cycling can be used in
place of Swimming but should be earned after 3 other Required First Class MB. Once
you are STAR consider Lifesaving or Emergency Preparedness, and
then Environmental Science or
Sustainability. You
may consider Family Life and Citizenship
in the Community after
earning any six other required badges.
And Personal Management after earning nine other required
badges. You work independently on merit
badges that interest you. You must tell
a leader BEFORE you start work on a new badge and obtain a Merit Badge
Card. This allows the leaders to check your progress and you to work with an
approved counselor who has experience in that subject. Electives may be earned as desired but
remember it is best to be First Class.
These are general guidelines, and the Scoutmaster will always consider
special circumstances.
4) Scoutmaster Conference and Board of
Review
After you have completed
all the requirements for a rank, you need to tell the scoutmaster so you can
have a Scoutmaster Conference to see if you are ready for a Board of
Review. The Board of Review is made up
of at least three adult members of the troop committee. The Board will check to
make sure your scout handbook and other records are up to date. They will also
ask you what you learned while working on the rank, and what you think about
our troop in general. This sounds scary, but it really isn't.
Many of the people on the Board of Review are the same ones you see each week.
They all want to see you succeed and grow with the troop. You should request
your Board of Review at least one week in advance. Advancement is the Scout's
responsibility. Boards of Review are
held every second Tuesday night beginning at 6:00 PM at the Scout Hut. Please wear your Class “A” uniform and bring
your Scout Handbook.
5) Courts of Honor
The accomplishments
of our Scouts and leaders are formally recognized at Courts of Honor, about five
times each year. Most are held in place of our regular troop meeting. Parent's
attendance at our Courts of Honor is an important, and very
easy way to demonstrate an interest in your son's Scouting progress.
Although Scouts are formally recognized at Courts of Honor, they receive all
the new rank privileges as soon as they pass the Board of Review, usually at
the next regular troop meeting, when he moves his Rank card to the next Rank
Board Each scout should wear his Class “A” uniform to all Courts of Honor.
1) Introduction
Troop 411 is a
camping troop. Besides one (1) week at summer camp every year, there are
overnight campouts averaging at least one per month for the school year. Outing
is a key element of Scouting. Although there are many patrol activities, camping
is the most frequent. The patrol prepares its own menu, buys its food and cooks
as a unit. The boys are encouraged to do all of this (e.g., purchasing food) to
help develop self-confidence, responsibility, outdoor skills, camaraderie and
earn advancement. Experience has shown that boys who do not camp generally do
not advance and eventually leave Scouting.
2) Fees
An additional fee
to defray the campout costs will be required at the time of each campout.
Generally, weekend campout cost about $ 3 - 10 per campout. On specialized
campouts, such as canoeing and white-water rafting, an additional fee may be
imposed. On longer trips an additional
fee may be incurred to defray transportation costs.
3) Patrol /
Troop Method
Usually we follow the Patrol Method of camping
where each Patrol is responsible for its own menu planning, purchasing,
cooking, and cleanup. Each patrol will check out its own equipment. They will
set up tents, gather wood, build a fire and cook for
themselves. The patrol lives as a group on campouts. Boys may combine two or
more Patrols if needed on campouts. When planned activities dictate, the Troop
Method of camping may be used. These outings are planned by the Patrol Leader
Council and involve larger common meals.
All menus are to
reflect a fully balanced meal and MUST be approved by the Assistant
Scoutmaster. Parents are encouraged to know what their son eats on campouts and
should feel free to help their sons in suggesting easily made dishes. It is the
established rule within the Troop that no Patrol shall plan the same menu
within the same scouting year. Also, unless schedules and activities dictate,
all meals are to be cooked and served hot.
5) Purchase of
Food for Activities
Each Scout is asked
to share the food costs for campouts and hikes. A minimum of two weeks before
the event, during the troop meeting, the patrol plans its meals and sets a
designated time and place to purchase the food. Food is usually purchased two
days before the outing. The Scout going on the outing must bring their money to
the troop meeting, immediately before the campout; so
the food can be purchased from this fund. If a boy has not paid by this
deadline, he will not be permitted to eat with his patrol. He then must submit
a menu to the Scoutmaster and provide his own food. Once the food is purchased, it is assumed
that those who have paid are the boys going. If a boy decides not to go, he
cannot receive a refund.
