Scoutmaster Minute, 28 May 2024

As we gather here tonight, I want to take a moment to reflect on the significance of Memorial Day and the remarkable activities we have been a part of this week.

This past weekend, our troop had the honor of raising flags at Quantico National Cemetery. Standing among the rows of gravestones, each one representing a life dedicated to the service of our country, we were reminded of the true meaning of Memorial Day. It's a time to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. As Scouts, our participation in this solemn event is not just a duty but a privilege. We showed our respect and gratitude by ensuring each flag was placed with care and reverence.

Additionally, as the school year comes to a close, we find ourselves at a significant milestone. Many of our older Scouts are graduating and embarking on new journeys. To our graduating Scouts, we congratulate you on your achievements. Your hard work, dedication, and leadership have set a great example for the younger members of our troop. As you move forward, remember the values and skills you've gained in Scouting. They will serve you well in whatever path you choose.

Our service at Quantico, combined with our weekly scouting activities, embodies the spirit of Scouting—doing our best, helping others, and showing respect. It's in these moments that we learn the importance of community, duty, and honor.

As we move forward, let's carry the lessons from Memorial Day in our hearts. Remember the sacrifices made by those who came before us and let their courage inspire us to be better Scouts and better citizens. Let's continue to strive for excellence in all our activities, always keeping the values of Scouting at the forefront of our actions.

Thank you for your hard work and dedication this week. Let's keep the spirit of service and respect alive in everything we do.

Scoutmaster Minute, 14 May 2024

Paul McCartney wrote a song that The Beatles released in 1964 called "Can't Buy Me Love." When asked by journalists about the song's meaning, McCartney said, "the idea behind it was that all these material possessions are all very well, but they won't buy me what I really want." This is true for happiness. Today's cutting-edge smart phone is obsolete in a few years. The must-have car may be a jalopy in a decade. If you can't buy happiness, how do you get it? Baden-Powell said, "the real way to gain happiness is to give it to others." I believe this to be true. Think of the joy you get from completing a service project that benefits the community. Think of how rewarding it is to teach someone else a skill he or she will use for life. This is happiness. The only way you get it is by giving it away.

A Scout is Cheerful
A Scout is Helpful

Scoutmaster Minute, 7 May 2024

A scar is a forever reminder of a wound. Most often people try to minimize the appearance of a scar. Some go to great lengths to hide the scar or to make it fade, but if you look close enough, the signs of the scar are still there.

The things we put on the Internet can serve as scars. When we post something we must understand that it is virtually impossible to remove it. If we grow to regret it, it is like a scar – the best we can hope is that it fades, but it is always there. We should endeavor to keep the text and pictures we post appropriate. A good rule of thumb is never post anything that you would not like your grandmother to read or you would not like seeing on the front page of the Washington Post associated with your name. People say, the Internet is forever, meaning, once it is on the Internet, it could be there for a long time. Keep your posts clean and the content as something that you are proud of everyone seeing.

A Scout is Clean.