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Chartered Organization
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Two registered adults, or one adult and a parent of a participating Scout, are required for all trips or outings (two-deep leadership). Troop 399 requires that all adults on high-adventure treks be registered leaders. Check with the Scoutmaster if you are not certain if you are currently registered. |
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Safety rule of four: No fewer than four individuals (always with the minimum of two adults) go on any backcountry expedition or campout this includes day hikes from base camps. |
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All participants in high-adventure activities and adults over the age 40 must have a current Class 3 medical examination form. All other Scouts and adults must have a current Class 1 and Class 2 medical form on file with the Troop. |
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All adult leaders must have completed the B.S.A. Youth Protection course within the past 36 months. |
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All adult leaders must have completed the B.S.A. Health & Safety course within the past 24 months. |
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Coed activities require male and female adult leaders. |
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Male and female youth participants will not share the same sleeping facility. |
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When staying in tents, no youth will stay in the tent of an adult other than his or her parent or guardian. On normal camping activities, adults will be in separate tents in their own patrol area and should not plan on sharing a tent with their son. |
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Male and female leaders require separate sleeping facilities. Married couples may share the same quarters if appropriate facilities are available. |
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The BSA prohibits the use of alcoholic beverages or controlled substances at any activity involving youth participants. |
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Adult leaders may not allow the use of tobacco products at any BSA activity involving youth participants. |
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No flames are permitted in tents. |
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BSA prohibits the securing, use, and display of fireworks except where the fireworks display is conducted under the auspices of a certified or licensed fireworks control expert. |
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Firearms shall not be brought on camping, hiking, backpacking, or other Scouting activities. |
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The activity commonly referred to as "War Game" or "Paint Ball" in which individuals shoot paint or dye at one another is an unauthorized activity. |
A complete listing of these guidelines is available in the B.S.A. publication Guide to Safe Scouting. In addition to these programs, there is a video, A Time to Tell, that the troop shows periodically, that deals with child sexual abuse. Parents are encouraged to read the booklet How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parent's Guide, inserted in the front of the Boy Scout Handbook and discuss it with their son (note that this is a requirement for joining the Boy Scouts of America).
Structured Activities
The activities that Troop 399 participates in are highly structured, even though they may appear to be chaotic. Whether we are having a Troop meeting, campout, service project, or other gathering, there is always a purpose. These activities are generally designed to teach a skill and, while being conducted in a fun setting, can be thought of like school. The schedules that we follow and the steps that we go through to achieve the goal of the activity are similar to that of school even though we may be in an outdoor setting.
It is very important that Scouts come to the activities as prepared as they do to school. This means arriving on time, staying until the activity is scheduled to complete, and, when appropriate, taking medications on schedule. Without doing these, it is not only very difficult for a Scout to complete his work and achieve the advancement but it is also disruptive to the other Scouts and the adult leaders involved.
The Scout Motto is "Be Prepared" Parents and Scouts should follow this motto when preparing for a Troop activity. A Scout should be prepared to learn, be prepared to stay on task, and be prepared to complete the activities.
Medications
In our troop, there are a number of Scouts taking medications for illness or to improve their concentration and activity level. The medications prescribed for concentration are most often Ritalin or Cylert or other similar drugs. There is a practice, particularly with Ritalin of having the person take it during the week and not take it over the weekend. Please consult with your doctor and see if this is appropriate for structured actives during the weekend.
In addition to these medications, there are often a number of Scouts taking other prescription and over-the-counter medications. It is very important that parents take responsibility for making certain that their son receives his medications on schedule.
When the troop attends Summer and Winter camps at Lost Pines, by State law, the camp medic is responsible for dispensing prescription medications. The Scoutmaster generally assigns an adult to each meal to take the Scouts to the medic (they are not allowed to go without an adult). This system works well when the Scoutmaster has good information on what medications are required and when they are to be dispensed. This should be provided prior to camp.
When involved in an activity with a lower level of support, such as a troop camping outing, it is more difficult for the Scoutmaster to insure that the Scout takes his medication on schedule. Generally on this type of outing, there are fewer adults, they are all busy conducting the activities, and do not have a dedicated medic.
Parents should monitor the success of their son taking his medication on troop activities. If there is a problem, the parents may need to consider accompanying their son on the activities or finding other methods of insuring that the medication it taken on schedule.
