Index 1. Welcome Letter from Scoutmaster 2. Troop 412 Organizational Chart 3. Operating Procedures and Scout ByLaws - (Separate PDF) 4. Troop 412 Resources Annual Calendar Positions of Responsibility Scout Roster Web Resources and Scout Shop Information Uniform Insignia Placement Scout Glossary 5. Forms (separate PDF) Blank Permission Slip Physical Form Parts - A and B 6. Scout Record Keeping Aides Individual Scout Record Nights of Camping Service Hours Blue Card and Merit Badge Holders
New Troop 412 Scout: Welcome to Troop 412 of Pasadena, Maryland. The Boy Scouts of America chartered Troop 412 in January 1973 as a member of the Baltimore Area Council, Four Rivers District. Our chartering partner is Mount Carmel United Methodist Church. We meet every Tuesday evening from September through June at 7PM in the Church Hall. The guiding principles of Troop 412 are the Boy Scout Oath, Law, Motto and Slogan. Scouts memorize these early in their scouting career and are expected to understand and live by these standards. One of the ultimate aims of the Boy Scouts of America is to mentor quality leadership for our nation. Troop 412 offers experiences and activities to our scouts that not only mentally and physically challenge but help prepare them for their roles as America s future leaders. In Troop 412 we believe that active parents translate into successful scouts. Our volunteer parents are actively involved in planning outings, organizing service opportunities and serving as merit badge counselors. In addition, parents can become adult leaders by participating in basic BSA training. Our volunteer committee members and adult leaders are all BSA trained. Many were scouts when they were young, some saw success to the rank of Eagle, but all are dedicated to accomplishing the aims of scouting and committed to furthering the personal growth of each individual scout. Troop 412 is a scout lead Troop. Organized by patrols, scouts are elected to Positions of Responsibilities by their peers. All scouts are urged to step forward and seek election to a position of responsibility once they become Second Class Scouts. Scouts also are urged to attend all weekly meetings and participate in all troop sponsored outings and activities. Scout Spirit, as outlined in our bylaws, is important to the success of our troop and its members. As Scoutmaster, I am happy that you have decided to join Troop 412. If after reading the attached information you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact me or one of the committee members. We are here to guide our scouts, and their families, through a successful and exciting scouting career. Yours in Scouting, Joe Hatcher Joe Hatcher Scout Master Troop 412
Troop 412 Resources for Scouts Web Resources Troop 412 Web page http://www.bsatroop412.net/ To be added to the weekly email updates send contact information to cfplummer@comcast.net Four Rivers District Web Page - http://www.crwflags.com/4rd/index.html Baltimore Area Council Web Page- http://www.baltimorebsa.org/ Merit Badge Workbooks - http://usscouts.org/mb/worksheets/list.asp Online Guide to Safe Scouting http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/healthandsafety/gss/toc.aspx Boy Scouts of America, Baltimore Area Council Address: 701 Wyman Park Drive Baltimore MD 21211 Phone: 443-573-2500 Buying Scout Stuff - Class A Uniform and Merit Badge Books The Scout Shop (near BWI Airport) Address: 7502 Connelley Drive, Suite 120 Hanover, MD 21076 Phone: 410-553-6913 Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 9 AM - 5:30 PM Wednesday: 9 AM - 7 PM Saturday: 10 AM - 3 PM The Scout Shop in Baltimore City Address: Phone: Hours: 800 Wyman Park Drive Baltimore, MD 21211 410-338-0144 - Store Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM Thursday: 9 AM - 7 PM Saturday: 10 AM - 3 PM
Troop Positions of Responsibility Patrol Leader The patrol leader is the top leader of a patrol. He represents the patrol at all patrol leaders council meetings and the annual program planning conference and keeps patrol members informed of decisions made. He plays a key role in planning, leading, and evaluating patrol meetings and activities and prepares the patrol to participate in all troop activities. The patrol leader learns about the abilities of other patrol members and full involves them in patrol and troop activities by assigning them specific tasks and responsibilities. He encourages patrol members to complete advancement requirements and sets a good example by continuing to pursue his own advancement. Senior Patrol Leader The senior patrol leader is the top leader of the troop. He is responsible for the troop s overall operation. With guidance from the Scoutmaster, he takes charge of troop meetings, of the patrol leaders council, and of all troop activities, and he does everything he can to help each patrol be successful. He is responsible for annual program planning conferences and assists the Scoutmaster in conducting troop leadership training. The senior patrol leader presides over the patrol leaders council and works closely with each patrol leader to plan troop meetings and make arrangements for troop activities. All members of a troop vote by secret ballot to choose their senior patrol leader. Rank and age requirements to be a senior patrol leader are determined by each troop, as is the schedule of elections. During a Scout s time