BSA Troop 316

Boy Scout Court of Honor and Northwoods Orientation

Trinity United Methodist Church

Tuesday, March 6, 2001 - 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Materials:

Personnel:

Setting: Table set at the front of the room with a small log candle holder with 3 candles (red, white, and blue), the large green Troop 316 pillar candle, a large log candle holder with 12 smaller candles, a small log candle holder with two candles, and matches. A large cutout of the Tenderfoot badge is placed against the table. A spotlight is placed on the table. Two flagpoles are placed on either side of the table to hold the U.S. flag and the troop flag. The troop flag is posted on the flagpole to the right end of the table (from the point of view of the audience).

Two seats are placed behind the table for John and Dave. The Anaconda Patrol is assembled, facing the audience, on the right end of the table. The other personnel for the ceremony are seated in the audience towards the front of the room.

Opening Flag Ceremony

(1) Caller: this Scout calls out the commands to direct the other Scouts to perform the flag ceremony. He stands closest to the moderator. He remains in his position throughout the flag ceremony. He needs to give appropriate commands to direct the Scouts to be facing in appropriate directions throughout the ceremony, (e.g. to be facing the flagpost while the flag is being unfolded and mounted on the flagpost).

(2) Flag Bearer: this Scout stands next in order from the moderator after the caller. He will carry the folded flag to the flagpost when the colorguard marches to the flagpost, and will assist in unfolding the flag and mounting it on the flagpost.

(3-4) Flag Attendents: these two Scouts will keep the flag from falling to the floor as it is being unfolded and mounted on the flagpost.

(5) Assistant to the Flag Bearer: this Scout will assist the Flag Bearer in unfolding the flag and mounting it on the flagpost.

(6) Flagpost Handler: this Scout will handle the flagpost while the flag is being unfolded and mounted on the flagpost, and will return the mounted flag to its stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.

"SCOUTS, ATTENTION"

"COLORGUARD, ATTENTION"

(If necessary, give an appropriate command, either "COLORGUARD, LEFT FACE" or "COLORGUARD, RIGHT FACE", to direct the colorguard to face in the appropriate direction for its march to the flagpost.)

"COLORGUARD, FORWARD MARCH"

"HALT"

(If necessary, give an appropriate command, either "COLORGUARD, LEFT FACE" or "COLORGUARD, RIGHT FACE", to direct the colorguard to face the flagpost.)

"COLORGUARD, RAISE THE COLORS"

"SALUTE THE FLAG" (LEAD IN PLEDGE OF ALLIEGIANCE)

"AND TWO" (SIGNAL TO DROP SALUTE)

"COLORGUARD, ABOUT FACE"

"FORWARD, MARCH"

"HALT"

"COLORGUARD, AT EASE"

"SCOUTS, AT EASE"

Patriotic Opening

After conducting the opening flag ceremony, the Scouts of the Anaconda Patrol assemble in front of the table, before the small log candle holder with 3 candles.

Aaron lights the red candle, then says: "The red of my flag is the lifeblood of brave men ready to die or worthily live for this, our country."

Ben lights the white candle, then says: "The white of my flag is for purity, cleanliness of purpose, thought, word and deed."

Dan lights the blue candle, then says: "The blue of my flag is for truth and justice, like the eternal blue of the star-filled heavens."

Nathaniel salutes the flag. The other Scouts of the Anaconda Patrol follow him in saluting the flag. Then Nathaniel says: "My flag - the flag of America, home of liberty, land of opportunity, where people of all races and creeds live in peace and friendship together."

Welcome and Introduction

As the other Scouts of the Anaconda Patrol return to stand at the right end of the table, Senior Patrol Leader Steven steps forward in front of the table, facing the audience, and says: "I would like to welcome all of you who have come tonight to recognize and celebrate the achievements of the Scouts of Troop 316."

"Please join with me in welcoming the members of our Court of Honor, Scoutmaster John and Troop Committee Chairman Dave."

Steven returns to stand at the right end of the table. John and Dave come forward and take their place standing behind the table, facing the audience.

John says: "Please join with me in prayer. ...."

Dave says: "This Court of Honor is hereby convened to recognize the achievements of the Scouts of BSA Troop 316."

Patrol Leader Installation (adapted from Ceremony #1 - Woods Wisdom, p. 458)

The troop forms a horshoe around the troop flag, with the horseshoe opening towards the audience. Ben is holding on to the Lightning Patrol Flag.

John enters the horseshoe, stands next to the troop flag, and says: "Troop 316 has recently increased its numbers by the addition of a new patrol, the Lightning Patrol. This patrol understands, as every patrol must, that it needs to have good patrol leadership. To meet this need, the Scouts of the Lightning Patrol have elected someone from their numbers whom they regard as worthy to serve them as their patrol leader. At this point, we shall install the newly elected Patrol Leader of the Lightning Patrol, Jim."

John places his left hand low on the pole of the troop flag, and says: "Jim, I charge you to take the patrol leader's promise."