Medical Forms
There are three different medical forms that are most often used by the Boy Scouts of America. The Class 1 medical form is completed and signed by the parent(s) or guardian(s) of the Scout and provides basic health information and gives permission for the adult leaders to obtain medical assistance when needed. This form is required to be completed annually and will be kept on file with the troop records. By itself, it is valid for activities of less than 72 hours.
The Class 2 medical form is on the same sheet as the Class 1 and must be completed by a medical doctor and requires a medial examination. This is required for activities longer than 72 hours such as summer camp, winter camp, Silver Pines, etc. These forms are valid for three years and are kept on file with the troop records.
Class 3 medical forms are required for all High-Adventure activities and for all adults over the age of 40 years. These must be completed by a medical doctor and require a medical examination. These forms are valid for one year and are kept on file with the troop records. Special versions of the Class 3 medical forms are issued by some BSA High-Adventure facilities such as Philmont and Florida Sea Base.
Troop Organization
Troop 399 is organized into several operating units, including the Patrols, the Patrol Leader Council, the adult leaders, and the Troop Committee.
Patrols are groups of Scouts that are the smallest democratic unit of the Troop. When new Scouts enter the Troop from Cub Scouting following their Arrow of Light ceremony (or at age 11 if they were not in Cub Scouts), they are placed into new Scout patrols for a period of approximately one year. After they have been new Scouts for this year, they are assigned to an existing, older Scout patrol where they will remain as long as they are members of the Troop.
Patrol members are selected so that, as much 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, Senior Patrol Leader and the Scoutmaster. The Patrols operate using the Patrol Method which is described later in this guide. BSA guidelines call for patrols to consist of 6 to 8 Scouts. In Troop 399, patrols tend to be larger than this because many Scouts participate in other activities that can cause scheduling conflicts with Troop activities. By having patrols larger than the usual, there are generally the necessary 6 to 8 patrol members present at activities.
The Patrol Leader Council (P.L.C.) is a group of Scouts in leadership positions that meet periodically (generally the Tuesday following a weekend activity) to plan the troop meetings, make task assignments, and other decisions relating to the troop and its activities. The PLC is responsible for determining the annual campout schedule for the troop.
Adult leaders help in the teaching and organization process. The Scoutmaster directs the Scout activities; the Troop Committee Chair directs the organizational functions of the troop including record keeping, finances, etc.
The Troop Committee is a set of adults that have accepted responsibility for various roles within the troop. These include the outdoor program, advancement, finance, and communications. Other members of the Troop Committee supervise merit badges, fundraisers, etc. Generally, the Troop Committee meets during the troop meeting immediately prior to an outdoor activity. All parents are encouraged to participate with the Troop Committee.
Youth Leadership
Troop 399 uses the BSA structure for organizing the Scouts in the troop. This structure and rank advancement requirements call for Scouts to be in troop and patrol leadership positions for varying lengths of time. The following are qualifications for Scouts in leadership positions:
Senior Patrol Leader
Star Rank or above
Active in Troop
Agrees to continue leadership training
Understands obligations and is prepared to meet them
Scoutmaster's approval
Election by Troop members
Organizes and directs Patrol Leader's Council meetings
Directs Troop meetings
Patrol Leader
Active in Troop
Completes leadership training
Understands obligations and is prepared to meet them
Scoutmaster's approval
Election by Patrol members
Attends Patrol Leader's Council meetings
All leadership positions have a 30-day probation period. It is the Scoutmaster's option to dissolve a position if needed. The Scoutmaster will have a conference with the Scout first.
The PLC is comprised of the Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader(s), Patrol Leaders, and Troop Guides. It is their job to plan and run the programs of the Troop under guidance of the adult leadership. The Patrol Leader Council meets periodically, generally the Tuesday following outdoor weekend activities, to evaluate the completed outdoor activity, plan the upcoming Troop meetings, and plan the upcoming outdoor activities.
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 (Character Building, Citizenship, and Physical Fitness). We strongly recommend that all Scout parents be part of our adult leadership team. Quite simply, the more involved parents are, the better their sons do in Scouting and the farther they will advance. To this end, we strongly encourage adult leaders to attend B.S.A. training courses to better understand the Scouting program and be more effective. The troop has copies of the B.S.A. Fast Start videotape-training course that may be borrowed at any time. Adults are also encouraged to take the Scoutmastership Fundamentals course that is offered by the Longhorn District two times a year and the Wood Badge course that is offered by the Council approximately every two years.
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 committee meetings.
