BOY SCOUT TROOP 189Montclair, Virginia

Troop Handbook (ver 4.0)For Parents and Scouts

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction and Welcome …………………………………………………….…..3

CHAPTER 1: General Guidelines .……………………………..…………………41.1 Code of Conduct1.2 General guidelines for Scout activities 1.3 Troop Guidelines1.4 Disciplinary Actions

CHAPTER 2: Scout Uniform ..…………………………………………………….62.1 Purchasing the Uniform2.2 Uniform Variations2.3 Shoes2.4 Uniform Inspections

CHAPTER 3: Troop Activities …………………………………………………….83.1 Attendance Requirements3.2 Troop Meetings3.3 Planning Conferences3.4 Insurance

CHAPTER 4: Hiking/Backpacking/Camping Trips ……………………………….104.1 Individual Equipment4.2 Patrol Equipment4.3 Weekend Campouts4.4 Summer Camp4.5 Travel

CHAPTER 5: Advancement ……………………………………………………….125.1 Rank Advancement5.2 Merit Badges5.3 Service Project Hours5.4 Scoutmaster Conference5.5 Boards of Review5.6 Courts of Honor5.7 Eagle Scout

CHAPTER 6: Troop Organization …………………………………………….…176.1 Troop Structure6.2 The Patrol Method and Organization 6.3 The Scoutmaster6.4 The Troop Committee

CHAPTER 7: Troop Finances …………………………………………………….217.1 Finances7.2 Registration7.3 Fund Raisers

CHAPTER 8: Parent Involvement .……………………………………………….228.1 Ways to help the Troop8.2 Tips for Scout parents

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INTRODUCTION and WELCOME

Welcome to Troop 189! This pamphlet explains the Troop guidelines and procedures and supplements information already in the Boy Scout Handbook and other Boy Scouts of America (BSA) publications. It is intended to provide scouts, their parents, and adult leaders a ready reference as to how Troop 189 operates.

Our Troop has a long and rich heritage – we have been continuously chartered since 1979. May you and your son(s) find scouting in Troop 189 as rewarding as those who have gone before. Troop 189 is committed to providing an outstanding scouting program to fulfill the mission of the Boy Scouts of America:

“To prepare young people to make ethical choices over their lifetime by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.”

The goal of boy scouting is to help develop boys into honorable men. The three aims of the program are to develop character, citizenship, and fitness (physical, mental, and emotional). The aims are best described in the Scout Oath and the Scout Law:

Scout OathOn my honor I will do my best

To do my duty to God and my countryand to obey the Scout Law;

To help other people at all times;To keep myself physically strong,

mentally awake, and morally straight.

Scout LawA Scout is:

Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful,Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent.

Your son has promised to follow the Scout Oath and the Scout Law at all times. This is the definition of Scout Spirit. He has also promised to climb the Eagle Trail - the difficult path to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. These goals are difficult to attain and he will need the help of his friends, parents, and leaders. Troop, District, Council and National programs provide the opportunities to climb the Eagle Trail one step at a time, but parents must provide the love, interest, encouragement, and support for their son so that he can participate whenever possible.

The aims of scouting cannot be realized unless your son is an active member and you, the parents, support your son(s) and Troop 189. It is very much a joint commitment--your son’s, yours and ours --to helping your son become the man you

want him to be.

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CHAPTER 1GENERAL GUIDELINES

Each Scout promises to follow the Scout Oath and Scout Law. If the Scout fails to abide by these principles, he is breaking his promise to be a Boy Scout. If we all live up the Oath and Law, we'll have more time for fun and positive scouting experiences. The following are Troop general guidelines implementing the Scout Oath and Law.

1.1 Troop 189 Code of Conduct

The Scout Oath and Scout Law will be my guides.I will be an active participant in the Troop.I will be on time and ready to participate.I will always be neat and presentable.I respect other’s property, space, and person.I will not smoke, chew, nor consume tobacco, alcohol or drugs.

1.2 General guidelines for Scout activities:

If you cannot attend an activity, notify your immediate leader.Scouts are responsible to keep their own gear neat, functional, and secure.No rough-housing.There is no hazing or other initiation.No candy on campouts (except chewing gum).Use of electronic equipment must be consistent with Scouting requirements. During Scout functions, uses such as weather applications, alarm clocks, star constellation identification, calculators, emergency phone calls, etc. are uses that are consistent with the Troop’s policies. Uses such as email, general phone calls, social media (Facebook, Twitter, Snap Chat, LinkedIn, etc.), game applications, general internet use, music, etc. are not consistent with Troop policies. While enroute to/from outings in motorized transportation, electronic equipment may be used as long as their use is consistent with BSA ideals.No swearing.Firearms and fireworks are not permitted unless part of an official activity and operated under the supervision of qualified leaders.Snacks are great provided there are enough to share with everyone.Adult Scout leader approved literature only.

1.3 Troop Guidelines:

A. Adults and youth will interact in groups; however, there will never be less than three individuals alone at any time. Examples of three individuals: one adult and two boys (used for transportation to/from events), two adults and one boy, three adults or three boys. Adults will never enter into agreements with youth, such as trading or selling items.

B. The Troop, or BSA, cannot be liable for loss of personal equipment. When scouts sign-out Troop equipment, they assume responsibility for its accountability and maintenance. The cost of loss or damage to the equipment will be at the expense of the borrower.

C. Any Scout caught with contraband at a Scout function will have the item removed from their possession. The item will be returned to the parent.

D. Scouts must ensure they arrive on time for scheduled activities and are picked-up within 15 minutes of scheduled dismissal times.

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E. Parents are expected to support the Troop by participating in fund-raising activities, campouts, outings, and merit badge skills, to the best of their abilities. A good rule of thumb is for parents to participate in at least one Scout activity each quarter.

1.4 Tobacco, Alcohol and Unauthorized Drugs.

A. Troop 189 recognizes the BSA policies addressing this subject. It is the policy of Troop 189 that any Scout not adhering to the BSA policy will be required to meet with Troop Leadership (Scoutmaster and Troop Committee) to review potential dismissal from the Troop.

B. Registered adults as well as parents are reminded that they too must adhere to the BSA policies regarding tobacco, alcohol, and unauthorized drugs. Adults must support the position that they as well as Scouts are better off without using these stimulants. All Scouting functions are conducted on a smoke-free basis, with smoking areas located away from all participants.