6) Departures
Most Campouts leave
from the Scout Hut on Saturday mornings. Scouts should arrive at least 15
minutes before departure time and should have eaten unless otherwise
notified. Parents should sign the scout
in before leaving and always leave a Phone number where you can be reached over
the weekend in case of an emergency. It
is also a good idea to wait until we depart, because we usually decide on the
expected return time. Most of the time
we will leave a “calling Tree” so everyone can be contacted quickly if we have to return sooner or later than expected. A Scout (under the age of 18 yrs) who drives
himself to a camping trip must bring a signed statement of permission to attend
the camping trip. It should look like
this:
My son, Jim, has
permission to attend the Troop 411 camping trip to Kings Mountain from March 22-23,
2003. I can be reached at (803) 000-0000
all weekend. John Smith
7) Returns
The Troop generally
returns early to mid afternoon on Sundays and the Scouts are normally returned
at the Scout Hut unless notified otherwise.
We will call if there is a delay or we return sooner.
8) Permission
Forms and Troop Activity Sign-In Sheets
For emergency
purposes, permission slips are required of all Scouts before they can attend
any campout or troop activity. You (the
Parent) must still sign the Sign–In sheet the morning we leave on a trip
leaving a phone number as stated above.
9)
Transportation
Parents are
expected to assist with transportation when called upon. If volunteers are not
available, it could influence the Scout's going or not going to an activity.
The troop depends upon willing adults to transport Scouts and the equipment to
campouts, hikes, and summer camps. Everyone is asked to contribute. Normally,
parents with a child attending a weekend camp will be asked to drive. Some of
the equipment is somewhat large, as in the case of camp boxes. The cooperation
of the entire troop is needed in this area.
If you cannot drive, there are other means of support such as
contributions toward gas or the loan of a vehicle for the weekend.
10) Camping
Equipment
Camping is a key
part of a Scout troop, and some simple equipment is needed to be comfortable
and enjoy the experience. A sleeping
bag, plate and spoon, rain gear and a flashlight are needed for the first
campout. Tents should be shared by 2-3
campers. Troop 411 does not have any
tents. Pocketknives may be carried only
after the Tote 'n' Chip card is earned. Your scout handbook is a good source
for more information on what to pack. Before buying expensive items like
sleeping bags, boots, backpacks, we strongly suggest you use suitable family
gear or borrow for the first few trips. This lets you see what is needed, what
others use, research purchases, and take advantage of sales. Troop 411's
leaders have camped for years, and can suggest money-saving substitutes, or
recommend good quality equipment that will survive the rigors of Scout
camping. Troop 411 leaders furnish group
items such as lanterns, stoves, saws, and cooking equipment. Sheath knives, guns, electronic gear such as
phones or radios are not allowed on camping trips.
11) Adults on
Campouts
Troop 411 requires
at least two adults, over 21 years old on all troop campouts. One of these
adults must be a Registered Leader. National BSA policy now requires all adults
who lead a camping trip to have “Adult Youth Protection Training”. That training is available several times a
year. To participate with the troop on a campout, the following requirements
must be met:
12) Long-Term
Camping
Each summer Troop 411 attends a summer camp usually Camp Barstow. These
experiences are the highlight of a year of work, and all boys are highly
encouraged to participate.
The Scoutmaster
recommends to the Committee which camp(s) should be attended by the troop. The
committee makes the final determination. Scouts who wish to attend a summer
camp other that the one(s) officially attended by the troop are free to do so,
but they will need to attend as part of the membership of some other troop
attending that camp Summer camps are a
great deal of work for the adults. Leaders are there to ensure that the boys
have as good a time as possible. See
Scholarship / Loan Program above.
The duties of
adults on long-term campouts include, but are not limited to, the
following:
* Help boys with
merit badges
* Help boys with
rank advancement
* Counsel
* Be observant for
homesickness
* Be health and
safety officer
Very simply stated,
all boys are expected to live and act by the precepts as established by the
"Scout Law" always. Therefore, he should be:
TRUSTWORTHY - LOYAL - HELPFUL - FRIENDLY - COURTEOUS - KIND
OBEDIENT - CHEERFUL - THRIFTY - BRAVE - CLEAN - REVERENT
Fighting, serious
"Horseplay" that can lead to injury, malicious name calling, or
making derogatory statements about one's race, nationality, or beliefs will not
be tolerated. Serious conduct violations will require notification of parents,
which might include their having to pick up their son from that activity. Most
discipline problems are handled by the Scout's themselves under the supervision
of the Scoutmaster or an Assistant Scoutmaster.
