Boy Scouts of America TROOP 246 Parent's Handbook AMERICAN LEGION POST 152 Tampa, Florida Welcome to Boy Scout Troop 246, a troop on the move in its third decade of adventure. With this booklet we would like to share our perspective of Boy Scouting and provide some information concerning the troop and its operation. Table of Contents TROOP 246 HISTORY AND CONCEPT.................................................................................................................................................... 3 ADVANCEMENT ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 4 UNIFORMS ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 MAJOR ACTIVITIES ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 6 OTHER ACTIVITIES......................................................................................................................................................................................... 7 HEALTH AND MEDICAL CONSIDERATIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 8 PERMISSION SLIPS ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 9 DUES, FEES, AND CHARGES .................................................................................................................................................................... 10 PARENT INTEREST AND ASSISTANCE .................................................................................................................................................. 11 FUND RAISERS............................................................................................................................................................................................. 12 PATROL SYSTEM ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 13 CAMPING PROGRAM................................................................................................................................................................................ 14 CAMPING EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................................................................... 15 TROOP POLICIES......................................................................................................................................................................................... 17 RULES OF CONDUCT ................................................................................................................................................................................ 18 FINANCIAL AID ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 21 FEE COLLECTION PROCEDURES ........................................................................................................................................................... 22 TROOP HISTORY ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 23 EAGLE SCOUTS FROM OUR TROOP 246 ..................................................................................................................................... 23 WHAT WE HAVE DONE ...................................................................................................................................................................... 24 Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 2 TROOP 246 HISTORY AND CONCEPT Boy Scout Troop 246, was originally Chartered to the Woodbridge School PTA was formed in 1979, through the efforts of Ed DiSanto, Robert Wade, and Wilma Nanci. The troop is best described as an experienced troop that has developed depth in both the boy organization and the adult organization to aid it. The troop awarded its first Eagle Scout ranks in 1984. In 200_ our troop changed our sponsorship from Woodbridge School to American Legion Post 152. The troop emphasizes personal development by participation in meetings, camping, outdoor activities, service projects, and Scout events such as Merit Badge academy, Camporees and Summer camp. We believe that the boys learn best by doing what they have decided to do. The Scoutmasters and adults intervene only when matters of safety and good judgment are involved. Troop 246 is a Boy run troop. The troop provides a variety of Scouting experiences that may include lightweight, low impact and environmentally sensitive camping which is scaled to the boy's size, strength, ability and maturity. Other types of camping are undertaken so the Scout develops well-rounded camping skills and experiences. Personal development and service to others is equally stressed with the camping program. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 3 ADVANCEMENT Advancement is an individual matter involving a number of considerations including the Scout's attitude, aptitude, maturity and interest. Some general observations can be made. The most important is that advancement is a demonstration of gaining new experiences and skills. It is evidence of the Scout's growth and development. Generally, if a Scout participates in about three-quarters of the meetings, activities and camping trips, and has his Boy Scout Handbook available, the program will enable him to make First Class rank in twelve (12) months. If he attends summer camp in addition to the above, he should make First Class rank even faster. However, if the Scout is very motivated and takes advantage of the opportunities, he can make First Class rank in just several months. Ranks beyond First Class require more than simply riding with the troop program. To attain these "merit badges and service" ranks, the Scout must take the initiative himself. As with any young person's endeavor, parental assistance can greatly aid the Scout. Normally it is not recommended that Scouts actively participate in the merit badge program until the requirements for First Class Scout are being completed. The two exceptions to this are the First Aid Merit Badge and Swimming Merit Badge because of their special importance to troop activities and advancement. Also, badges of unusual opportunity due to the availability of the counselors and circumstances or else where the Scout already has significant skills. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 4 UNIFORMS There are two types of uniforms used in Troop 246. A "Class A" type uniform is a formal Boy Scout uniform. A "Class B" type uniform is more suitable for most outdoor activities, or when a formal uniform would not be appropriate. For Class A uniforms, Troop 246 has chosen the short sleeve Boy Scout shirt with the Scout's option on either short pants and socks (the preferred Florida uniform) or long trousers. A Class B uniform consists of any T-shirt that has a Scouting theme. T-shirts such as ones received from summer camp, camporees, and special scouting events are Class B uniforms. Class B uniforms are used on activities in which a Class A uniform would become too dirty or torn. It is recommended that the Scout be uniformed as he advances rather than buying the entire uniform at once on joining. By uniforming him as he advances, you recognize his advancement and are not committed to a major expense without benefit. One such plan is as follows: Rank On Joining Boy Scout Neckerchief Tenderfoot Second Class First Class Uniform/Special Materials Boy Scout Handbook Shirt with all insignia Optional Belt Shorts and socks, or trousers Merit Badge sash As the Scout advances, the B.S.A. Field Book and the Boy Scout Requirements book for the current year contain much useful information. (Each Scout should have his own Boy Scout Handbook since it has his own Scouting advancement record in it.) Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 5 MAJOR ACTIVITIES The troop participates in weekly meetings on Tuesday nights at 7:00 P.M. during the school year and schedules one camping trip or outdoor activity monthly during the school year. Normally the last meeting of the month is a Patrol Leadership Committee (PLC) meeting and is attended by those members. The remaining Scouts meet to work on advancement with the adult Scouters and other available older Scouts. In the early history of the troop emphasis on lightweight, low impact, environmentally sensitive camping was the norm but in recent years participation in a broader range of various types of camping including tail-gate, beach campouts, fun & sun, occurs. The troop emphasizes summer camp for all Scouts and high adventure and special activities for qualified Scouts. Newly Crossed over Weblos are always encouraged to attend Summer Camp. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 6 OTHER ACTIVITIES Scout Night - An annual recruiting evening normally in the second week of September. Camporee - A district or council camp together of many troops with various activities, skill sessions and demonstrations. Adventure Trip - An outdoor adventure of several days for older, stronger Scouts. Five and six day canoe trips, backpacking circuits, etc. are typical. Prerequisites are involved and not all Scouts are eligible. Historic Trail - A combination of camping, hiking and history lesson on one of the recognized historic trails: St. Augustine, Ft. Clinch historical, Ft. Clinch environmental, Osceola, Olustee and Egmont Key. Summer Camp - A week at either Gulf Ridge Council's Camp Flaming Arrow in Lake Wales, or at another Council camp elsewhere in the country. The Troop has held Summer Camp in the past at Skymont Scout Camp in Altamonte, Tennessee. Several Summer Camps in Georgia. When the Troop attends an out-of-state camp, Scouts that are not joining the troop are able to attend Summer Camp at Flaming Arrow in Lake Wales. This allows younger Scouts to attend a camp that is convenient for them. High Adventure Camps - Special theme camps operated by national or regional Boy Scout organizations. These have prerequisites of age and skills. Philmont Scout Range, Cimarron, NM, and the Scout Sea Base, Islamorada, FL, are examples. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 7 HEALTH AND MEDICAL CONSIDERATIONS Scout activities range from passive to strenuous. There is no reason that an average boy cannot participate. However, some have medical concerns that need to be known to the adult Scout leaders. These matters can be discussed with the Scoutmaster and a mutual determination made. The troop has always had several Scouts with medical concerns and these generally have not affected the Scout's participation. Should special medications or precautions be involved, please provide written instructions and permissions. The permission slips used for all overnight activities and activities outside of Tampa will indicate the nature of the activity and have space to note special considerations. For summer camps, out of council jamborees, high adventure camps, etc., a medical examination within the last year is normally required. Generally, the medical examinations for school, sports, etc. will cover Scout activities. The simplest solution is to have the Boy Scout physical examination form filled out at the same time as the physical examination for school or sports. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 8 PERMISSION SLIPS All activities that are overnight or are outside of Tampa will have a permission slip which is a combination announcement of the activity, (The top part designed for the family bulletin board or refrigerator) and the permission sip (the bottom part). The nature and location of the activity will be described as well as the times of departure and return. Additional information concerning arrangements, equipment, etc., is usually included. The permission slip (strictly speaking, the bottom part of the flyer) is the parent's approval of their son's involvement in the activity. It is vitally important that a telephone contact be provided. If there is no answer or a recording is received, it is silent consent that the parent is not available and the responsible Scouters or adults will exercise prudent judgment after noting the reason for non-contact. Permission slips (along with the indicated fee) are to be returned not later than the indicated time to permit appropriate arrangements to be completed. NO PERMISSION SLIP, NO PAY - NO GO, NO EXCEPTIONS Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 9 DUES, FEES, AND CHARGES The troop collects an initial joining fee which includes the current Boy Scouts of America registration fee and a subscription to Boys Life magazine. Additionally, Weekly dues of $1.00 per week for the 10 active months of the year. These collections just about cover the costs of awards, rank and advancement insignia, and office recognitions. In fact, if a Boy Scout is advancing at the fastest possible rate, his annual collections do not pay for his advancement and recognitions. This is an expense the Troop Committee is delighted to pay. Boy's Life Is a magazine for Boy Scouts enjoyed by most scouts and contains many features of interest. Activities, such as camping, are charged on a break-even basis where possible. A conscious effort is made at thrift and good value for the money spent. Parents are requested not to supplement Scout-determined amounts since part of the experience is keeping within the amount estimated as adequate. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 10 PARENT INTEREST AND ASSISTANCE Parents are encouraged to be involved with their sons in Scouting. At the minimum, this would include attending all Courts of Honor, the Scout Show, and certain nearby camporees. Parents are always invited to Troop meetings as well as Committee meetings. All registered adults with the Boy Scouts of America are required to take a course named Youth Protection. This is highly recommended for parents as well. See the Council website GULFRIDGECOUNCIL.ORG The council web site is the source of much valuable information and online training for all members of the Scouting family. To further the Troop program, we ask each family to further assist one outing/camping trip per quarter and one major activity (summer camp, historic trail, camporee, fund raising event) per year. A particular need is for transportation. As the Troop grows in size and does more diverse activities, a major problem is always transporting Scouts. Parental assistance is especially needed in this area. On the more distant activities, it is often more convenient for the transportation providers to simply camp with the Troop. Parents are invited to participate in meetings and outings. Special skills and interests can be shared by special presentations at meetings. Those with an outdoor bent are encouraged to take advantage of outings. Remember, the experience is for the Boy Scouts. Regardless of the circumstances, the adults seem to be a little more comfortable and better fed -- even on backpacking and canoe trips. Parents with special skills and backgrounds are encouraged to become merit badge counselors for any of the 100+ merit badges. The Scoutmaster or Committee Chairman can explain how you can become a merit badge counselor. The Troop Committee usually meets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month other than July. All parents are encouraged to attend these meeting and to get involved in the activities of the Troop. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 11 FUND RAISERS The Troop frequently holds several special fund raisers each year. They vary, but an annual garage sale is a good example. Typically, 10% profit goes to the Troop account and 90% goes to the Scout account. For certain fund raising events all of the proceeds will go to the troop treasury and in other instances all of the proceeds will go to the into the Scouts Scout account. For several years our Troop has conducted a Fish Fry dinner at our Post Home. This requires the support and participation of the Troop families and the Scouts themselves. The proceeds from the Fish Fry have gone into the General Treasury. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 12 PATROL SYSTEM Upon joining the Troop, each Scout, except those with very advanced rank, will join one of the patrols. The patrol is a team that the boy is a member of and participates with. It provides him immediate acceptance and a source of experience. It also provides leadership and participation opportunities. Being a team, the patrol is involved in team sports and competitions such as fire building contests, first aid carry relays, Scout skills contests, etc. Generally patrol and Troop elections are held twice a year. Leadership is a Benchmark goal of scouting and the Patrol is where Leadership skills Begin to develop. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 13 CAMPING PROGRAM Camping activities of Troop 246 involve a variety of outdoor situations so that the Scouts will gain maximum experience without excessive danger or hazard. The activities are scaled to their strength, endurance and maturity and are progressive in physical requirements and experience. Historically, the Troop has generally followed the theme of light-weight low-impact, environmentally sensitive camping. This theme emphasizes the skills, techniques and equipment of muscle-powered or nature-powered outdoor activities. It develops confident, reliant, self-sufficient persons. These skills are applicable to hiking, backpacking, canoeing, cruise sailing, bicycling, kayaking, even mountain climbing and orienteering should the Scout be in such an environment. There is the positive advantage that the lightweight camper can easily adapt to the "no restraint, full facilities camping" whereas the latter camper encounters great difficulty in adapting to the absence of artificial conveniences like prepared campsites, stoves, propane appliances, electric outlets, running water, etc. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 14 CAMPING EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS Like any other sport or activity, camping requires a certain amount of equipment. If you have prior experience, there is little problem. But if you are starting out, the alternatives are bewildering and can be very expensive. With a little care, however, modest equipment at modest expense will serve quite well. As with uniforms, don't totally equip the new Scout at first. He won't need it initially. Major purchases (like pack and sleeping bag) can often be timed for birthdays, Christmas, or other recognition events. In short, equip him as he develops skill and experience; don't over-hardware him. Initially a Scout will require a day pack (school book bag works fine), water container (leak proof, not necessarily a canteen), a cup (plastic is best), a bowl or plate, eating utensils (metal spoon, others can be plastic), and the use of a sleeping bag (except in coldest Florida weather, slumber bags work well), rain jacket or poncho an a small flashlight. As he gains experience, he will learn what equipment he needs and where it is available at modest prices. (Spectacular savings can be made at garage sales. And don't hesitate to ask an older Scout whether he will make a special deal for a new Scout -- many will.) For footgear, waffle stompers and jogging shoes are good for nearly all Florida conditions. The Boy Scout Handbook has a checklist for camping equipment that can be used as a reference point. A special note: Boy Scout authorized equipment is generally durable and well designed. For Troop 246 camping, some less expensive alternatives work just as well and do not cost as much. Sleeping bags are often the most expensive initial camping gear for a Scout. In Florida, a sleeping bag with tapered design, zipper down a side and across the bottom, good to 40 degrees with about 2 pounds of synthetic fill is adequate. It should not weigh more than 4 pounds; less is desirable since it will be carried many miles. If possible, have the Scout get in the bag to check it for size, if mail ordered, choose a bag that is rated for a person several inches longer than the Scout is tall. The same temperature range bag will be satisfactory on the Appalachian Trail and Philmont Scout Ranch during the summer. Such a bag costs around $50-70 and may be found at Wal-Mart, K-Mart and outdoor shops. (Sleeping bags typically go on sale at 20-35% off about twice a year.) The troop has had good experience with such sleeping bags made by Slumberjack. (An additional 5 to 10 degrees can be gained by using a liner or, even easier, a jogging or warm-up suit. If the sleeping bag does not have a hood (like a mummy bag), wearing a knit cap and using a muffler or even a dry towel as a baffle will add several more degrees. Also remember, the sleeping bag is normally used in a tent or other shelter.) Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 15 Packs for growing boys are always a problem. When the sudden growth spurt in height occurs, the pack can quickly become too small. The best Florida packs are external framed packs with two major compartments, side pockets, and padded waist belt. Note that most of the weight is carried on the hips via the waist belt. The shoulder straps mainly position the pack. The pack should be scaled for the Scout’s height and allow for growth. The Coleman Peak 1 packs and the similar Outdoor Products packs with their plastic “back shell” allow almost custom fitting for the growing youngster. The Kelty Youth Yukon (about $80) and the Jansport Scout (about $90) are next level backpacks. There are several adults who can provide guidance when the time comes. Tents are the other major camping item. Initially, the small 5 foot by 7 foot pup tent is adequate. The Scout can avoid the expense of a tent by pairing with other Scouts and learn about different tent types at the same time. As the Scout matures, a larger tent that is free standing by pole design and has a fly is often desired. Properly handled, sleeping bags, packs, tents and other camping gear can easily last years. The troop has several that are on their third and fourth Scout careers. Some of the adults are using camping gear that they used themselves as Scouts. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 16 TROOP POLICIES 1. Signed permission slips are required for all overnight and out of Tampa/Hillsborough County events. NO PERMISSION SLIP, NO PAY - NO GO, NO EXCEPTIONS 2. When a Scout has paid for a camping trip and must withdraw before starting it but after the food and expendables have been purchased, refund of monies paid is limited to the Troop fee, if any. If a one-for-one substitute can be found, then a full refund will be made. 3. Dues must be kept current in order to participate in camping events and to receive awards that have been earned. 4. Alcoholic beverages have no place at Boy Scout events. 5. Most Scouting properties, buildings and events are non-smoking zones. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 17 RULES OF CONDUCT 1. Voting members of the Patrol Leaders Council (PLC) are: a. b. c. d. e. Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL) Patrol Leaders (PL) Junior Assistant Scoutmaster (JASM) Instructor 2. Voting should be silent on many issues to avoid unfair coercion. 3. Prior to all camping trips, each patrol's menu and duty roster must be pre-approved by the SPL or ASPL. Each meal should include all four food groups. If any doubt, check with the Scoutmaster. 4. Patrol names can be changed at the beginning of the new Scout year with the September elections. Unanimous approval by the PLC must be secured prior to checking with the Scoutmaster. Also, the Patrol that seeks to change its name must submit a diagram of the intended patrol flag. Flag will then be shown to the PLC at the next PLC meeting. Names of the patrols will be approved if that patrol name appears in the Boy Scout Insignia Control Guide. As in all such matters, the Scoutmaster's approval is required. 5. All patrols including the PLC will have, maintain, and bring to Scout events, their patrol flags. Also all members will wear a patrol patch on their uniform. 6. Members of the Troop and PLC will follow the proper chain of command in attempting to solve common minor problems or in attempting to make changes. 7. Fighting or striking a fellow Scout will not be tolerated. 8. Refusal to do your share of work when asked at any Troop activity or assignment on a duty roster and failure to do a satisfactory job will result in action by the Patrol Leader or SPL. 9. Excessive talking, noise making, and general disruption during a meeting, guest speaker presentation, chapel service, field trip, or other like situations will not be tolerated. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 18 10. Items not allowed on activities: on Troop activities: The following items will not be allowed a. Any items listed as prohibited in B.S.A. policy, (i.e. weapons, firearms, illegal drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products used by minors) b. Personal hatchets, axes, machetes, sheath knives, other blades over three (3) inches, martial arts equipment, fireworks. VIOLATION OF EITHER "A" OR "B" MAY RESULT IN EXPULSION FROM TROOP 246. SCOUTMASTER AND THE TROOP COMMITTEE MUST APPROVE RE-ENTRY INTO TROOP. c. Radios, televisions, electrical appliances, electronic games unless advance specific permission is secured from the Scoutmaster and or Adult in charge. d. Posting of any kind of photos taken, on public websites without the written permission of the parents of a scout so photographed. e. Adults will supervise the operation of, or operate personally all gas powered appliances. Specific approval from the adult in charge is required before Scouts may bring gas operated appliances on Troop activities. f. Use of an open flame device within a tent. 11. Personal behavior of Scouts: Scouting is intended to build character and every effort will be made to deal with any problems that may arise with a particular Scout. In the majority of instances, minor behavior problems will be dealt with by the youth leaders of the Troop in accordance with BSA Guidelines. In more serious matters, as judged