1.5 Disciplinary Actions.

In the event a youth becomes a discipline problem, Troop leaders will generally follow the guideline of “three strikes.” The goal of the Troop’s leaders is to keep boys in the scouting program while making the scouting experience positive for all.

1. The first occurrence will result in a verbal warning by a Troop leader with a follow-up verbal counseling session between the boy and the scoutmaster.

2. The second occurrence will result in the boy being removed from the activity and the parents being notified of the circumstances.

3. The third occurrence will result in a formal meeting between the Scout, his parent(s), and the Troop leadership (Scoutmaster and Troop Committee). Following that meeting, the boy might be suspended for a period of time or required to perform some tasks to develop himself.

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CHAPTER 2SCOUT UNIFORM

2.1 Purchasing the Scout Uniform

A. The proper wearing of the Boy Scout uniform demonstrates a Scout’s pride in himself, the Troop, and the Boy Scouts of America. A new Scout is encouraged to obtain his official uniform as soon as possible. Scouts with a complete uniform feel a part of the Troop and are more willing to participate in scouting events. The total cost for a complete Scout uniform will be approximately $90. Registered Scouters--Assistant Scoutmasters and Committee Members--are encouraged to wear the appropriate BSA uniform as well. Adults should lead by example.

B. The Scout uniform and other BSA supplies may be purchased from the Scout Shop in Springfield at 5234 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA (703) 321-4836, the National Capital Area Council headquarters at 9190 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, (301) 564-1091 or online (http://www.scoutstuff.org).

C. All registered youth and adults also receive a copy of the Boy Scout Catalog from the BSA National Distribution center. Scouting items may also be purchased through the catalog but will incur a shipping charge.

D. Troop 189 maintains a Swap Shop of uniforms and uniform parts from which a Scout may take any item so long as he uses it for its intended purpose. When a Scout outgrows a uniform or uniform part (i.e., a belt), we ask that he consider tossing it into the Swap Shop. Most uniforms and uniform parts are for smaller boys and are most useful for new scouts, although the Swap Shop is not restricted to any group of Scouts.

2.2 Uniform Variations

A. The Field Service Uniform (often-times referred to as the Class A uniform) is the most formal uniform and is worn to most Scout activities including: all regularly scheduled Troop Meetings, Scoutmaster Conferences, Boards of Review, Courts of Honor, to/from all outings where we will be stopping for a meal and therefore be in “the public eye,” and Summer Camp. This uniform consists of:

· Hat: Troop 189’s “baseball” hat (replacement Troop 189 hats, or Troop 189 hats for family members, are available through the scoutmaster for approximately $10 each.)

· Shirt: Official BSA khaki shirt, long or short sleeve, with forest green (Ventures wear orange) shoulder loops (Once at the campout/outing, when directed by the Scoutmaster, the khaki shirt will be packed away to minimize its wear and tear)

· Pants: Official BSA green pants, long or short· Neckerchief: Troop 189’s green embroidered neckerchief (BSA green with white for all Scouts who have

not yet made Tenderfoot rank) or bolo (replacement embroidered neckerchiefs, or embroidered neckerchiefs for family members, are available through the scoutmaster for approximately $15 each.); neckerchief slide is Scout’s choice (bolos are not acceptable wear for Uniform Inspections, Scoutmaster Conferences, Boards of Review, Courts of Honor, travel to National Events, or as directed)

· Merit Badge Sash: Required after the first merit badge is earned (worn to Scoutmaster Conferences, Boards of Review, and Courts of Honor only; never draped over belt!)

· Belt and Buckle: Official BSA belt and buckle of any type· Socks: Official BSA· Shoes: Hiking, tennis, walking or running shoes· Order of the Arrow Sash: Worn ONLY to OA functions (never draped over belt!)

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B. The Utility Uniform (often-times referred to as the Class B uniform) is worn to activities at which the boys may become dirty, such as weekend campouts or service projects. It consists of:

· Hat: Troop 189’s “baseball” hat· Shirt: Official Troop 189 T-shirt (The first T-shirt is provided free of cost to each boy when he joins the

Troop. A second is provided free of cost when he attends his first summer camp (replacement shirts, or shirts for family members, are available through the Troop committee for $15 each).

· Pants: BSA pants/shorts- Jeans, jean shorts, or other similar green/khaki outdoor apparel are acceptable substitutes until First Class SMC

· Belt and Buckle: Official BSA belt and buckle of any type· Socks: Official BSA

- White athletic socks are acceptable substitutes until First Class SMC· Shoes: Hiking, tennis, walking or running shoes· Other "official BSA" articles, like the merit badge sash, OA sash, and neckerchief, should not be worn.

Scouts will normally wear this Utility “Class B” uniform at every outdoor activity, including campouts and hikes.

C. For safety purposes, the following items are prohibited for wear to all Scout functions:

· Flip-flops, sandals, and other open-toed type footwear· Military BDU pants, shirts, coats or hats. Their camouflage nature is not compatible with any Scout

activity· Jewelry (e.g. rings, earrings, etc.). Watches are allowed.

2.3 Shoes

For all outdoor activities, each Scout should have a pair of sturdy, properly fitted hiking boots. Footwear is very important; scouts do a lot of walking; therefore this is not a place to skimp. Although good boots are moderately expensive and a boy's feet keep growing, a boy on a long hike in poorly fitted boots can be miserable. For the first few months in the Troop, the boy may be able to work with a good, sturdy pair of tennis shoes. However, as soon as possible the boy should get a pair of sturdy hiking boots. The Troop leaders can help with selecting a good quality shoe.

2.4 Uniform Inspections

Uniform inspections are another way the boys are taught responsibility as well as duty. Scouts must keep their uniforms clean and neat, as well as ensure the badges and insignia are worn properly. During the first meeting of the month, Troop 189’s Scout leadership will conduct a uniform inspection. A checklist is available at the Scout shop.

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CHAPTER 3TROOP ACTIVITIES

3.1 Attendance requirements

Active attendance is expected at all Scout events; however, sometimes a Scout may not be able to attend an event. On those occasions, the Scout must notify his Patrol Leader prior to the event. Of significance, to advance in rank a Scout must participate in a majority of Troop events, both overnight camping and individual day events. These requirements are listed in the Boy Scout Handbook. The handbook requires active participation in order to advance in rank and defines it as follows; 1) the Scout is registered, 2) the Scout is in good standing, and 3) the Scout meets the unit’s reasonable expectations; or , if not, a lesser level of activity is explained.