The Troop Committee
approves and advises the Patrol Leader's Council in establishing troop rules.
Troop Meeting
Behavior
* Scouts will wear
the proper uniform to all meetings and activities.
* Do not disrupt
Troop meetings.
* No candy, drinks
or food brought to meetings (unless you bring enough to serve everyone).
* No radios or
homework.
* Rowdy behavior
will not be tolerated.
* Troop and Church
property must be respected.
* Scouts are expected
to live by the Scout Oath and Law.
* Scouts sit with
and participate in activities with their own patrol.
In the event a
Scout has violated one or more of the rules, the boy's PL, the SPL and the SM (in that order) will talk to the boy and
determine what action is appropriate. This can range from a warning to
dismissal from the activity.
Items banned from
troop activities include:
The Scout Committee
is a group of adult registered Scouters who meet to establish the Pack, Troop
and Crew policy. The Committee oversees
and supports the Cubmaster, Scoutmaster and Crew Advisor in the implementation
of the various Scout programs at LMPC. Our
Troop committee of parents and leaders oversees all activities and is the
ultimate authority concerning scout operations. The committee currently meets
on an ad hoc basis. Committee members
work with the Scoutmaster and other troop leaders to insure an interesting, successful,
and safe troop. Parents are welcome to express their views at any time and can
register as a committee member for an official vote in troop decisions. The
Troop Committee meetings are businesslike affairs handled in a public meeting
format. The Committee represents the parents, and parents may raise issues with
committee members.
Scoutmaster (SM)
The Scoutmaster is
the adult leader responsible for the image and program of the troop. The
Scoutmaster and his assistant Scoutmasters work directly with the Scouts. The
importance of the Scoutmaster's job is reflected in the fact that the quality
of his guidance will affect every youth and adult involved in the troop. The
Scoutmaster can be male or female but must be at least 21 years old. The
Scoutmaster is appointed by the head of the chartered organization. The
Scoutmaster is responsible for day-to-day troop operations and oversees all
meetings and activities. Currently in
Troop 411 the SM is responsible for tracking all advancement within the
troop. He advises all the Jr. Leaders
and ASM.
Assistant
Scoutmasters (ASM)
To fulfill his
obligation to the troop, the Scoutmaster, with the assistance of the troop
committee, recruits Assistant Scoutmasters (ASM) to help operate the
troop. Candidates for ASM are registered
adult Scouters who are familiar with the methods and procedures of the Boy
Scouts of America and with Troop 411 operations. Generally, they will be fully
trained Boy Scout leaders with prior scouting experience. Each ASM has specific
program duties and reports to the Scoutmaster.
Each ASM is assigned to a Patrol, usually his son’s Patrol.
Scout
Committee Chairperson
(CC)
This position is
responsible for overseeing the Scout Committee.
In Troop 411 the Chairman and the Scoutmaster often stand in for one
another. The Committee chairman oversees
all Boards of Review for rank except for the rank of Eagle Scout. (The Eagle
Scout Board of Review is chaired by the District Advancement Chairperson.)
The following jobs are available if you would like to volunteer. You should discuss your talents and time
available with the Scoutmaster and / or the Scout Committee Chairman.
Advancement – Chairman, Board
of Reviews, MB Counselor Coordinator, MBU, NESA MB Jamboree, ‘Life to Eagle’,
SM Conferences, New Patrol SM, Patrol ASM, Summer Camp
Camping – Monthly camping trips, Summer Camp, Camporees
(District and Council), Canoe trips, Whitewater trips, Sea Base trips,
Climbing, Philmont Treks, Backpacking and special summer trips
Ceremonies – Court of Honor,
Crossover, Flag Disposal, Eagle Advancement, Scout Sunday
Fund Raisers – Popcorn sales in the fall and Troop 411
Bar-B-Que in the spring
Programs- Cub Scout Liaison, plan weekly meetings, run
meetings Jr. Leader Training, Pioneer Day, Roundtable, Labor Day Parade, Game
master, Spiritual Advisor, OA Advisor
Public Relations
- Photographers, Newspaper
Writers, Website (See Service Projects)
Scout Hut and Yard – Clean up, Repairs,
Construction, Totem Pole, Fire Ring, Refreshments
Venturing – Advisor, Girl Scout Liaison, Backpacking
Order of the
Arrow:
Order of the Arrow
is a national Boy Scouts of America honor camper society. It recognizes
outstanding Scouts who have met prescribed requirements. To be a candidate a
Scout must:
Because Order of
the Arrow is an honor camper’s society, the Scoutmaster's approval generally
requires that the Scout has earned camping merit badge, has regularly and
actively participated in the troop weekly meetings, and monthly campouts during
the current Scouting year, and has been a Boy Scout for more than one
year. Order of the Arrow members are elected
by all the scouts of the troop. This is one of the few organizations where
nonmembers participate in selecting candidates. All troop members attending
the troop meeting in which elections are held are eligible to vote.