Parents are welcome to observe Troop meetings. Meeting times are noted on the calendar. The "Chain of Command" revolves around the Senior Patrol Leader who leads the patrol leaders 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 assigned Assistant Scoutmaster or the Scoutmaster, if it is needed. The success of the program revolves around the effectiveness of the Patrol, PLC, and Adult leadership.
Communications
It is important that everyone be informed of news and events concerning the Troop. Information flows through several channels in Troop 399.
Scouts are responsible for listening to instructions at meetings, and understanding and remembering them. A pocket or spiral notebook and pencil 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.
Patrol Leaders are responsible for informing their members about Troop events and special requirements, instructions, or equipment needs.
The Senior Patrol Leader is responsible for informing the Patrol Leaders.
The Scoutmaster is responsible for informing the Senior Patrol Leader and the Adult leadership.
The Scoutmaster, Troop Committee Chair and officers of the Troop Committee are responsible for disseminating information to the Scouts.
If a Scout misses a meeting, it is his responsibility to call his Patrol Leader for any information he may have missed.
The web site is 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 the web site frequently, print information you need, and keep them handy. From time to time, the troop calendar is updated.
The web site will evolve into a public area and private area. In the public area, information that can safely be distributed publicly will be available. This will include such items as the troop calendar but will not include any Scout names or other identifying information. The private area, which will be accessible only via assigned user names and passwords, will include the Scout's advancement information and other information and communications that are not available to the public. As this web page is completed, the communications committee will inform the membership.
Uniforms
Scouts should wear uniforms to every Troop 399 and Scouting event, unless otherwise instructed.
Field Dress Uniform
This is the full uniform and is required for troop meetings and all formal, district, and council events such as Courts of Honor, Flag Ceremonies, Summer and Winter camp, training sessions, etc. It should be worn when a Scout appears before a Board of Review for rank advancement. The full Class A uniform as listed below is required for summer and winter camp.
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Scout shirt (tan - short or long sleeve) |
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Red or green shoulder loops |
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Scout shorts or Scout long pants |
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Scout cloth, mesh or leather belt with Scout buckle |
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Scout socks (required when wearing Scout shorts) |
Non-BSA pants or shorts do not qualify as Class-A. When a Scout is required to be in Class-A uniform, it must be complete.
In addition to the uniform above, Scouts should purchase a Merit Badge Sash after they have earned their first merit badge(s). It is used to display the merit badges that the Scout earns and they are sewed onto it. The Merit Badge Sash is worn to formal occasions such as Courts of Honor. It is not normally worn to troop meetings or Boards of Review.
Activity Uniform
This is the more casual uniform and is required for all informal events such as regular Troop meetings, traveling to and from camp outs, working on Eagle Projects, etc. Each Scout will be given a red Troop 399 tee shirt upon joining the Troop. Additional tee shirts may be purchased from the Troop for approximately $8.00 to $10.00.
The Troop makes special tee shirts for various events, particularly high adventure treks. These tee shirts are considered to be Class B tee shirts and may be worn at any time it is appropriate to wear the troop tee shirt.
When the Class B uniform is called for, the Scout will wear the following:
Troop 399 Tee shirt
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Red BSA polo shirt
Solid color pants or shorts (black, blue, tan, or BSA issue. (If BSA shorts are worn, Scout socks are required).
Dress Code Guide
| Troop Meetings | Field Dress Uniform ( Class A ) |
| Traveling | Activity Uniform ( Class B) when we meet Friday night for take off and when we return from the camp out Sunday. |
| Eating | Field Dress Uniform ( Class A ) during Dinner ONLY. |
| Court of Honors, Scoutmaster Conferences, and Boards of Review |
Field Dress Uniform ( Class A ) |
| Special Events, Community services |
Field Dress Uniform ( Class A ) |
| Service Projects | T-shirts are OK, but watch what you wear. Activity Uniform ( Class B ) is optional. |
Headgear
Caps are optional for all uniform wear. The only approved caps for Class A will be a BSA cap. These include the green and red Boy Scout cap or any other cap from a Scouting function (i.e., summer camp, winter camp, Philmont, etc.). When a Scout is wearing a Class B uniform, any cap (with Scoutmaster's discretion) will be permissible.