by the Scoutmaster or adult in charge, the following guidelines apply. Any continual showing of disrespect to the leaders of Troop 246, interrupting instruction at Troop functions, and not adhering to the Scout law, will be grounds for immediate removal from Troop functions. Parents of Scouts will be notified and asked to pick up their son. At this time, parents will be briefed by the Adult leader in charge as to the problem. In the event the parent cannot be reached, the Scout will be removed from all activity until the parent is contacted. The Adult in charge will brief the Scoutmaster at the conclusion of the Troop activity as to the nature of the behavior and what was done about it, and also name the persons that were direct witnesses. The parent will accompany the Scout to the next meeting to discuss the Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 19 problem with the Scoutmaster and the Adult in charge at the Troop function where the behavior occurred. The Scout will not be allowed to attend any functions until this discussion is held and a satisfactory agreement is reached. The Scoutmaster or his adult designee will be responsible for dealing with Scouts exhibiting behavior that is inappropriate to the ideals, laws, and principals of Scouting. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 20 FINANCIAL AID The Troop has financial aid available for (1) uniforms, (2) summer camp with the Troop and (3) high adventure trips or a national jamboree. The amounts and details vary slightly year to year and the current announcement letter can be obtained from the Scoutmaster. See the troop website for a details and deadlines. T246BSA.COM Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 21 FEE COLLECTION PROCEDURES A. CHECKS 1. Checks are preferred for all fees, except dues. 2. Separate check or funds for each function. 3. Indicate the Scout's name and function on the check. 4. Check should be made payable to Boy Scout Troop 246. B. CASH 1. Cash must be in an exact amount. 2. It must be in an envelope with the amount enclosed and the Scout's name recorded on the outside and sealed. Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 22 TROOP HISTORY Like any dynamic organization, our Boy Scout Troop has done many wonderful things during our first decade. Experience and memories that will last a lifetime are what we have had. This is an effort to highlight the history of our Troop. EAGLE SCOUTS FROM OUR TROOP 246 Year 1984 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1988 1990 1990 1991 1991 1992 1994 1994 1994 1995 1996 1997 1997 1998 1998 1999 2010 2010 2010 2012 2012 Eagle Scout John Nanci Kelly Melton Michael Adams Karl H. Tramer II Eric Hughey Michael Loy Frank Marion Troy C. Lapsys Eric Eden Brian Mumaugh John Rankin Erich Leftwich Louis Ferris Chris Kelley Steven Johns Christopher O'Banion Stephen Knutson Shawn Wormsley A. J. Poe Ryan Saunders Michael Parrino Donald Kennington Ryan Waldron Russell Page Frank Marion III Travis Stark Daniel Marion Project Blood Mobile Drive Fingerprint Youth Trail Building State Park Recycle Eyeglasses Bat Habitats at Park Fund Raiser / Crisis Center Seat Belt Bumper Sticker Car Wash for Humane Society Trail on Channel G Substance Information Fair Brazilian Peppers from Park Walkway at Lego High School Podiums at Church County Park Beautify Woodbridge Parking Lot Frisbee Golf Course Beautify Woodbridge Beautify Woodbridge Beautify Morgan Woods Playground at Lavoy School School Playground Beautify Woodbridge Remodel Church parking lot Care packages for Homeless Paint Social Hall at Legion Post 152 Instrument Storage at School Organize Youth Day Camp Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 23 WHAT WE HAVE DONE Gulf Ridge Council "Scout Show", B.S.A. Summer Camp every year, Skymont Summer Camp, Altamonte Tennessee, Numerous District and Council Camporees, 50 Mile - 1 week canoe trip, National B.S.A. Jamboree. Philmont High Adventure Scout Camp. Sailing Adventure at B.S.A. Florida. World B.S.A. Jamboree, 50 Mile Backpacking in Ocala Forest, Junior Leadership Training as Participants and Staff, Six Sessions as Participants and Staff, Order of the Arrow Conclaves and Section Conferences, Troop Camping Trips that average 10 per year, Earned the National Camping Award since 1982, Earned the Quality Unit award since 1982, Pathways as Participants and Staff, Fort Wilderness Camp Resort at Walt Disney World, Cub Scout Day Camp as Staff, Mom and Me Staff, Inner City Scout Camp out as Staff, B.S.A. Religious Awards and Religious Committees, B.S.A. Life Guard Certification, N.A.S.A. Space Center, Deep Sea Fishing Trips, Camped and Canoed on the following rivers: Withlacoochee, Alafia, Peace Little Manatee, Ocklawaha, Hiked and Camped on all of the Florida "Historic" Trails: St. Augustine, Egmont Key, Olustee Battlefield, Ft. Clinch Historical, Ft. Clinch Environmental, Osceola. Let all of us remember that what we have been able to enjoy came as a result of the sacrifice of others. "Be Prepared" to make your sacrifices so that Scouts of the future will be able to proudly say: "Me ? I belong to Troop 246!" 5-21-13 ed Troop 246 Parent's Handbook - Page 24