Pack 63 / Troop 63

March 25, 2025March 25, 2025

Eagle Scout: Luke Johnson

We are thrilled to announce that Luke Johnson has achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout! This is the highest rank attainable in Scouts BSA, and it represents years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Luke’s journey to Eagle Scout has been an inspiring one, and we are proud to share some of the highlights with you.

Notably, Luke is Troop 63’s first Eagle Scout since the troop’s reformation, marking a significant milestone for both Luke and the troop.

Luke’s Path to Eagle Scout

Luke’s journey began in Cub Scouts, where he progressed through the ranks of Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos. Along the way, he completed numerous adventures.

Bobcat: This is the starting rank for all new Cub Scouts. To earn the Bobcat rank, Luke learned the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Cub Scout sign, handshake, motto, and salute. He also completed exercises in the Bobcat pamphlet.
Tiger: In the Tiger rank, Luke focused on completing six required adventures with his den or family. These adventures covered topics such as jungle animals, games, family, teamwork, healthy habits, and exploring nature. He also completed an elective adventure of his choice.
Wolf: As a Wolf Scout, Luke continued his journey by completing six more required adventures. These adventures focused on outdoor skills, such as hiking and camping, and character development, such as citizenship and duty to God. He also completed an elective adventure and participated in a service project.
Bear: In the Bear rank, Luke further developed his outdoor skills and character by completing six required adventures. These adventures covered topics such as camping, cooking, first aid, and physical fitness. He also completed an elective adventure.
Webelos: The highest rank in Cub Scouts, Webelos prepared Luke for his transition to Scouts BSA. He completed five required adventures, focusing on outdoor skills, leadership, and citizenship. He also completed an elective adventure.

In Scouts BSA, Luke continued his path to Eagle Scout by earning the following ranks:

Scout: The initial rank in Scouts BSA, Scout, signifies the beginning of a Scout’s journey toward Tenderfoot and beyond. To achieve this rank, a Scout must complete basic requirements such as demonstrating knowledge of the Scout Oath and Law, learning essential first aid, and participating in a Scoutmaster conference.
Tenderfoot: Building on the Scout rank, Tenderfoot requires a Scout to demonstrate basic Scout knowledge and skills. This includes memorizing the Scout Oath and Law, understanding Scout Spirit, and being able to tie basic knots. Tenderfoot also involves camping overnight and beginning to develop outdoor skills like first aid and hiking.
Second Class: Building upon Tenderfoot, Second Class focuses on further developing outdoor skills and self-reliance. Scouts must participate in more challenging campouts, learn advanced first aid, and improve their navigation and cooking abilities. They also learn about environmental awareness and participate in service projects.
First Class: The third rank in Scouts BSA, First Class emphasizes leadership, citizenship, and advanced outdoor skills. Scouts must plan and lead a campout, demonstrate proficiency in swimming and water rescue, and participate in a service project. They also learn about different types of government and complete a personal fitness plan.
Star: The fourth rank in Scouts BSA, Star requires Scouts to take on leadership roles within their troop and actively participate in troop activities. They must serve in a position of responsibility, such as Patrol Leader or Quartermaster, and demonstrate Scout Spirit through their actions. Star Scouts also continue to develop their outdoor skills and knowledge.
Life: The second-highest rank in Scouts BSA, Life focuses on personal growth, citizenship, and continued leadership development. Scouts must actively participate in troop meetings and activities, continue serving in leadership positions, and demonstrate a commitment to living by the Scout Oath and Law. They also work towards earning additional merit badges and complete a service project.
Eagle Scout: The highest rank attainable in Scouts BSA, Eagle Scout represents the pinnacle of Scouting achievement. To earn this rank, Scouts must demonstrate exceptional leadership, outdoor skills, and citizenship. They must earn at least 21 merit badges, serve in leadership positions for at least six months, and plan, develop, and lead a significant service project that benefits their community. The Eagle Scout rank is a testament to a Scout’s dedication, perseverance, and commitment to the ideals of Scouting.