Jim steps forward, places his left hand on the pole of the troop flag, above that of the Scoutmaster, salutes, and says: "I promise to do my best to be worthy of my office as patrol leader, for the sake of my fellow Scouts, my patrol, my troop, and the world community of Scouting."

John pins the patrol leader's badge on Jim's left sleeve and presents him with a copy of the Junior Leader's Handbook, No. 33500. Ben steps forward and gives Jim the Lightning Patrol flag.

The troop gives a cheer for the new patrol leader, Jim.

Introduction of Lightning Patrol

John says "Will the Scouts of the Lightning Patrol come forward in turn, as I call each of your names, and greet your new Patrol Leader Jim with the Scouting handshake. "

 

John says: "After you greet your new patrol leader, please move to the right end of the table with the Scouts of the Anaconda Patrol for the recitation of the Scout Law."

Candle Lighting Ceremony

After all the Scouts of Troop 316 are assembled to the right end of the table, John returns to stand behind the table. He lights the large green Troop 316 pillar candle and says: "As Boy Scouts, we believe earnestly in the Scout motto, "Be Prepared", and in the ideals of service as given in the Scout slogan, "Do a Good Turn Daily". We meet here at Trinity United Methodist Church regularly to practice the skills of Scouting and to have fun. From time to time, we go hiking and camping, so we might learn more of the great outdoors and at the same time develop qualities of health and self-realiance. All of this is done in keeping with the rules of Scouting found in the twelve points of the Scout Law. As I light the twelve candles in front of me, representing the twelve points of the Scout Law, I would like to have the troop repeat them after me. Troop, attention! Scout sign!"

 (The troop stands at attention, demonstrating the Scout sign.)

 Scoutmaster John (lights first candle):  A Scout is trustworthy.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is trustworthy.

 Scoutmaster John (lights second candle):  A Scout is loyal.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is loyal.

 Scoutmaster John (lights third candle):  A Scout is helpful.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is helpful.

 Scoutmaster John (lights fourth candle):  A Scout is friendly.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is friendly.

 Scoutmaster John (lights fifth candle):  A Scout is courteous.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is courteous.

 Scoutmaster John (lights sixth candle):  A Scout is kind.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is kind.

 Scoutmaster John (lights seventh candle):  A Scout is obedient.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is obedient.

 Scoutmaster John (lights eighth candle):  A Scout is cheerful.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is cheerful.

 Scoutmaster John (lights ninth candle):  A Scout is thrifty.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is thrifty.

 Scoutmaster John (lights tenth candle):  A Scout is brave.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is brave.

 Scoutmaster John (lights eleventh candle):  A Scout is clean.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is clean.

 Scoutmaster John (lights twelfth candle):  A Scout is reverent.

 Troop (repeats after John):   A Scout is reverent.

 Scoutmaster John:   Scouts, stand at ease!

Tenderfoot Rank Ceremony (adapted from Woods Wisdom, pages 465-466)

Dave says: "Senior Patrol Leader Steven, who has earned the rank of Tenderfoot."

Steven says: "Sir, Anaconda Patrol Scribe Aaron has earned this rank."

Dan and Nathaniel place the large Tenderfoot badge cutout on the wall behind the table. Aaron steps in front of the table before the cutout. Ben kneels in front of Aaron shining the flashlight on Aaron so that Aaron's shadow is cast on the cutout.

Dave comes to the front of the table, stands next to Aaron and says: "Aaron, tonight we are recognizing you for earning the rank of Tenderfoot, your first rank as a Boy Scout. By earning this rank, you have shown some abilities in camping and outdoor skills, some basic first aid techniques, and are learning about the patrol system. You have memorized the Scout Oath, Law, motto and slogan and explained what they mean to you. Your final step was to participate in your first Scoutmaster conference and your first Board of Review where you have satisfied your Scoutmaster and the Board that you were indeed qualified and worthy of the rank of Tenderfoot Scout."

"This is the first step in a long journey towards Eagle, the highest rank in Scouting. Congratulations and best wishes as you continue on your journey towards Eagle."

Dave pins the Tenderfoot Badge on Aaron's left shirt pocket. Dave gives Aaron the Scouting handshake. The audience applauds, Aaron returns to stand with his fellow Scouts, and Dave returns to stand behind the table.

Star Scout Ceremony (adapted from Star Scout Ceremony #1 - Woods Wisdom, page 468

John says: "Senior Patrol Leader Steven, who has earned the rank of Star."

Steven says: "Sir, Quartermaster Ben has earned this rank. "

Ben steps in front of the table facing the audience.

John comes to the front of the table, stands next to Ben and says: "Ben, in receiving your Star rank tonight you are taking a long step toward Eagle, the goal of all true Scouts. You have advanced toward manhood in a way that obligates you to give younger Scouts the service and experiences you have received. Tonight you are leaving that group which receives Scouting. You are now to be admitted to a smaller group whose privilege and duty it is to give to Scouting - to give leadership, guidance, and inspiration to younger Scouts who will follow your lead. Your willingness to do so will be a pledge of service and a sign that your understanding of the ideals of Scouting grow with your increasing stature. The fun and fellowship of the past will be accompanied in the future by a deep satisfaction with your service to others and your leadership of younger Scouts. Do you accept this pledge of service to younger Scouts as a personal obligation?"