Insignia
The inside front and back pages of the Boy Scout Handbook show the proper location for the various insignia that are used on the uniform and earned by the Scouts. You may also consult the Official Scout Insignia Guide for proper position of the insignia if there are any questions. Insignia must be in their proper location for a Scout to be able to pass uniform inspection. All Scouts are encouraged to wear the World Crest on their uniform (3 inches below left shoulder centered over pocket) as an expression membership in the world brotherhood of Scouting. Only one rank patch is worn on the Scout's left pocket at a time and only one temporary patch is worn on the on the Scouts right pocket at a time. Various pocket patch holders are available to hold the temporary patches on the right pocket. It is generally not a good idea to sew patches on the right pocket so they can be easily changed.
Please contact the Scoutmaster or Troop Committee Chair if the purchase of a uniform creates a financial hardship. Troop 399 will provide assistance where needed.
Troop 399 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. It is considered an indicator of Scout Spirit, which is a requirement for rank advancement.
Only Scouts having a full Class A uniform will be permitted to represent the Troop in any District or Council event that needs Scouts or Color Guards. Scouts are strongly encouraged to wear their Class-A uniforms when they participate in Boards of Review, Scoutmaster Conferences, and when their Patrol is responsible for conducting flag ceremonies. In short, a Scout can never go wrong by wearing the Class-A uniform to Scouting and troop functions.
At Summer Camp, Winter Camp, and high-adventure facilities, troops are graded. Part of the criteria for achieving the Honor Troop or a similar award is proper uniform. This is judged by the troop wearing a complete Class A uniform for flag ceremonies and dinner meals. This includes Scout shorts and socks.
Camping Program
Troop 399 conducts a full program of camping activities year round. We conduct three types of camping and outdoor activities: monthly campouts, summer camp, and high-adventure treks.
Monthly Campouts
Campouts are held approximately 10 times each year during the school year. Consult the current calendar for dates. Except for special campouts, such as the Troop Raft Trip, all activities are conducted using the Patrol Method, as outlined later in this manual.
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 canceled only in the event of unsafe conditions.
In almost every case, campouts are Friday night through Sunday afternoon. Generally, we leave Tarrytown United Methodist Church around 6:30 PM Friday evening and return to the church around 2:00 PM Sunday. It is important that Scouts attend both nights of the campout. The activities start very early Saturday and continue Sunday morning. In addition, many Scouts (particularly in their first year or two of Scouting) need the 2 nights of camping to help them gain eligibility for election to the Order of the Arrow (see page 95) and to complete the Camping Merit Badge.
In troop meetings prior to the actual camping activity, sign-up sheets will be available. Scouts planning to attend a campout should sign up as early as possible and should pay the designated fees. If a Scout later determines that he will not be able to attend, he should remove his name from the sign-up sheet and inform the Scoutmaster that he has done so. Depending on the situation, the Scout may be responsible for the campout fee if he decides not to attend. This is particularly true if food has been purchased, troop funds expended, or the troop is unable to fill the vacant slot where reservations had been made. Scouts should be aware that they might be responsible for keeping another Scout from participating if they do not treat the sign-up sheets seriously. If a Scout signs up, the troop needs to be able to count on his attendance.
Summer Camp
Troop 399 attends a week-long resident summer camp at Lost Pines Scout Reservation near Bastrop each summer. We generally try to reserve our troop session the first week of summer camp, this is approximately two weeks after most schools adjourn. Summer camp is very important to a Scouts advancement. Courses and merit badges are taught at summer camp that are difficult if not impossible to complete elsewhere. Lost Pines makes up a significant part of Troop 399's advancement program. For those Scouts unable to attend the troop session at Lost Pines (or those attending with the Troop that just want to go back for more), there is a "Provisional" troop formed in week 6 (mid-July timeframe). Scouts may attend with this troop. Scouts should sign up and pay for summer camp as early as possible to make sure there is space available for them.
High Adventure
Troop 399 generally conducts two high-adventure summertime treks each year. One of these goes to one of the Boy Scouts of America's High Adventure facilities (Philmont Scout Ranch, Florida Sea Base, or the Northern Tier Canoe Base) and attendance is subject to the rules set by the BSA (some are available only to Scouts over age 14). The other trek is available to any Scout that has earned the rank of First Class and is usually a backpacking oriented trip. This trek sometimes requires that a parent accompany each Scout. In past years, these treks have gone to the Grand Canyon, Pecos and Wheeler Peak Wilderness Areas in New Mexico, and Weminuche Wilderness Area in Colorado.
The Patrol Method
Campouts are organized by the Patrol Method where possible and appropriate. In general, this means that the patrols will 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:
1. 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.
2. A member of the adult leadership then approves the menu and supply list. A shopping list for both food and any needed supplies should be attached to the menu.