A Venture
Crew is comprised of boys at least 13 years old, holding the rank of
First Class or above and still advancing. The Crew operates outside the general
framework of the Troop and generally is involved in High Adventure activities,
primarily Backpacking. Like a patrol; the boys in
a Crew operate as a team and decide what activities they will pursue. Usually,
a new Crew is formed each year that we go to PHILMONT, in
order to train for the Trek. Our
Venture crews are named with “Native American Indian’ names in alphabetic
order. The current active crew is the Kiowa crew. The Apache, Blackfoot, Comanche, Dakotah, Eskasoni, Fox, Gros Ventre, Hopi, Ishak and Jicarilla crews still sometimes
camp together, although many are no longer in scouts. One Assistant Scoutmaster is assigned by the
Committee to oversee the Crew's operation and activities. See Scholarship / Loan Program above.
LMPC also sponsors Venturing
Crew 411, which is comprised of both boys and girls age 14 to 20 years
old. Any registered member of Troop 411
who is First Class rank and at least 14 years old may be double registered with
both the Troop and the Crew for a single fee.
This group of scouting was called “Exploring” until the name was changed
in 1999. This group is just starting up
after a three-year hiatus. They will
concentrate on backpacking, rock climbing, canoeing and high adventure camps
like Philmont, Double H Ranch, Northern Tier and Seabase.
A major goal of
Scouting is to develop leadership in our youth. Youth leaders are elected by
their peers each year to help run our troop. The highest youth leader position
is the Senior Patrol Leader, or SPL. The SPL runs the troop activities, with
the help of his Patrol Leaders and guidance of the Scoutmaster, following the
plan decided at weekly Patrol Leaders Council meetings. Our troop is organized
into patrols of three to eight scouts, each with an elected Patrol Leader and
Assistant. The Patrol Leaders and Assistants have a key role in helping the SPL
and adult leaders accomplish the goals of the troop. The Patrol Leader is elected by his patrol
and is responsible for its participation in all activities. Ultimately, the
Patrol Leader is also responsible for advancement help, task assignment,
information dissemination and leading his patrol in the Scouting method.
Patrol Leaders
Council (PLC)
The elected junior
leaders of Troop 411 are known as the Patrol Leaders Council (PLC). The patrol
leaders' council, not the adult leaders, is responsible for planning and
conducting the troop's activities. The PLC is composed of the following
members: Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leaders,
Troop Guide, and Junior Assistant Scoutmaster. Working under the guidance of
the Scoutmaster, the PLC is responsible for the Troop program. This includes
planning and carrying out Troop meetings and outdoor programs.
To properly represent the members of the Troop, Patrol Leaders
are requested to meet at each of the Patrol Leader's Council Meeting. Each
Patrol Leader must represent his own patrol and relate their needs and concerns.
He must participate in the Troop's planning and decision-making and help plan
outdoor events. The SPL, or the ASPL in his absence will preside over this
meeting and will call for any votes. The Troop Scribe will record any decisions
made and will prepare them to be reviewed by the Scoutmaster. Other youth and
adults may be invited to the PLC by the Senior Patrol Leader to assist with
planning of activities as needed. Each member of the PLC will have one vote.
Issues concerning policy, equipment purchase, or Troop events must be first
voted on at a PLC, and then be ratified and approved by the Scoutmaster.
The troop's activities are selected and planned at the annual program planning
conference. The troop's yearly plan is then submitted to the troop committee
for approval. The troop committee either approves the plan or makes alternative
suggestions for the patrol leaders' council to consider. At its meetings, the
patrol leaders' council organizes and assigns activity responsibilities for the
weekly troop meetings. The troop committee interacts with the patrol leaders'
council through the Scoutmaster.
Senior Patrol
Leader (SPL)
The SPL will be selected from a slate of approved candidates by the PLC after new PLs are elected in August and February. The SPL answers to the SM; presides over Troop meetings (TM) and PLC; must be STAR rank or better; can serve multiple terms (but no more than two in a row). He can be removed from office by the SM or the PLC.