as senior patrol leader, he is not a member of any patrol but may participate with a Venture patrol in high-adventure activities. Assistant Senior Patrol Leader The assistant senior patrol leader works closely with the senior patrol leader to help the troop move forward and serves as acting senior patrol leader when the senior patrol leader is absent. Among his specific duties, the assistant senior patrol leader trains and provides direction to the troop quartermaster, scribe, historian, librarian, instructors, and Order of the Arrow representative. During his tenure as assistant senior patrol leader he is not a member of a patrol, but he may participate in the high-adventure activities of a Venture patrol. Large troops may have more than one assistant senior patrol leader, each appointed by the senior patrol leader. Troop Guide The troop guide is both a leader and a mentor to the members of the new-scout patrol. He should be an older Scout who holds at least the First Class rank and can work well with younger Scouts. He helps the patrol leader of the new-scout patrol in much the same way that a Scoutmaster works with a senior patrol leader to provide direction, coaching, and support. The troop guide is not a member of another patrol but may participate in the high-adventure activities of a Venture patrol.
Quartermaster The quartermaster is the troop s supply boss. He keeps an inventory of troop equipment and sees that the gear is in good condition. He works with patrol quartermasters as they check out equipment and return it, and at meetings of the patrol leaders council he reports on the status of equipment in need of replacement or repair. In carrying out his responsibilities, he may have the guidance of a member of the troop committee. Scribe The scribe is the troop s secretary. Though not a voting member, he attends meetings of the patrol leaders council and keeps a record of the discussions. He cooperates with the patrol scribes to record attendance and dues payments at troop meetings and to maintain troop advancement records. A member of the troop committee may assist him with his work. Historian The historian collects and preserves troop photographs, news stories, trophies, flags, scrapbooks, awards, and other memorabilia and makes materials available for Scouting activities, the media, and troop history projects. Librarian The troop librarian oversees the care and use of troop books, pamphlets, magazines, audiovisuals, and merit badge counselor lists. He checks out these materials to Scouts and leaders and maintains records to ensure that everything is returned. He may also suggest the acquisition of new literature and report the need to repair or replace any current holdings. Instructor Each instructor is an older troop member proficient in a Scouting skill. He must also have the ability to teach that skill to others. An instructor typically teaches subjects that Scouts are eager to learn especially those such as first aid, camping, and backpacking that are required for outdoor activities and rank advancement. A troop can have more than one instructor. Leave No Trace Trainer (new in 2010) The Leave No Trace Trainer specializes in teaching Leave No Trace principles and ensuring that the troop follows these principles on outings. He can also help Scouts earn the Leave No Trace award. He should have a thorough understanding of and commitment to Leave No Trace. Ideally, he should have completed Leave No Trace training and earned the Camping and Environmental Science merit badges.
Chaplain Aide The chaplain aide assists the troop chaplain (usually an adult from the troop committee or the chartered organization) in serving the religious needs of the troop. He ensures that religious holidays are considered during the troop s program planning process and promotes the BSA s religious emblems program. Bugler The bugler plays the bugle (or a similar interest) to mark key moments during the day on troop outings, such as reveille and lights out. He must know the required bugle calls and should ideally have earned the Bugling merit badge. Den Chief The den chief works with a den of Cub Scouts and with their adult leaders. He takes part in den meetings, encourages Cub Scout advancement, and is a role model for younger boys. Serving as den chief can be a great first leadership experience for a Scout. Webelos Den Chief A Webelos den chief can help plan and assist with the leadership of Webelos den meetings and field activities. He can lead songs and stunts, and encourage Webelos Scouts to progress into the Boy Scout troop. Order of the Arrow Troop Representative The Order of the Arrow representative serves as a communication link between the troop and the local Order of the Arrow lodge. By enhancing the image of the Order as a service arm to the troop, he promotes the Order, encourages Scouts to take part in all sorts of camping opportunities, and helps pave the way for older Scouts to become involved in high-adventure programs. The OA troop representative assists with leadership skills training. He reports to the assistant senior patrol leader. Troop Webmaster The troop webmaster is responsible for maintaining the troop s website. He should make sure that information posted on the website is correct and up to date and that members and leaders privacy is protected. A member of the troop committee may assist him with his work.
Junior Assistant Scoutmaster A Scout at least 16 years of age who has shown outstanding leadership skills may be appointed by the senior patrol leader, with the advice and consent of the Scoutmaster, to serve as a junior assistant Scoutmaster. These young men (a troop may have more than one junior assistant Scoutmaster) follow the guidance of the Scoutmaster in providing support and supervision to other boy leaders in the troop. Upon his 18th birthday, a junior assistant Scoutmaster will be eligible to become an assistant Scoutmaster.
Troop 412 Uniform Guide This page contains information about proper Troop 412 "Class A" or "Field Uniform." About the Scout Uniform Uniforming is one of the eight Methods used to accomplish the Scouting Aims of Character, Citizenship, & Fitness. The uniform makes the Scout troop visible as a force for good and creates a positive youth image in the community. Scouting is an action-oriented program, and wearing the uniform is an action that shows each Scout's commitment to the aims and purposes of Scouting. The uniform gives the Scout identity in a world brotherhood of youth who believe in the same ideals. The uniform is practical attire for Scout activities, and provides a way for Scouts to wear the badges that show what they have accomplished. The Boy Scout Uniform has long served as an expression of a Scout's friendliness to all other Scouts regardless of who they are or where they're from. The uniform represents Scouting's spirit of equality and democracy, and identifies a boy as a brother to every other Scout. Wearing the uniform promotes comradeship, loyalty to one's patrol and troop, and public recognition of membership in the Boy Scouts of America. When to Wear the Uniform Boy Scouts and Scout leaders proudly wear the full uniform for all ceremonial and indoor activities including troop meetings, Scoutmaster's Conferences, Boards of Review, and Courts of Honor. The uniform should also be worn during special outdoor occasions, such as flag ceremonies, Camporees, and special times during summer camp. Troop 412 requires that Scouts wear the uniform shirt, neckerchief (or Eagle bolo), scout belt, and hat to be considered "in uniform". Clean and tidy blue-jeans, khaki pants or shorts worn with a belt are an acceptable alternative to Scout pants for Troop and Patrol meetings. Gym shorts, warm-up or athletic pants, wild colors or patterns should never be paired with the Class A uniform shirt. Merit badge sash should be worn on more formal occasions such as Courts of Honor. OA sash, if earned, should only be worn for Order of the Arrow events, never for Courts of Honor, Boards of Review or other non-oa events. During physically active outdoor events and informal activities, Scouts may wear the Class B Red T-shirts with blue-jeans, khakis or shorts. Legal Protection of Uniforms The official uniforms of the Boy Scouts of America are those authorized by the organization's National Executive Board and are described in current handbooks, catalogues, and other official publications of the BSA. No alterations of, or additions to, the official uniform may be made by any Scout, Leader, or Scouting official without permission from the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America. In accordance with the provisions of the Boy Scouts of America congressional charter, any imitation of United States Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps uniforms is prohibited.
Parts of the Uniform Shoulder Epaulets: Red shoulder loops identify Boy Scouting (all members of a troop). Green loops identify Venturers. Silver loops identify District & Council Committee Members Merit Badge Sash: Merit badges are attached to front (and back, if needed) of sash. Temporary insignia may be worn on back. It is worn over the right shoulder. It should not be worn along with the Order of the Arrow sash. Hats: Wearing a Scout hat is required for Full Class A uniform, optional in Class B. Neckerchief and Slide: Troop 412 Red Neckerchief - worn by Scouts (except Eagle Scouts) and uniformed adult leaders. Fold long edge over several flat folds to about 6 inches from tip of neckerchief. A tight fold prevents gathering around the neck and is more efficient than rolling or twirling. Draw neckerchief slide over ends and adjust to fit snugly. The neckerchief should be worn under the collar. Eagle Scouts should wear the Eagle Scout Neckerchief or Eagle Scout Bolo. Neckerchief slide should be Scout appropriate of the Scout's choice. Shirt: Official short-sleeve shirt (Traditional or Centennial) with blue, shoulder loops on epaulets. The collar should be unbuttoned. See insignia guide below. Pants: Troop 412 Class A uniforms are mandated from the waist up. Pants can be BSA issued dark-green longpants (Traditional or Centennial), shorts that allow the use of a belt or Khakis. Scout pants are strongly encouraged for formal events such as Courts of Honor and Boards of Review. Please keep athletic shorts and pants, wild colors and prints at home. Official Scout pants are mandatory for Eagle Boards of Review. Belt: Olive-green web with BSA insignia on brass buckle; or official leather with BSA buckle or other Scout related buckle of your choice. Socks: Official olive-colored socks should be worn with official shorts but Troop 412 considers them to be optional with long pants. Order of the Arrow Sash: The Order of the Arrow Sash is worn with the arrow pointing up and over the right shoulder. It is worn under the right shoulder epaulet. It should not be worn along with the merit badge sash. It should not be worn in place of the merit badge sash at Courts of Honor.
Insignia Guide This is an illustrated guide to the correct placement and usage of official insignia.
Troop 412 Glossary Board of Review Once a Scout has completed all rank requirements and met with the Scoutmaster for his Scoutmaster Conference, the scout must participate in a Board of Review. Typically performed by three registered adult leaders, the scout is asked questions relating to his progress and goals in scouting. This is also an opportunity for a scout to ask advancement questions and seek guidance on Troop related topics. The Scout must be wearing a complete Class A uniform and have his BSA Book and binder with him to be considered ready for a Board of Review. Blue Card Each time a scout begins a Merit Badge, the Scoutmaster will issue a small, blue card that tracks and records the scout s progress on the merit badge. It will be kept by the scout and filled-out by the Merit Badge Counselor and signed-off by the Scoutmaster and turned in to the Advancement Chair. Once the Merit Badge is awarded the Blue Card along with the Merit Badge card must be saved in the scout binder. Class A Uniform For Troop 412, a Class A uniform consists of BSA Cap, tan shirt with all appropriate emblems, belt, neckerchief and slide. The Troop has no official requirements for pants but asks that during public outings and special ceremonies that the Scouts refrain from wearing gym shorts and ripped jeans. Class B Uniform Any BSA t-shirt. Court of Honor Held twice each year, typically in April and October, Court of Honor is the formal recognition of Scout achievements. Family members are encouraged to attend. Parents typically are asked to donate desserts and snacks for the event. Patrol Corners After each Tuesday meeting opening announcements, scouts break into their Patrol groups to pay dues and take care of other Patrol business. Position of Responsibility Certain ranks of scouting require that Scouts hold a recognized Position of Responsibility in order to achieve that rank. Recognized positions of responsibility are: Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) - youth head of the troop elected by the Scouts Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL) Elected Position which assists SPL; leads in SPL s absence. Quartermaster Manages Equipment and Trailer for outings Scribe Manages Dues and Finances Den Chief Aid to the Cub Scout Den leader Historian preserves Troop history by monitoring media outlets and collecting photographs Order of the Arrow Rep- Serves as communication link between Troop and OA Librarian Maintains and lends the Troop library of Merit Badge Books. Chaplain Serves the religious needs of the troop by leading meeting prayer. Webmaster Maintains and updates the Troop web page. Scoutmaster Conference Once a Scout has completed the requirements for rank, he must attend a Scoutmaster Conference. In this meeting, the Scoutmaster gets to know the Scout, helps the Scout set goals, reviews scout spirit and discusses the aims of scouting with the Scout being considered for rank advancement. The main goal of the meeting between scout and scoutmaster is to make sure the scout is prepared for advancement and the required Board of Review.
Scout Account Any Scout participating in a Troop recognized fundraising activity such as Popcorn Sales is awarded a portion of the funds that he raised. These funds are held in a Troop account in the scout s name and can be used by the Scout toward the costs of any future scout activities (camping trips, summer camp, and registration fees.) Scout Spirit - is the ideal attitude that Scouts around the world are supposed to show, based on adherence to the Scout Oath and Law. In the Boy Scouts of America, the Scout's demonstration of Scout spirit is discussed at the Scoutmaster conference and the board of review when the Scout advances to a new rank. In troop 412, Scout Spirit is also measured by the consistency of participation in Troop meetings, outings, special activities and service hour opportunities. Service Hours Each time a Scout volunteers for an activity where service is being done for the community, he is awarded service hours equal to the time donated to the community. Service hours are required for rank advancement and are regarded as an expression of Scout Spirit. Troop 412 has a special Service Award which is awarded when Scouts reach the 100 hour mark for service to their community. Keep accurate records of all service hours performed and archive the service hour certificates in your scout binder.