3. A member of the Patrol is designated (generally one that needs to complete the food purchase requirement) to buy the food for the Patrol.
4. The food buying Patrol member will go to the store and purchase the food and supplies for the meals for the campout. The receipt for the food is turned into the Troop treasurer who will reimburse the Scout or his parents for the amount spent. If this presents a financial burden or hardship, the parents may contact the treasurer to obtain a check in advance.
5. 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.
6. 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.
On some campouts, patrols will be notified that they are to plan for guests at each meal. Adult leaders will then dine with the patrol. This reinforces the need to eat together as a group (don't start until the guest arrives), saying of grace before the meal, and careful preparation of the meal.
Policies that relate to the Patrol
1. Scouts should plan together so that most of all of the members like what is on the menu. If a Scout is not present when the menu is planned, they need to be prepared to accept what is planned.
2. Menus should be planned taking into consideration each member of the patrol and their needs and wishes. The menu should make allowance for persons with allergies, vegetarians, etc.
3. Scouts should never bring their own food.
4. 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 are central features in accomplishing the aims of Scouting. Every effort is made by the adult leadership to increase Patrol participation and identity. 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.
Chain of Command
Patrol Leader
(Troop Guide for new Scout patrols)
Senior Patrol Leader
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 boy follows the chain of command. One of the goals of this Troop is that every boy learns how to communicate and learns to solve problems with boy leadership. This teaches them to rely on peers, decision-making, independence, and responsibility.
Camping Equipment
Consult the Scout Handbook, Scout Fieldbook, or Passport to High Adventure for complete information on appropriate camping. For most campouts, each Scout will need to bring a sleeping bag and pad, good hiking shoes or boots, and arrange to share a tent with another Scout in his patrol. On campouts that are designated as backpacking, the Scout will also need to bring his equipment in a backpack, for other campouts, a duffel bag is satisfactory. Trunks should only be brought to resident camps such as summer or winter camp.
Troop 399 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 the equipment they need. This provides them with the opportunity to become familiar with different types of gear and minimizes the expenditure.
The biggest problem that Scouts have with equipment is taking too much stuff! Scouts should pack their own gear prior to a campout but it is helpful if their parent(s) will review what they have chosen to take to make certain it is appropriate. This is particularly important on backpacking activities where weight is critical.
Guidelines and Rules for Campouts
Special guidelines and rules for Troop 399 outdoor activities:
Do:
1. Always bring a complete change of clothing (possibly 2 in wet weather) packed in zip-lock bags (sit on them to get the extra air out).
2. Always bring several pairs of dry socks in zip-lock bags.
3. Boots above the ankle are preferred footwear.
4. Cameras are allowed, at the Scout's own risk consider the waterproof, disposable cameras.
5. Always bring a ground cloth, poncho (or raincoat of some type), and work gloves.
6. Always bring the Scout Handbook, notepad, and pencil.
7. Come prepared for the weather, and come prepared for fun.
8. If Scout is on any prescribed medication, place the medication in an envelope 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. If problems are encountered with Scouts taking responsibility for taking their medicine, their parent may be required to accompany them on future campouts.
9. Write your name on everything you own, include the Troop number if it is a council or district activity where other Troops will be present.
Don't:
1. Never bring personal radios, TV's, cell phones, or electronic games.
2. Never bring any knives other than those approved under BSA guidelines. Troop 399 specifically prohibits sheath knives (hunting knives) of any size and pocketknives with blades longer than 2 inches.
3. Never bring an axe or hatchet of any kind. Axe's 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.
4. Never bring gum, soda, candy, or snacks on any of the campouts. This attracts ants and varmints and is potentially dangerous.
5. Never go on a campout without required daily medications. Parents will be called to bring the medication out to the campout location if you do not have them.
6. Never bring personal stoves, lanterns, or fuel of any kind.
7. Bring firemaking materials (matches, lighters, strikers, etc.) only on those campouts where they are on the list of equipment to bring.
Advancement
Troop 399 offers a complete advancement program, based on the requirements and procedures of the Boy Scouts of America.
Ranks
One of the "aims" of Scouting set forth by Baden-Powell is the achievement of "ranks". This provides goal-setting for the Scouts and awards them for achievement. It is the Scout's responsibility to learn the advancement program. He can learn through discussions with his Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader, or members of the adult leadership. His Boy 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 achieve ranks by completing advancement requirements. The Ranks available in Boy Scouting are:
Joining
Tenderfoot
Second Class
First Class
Star
Life
Eagle
All new Scouts must complete 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.
As a general guideline, Troop 399 is oriented toward having new Scouts join the Troop in the February/March time frame. We then make every attempt to have 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. The Troop would like to make it possible for a Scout to earn his Eagle rank by the time he is 15 if this is of interest to him. This is very achievable if the Scout and his parents work toward this objective.
Merit Badges
Merit Badges are the fun part of Scouting. While the lower ranks of Scouting are somewhat characterized by having a check-off list of things that must be accomplished and emphasize basic Scoutcraft and camping skills, the more advanced ranks (Life, Star, and Eagle) are achieved through earning merit badges, service projects, and leadership. A Scout working on any rank can earn merit badges.
Merit badges fall into two general categories, Eagle Required and non-Eagle Required. The list of Eagle Required merit badges may be found in the Boy Scout Handbook and the Boy Scout Requirements book and currently are:
Camping
Citizenship in the Community
Citizenship in the Nation
Citizenship in the World
Communications
Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving
Environmental Science
Family Life
First Aid
Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling
Personal Fitness
Personal Management
Troop 399 goes to great lengths to make available the opportunity for all Scouts to earn the Eagle Required merit badges. This is done at monthly campouts, summer camp, winter camp, special classes, etc. The non-Eagle Required merit badges may be earned at any time the Scout desires. The Troop will make many of these available during the year. Scouts who plan to achieve their 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 Merit Badge Chair of the Troop Committee. The Merit Badge Chair will provide the instructions on how to counsel a merit badge, particularly the procedures required to make sure that the Scout is approved to work on the badge and that his progress is tracked.
The Scout wishing to work on a merit badge should approach the Scoutmaster to get a blue card and determine the merit badge counselor with whom the Scout will work. The objective is for the Scout to work with a counselor other than the Scout's parents, so as to foster the Scout's communicative skills. Additionally, because the "buddy system" is always enforced, at least two Scouts must take the merit badge together.
The Merit Badge Counselor must have the merit badge pamphlet. The pamphlet can be checked out from the Troop library. If lost or destroyed, the Scout will be expected to reimburse the Troop or replace the pamphlet.
The steps for earning a Merit Badge are as follows:
1. The Scout decides which badge he wants to work on. This decision is usually based on the Scout's interests.
2. Obtain a copy of the merit badge book. Read the requirements and information about that badge. Note that a list of merit badge requirements may also be found in the Boy Scout Requirements book.
3. Secure permission from the Scoutmaster to work on the badge. Permission is in writing on the blue, 3 part, merit badge record form. The Scoutmaster will identify the proper counselor to be consulted on this form.
4. The Scout will contact the Merit Badge Counselor and arrange a mutually convenient meeting to discuss the badge. The Scout and counselor will discuss the requirements for the badge to insure that the Scout understands what the counselor requires.
5. The Scout completes the requirements for the badge and arranges another meeting. Once the counselor is satisfied that the Scout has completed the requirements for the badge, he will sign the blue merit badge record, retaining his part of the card.
6. The Scout then returns the card to the Advancement Chair of the Troop Committee who retains the Troop's part of the card and returns the Scout's portion to the Scout. The Scout retains his portion of the card for his records.
7. It is the Scout's responsibility to make and keep the proper appointments to earn the badge.
8. Occasionally boys will work on merit badge requirements during Troop meetings and some campouts are oriented toward earning particular merit badges.
The combination of merit badges, leadership activities, and service projects qualify a Scout for various ranks. This begins with Tenderfoot, and proceeds through Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and finally to Eagle. A Scout may not earn any merit badges or rank advancement after he becomes 18 years of age.
Advancement Completion
The final step in each Rank Advancement is a Scoutmaster Conference and a Board of Review. These must be scheduled in advance and, often, Troop meetings will be designated as the primary times for conducting Boards of Review and Scoutmaster Conferences. Troop 399 attempts to conduct these during outdoor activities as often as possible.
Scoutmaster Conference
A final requirement of each rank is for the Scout to participate in a one-on-one conference with the Scoutmaster. The purpose of this conference is to provide the Scout with an opportunity to discuss any issues that are of concern, to talk about his ongoing advancement, and any other items of interest. It is designed to further the level of communication and understanding between the Scout and Scoutmaster. The Scoutmaster usually takes this opportunity to discuss the upcoming Board of Review with the Scout to help him prepare for it.