Assistant Senior
Patrol Leader (ASPL)
The ASPL is appointed
by the SPL with approval of the SM. The
ASPL answers to the SM and
the SPL; he answers to the
SM and the SPL; he must meet all SPL requirements except he
may be First Class;
he fills in for the SPL; he directs and supervises the other Troop Officers
and he sits
on the PLC.
Patrol Leader
(PL)
The Patrol Leader
is elected by his patrol to represent the patrol at the Patrol Leader's
Council; the election is held each August and February. He is responsible for
planning and executing patrol events, and troop activities on the patrol
level. He also appoints an Assistant
Patrol Leader, with approval from the Senior Patrol Leader. The Patrol Leader
assigns each patrol member a job, such as Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Scribe
and Patrol Quartermaster. By sharing the workload, the patrol will function
smoothly. These assigned positions do
NOT meet the Position of Responsibility requirements for advancement. The PL can replace these positions at anytime. The PL answers to the SPL; the highest-ranking
Patrol leader is next in line to the SPL after ASPL and so on. The PL sits on the PLC; he can be removed by the
SM, the SPL with SM approval or Patrol Vote. The NEW Patrol PL is advised by the Troop
Guide and the NEW ASM.
The Quartermaster
is responsible for recording and maintaining the troop camping equipment. This
position is appointed by the ASPL, with approval from the SM and the SPL. He is responsible for cleaning the Scout Hut
and planning Refreshments.
The Scribe is
responsible for recording attendance at all troop activities. In addition, he
records the results of the Patrol Leader's council, and records the Troop
dues. This position is appointed by the
ASPL, with approval from the SM and the SPL.
The Chaplain Aide
is responsible for giving the Invocation each week at the beginning of the
Troop meeting. He will give the
Invocation himself or arrange for another Scout to give it. He also plans and helps the SM and ASM with Church
Services when we camp on a Sunday.
He is also responsible to help the SPL and SM with special
Ceremonies.
The Librarian is
responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the troop library including merit
badge books, other scouting books, and miscellaneous booklets, pamphlets, and
brochures. This position is appointed by the ASPL, with approval from the SM
and the SPL.
Historian
The Historian is
responsible for recording past events and creating displays of historical
materials for courts of honor, and other troop activities. This position is
appointed by the SPL, with approval from the SM.
The Troop Guide is
responsible for assisting the younger scouts in rank advancement and camping
preparation. This position is appointed
by the SPL, with approval from the SM.
The Den Chief works
with a Cub Scout or Webelos den and assisting the Den Leader or Webelos Leader
with the Den activities, and pack activities. The Den Leader or Webelos Leader
appoints this position, with approval from the SM.
The SM or the SPL
(with SM approval) may appoint Instructors.
The Instructor will usually assist an ASM or MB Counselor with teaching.
Junior Assistant
Scoutmaster (JASM)
The position of
Junior Assistant Scoutmaster works with the adult leaders and Youth Leaders in
the planning and execution of the Troop Program. The Junior Assistant
Scoutmaster is also responsible for various projects assigned by the
scoutmaster or assistant Scoutmaster.
As it is vital to
the smooth operation of the Troop, all Scouts in leadership positions are
requested to attend ALL meetings. In the event of excessive unexcused absences,
that Scout will be removed from the position he is currently holding, and an
appointment will be made or in case of a Senior Patrol Leader or Patrol Leader,
the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader or Assistant Patrol Leader will then
immediately fill the position until the next election. Any Scout caught
violating a Troop rule during any Scouting event or activity will be removed
from the leadership position he is currently holding and may not run for any
leadership position again until approved by the Scoutmaster after consultation
with the Troop Committee Chairperson if needed.
So that leaders can
"Be Prepared" in case medical attention is necessary and parents are
unavailable, a medical history is needed from each person prior to
participating in troop activities. The BSA physical form on the back of the
Scout Registration form should be completed.
Long-term activities like summer camp require a completed Medical form
within the last three years. High
Adventure activities such as Philmont require a Medical form within one
year. Parents can save money by asking
their family doctor to fill out the BSA form at the same time a school or
sports physical is done. We also have a Permission
Form that needs to be filled out before any scout can attend our Troop
activities. (See Form on page 18)
Guide to Planning a
Camping Trip
Each Adult Leader
or Patrol Leader should plan each of the following for each camping trip: