Scout Troop 103
This page covers basic Troop information regarding the advancement of the Scouts. The top section of the page is taken directly from the Troop 103 guidebook issued to each Scout as they initially enter the Troop. The bottom section of the page contains the specific information each Scout needs to be prepared for their next advancement. If you have any questions you can contact any of the adult Leaders directly or myself via e-mail by clicking the link at the bottom of the page.
TROOP 103 ADVANCEMENT POLICY
In scouting we can define advancement as the "art of meeting a challenge". The advancement program invites a Scout to master a challenging series of skills that prepare him to enjoy the outdoor program. As a scout masters a given set of skills and advances through the six ranks, each more demanding than the next, he becomes eligible to participate in higher adventure programs. The culmination of a scout's basic skills training is the rank of First Class. By earning the First Class rank, a young man has acquired the necessary skills and experience to participate in high adventure programs like Sea Base, Philmont, the National and World Jamborees, etc. There are age requirements associated with all advanced programs, however, the the first Class rank is recognized as as the completion of a Scout's "Basic training". After First Class a Scout embarks upon an elective-based advancement path. Merit badges (over 100 at present) offer a Scout the opportunity to learn about a wide range of subjects. Many are career oriented and provide an opportunity to work and study with an adult (the Merit badge Counselor) who has expertise in a given area. While the Scout is allowed considerable freedom in selecting merit badges for advancement, each rank has requisite merit badges. These are known as Eagle required merit badges because they are necessary for advancement to the rank of Eagle Scout. In addition to the requirements spelled out in the Boy Scout Handbook, Troop 103 has additional requirements which must be met. It is important that a Scout and his parents understand and follow the Troop 103 advancement guidelines found in the Troop 103 guidebook. A Scout will make the most of his hard work if he is properly prepared for his board of review.
A Scout who actively participates in the Troop program will advance at a logical pace. A by product of an active outdoor program is the exposure to and mastery of the Scout skills required to advance in rank. We make an effort to provide the outdoor experiences and opportunities which scouts need to master the skills needed to advance. When a Scout is observed to have mastered a given requirement his handbook is signed by his Patrol leader, his Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster. Parents are discouraged from signing all but a few requirements pertaining to close family matters. A key element in the advancement program is teaching a young boy to seek out the assistance of new people and to broaden his ability to communicate and work with members of his Troop.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
In addition to the skills and tenure requirements for each Rank, Troop 103 requires 6 hours of community service. Two of these six hours must be assisting with service projects conducted by Eagle Scout candidates. Eagle projects are lead by young men fulfilling the final requirements of the rank of Eagle. These projects often are of considerable scope and require substantial man-hours to complete. A log of service hours as well as camping trips should be maintained in a Scouts handbook or a separate notebook.
SCOUT MASTER's CONFERENCE
This is a chance for a Scout to have the undivided attest of an adult leader. The Scout is encouraged to speak openly about the positive and negative experiences he has had. This conference is conducted one on one where the Scout and Leader can be seen but not heard. It is an opportunity for the participants to gain a better understanding of each other and exchange ideas which can lead to the improvement in the Troop and the Scout's participation in it.
BOARD OF REVIEW
When a Scout completes the requirements for a rank and has turned in the necessary paperwork (Board of review Form), the Troop Committee schedules a Board of review. A group of three to four persons from the Troop Committee meet with the Scout to discuss his progress and review the experiences he has had since his last advancement. The purpose of the board is not to test a Scouts knowledge but rather to get him to reflect upon his accomplishments and share his attitudes towards his scouting career. It is also an opportunity for the Scout to get to know other adult leaders in the Troop.
RECOGNITION
Upon completion of the board of review, the Troop Advancement Chairman will duly record the information in the Troop record and submit the application to our local council, where it will be recorded and forwarded to the National office. Badges of rank and various interim awards are presented the following Troop meeting. Periodically the troop will conduct a Court of Honor to more formally recognize Scouts who have advanced.
TROOP 103 ADVANCEMENT PROCEDURES
The following guide is provided to allow you the Scout a better understanding of the processes for which to apply for rank advancement and also to request to earn a merit badge. It is basically a checklist that will cover what you need to do when going up for a rank advancement, and work on a merit badge, as you journey towards achieving the rank of Eagle.
Rank Advancements:
When going up for you next rank advancement use the guidelines below as a reference point to ensure you are prepared for your Board of Review.
- Make sure that all items are signed and dated in your Scout handbook for the rank attempting to achieve.
- Fill out the Board of Review sheet both front and back side and take it to your Patrol Leader and then the Senior Patrol Leader for their review and signature.
- Schedule a Scout Master’s Conference with Mr. Etchberger or one of the Assistant Scout Master’s in his absence. Have him sign your Board of Review sheet and also your Scout handbook.
- Submit your completed form to Mr. Vest to schedule your Board of Review. These will be scheduled for either the first or third Monday of the month.
The following information will help you on the day of your Board of Review.
- The uniform for the Board of Review is full Class “A”. This includes the Troop hat, Scout shirt (with all appropriate insignia), neckerchief, Scout shorts or pants, Scout belt, and Scout socks. If you have any merit badges they should be sewn on a sash and worn also or at least bring the merit badge cards with you.
- You must bring your Scout handbook completely filled out as listed above.
- Inform you Patrol Leader (Green Bar the Senior Patrol Leader) of your board of review, as they will be presenting you to the Committee.
- All boards will start with the Scout repeating the Scout Oath and Scout Law at a minimum. You should also be familiar with the Scout motto, Scout slogan, and the Outdoor code, especially if you’re a First Class or above.
- You will be asked questions that can range from various items required for the rank you are advancing to or general questions about how you feel about scouting and things that would make it better.
- Remember that all rank advancements require 6 hours of community service.
This covers the advancement requirements and the Board of Review process. If you have any questions please see Mr. Vest for further information.
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