Ben says: "I do."

John says: "I declare that you are qualified to receive the rank of Star Scout. I charge you to keep on the merit badge trail of Scouting spirit and participation and Scoutcraft until you reach the Eagle rank. Somewhere along this trail you will find manhood in its finest form. Keep the spirit of service alive in your daily life, for your sake and the sake of the Scouts who follow where you lead. May this Star Scout badge be a constant reminder of the star of service that will shine as a guide to lead you on the trail to manhood."

John pins the Star badge on Ben's left shirt pocket and says: "Congratulations, Ben."

John turns to face Ben's parents: "And congratulations to you."

John gives Ben the Scouting handshake. The audience applauds, Ben returns to stand with his fellow Scouts, and John returns to stand behind the table.

Life Scout Ceremony (adapted from Life Scout Ceremony #2 - Woods Wisdom, page 469)

Dave lights the two candles in the small log candle holder and says: "Senior Patrol Leader Steven has earned the rank of Life."

Steven steps in front of the table, before the lighted candles, facing the audience.

Dave moves to the front of the table, standing next to Steven, and says: "Would Steven's parents please join their son, Steven, in this Life ceremony?"

John and Cathy come forward to stand next to Steven. Dave moves to the front of the table, standing next to Steven, and says: "Steven, you have traveled far on the Eagle trail. Before you, two lighted candles shed their radiance on this heart-shaped Life Scout badge. I am proud of the effort you have put forth and of your accomplishments in Scouting. The heart shape of the Life badge is symbolic of life and courage. For you, now, the Scout Oath and the Scout Law will mean more than ever before. You will ever strive to make them the keynotes of your conduct. The spirit of helpfulness and alertness of mind, and the mastery of those Scout skills that make "Be Prepared" really mean something - these are the inner qualities of the Scout who wears the Life Scout Badge."

"This miniature badge is for your mother - in recognition of her love, comradeship, encouragement, and her faith in you. Take it and pin it on her proudly!" Steven pins the badge on his mother's dress.

Steven faces the audience. Dave says: "John, will you pin the Life Scout badge upon your son's uniform?" John pins the badge on Steven's left shirt pocket. Dave faces Steven and says: "Attention! Scout Salute! Two! Dismissed!" Dave gives Steven the Scouting handshake. The audience applauds, Steven returns to stand with his fellow Scouts, Cathy returns to her seat in the audience, and Dave and John return to stand behind the table.

Closing Flag Ceremony

Dave says: "I want to congratulate all you Scouts of Troop 316 for your accomplishments. We are proud to have you as members of our troop."

John reviews other recent accomplishments of the Scouts (e.g. Junior Leader Training, Polar Bear Award, Merit Badges).

Dave says: "This Court of Honor is now adjourned. Please rise as Troop 316 retires the colors."

(1) Caller: this Scout calls out the commands to direct the other Scouts to perform the flag ceremony. He stands closest to the moderator. He remains in his position throughout the flag ceremony. He needs to give appropriate commands to direct the Scouts to be facing in appropriate directions throughout the ceremony, (e.g. to be facing the flagpost while the flag is being unfolded and mounted on the flagpost).

(2) Flag Bearer: this Scout stands next in order from the moderator after the caller. He will assist in taking the flag off of the flagpost and folding the flag. He will carry the folded flag back to his original position.

(3-4) Flag Attendents: these two Scouts will keep the flag from falling to the floor as it is being taken off of the flagpost and folded.

(5) Assistant to the Flag Bearer: this Scout will assist the Flag Bearer in taken the flag off of the flagpost and folding the flag.

(6) Flagpost Handler: this Scout will handle the flagpost while the flag is being taken off of the flagpost to be folded. He will return the flagpost to its stand once the flag is taken off of the flagpost.

SCOUTS, ATTENTION

COLORGUARD, ATTENTION

(If necessary, give an appropriate command, either "COLORGUARD, LEFT FACE" or "COLORGUARD, RIGHT FACE", to direct the colorguard to face in the appropriate direction for its march to the flagpost.)

COLORGUARD, FORWARD MARCH

HALT

(If necessary, give an appropriate command, either "COLORGUARD, LEFT FACE" or "COLORGUARD, RIGHT FACE", to direct the colorguard to face the flagpost.)

SALUTE THE FLAG

COLORGUARD, STRIKE THE COLORS

AND TWO (SIGNAL TO DROP SALUTE WHEN FLAG IS OFF OF THE POLE)

COLORGUARD, ABOUT FACE (ONCE FLAG IS FOLDED)

FORWARD, MARCH

HALT

COLORGUARD, AT EASE

SCOUTS, AT EASE

Refreshments and Fellowship

John says: "The Northwoods Orientation will follow a brief period of refreshments."

Orientation for Northwoods 2001 Summer Resident Camp

John says: "Outing Specialist Gail, with the help of the Scouts of the Anaconda Patrol, will now conduct an introduction to Northwoods for the Scouts of Troop 316 and their parents."

Last revised 3/1/2001