Leadership

Luke has demonstrated his leadership abilities by serving in various positions of responsibility within his troop. He began as a Patrol Leader, guiding and mentoring his fellow Scouts. He also took on the role of Quartermaster, managing the troop’s equipment and supplies. These experiences honed his leadership skills and prepared him for the challenges of leading his Eagle Scout project.

Merit Badges

Throughout his Scouting journey, Luke has earned numerous merit badges, showcasing his diverse skills and interests. Here’s a list of the merit badges he has acquired:

Animal Science: Learn about animal behavior, care, and handling. Participate in animal-related activities and complete a project.
Archery: Learn the fundamentals of archery, including safety, equipment, and shooting techniques. Demonstrate proficiency in shooting.
Art: Explore various art forms, such as drawing, painting, and sculpture. Create your own artwork and learn about art history and appreciation.
Basketry: Learn the techniques of basket weaving and create your own basket. Understand the history and cultural significance of basketry.
Camping: Participate in camping trips and learn about camp setup, cooking, and outdoor skills. Demonstrate Leave No Trace principles.
Chess: Learn the rules and strategies of chess. Play games against others and improve your chess skills.
Citizenship in the Community: Learn about your local government and community. Participate in community service and learn about your rights and responsibilities as a citizen.
Citizenship in the Nation: Learn about the history and government of the United States. Understand your rights and responsibilities as a U.S. citizen.
Citizenship in the Society: Learn about different cultures and societies. Understand the importance of diversity and inclusion.
Citizenship in the World: Learn about global issues and challenges. Understand the role of international organizations and your role as a global citizen.
Collections: Develop a collection of items and learn about organizing, displaying, and preserving them. Understand the value and importance of collecting.
Communication: Improve your communication skills in various settings, such as public speaking, writing, and interpersonal communication.
Cooking: Learn basic cooking skills and prepare meals. Understand nutrition and food safety.
Disabilities Awareness: Learn about different types of disabilities and how to interact with people with disabilities. Promote understanding and inclusion.
Electricity: Learn the basics of electricity and electrical safety. Conduct experiments and learn about electrical circuits and components.
Electronics: Learn about basic electronic components and circuits. Build a simple electronic project and understand how electronics work.
Emergency Preparedness: Learn how to prepare for and respond to emergencies, such as natural disasters and accidents. Develop an emergency plan and assemble a first aid kit.
Engineering: Explore different engineering fields and learn about the engineering design process. Complete a simple engineering project.
Entrepreneurship: Learn about starting and running a business. Develop a business plan and explore entrepreneurial opportunities.
Environmental Science: Learn about the environment and environmental challenges. Participate in conservation activities and understand the importance of sustainability.
Family Life: Learn about family dynamics, communication, and relationships. Understand the importance of family and develop skills for building strong family relationships.
Farm Mechanics: Learn about farm equipment, machinery, and maintenance. Understand basic agricultural practices and safety procedures.
Fingerprinting: Learn the techniques of fingerprinting and how it is used in forensic science. Take fingerprints and analyze them.
Fire Safety: Learn about fire prevention, safety, and firefighting. Understand the dangers of fire and how to respond in case of a fire.
First Aid: Learn basic first aid skills, such as treating cuts, burns, and sprains. Understand CPR and how to respond to medical emergencies.
Fish and Wildlife Management: Learn about fish and wildlife conservation and management. Understand the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Geology: Learn about rocks, minerals, and the Earth’s structure. Identify different types of rocks and minerals and understand geological processes.
Home Repairs: Learn basic home repair skills, such as fixing leaky faucets, patching walls, and replacing light fixtures. Understand basic carpentry and plumbing.
Indian Lore: Learn about Native American cultures, traditions, and history. Understand their contributions to society and appreciate their heritage.
Insect Study: Learn about insects, their life cycles, and their role in the ecosystem. Collect and identify insects and understand their importance.
Leatherwork: Learn the techniques of leather crafting and create a leather item. Understand the tools and materials used in leatherwork.
Metalwork: Learn basic metalworking skills, such as cutting, shaping, and joining metal. Understand the properties of different metals.
Model Design and Building: Design and build a model, such as a car, airplane, or building. Learn about scale modeling and different construction techniques.
Painting: Learn different painting techniques and styles. Create your own paintings and understand the use of color and composition.
Personal Management: Learn about managing your finances, time, and personal goals. Develop budgeting skills and understand the importance of personal responsibility.
Rifle Shooting: Learn the fundamentals of rifle shooting, including safety, marksmanship, and proper handling of firearms.
Salesmanship: Learn the principles of sales and marketing. Develop effective communication and presentation skills.
Scouting Heritage: Learn about the history and traditions of Scouting. Understand the values and principles of Scouting and its impact on society.
Sculpture: Learn different sculpting techniques and create your own sculptures. Understand the use of form, space, and materials in sculpture.
Search and Rescue: Learn basic search and rescue techniques and how to respond to lost or injured persons. Understand wilderness survival skills.
Shotgun Shooting: Learn the fundamentals of shotgun shooting, including safety, marksmanship, and proper handling of firearms.
Soil and Water Conservation: Learn about soil and water conservation practices. Understand the importance of protecting natural resources and sustainable agriculture.
Sustainability: Learn about sustainable practices and how to live an environmentally responsible lifestyle. Understand the importance of conserving resources and reducing your ecological footprint.
Weather: Learn about weather patterns, forecasting, and meteorology. Understand different weather phenomena and how to interpret weather data.
Wilderness Survival: Learn wilderness survival skills, such as building a shelter, finding food and water, and signaling for help. Understand how to stay safe in the wilderness.
Wood Carving: Learn the techniques of wood carving and create your own wood carving project. Understand the tools and materials used in wood carving.