· Registered – The Scout is registered with Troop 189 for at least the time period indicated in the requirement, and he has indicated in some way, through word or action, that he considers himself a member.

· Good Standing – The Scout is in good standing with Troop 189 as long as he has not been dismissed for disciplinary reasons (see paragraph 1.4 and 1.5). Also, the Scout must be current with his annual dues.

· Unit’s reasonable expectations – To be considered as active in Troop 189 a Scout must attend at least two Troop activities per month. This may be a combination of weekly Troop meetings and or Troop outings / events. The active period for rank advancement need not be consecutive.

Troop 189 uses a computer program to track each Scout’s attendance. This record can be reviewed any time, but is most often considered during the Scoutmaster Conference and Board of Review.

3.2 Troop meetings

Weekly Troop meetings are conducted Tuesdays at Pattie Elementary School located on Route 234, from 7:15 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. The Troop meeting has seven parts: the pre-opening, opening ceremony, Patrol meetings, skills instruction, inter-patrol activity, closing, and “Roses and Thorns.” We are expected to be out of the building no later than 9:00 p.m. All scouts are expected to help clean–up the areas we use, leaving it better than we found it upon our arrival. Boys holding leadership positions are expected to arrive 15 minutes early and may need to stay a little later to perform leadership duties.

3.3 Planning conferences

A. Troop 189’s Patrol Leader Council (PLC), the boys’ leadership group, is known as the Greenbar Council, in honor of William "Green Bar Bill" Hillcourt, who wrote many of the best resources for Scouts and Scouters starting with handbooks for Scoutmasters and Patrol Leaders in the 1920's and for many years had a column in Boy's Life Magazine for Patrol Leaders. The Greenbar Council meets monthly to plan and prepare for Troop activities. At its monthly meetings, the PLC organizes and assigns activity responsibilities for the weekly Troop meetings and the main event for the upcoming month. The Senior Patrol Leader leads the meeting under the supervision of the Scoutmaster. The Greenbar Council normally meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30 pm at Pattie Elementary and runs for exactly one hour.

(1) Greenbar Council membership includes: Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leaders (Assistant Patrol Leader in the Patrol Leader’s absence), Troop Guide(s), Troop Order of the Arrow Representative, Den Chief(s), and Scribe.

(2) The Scoutmaster conducts a meeting of all Assistant Scoutmasters simultaneously with the Greenbar Council at the same location to ensure the Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters are prepared to meet the needs of the plans determined by the Greenbar Council.

B. The Troop's main activities are selected and planned at the Annual Planning Conference (APC) normally held late summer. 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 Greenbar Council to consider. The Troop committee interacts

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with the Greenbar Council through the Scoutmaster. Once the yearly plan is approved by the Troop committee, it is published and distributed at the Troop’s Annual Family Picnic and Program Launch, usually held on the last Sunday before Labor Day Weekend.

3.4 Insurance

The Troop makes use of the insurance that Boy Scouts of America and the National Capital Area Council provide through chartering registered members. Each year, as part of yearly registration, scouts pay a small fee for insurance coverage (included in registration fee). This insurance provides limited coverage against accident and death. Details are available through the Troop committee.

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CHAPTER 4HIKING/BACKPACKING/CAMPING TRIPS

Outdoors is where the scouting program and methods work best. Without outdoor activity, Scout Troops tend to become like any other organization. The aims are still there, but without the element of the outdoors, the effectiveness is very weak.

4.1 Individual Equipment

A. Each Scout should have a backpack that allows him to hike with the following personal items:

- Tent (normally provided by the Troop)- Bedroll: either a lightweight sleeping bag or blanket, with foam or inflatable pad- Minimum of two quarts/liters water in canteens, bottles or hydration bladders- Personal first aid kit with antiseptic, band-aids, and moleskin, at a minimum- Pocketknife: small folding type (if Scout is certified with a Totin' Chip)- Extra Clothes (try to avoid cotton): shorts/pants, shirt, two pair of socks, underwear - Scout uniform shirt- Rain jacket and pants or poncho- Flashlight- Compass- Matches and fire-starters (if a Scout is certified with a Firemen Chit)- Sun screen- Eating kit: knife, fork, spoon (a spork covers all three), bowl, cup- Personal hygiene kit: wash cloth, towel, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb - Watch- Scout Handbook, notebook, and pen/pencil in waterproof bag- Insect repellent- Swimsuit, towel, and pool shoes (if swimming is planned)

Optional Items:- Camera- Prayer book, Bible, or other religious textbook- Sunglasses

B. Scouts should have their names marked on all personal equipment. Everything should be packed in a waterproof manner. Freezer Ziplock-type bags work best, especially the gallon size.

C. No Scout may carry or use a pocketknife, axe, or saw until he has earned his "Totin' Chip" card which certifies that he understands their proper care and use. The Troop provides axes and saws when needed.

D. Items not permitted on campouts are:- electronic games or radios- individual items requiring liquid fuel, unless approved by Scoutmaster- any drugs, tobacco products, and alcoholic beverages. Scouts may have prescription drugs once the parents and Scoutmaster have discussed the circumstances in advance and the Scout is capable of administering the medication or the required form has been signed by the parent(s) authorizing a Scouter to administer the medication.- soft drinks and candy (except chewing gum)- glass containers- sheath knives or switchblades (please review the Guide to Safe Scouting for full details)

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4.2 Patrol Equipment

Each patrol has a full complement of camping equipment assigned to them. This includes tents, dining flies, cooking utensils, tools, and a uniquely designed Patrol Box. The Patrol Box is a portable field kitchen containing all the necessary cooking utensils and storable basics. The Troop’s Quartermaster is responsible for maintaining Troop equipment. Each patrol is responsible for their patrol’s equipment.

4.3 Weekend Campout

Troop 189 will conduct a weekend campout, hike or other outdoor activity every month.