Boards of Review
When a Scout completes all requirements for a rank, he appears before a board of review composed of members of the troop committee. Their purpose is not to retest him, but to make sure he has met all the requirements, to chat with him about how he feels he's getting along with the troop and its program, and to encourage him to keep advancing. One of the most important things that the board looks for in the Scout is his Scout spirit which is shown by his attitude, knowledge of the ideals of Scouting as promoted by the Scout Law, Oath, Motto, and Slogan, and attendance at troop activities. The board may not include the Scoutmaster or the Scout's parent.
A Scout should think of the Board of Review as being similar to a job interview. He should prepare for the Board of Review by reading the requirements for the rank he is earning, think about what he did to accomplish each requirement, and review the Scout Oath and Law. When the Board of Review is held during a troop meeting, the Scout should wear his Class-A uniform.
Award Presentations
Courts of Honor are held periodically, generally quarterly, to recognize Scouts for their personal achievement. Troop 399 will make every attempt to present rank advancement and other major awards (but not merit badges) to the Scout in the troop meeting immediately following the Scout earning the award. If the Scout is not present to receive the award at the troop meeting, it will be held until the next regularly scheduled Court of Honor. Regardless of whether or not the Scout is recognized and presented with his award at the troop meeting, he will be recognized again at the Court of Honor. The Scout should wear his Class-A uniform to the meeting where the rank patch will be presented.
In order to allow time for Scoutmaster Conferences, Boards of Review, and purchasing of the awards, there is a often a two to three week lead time for obtaining an award once all merit badges and service projects are complete. The procedure is to complete the merit badge and service projects, then schedule a Scoutmaster conference. After the Scoutmaster conference, please allow one week to have a meeting with the Board of Review. If the Board approves the advancement, the Scout will be awarded his rank badge at the next troop meeting or Court of Honor.
Junior Leadership
The troop is run by a combination of adult and Scout leaders. The Scout leadership positions include:
Senior Patrol Leader
Assistant Senior Patrol Leader
Troop Guide's
Patrol Leader
Assistant Patrol Leader
Chaplain's Aide
Troop Historian
Troop Instructor's
Troop Librarian
Troop Quartermaster
Troop Scribe
Order of the Arrow Troop Representative
Scouts, in a troop election, elect the Senior Patrol Leader. This election is held approximately every six months. The Scouts in their Patrol elect the Patrol Leaders. The Senior Patrol Leader and Patrol Leaders choose their assistants with Scoutmaster concurrence. The Senior Patrol Leader and the Scoutmaster choose other youth leadership positions.
Troop 399 periodically holds a one-day Junior Leadership Training course. Scouts in leadership positions are required to attend this course that is designed to help them develop leadership skills and know what is expected of Scout leaders in the Troop. The Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leaders, and Troop Guides are members of the Patrol Leader Council that, along with the Scoutmaster, is responsible for running the troop program.
The Capitol Area Council holds a weeklong youth leadership-training course. This is a weeklong course called Silver Pines and Troop 399 encourages all eligible Scouts to attend this course. It is conducted in the winter following Christmas and at the beginning of the summer. Interested Scouts should contact the Scoutmaster for more information regarding Silver Pines.
Order of the Arrow
The Order of the Arrow is a national honor camping organization that originated in 1915 to strengthen troops and encourage outdoor experiences. It is based on brotherhood and cheerful service to fellow men. The honor of becoming a member of the Order of the Arrow is one 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 Capitol Area Council is conducted through the Tonkawa Lodge under the authority of the Scout Executive. The Tonkawa Lodge conducts youth led meetings, plans and carries out activities, organizes council service projects for Arrowmen, and develops summer camp promotion plans to help Scouts prepare and attend the council camp. The Order of the Arrow provides broad-based leadership opportunities that strengthen personal development for individual Scouts and maintain interest in the Scouting program.
Each troop may hold an election once a year under supervision of the Tonkawa Lodge. Scouts are eligible to be elected when they 1) have earned the rank of First Class, 2) completed 15 nights of camping (6 of which must be consecutive at a long term resident camp) within the two years prior to the election, and 3) been approved by the Scoutmaster. The number of Scouts in the troop eligible for election depends upon the number of candidates meeting these requirements. All registered members of the troop under the age of 21 may vote. Since OA members are always in the minority in any troop, the majority who are outside the Order control the election.
The election itself is conducted by the Order of the Arrow lodge elections team. 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 of one adult by the Troop Committee), the OA election team will inform the Scoutmaster of those elected.