Awards

In addition to his rank advancements and merit badges, Luke has also received several awards recognizing his exceptional character and contributions to Scouting:

National Council Certificate of Merit (Youth): This prestigious award is presented to Scouts who have demonstrated exceptional character and performed a significant act of service that benefits their community. The act of service must have involved a risk to the Scout’s own life or the lives of others, and the Scout must have shown initiative and leadership in carrying out the act. Luke’s actions exemplify the values of Scouting and his commitment to helping others.
Paul Bunyan Woodsman: This award recognizes Scouts who have demonstrated proficiency in outdoor skills related to forestry and woodsmanship. To earn this award, Scouts must complete requirements such as identifying trees, using woods tools safely, demonstrating proper wood-cutting techniques, and understanding conservation principles. Luke’s achievement of the Paul Bunyan Woodsman award highlights his passion for the outdoors and his dedication to responsible environmental stewardship.

Eagle Scout Project

To achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, Luke completed a significant service project that benefited his community. Driven by his experiences as a Junior Firefighter with the Paris Fire Department, Luke spearheaded an initiative to enhance fire safety in Bourbon County. His project focused on installing 75 smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in homes lacking these essential safety devices, particularly targeting low-income and elderly residents. Luke’s leadership extended beyond the installations; he also organized volunteers and managed donations to fund the project. This impactful endeavor highlights Luke’s commitment to serving others and creating a safer community for all.

Congratulations, Luke!

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Luke Johnson on achieving the rank of Eagle Scout! His dedication, hard work, and commitment to Scouting are an inspiration to us all. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors and know that he will continue to make a positive impact on the world around him.

February 26, 2025February 26, 2025

Troop 63 Celebrates Second Class Achievements!

Troop 63 is proud to announce that Beckett Shaw and Samuel Miller have successfully completed the requirements for Second Class Rank! This is a significant milestone in their Scouting journey, demonstrating their growing skills and commitment to the Scout Oath and Law.

Beckett and Samuel have worked diligently to master the various requirements, showcasing their dedication and perseverance. They have proven their ability to learn and apply essential Scouting skills, paving the way for further advancement.

What Does it Mean to be Second Class?

The Second Class Rank builds upon the foundational skills learned at the Tenderfoot level, pushing Scouts to become more self-reliant and competent in the outdoors. It represents a solid step toward becoming a well-rounded and capable Scout.

Some of the key requirements Beckett and Samuel completed include:

Outdoor Skills:
- Demonstrating proficiency in first aid, including treating common injuries like cuts, scrapes, and burns.
- Successfully using a map and compass to navigate a course.
- Understanding and practicing Leave No Trace principles.
- Demonstrating proper use of a knife, saw, and ax.
- Cooking a meal in the outdoors.
Physical Fitness:
- Participating in physical fitness activities and understanding the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
Citizenship and Service:
- Demonstrating an understanding of the American flag and its proper display.
- Participating in a service project.
Scouting Spirit:
- Demonstrating Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives.

A Word of Congratulations!

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Beckett and Samuel for their hard work and dedication. Their achievement reflects their commitment to the values of Scouting and their willingness to learn and grow. We are excited to see them continue their journey and contribute to the success of Troop 63.

Looking Ahead:

Beckett and Samuel are now well-positioned to pursue their First Class Rank. This next step will challenge them further, requiring them to refine their skills and take on greater leadership responsibilities.

We encourage all Scouts to learn from Beckett and Samuel’s example and strive to achieve their own goals. Remember, every rank advancement is a testament to personal growth and the development of valuable life skills.

Let’s give Beckett and Samuel a round of applause at our next meeting!

January 27, 2025January 28, 2025

Scouts from Troop 63 Hit the Slopes and Explore the Summit

A group of enthusiastic scouts from Troop 63 recently participated in the annual Scouts on Skis program at Winterplace Ski Resort in Ghent, West Virginia. This event, organized by the Old North State Council, allows scouts to experience winter sports and enjoy the company of fellow scouts.

The scouts, including Luke Johnson, Ethan Scout, Owen West, Beckett Shaw, and Sam Miller, along with their leaders, started their adventure with lunch at Fat Paddy’s in Huntington, West Virginia. They then traveled to the Summit Bechtel Scout Reservation for an exciting Saturday night.

Summit Bechtel Scout Reservation, located in the mountains of West Virginia, offers a wide range of outdoor activities and programs for scouts. The scouts stayed in Base Camp Pigott, which features dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds and private restrooms. They also had access to a gathering room with a television, tables, and chairs for relaxation and bonding. Summit Bechtel Reserve is a world-class scouting facility that spans over 14,000 acres and is home to the National Scout Jamboree. It offers a wide range of outdoor adventures beyond skiing, including rock climbing, skateboarding, BMX, zip lining, and whitewater rafting. The reserve also features state-of-the-art sustainability features and promotes conservation efforts.

The next day, the scouts went to Winterplace Ski Resort, a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts of all levels. The resort offers a variety of slopes, from beginner-friendly bunny hills to challenging black diamonds. Winterplace is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse terrain, featuring 27 slopes, nine lifts, and a terrain park. It also offers snow tubing, night skiing, and a variety of dining options. Winterplace is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, with a focus on environmental sustainability. The scouts took advantage of the comprehensive ski package, which included lift tickets, ski rentals, helmet rentals, and group lessons.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the scouts worked on their Winter Sports merit badge. Led by instructor Ed Henry, they learned about various winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, and practiced their skills on the slopes.

To earn the Winter Sports merit badge, Scouts must demonstrate knowledge and skills in various winter sports. Some of the requirements include:

Understanding the risks and safety precautions associated with winter sports. This includes knowing how to dress appropriately for cold weather, how to identify and avoid hazards on the slopes, and how to respond in case of an emergency.
Demonstrating proficiency in a chosen winter sport. This could be skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. Scouts must show that they can safely and effectively perform basic techniques and maneuvers in their chosen sport.
Learning about the history and development of winter sports. Scouts should be familiar with the origins of different winter sports, how they have evolved over time, and their cultural significance.
Understanding the environmental impact of winter sports. Scouts should be aware of the potential impact of winter sports on the environment and how to minimize their footprint. This includes practicing Leave No Trace principles and respecting wildlife.

By fulfilling these requirements, Scouts gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for winter sports while developing valuable skills and knowledge that can be applied in various aspects of their lives.

The scout leaders also joined the fun, showcasing their skiing skills and encouraging the scouts. The event was a success, with the scouts returning home with new skills, lasting memories, and a deeper appreciation for winter.