A. Generally, scouts must eat Friday dinner before arriving at Pattie Elementary School for a weekend campout (largely due to the local commuting times). While on the campout, scouts will prepare Saturday's breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and Sunday's breakfast. For these four meals, each Patrol will previously assign Grubmaster duties to a Patrol member, who has the responsibilities to determine the items required by the Patrol-determined menu for the entire outing, purchase those items, bring the items to the outing in appropriate containers, provide the Patrol with an accounting of all purchases and collect from each participating Patrol member their share of the total cost for the items. Meals will be nourishing and patrols should avoid the use of pre-processed and packaged food items. These items are not conducive in furthering the lessons Scouting wishes to instill within Scouts. Under (Assistant) Scoutmaster mentoring, each patrol will plan their campout menus two weeks prior to the campout. All meals are prepared by the patrols.

B. Troop tents are provided for the scouts. While using them, the scouts are responsible for their proper accountability (i.e. keeping control of all tent pegs, ropes, components), their proper use (i.e. no aerosol spraying inside the tent, which destroys its waterproof seal), and their maintenance. At no time will tents be returned for storage while still dirty, wet, or damp. If the campout concludes and the tent are still wet, the Scout will take the tent home to properly dry and clean it prior to the next Troop meeting. Scouts will be held accountable for damage and lost components (e.g. tent pegs) for the Troop tents and any other Troop equipment in their charge. Parents will be informed of all such instances. Scouts must understand and accept responsibility for the care of their own and the Troop's equipment.

4.4 Summer Camp

Summer Camp is the highlight of the Scout year. Usually in June/July, there are many opportunities for the scouts to earn merit badges, learn new skills, meet scouts from other Troops, and grow. Parents should encourage their son to take part in this experience. Troop 189 normally uses the BSA Blue Ridge Council camp at Ottari/Powhatan; an outstanding facility in the mountains south of Roanoke, Virginia. Further detailed instructions and applications are available in the spring of each year. The cost is approximately $300 for 6 days ($175 for adults). All meals and activities are included, though some merit badges require the purchase of additional supplies for a small fee. Each participant is required to have a BSA Annual Health and Medical Record. The form can be found on the Troop website or on line with BSA. The Troop committee can provide necessary forms if required.

4.5 Travel

Volunteer parents drive the scouts to and from all activities. This is an important support function that is expected of all parents. Driver and vehicle identification data are filed with the Troop and local council to ensure compliance with BSA rules. Each Scout will use a seat belt at all times. Vehicles must have minimum insurance coverage of $25,000 bodily injury/death (one person), $50,000 for more than one person and $20,000 property damage. BSA recommends minimums of 50/100/50 thousand. Scouts who are licensed drivers under 18 years old may drive to and from events but may not transport other boys, except siblings. Please provide Troop 189’s TroopMaster guru with your vehicles’ information as soon as possible. It must be on record before you can use your vehicle to provide Troop 189 transportation.

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CHAPTER 5ADVANCEMENT

5.1 Rank Advancement

A. The requirements for each rank are specified in the Boy Scout Handbook. The handbook is important not only for identifying the requirements, but for also serving as the official record of a Scout’s advancement. The (Assistant) Scoutmaster initials each successfully completed requirement. The Scout should take his Handbook to all Troop meetings, outings, Scoutmaster Conferences, Boards of Review, and any other time he plans to work on advancement.

B. The Troop utilizes our website (http://troop-189.org) and a computer program called “TroopMaster” to maintain records on each boy’s accomplishments, as well as other Troop administrative data. When a boy leaves the Troop, he should ask for a printed and electronic copy of his Scout records to take with him. The Scoutmaster and Troop Committee are responsible for maintaining up-to-date records for the Troop and the boys. However, each Scout is responsible for ensuring “TroopMaster” correctly reflects his accomplishments as annotated in his Boy Scout Handbook, the source document for all disputes.

C. A Scout learns by doing. He learns outdoor skills by hiking and camping. He learns other scouting skills in his Troop and patrol. He learns to be a leader by helping other scouts learn skills he has already mastered. He learns all of these things with the help of his Patrol Leader, patrol members, senior scouts, and adult scouters.

D. The Scout must take the initiative to advance in rank! The patrol and Troop will support his efforts and provide him the opportunities, but ultimately each Scout must know which requirements he still must master, seek out opportunities to learn those skills, and ensure he is tested on each task. This is especially true for the ranks beyond First Class. Star, Life and of course Eagle Scouts are expected to be examples and able to provide correct instruction to Scouts that are younger and/or junior in rank.

E. Parents can and should help their scouts learn the material required for rank advancements. However, only the (Assistant) Scoutmaster can sign requirements as being complete. A parent may sign off their own son’s advancement requirements ONLY with the express permission of the Scoutmaster and only in the case where a group of Scouts fulfilled a requirement and that parent ASM is signing for more than his/her son.

5.2 Merit Badges

A. Merit badges are earned under the direction of a Merit Badge Counselor. This is an interested adult who has some knowledge or experience with the merit badge subject and is registered with the local council as a merit badge counselor. Merit badges are required for ranks after First Class. A total of twenty-one merit badges are needed for Eagle Scout, thirteen of which are required.

B. When a Scout decides to work on a particular merit badge, he should do the following:

(1) Borrow from the Troop Library (or purchase) the appropriate merit badge pamphlet and become familiar with the requirements and the pamphlet contents. If the merit badge pamphlet is lost or damaged and it was checked out from the Troop library, the Scout must replace it.

(2) Get the names of the merit badge counselors for that badge from the Troop Librarian, (Assistant) Scoutmaster or see the current listing on the troop’s website.

(3) Obtain a signed merit badge application “blue card” from the (Assistant) Scoutmaster.

(4) Contact the merit badge counselor for advice before beginning any work on the badge.

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(5) Satisfy the requirements of the merit badge under the guidance of the merit badge counselor.

(6) When all requirements are complete, the counselor will sign the merit badge application. The Scout should deliver this to the (Assistant) Scoutmaster for his/her signature.

(7) The merit badge blue card is then taken by the Scout to the Advancement Committee Chairman, who is usually also the TroopMaster guru, for inputting the data into TroopMaster and obtaining the badge and card for presentation at the next Court of Honor.

(8) When the Scout is finished with the merit badge pamphlet, he should return it to the Troop Library. If he purchased it, he is encouraged to donate it to the Troop Library.

(9) A merit badge should be completed within a six-month period.