It is Troop 399's policy to not inform the Scouts of their being elected. They will be tapped out at a ceremony that is held at the District Camporee or Boy Scout summer camp. Parents are notified so that they may be present at the tap 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. This is a weekend camping activity and is open to all OA members. It is actually during this weekend that they actually become "members" of the Order of the Arrow.
Service Projects
Service projects consist of good deeds that benefit the Chartering Organization, the community, or a school. These must always be discussed with the Scoutmaster before actually being done. A Scout may work on one by himself if the opportunity arises, but he must inform the Scoutmaster and obtain approval for credit in advance. In general, service hour credit is available only for those projects available to all troop members. The Troop will arrange for service projects to help the Scouts with advancement. There are different requirements for different ranks. A Scout may only accumulate the hours needed for the rank he is working on. He cannot save hours for his next rank. The only exception to this is that a new Scout may work on service projects to accumulate hours for his Second Class rank while working on Tenderfoot.
Scouts working on their Eagle Scout rank need to carefully follow the required process for completing the Eagle Scout Service Project. When they have come up with a project idea, they should write a brief description of it and make an appointment to discuss it with the Scoutmaster or the adult he designates. The Scout MUST follow the procedure outlined in the Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook. These are available from the Capitol Area Council office or from the Scoutmaster. Troop members working on an Eagle project receive service credit toward their rank advancement, the prospective Eagle earns volunteer work hours.
Scouting Vocabulary
Activities for Second and First Class rank advancement, a Scout needs activities, five for 2nd class and an additional 5 for 1st class. These activities are any Scouting related function except for regular troop meetings. Service projects, campouts, summer and winter camp, and Courts of Honor are examples of activities. It is important that a Scout participate as much as possible, often the last requirements that a Scout needs to complete these two ranks are the required number of activities.
Camporee a campout sponsored by the Scouting district where all troops in the district attend and compete with each other in various skills activities.
Court of Honor a ceremony where Scouts are recognized for the achievements they have attained since the last Court of Honor. These are usually held in the fall, winter, and late spring. Courts of Honor are formal ceremonies. The Court of Honor held to present the rank of Eagle is conducted by the Eagle's family with troop cooperation and assistance.
Merit Badges a Scout earns these badges by completing the requirements for the merit badge. There are approximately 130 of these badges that cover a variety of subjects. Of these, a number are considered Eagle required because they are on the list of merit badges that are required to complete the Eagle rank. Merit badge achievement is a requirement for the ranks of Life, Star, and Eagle but may be earned at any rank. Merit badges are usually sewn on a Merit Badge sash that is worn at formal occasions such as Courts of Honor.
OA (Order of the Arrow). A Brotherhood of Honor Campers. Members of OA are elected by the troop at an annual election. OA members wear lodge pocket flaps on their right pocket and an OA white sash with a red arrow to formal occasions. They are presented the pocket flap and sash on completion of their "ordeal".
Patrol Leaders Council (PLC) the troop Scout leaders. This group consists of the Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leaders, Patrol Leaders, and Troop Guides. The PLC is responsible for planning camping activities, the troop meeting agendas, and making other decisions regarding the troop.
ONE HUNDRED SCOUTS
Of any one hundred boys who become Scouts, it must be confessed that thirty will drop out in their first year. Perhaps this may be regarded as a failure, but in later life all of these will remember that they had been Scouts and will speak well of the program.
Of the one hundred, only rarely will one ever appear before a juvenile court judge. Twelve of the one hundred will be from families that belong to no church. Through Scouting, these twelve and many of their families will continue to be brought into contact with a church and will be active all their lives. Six of the one hundred will become pastors.
Each of the one hundred will learn something from Scouting. Almost all will develop hobbies that will add interest throughout the rest of their lives. Approximately one-half will serve in the military, and in varying degrees, profit from their Scout training. At least one will use it to save another person's life and many will credit it with saving their own.
Four of the one hundred will reach Eagle rank, and at least one will later say that he valued his Eagle above his college degree. Many will find their future vocation through badge work and Scouting contacts. Seventeen of the one hundred boys will later become Scout leaders and will give leadership to thousands of additional boys.
Only one in four boys in America will become Scouts, but it is interesting to know that of the leaders of this nation in business, religion and politics, three out of four were Scouts.
This story will never end. Like the Golden Pebble of service dropped into the human sea, it will continue to radiate in ever-widening circles, influencing the characters of men down through unending time.
The Eagle Trail