C. Scouts are reminded to keep the merit badge blue card once signed off by Council and presented with the badge and card at a Troop Court of Honor. This is the only official record that shows the Scout has completed the badge. It is extremely important to keep these in a safe place. When a Scout applies for the rank of Eagle, the local council will complete a review of the Scout’s official record. Any merit badges recorded as incomplete will have to be shown as earned. The signed merit badge blue card is the only acceptable proof. A plastic insert for a three-ring binder designed for sports trading cards works well for maintaining the merit badge cards. We strongly suggest you start this “Eagle Book” when you earn your first merit badge or rank.

5.3 Service Project Hours

Advancement for the ranks of Second Class, Star, and Life require service hours by the Scout. Service project hours must be non-profit and benefit the community, school, church, or charity, not the Boy Scouts of America. Nor can it benefit his family or be what is currently expected of a Scout as part of his daily task(s). There are numerous opportunities offered by the Troop through its Adopt-A-Highway program and other group service projects. The Scout should enter the date, what was done, and hours in his Scout Handbook on the particular page for advancement, have the (Assistant) Scoutmaster initial as being accomplished, and have it recorded in TroopMaster by the TroopMaster guru.

5.4 Scoutmaster Conference

A. When a Scout has completed all of the requirements for his next rank, he should make an appointment with the Scoutmaster for a Scoutmaster Conference. The conferences are normally conducted on the second Tuesday of each month. Exceptions will be made for extenuating circumstances. The Scoutmaster or an Assistant Scoutmaster will conduct conferences for Scout through Star rank. The Scoutmaster will conduct the Life and Eagle rank conferences. The normal time for Scoutmaster conferences is the second Tuesday of each month during the Troop meeting. This is an opportunity for the Scout to review his progress and to establish his goals for the next advancement period. After successful completion of a conference, the Scout must contact the Board of Review Coordinator on the Committee to schedule a review for the next available Board of Review.

B. The (Assistant) Scoutmaster uses these Scoutmaster Conferences as an opportunity to understand the Scout’s needs and interests, as well as ensure the Scout has mastered the required skills. Together, they examine his goals and ambitions, and they reflect on what he likes about his scouting experience and what changes he would like to see made. This interchange enables the Scoutmaster to tailor the scouting program to match the needs of each boy. The conference ends with the Scout setting some personal goals for the next advancement period.

C. During the conference, the Scoutmaster will examine the Scout’s advancement record to ensure that all requirements have been signed-off properly and that the Scout has met the Troop’s participation requirements.

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D. Much of the discussion in this conference will focus on the Scout’s demonstration of Scout skills and Scout Spirit - the extent to which he has mastered the required skills and the extent to which he has lived by the Scout Oath, Law, Slogan, and Motto.

E. If the Scout does not meet the Troop’s active participation requirement, or if he has not demonstrated that he has lived according to the Scout Oath and Law, the Scout will be required to wait a period of time until he is permitted to complete a Scoutmaster Conference. He will not be recommended for his Board of Review until such time as he has the required participation and/or demonstrated that he is living according to the Scout Oath and Law.

F. An (Assistant) Scoutmaster may not conduct his/her own son's conference.

5.5 Boards of Review

A. When a Scout has completed all of the requirements for his next rank, including his Scoutmaster Conference, he is ready for his Board of Review. This review is conducted by a board of at least three adults for all scouts through Life rank. No parent or guardian may sit on his/her Scout’s Board. The Eagle Board of Review is normally comprised of at least four adults, including the Scout’s Occoquan District Eagle Represenative. No (Assistant) Scoutmaster may sit on a Board of Review and all Board members must be 21 years of age or older. Again, no parent may sit on his/her Scout’s Board.

B. The purpose of the review is to ensure that all requirements have been met and that the boy is advancing in his personal development. Each candidate is reviewed individually. The Board of Review is supportive of the Scout. Each Board of Review is designed to see if the Troop is fulfilling that Scout’s expectations of what Scouting has to offer him. It is a check on the boy’s living the ideals of Scouting and how well the Troop is teaching those ideals through rank advancement, merit badge offerings, outings, and leadership/followership opportunities. As the boy advances to higher ranks, the emphasis of the review is more on demonstrated leadership and the scouting ideals and less on the Troop. Leadership skills are the main emphasis in the Star, Life, and especially Eagle reviews.

C. Boards of Review are conducted on the third Tuesday of each month during the Troop meeting. Exceptions will be made for extenuating circumstances.

D. At the Board of Review, the Scout will present himself in a proper Class A Uniform with his Boy Scout Handbook with all requirements signed-off and a copy of his TroopMaster “Individual History.” The board will ask the Scout a variety of questions intended to check his growth as a Scout and a person as well as develop his self-confidence. The board is not intended as a “test”; however, if the Board of Review feels a Scout is weak in certain areas, he will be informed of the areas and be offered ways of improving and scheduled for follow up Board of Review.

5.6 Courts of Honor

A. A Scout’s accomplishments should be recognized with a lot of fanfare. Rank patches are awarded in front of the entire Troop at the closing of Troop meetings immediately after his successful Board of Review. In this manner, rank achievement is followed closely by recognition. The Scout will be recognized again at the next Court of Honor in the presence of his family.

B. Normally there are three Courts of Honor throughout the year. These are major events at which the families of all scouts are expected to attend. The atmosphere is more formal than regular Troop meetings and all of the scouts are in full field service (Class A) uniform. A typical Court of Honor will include the induction of new scouts into Troop 189, presentation of merit badges, re-recognition of rank advancements, and, on occasion, presentation of special awards.

C. For rank advancement, each Scout and his parent(s) are called forward. The Scout is then presented a certificate for his advancement. The Scout is also given a miniature pin of his new rank to present to his parent. This miniature pin, provided by the Troop, is called the “parent’s pin” and symbolizes the support the Scout receives from his parents. A

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small device is available for the parents to purchase and wear to display their collection of parent’s pins; a clear testimony to each Scout’s “Trail to Eagle.”

5.7 Eagle Scout

A. The “Trail to Eagle” really never ends, because “Once an Eagle always an Eagle.” However, a Scout attains the rank of Eagle after learning all of his basic skills, earning the required and optional merit badges, conducting an Eagle Leadership Service Project and fulfilling the responsibilities of a leadership position within the Troop. In other words, he has demonstrated his maturity and ability to lead.

B. The National Capital Area Council and the Occoquan District provide specific guidance for our Eagle candidates to follow. Troop 189 will assign an Eagle Advisor to each Eagle candidate once the Scout has achieved Life rank. The candidate will use that advisor henceforth and that same Eagle Advisor may be a member of the candidate’s Eagle Board of Review.

C. The procedures for completing an Eagle Leadership Service Project are defined within the NCAC Eagle Scout’s Procedures Guide. An Eagle candidate will develop the concept of his project in close consultation with his Eagle Advisor and Troop Scoutmaster. After the candidate determines his concept he will consult with a representative of the benefited organization. After the organization representative approves the concept, the candidate will obtain the Eagle Advisor / Scoutmaster’s approval. With these two approvals the candidate will then work with the Eagle Advisor to complete the Eagle Scout Project Workbook Proposal Section. With the advisor’s approval, obtain the benefiting organization representative and then Scoutmaster/Eagle Advisor signature on the proposal. After these are obtained the candidate may pursue the Troop Committee’s approval then the District Representative’s. At that point in time, the Eagle candidate will work with the Advisor converting the concept into a plan of action by completing to the Advisor’s satisfaction the Final Plan and fund Raising (if required) sections of the workbook. With an Advisor approved final Plan the candidate can approach the Scoutmaster to schedule the project. After completing the project the candidate will work with the Advisor to complete the Project Report section of the workbook.

D. The Eagle Scoutmaster’s Conference is conducted after a Scout has finished all Eagle requirements, including the Project Report of the Eagle Leadership Service Project, and not before. Troop 189 requires each candidate to present himself at this Scoutmaster Conference with his BSA Scout Handbook and his “Eagle Book” in hand. The “Eagle Book” is a three-ring binder which includes the Eagle Rank Application (completed with the assistance of the Eagle Advisor), the completed Eagle Leadership Service Project Workbook, and all merit badge blue cards with their accompanying presentation cards. [Hint: start this book when the first merit badge is earned, keeping each blue car and presentation card in one sleeve of a plastic protector normally used for baseball cards.]

E. Once the Eagle candidate has successfully passed his Scoutmaster Conference the Troop will submit the Eagle Rank Application to the District Representative. Once the representative’s approval is gained the application will be sent to the council for certification. With positive certification notice from the Council the Eagle Board of Review can be accomplished. At the completion of a successful Eagle Board of Review the approved certification notice is submitted with the rest of the Eagle Scout Package to NCAC for processing. The Scoutmaster will receive a notification from Council telling him/her that the rank has been approved.

F. The most memorable Court of Honor is the Eagle Court of Honor, which recognizes the Scout’s achievement in earning Scouting's highest rank, the Eagle rank. This court is normally conducted as a stand-alone ceremony and includes attendance by dignitaries, scouting officials, and the Troop membership. Often a small reception is held after the ceremony.

(1) Troop 189 provides the parents with examples of past Eagle Courts of Honor from which to select one for their Eagle’s Court of Honor. They are free to modify in consultation with the Troop Scoutmaster and Committee Chairman. The parents are responsible for setting the date, time and location. Additionally, they send out all invitations and, if they so choose, provide for refreshments and a reception after the ceremony proper.

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(2) Troop 189 Scouts provide the manpower to perform the ceremony.

(3) The Troop Committee handles requesting Letters of Congratulations from dignitaries acknowledging the Scout’s attainment of the rank of Eagle. The Troop Committee maintains a stock of Eagle Court of Honor devices, such as “Voice of the Eagle” box, candles, lighters, flags, etc. for the conduct of the ceremony. Additionally, the Troop provides the Eagle neckerchief and a shadowbox of the Scout’s “Trail to Eagle.”

(4) National Capital Area Council provides the embroidered Eagle patch, the Eagle award, and the parent’s Eagle pin.

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CHAPTER 6TROOP ORGANIZATION

6.1 Troop Structure

Troop 189 is the Boy Scout Troop chartered by John F Pattie Sr. PTCO, which receives a national charter yearly from BSA to use the scouting program as a part of its youth work. The chartered organization provides the meeting place, selects a Scoutmaster, and appoints a Troop committee of at least three adults. The Troop is composed of the Scoutmaster and assistants, the scouts who are organized into patrols and Troop staff, and the Troop Committee. 6.2 The Patrol Method and Organization

A. The Scout Troop is made up of patrols. A patrol is a team of six to twelve boys who work together. Each patrol elects its own patrol leader and assistant patrol leader. The position of assistant patrol leader does not count toward advancement requirements. It is within this patrol that boys learn leadership, responsibility, and the aims of scouting. The patrol method means all scouting activities are conducted by and center on the patrol.

B. The Senior Patrol Leader leads the boys. He is the top junior leader in the Troop. He leads the Greenbar Council and, in consultation with the Scoutmaster, appoints other junior leaders and assigns specific responsibilities as needed.

C. The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader fills in for the Senior Patrol Leader in his absence. He also is responsible for training and giving direction to the quartermaster, scribe, historian, librarian, Troop OA representative, chaplain’s aide and instructors.

D. The Greenbar Council is the primary boy leader group in the Troop. The council is comprised of scouts holding leadership positions of Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Venture Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader (Assistant Patrol Leader if the Patrol Leader cannot attend), Troop OA Representative, Troop Guide(s), Den Chief(s) and Junior Assistant Scoutmasters. The Troop scribe is a non-voting member of the council. The Greenbar Council, not the adult leaders, is responsible for planning and conducting the Troop's activities. The council meets once a month to make plans and preparations for upcoming events. The council leads the Troop under the supervision of the Scoutmaster and the support of the Troop Committee.

E. Other Scout leadership positions are: instructors, quartermaster, scribe, Troop historian, librarian, chaplain aide, Webmaster, Leave No Trace Trainer and bugler. SPL, ASPL, PL, and APL are elected positions; all other positions are appointed by the SPL in consultation with the Scoutmaster. Elections are normally held in late February and provide for a 6 month term of office. The SPL and ASPL(s) are elected by all Troop members. The PL and APL are elected by their patrol members. If a member does not receive a majority of the ballots, then the position will be filled by a run-off between the two top nominees.

F. All Scouts elected and/or appointed to leadership positions are expected to attend the Troop Leadership Training course, normally offered the Saturday immediately following elections. Additionally, the Troop expects the SPL and ASPL to attend the National Capital Area Council’s National Youth Leader Training course, called Impeesa, the summer following elections, if they have not already attended. The Troop thinks this is important for the individual and for the Troop so we pay for the Scout(s) to attend.

6.3 The Scoutmaster

A. The Scoutmaster is the adult leader responsible for the Troop program. The Scoutmaster and his/her 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 will:

- Train and guide boy leaders- Work with other responsible adults to bring scouting to boys

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- Use the methods of scouting to achieve the aim of Scouting- Meet regularly with the Greenbar Council for training and coordination in planning Troop activities

B. No Scoutmaster can run the Troop program by himself. He/she needs Assistant Scoutmasters to assist in specific tasks, projects, mentoring or general supervision duties. Indeed, BSA rules require a minimum of two adult leaders during all Troop functions. This is an excellent opportunity for parents, even those with no previous scouting experience, to assist the Troop in developing its scouts. The Troop will recruit as many assistant scoutmasters as possible.

6.4 The Troop Committee

A. The Troop committee supports the Troop program by ensuring that quality adult leadership is recruited and trained, by advising the Scoutmaster on policies relating to BSA and the chartered organization, and by managing Troop finances in accordance with the approved budget plan. The committee is composed of the chairman, secretary, treasurer, outdoor/activities chairman, advancement chairman, chaplain, and other registered adult leaders who are not assistant scoutmasters. Like the assistant scoutmaster positions, these positions provide excellent opportunities for Scout parents to support the Troop in any of a variety of positions described below. The Troop will recruit as many committee members as possible.

B. Troop Committee Chairman

(1) Organizes the committee to see that all functions are delegated, coordinated, and completed(2) Maintains a close relationship with the Chartered Organization Representative and the Scoutmaster(3) Sees that Troop leaders and committee members have training opportunities(4) Interprets national and local policies to the Troop(5) Works closely with the Scoutmaster in preparing Troop committee meeting agendas(6) Calls, presides over, and promotes attendance at monthly Troop committee meetings and any special meetings

that may be called(7) Ensures the Troop is represented at monthly roundtables(8) Secures top-notch, trained individuals for camp leadership(9) Arranges for charter review and re-charter annually

C. Secretary

(1) Keeps minutes of meetings and sends out committee meeting notices(2) Handles publicity(3) Prepares a family newsletter of Troop events and activities(4) Ensures all new Scout paperwork is obtained in a timely fashion and is distributed to the appropriate

person(s). New Scout paperwork includes, but may not be limited to: Scout application, Scouter application (one for each parent/guardian), Troop Resource Survey (filled out by each parent/guardian), Class One Medical Form (for Scout), TroopMaster Scout Personal Data sheet, and TroopMaster Parent Personal Data sheet

(5) Ensures required yearly paperwork is obtained in a timely fashion and is distributed to the appropriate person(s). Yearly paperwork includes: Scout Class One and Two/Three Medical forms, Scouter Class Two/Three Medical forms, and other forms as required for summer camp

(6) Coordinates with Troop Advancement Committee Chairman to ensure TroopMaster database is current and correct

(7) Coordinates with Summer Camp Coordinator to ensure all required paperwork is obtained in a timely fashion and consolidated into a single folder/file for transport to/from summer camp

D. Treasurer

(1) Handles all Troop funds. Pays bills on recommendation of the Scoutmaster and authorization of the Troop committee

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(2) Maintains checking and savings accounts(3) Trains and supervises the Troop scribe in record keeping(4) Receives Troop income each week from the Troop scribe(5) Keeps adequate records in the Troop/Crew Record Book(6) Supervises money-earning projects, including obtaining proper authorizations(7) Supervises the camp savings plan(8) Reports to the Troop committee at each meeting(9) Leads the preparation of the annual Troop budget

E. Outdoor/Activities Chairman

(1) Supervises and helps procure camp equipment(2) Works with quartermaster on inventory, storage, and proper maintenance of Troop equipment(3) Helps in securing permission to use camping sites(4) Serves as transportation coordinator(5) Encourages monthly outdoor activities or special activities(6) Promotes, through family meetings, attendance at Troop campouts, camporees, and summer camp to reach the

goal of an outing per month(7) Organizes lead adult for each Troop campout and works with these adults in organizing the events

F. Advancement Chairman

(1) Encourages scouts to advance in rank(2) Conducts courts of honor, at least quarterly (during school year)(3) Develops and maintains a merit badge counselor list(4) Makes a prompt report on the correct form to the council service center when a Troop board of review is held

and secures badges and certificates(5) Ensures Troop acquires the necessary patches to support all Courts of Honor, Junior Leader Training,

elections, etc.(6) Works with the patrol leaders to maintain all Scout advancement records(7) Works with the Troop librarian to build and maintain a Troop library of merit badge pamphlets

G. Chaplain

(1) Provides a spiritual tone for Troop meetings and activities(2) Gives guidance to the chaplain aide(3) Promotes regular participation of each member in the activities of the religious organization of his choice(4) Visits homes of scouts in time of sickness or need(5) Gives spiritual counseling service when needed or requested(6) Encourages scouts to earn their appropriate religious emblems(7) Provides opportunities for scouts to grow in their duty to God and their fellow scouts

H. Quartermaster

(1) Maintains Troop trailer in good repair, licensed and inspected. Ensures trailer parking slot is paid for on time and is renewed as necessary

(2) Maintains inventory of basic green BSA neckerchiefs, BSA neckerchief slides and red shoulder loops for presentation to new scouts when they bridge from Cub Scouting or join the Troop as a new Scout

(3) Maintains an inventory of Boy Scout Handbooks, Troop 189 hats, Troop 189 T-shirts, National Capital Area Council Shoulder Patches, and Troop numbers to be given to each Scout after joining the Troop and paying his first year’s chartering fee

(4) Maintains an inventory of Troop 189 embroidered neckerchiefs for presentation to each Scout when he reaches the rank of Tenderfoot

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(5) Maintains an inventory of Troop T-shirts so that each Scout, upon departure for summer camp, has two Troop 189 T-shirts

(6) Should any inventory item quantity fall below the necessary level, will acquire replacements in coordination with the Troop Treasurer

(7) Mentors Scout Quartermaster in the performance of his duties; which includes a complete inventory and assessment of the condition of the Troop’s gear at least once a year. Assists Scout Quartermaster in obtaining replacement parts, new items, and necessary repairs

I. Fund-Raising (Mulch Coordinator)

(1) Coordinates planning of biannual Mulch Drive with sister Troop 35(2) Ensures mulch flyer dates and mulch delivery dates for both spring and fall mulch drives are considered by

the Greenbar Council during their Annual planning Conference(3) Coordinates transferal of funds with Troop Treasurer(4) Records Scout and scouter/parent participation at all flyer and mulch events

J. Training Chair

(1) Maintains accurate training records for all adults(2) Contacts adults with expired / expiring training and promotes completion of needed training

K. Board of Review Coordinator

(1) Coordinate all Board of Reviews

L. Charter Organization Representative

(1) Coordinates Meeting Venue(2) Approves Adult Membership(3) In general, supports the Troop needs

(4)

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CHAPTER 7TROOP FINANCES

7.1 Finances

A. The Troop Committee is responsible for managing the finances associated with operating the Troop. Each year in August, the Treasurer submits to the Troop Committee the proposed operating budget for the coming year along with the actual expenditures for the prior year. The Troop Committee reviews the proposed budget in detail, ensures that it supports the Troop's annual schedule of activities and makes modifications as needed before approving the operating budget.

B. Each Scout pays a rechartering fee, determined yearly by the Troop committee and payable at the first meeting of October of each year. The treasurer maintains an accurate record of each boys’ rechartering payments. These funds are used to defray expenses associated with materials for normal monthly activities, rank badges, merit badges, etc.

C. Individual scouts will not pay for the cost to participate in activities; but, each Scout will need to pay his Patrol’s Grubmaster for the cost of the meals for the Troop campout, hike or outing, which generally is $10.00. The Troop leadership will do its best to keep costs as low as possible.

D. Periodically, the Troop will receive money from donations. This money usually is used to buy or repair equipment.

7.2 Registration

A. Each year, no later than December, the Troop must re-charter itself with the Boy Scouts of America. During this time, the Troop applies the annual fee each Scout pays to their yearly registration fees. Fees for adult leaders are typically partially subsidized by the Troop. The boys pay approximately $60.00 each year (the amount change periodically according to National BSA fees and the total fee charged to each Scout is determined annually by the Troop Committee). If a family has more than one boy in the Troop, the annual fee for the additional boys will be a reduced amount determined by the committee each year. The boy’s costs cover registration, insurance, all Troop costs for camporee(s) attendance, campground reservation fees, etc. and Boy’s Life magazine subscription. All fees that go to National BSA are used to pay for administrative costs of maintaining a boy’s records and insurance. Troop 189’s goal is to ensure that all Scouts can go to as many events as they desire, needing only to pay for incidentals, meals, and souvenirs.

B. Adults that register with BSA must also pay a nominal amount of yearly dues. These funds partial cover the cost of BSA registration, insurance, and Scouting Magazine.

7.3 Fund Raisers

Troop 189 runs a biannual mulch drive, together with Troop 35, in the spring and in the fall. All proceeds go into the Troop’s general funds and are evenly divided between Troop 189 and Troop 35.

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CHAPTER 8PARENT INVOLVEMENT

8.1 Ways to help the Troop

Any Troop’s degree of success is directly proportional to the level of parental involvement!

A. First, parents must actively support their son's advancements. Unlike Cub Scouting, which provided centralized training to advance scouts within a den, Boy Scouting relies on a Scout’s individual initiative and drive to advance. Troop and Patrol assistance is always available to support the Scout, but he ultimately completes his own advancement. Parental support is vital to ensure his continued commitment.

B. Second, parents should actively support the Troop. There are a variety of ways in which to support the Troop - choose the one which best utilizes your abilities to assist the Troop. Some ways to help are:

(1) Become an Assistant Scoutmaster. Assist the Scoutmaster on Tuesday night meetings, on weekend campouts/hikes/outings (where a minimum of two adult leaders are required at all times), or by attending Summer Camp with our Troop. Several Assistant Scoutmasters are needed to ensure one or two scoutmaster(s) don't get "burned out" by the repeated monthly campout requirements.

(2) Become a Committee Member. Attend the monthly committee meeting and perform your committee duties on your own at a time convenient for you. These duties are ideal for the volunteer who can't commit to an entire weekend or weekly meetings, but is able to help out with a more flexible time schedule doing individual work. It is an ideal way for you to see how Scouting helps these boys mature into young leaders; your participation on Boards of Review gives you opportunities to directly interact with Troop 189 scouts.

(3) Become a special projects Committee Member, like Mulch Drive, camporees, re-charter, Courts of Honor coordinator or summer camp coordinator. Many of these events are once-a-year requirements. These duties allow you to focus your volunteer efforts on specific, intense, but not long-duration tasks.

8.2 Tips for Scout parents

A. As a boy advances, scouting will become more like school in that further advancement requires considerable study. Rank advancement, especially merit badge requirements, requires much more individual work than they, or you, experienced in Cub Scouting. It is up to you and the leaders to work together to assist the boy and to also keep his work fun.

B. At this age, many other activities will compete for your son's time, especially sports and friends outside of scouting. Your son may begin to question authority and his dependence on others. You will hear all sorts of excuses for not participating in Troop functions, and small problems with other scouts become greatly exaggerated. During these times, sons and parents must communicate their concerns about other scouts and Troop activities with the Scoutmaster. It is common for scouts to enter into a slump for months at a time, but with your support they will shortly resume their activities. You must help him through this period so that he can achieve the aims of scouting and climb the Eagle Trail.

C. Finally, of all the activities that your son could be doing, Scouting is probably the only one that emphasizes character development, citizenship, duty to God and country, helping other people, and mental, physical, and moral fitness. Initially scouting may seem overwhelming. Later it may seem too much to complete in the face of other competing demands. There are scouts and scouters among us with many years of scouting experience. They are willing to help you and your son grow in scouting. All journeys are completed one step at a time!

“THANKS!” for making scouting a part of your family.

Yours in scouting,The Scouts, Scouters, and Troop Committee of Troop 189.-approved by the Troop Committee on September 26, 2013.

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