More Photos to come!

December 5, 2024December 5, 2024

Troop 63 Christmas Party!

Join us for a jolly good time at our Troop 63 Christmas Party!

When: Saturday, December 8th, 2024 Time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM Where: St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 311 High Street, Paris (basement entrance)

Get ready for some festive fun with:

Games: We’ll have plenty of holiday-themed games to get everyone in the Christmas spirit!
Gifts: Bring a wrapped gift for our gift exchange! (Optional)
Good Eats: Enjoy delicious Christmas treats and snacks.

It’s going to be a great time to celebrate the holidays with your fellow Scouts!

Don’t miss out!

November 19, 2024November 19, 2024

Troop 63 Celebrates Scoutsgiving at Camp Friedlander

Troop 63 braved the chilly November weather and spent the weekend of November 15-17 at Camp Friedlander celebrating Scoutsgiving. Nestled in the hills of Clermont County, Ohio, Camp Friedlander is a sprawling Scout camp with a rich history dating back to 1919. Attending the Scoutsgiving weekend were Owen West, Luke Johnson, Beckett Shaw, Ethan Scott, Sam Miller, and new scouts Ryan Wood and Noah Fitch.

Scoutsgiving is a special tradition where Scouts gather together to give thanks for the blessings in their lives and celebrate the spirit of Scouting. It’s a time for fellowship, fun, and delicious food, all while embracing the values of kindness and community that are at the heart of Scouting.

On Saturday, the troop took a trip to the Cincinnati Museum Center to watch the epic dinosaur film T-Rex at the Omnimax. This immersive film experience takes viewers back in time to the Cretaceous period, where they come face-to-face with the fearsome Tyrannosaurus Rex and other prehistoric creatures. With stunning visuals and cutting-edge CGI, T-Rex brings these ancient giants to life on the giant screen.

Back at camp, the Scouts had a blast with a scavenger hunt around the grounds, exploring the campsites, the climbing tower, and the shores of the lake. As the sun began to set, everyone gathered for a delicious Scoutsgiving dinner of fried turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans.

It was a fun-filled weekend for all, and the troop is already looking forward to next year’s Scoutsgiving celebration!

November 5, 2024

Troop 63 Celebrates New Star and Life Scouts

Congratulations to Max Hawkins on achieving the rank of Star Scout, and to Ethan Scott on achieving the rank of Life Scout! These young men have demonstrated dedication and perseverance in their Scouting journeys, and we are incredibly proud of their accomplishments.

Star Scout

The Star Scout rank is the fifth rank in the Scouts BSA program. To achieve this rank, a Scout must:

Be active in their troop and patrol for at least three months as a First Class Scout.
Demonstrate Scout spirit by living by the Scout Oath and Law.
Earn a total of six merit badges, including any four from a list of ten Eagle-required merit badges.
Serve in a position of responsibility within their troop.
Participate in a Scoutmaster conference.
Complete a board of review.

Max has shown exemplary leadership and commitment to Scouting, and we are excited to see what he accomplishes next.

Life Scout

The Life Scout rank is the sixth rank in the Scouts BSA program and the second highest rank achievable before Eagle Scout. To achieve this rank, a Scout must:

Be active in their troop and patrol for at least six months as a Star Scout.
Demonstrate Scout spirit by living by the Scout Oath and Law.
Earn a total of 11 merit badges, including any three more from a list of ten Eagle-required merit badges.
Serve in a position of responsibility within their troop.
Participate in a Scoutmaster conference.
Complete a board of review.

Ethan has consistently shown himself to be a responsible and dedicated Scout, and we are confident that he will continue to excel in his Scouting career.

Congratulations, Max and Ethan!

We are incredibly proud of your accomplishments and look forward to seeing you continue to grow and develop as Scouts. Your hard work and dedication are an inspiration to us all.

October 23, 2024October 23, 2024

Troop 63 Holds First Court of Honor!

Troop 63 recently held its first Court of Honor, a special ceremony where Scouts are recognized for their achievements in Scouting. It’s a time to celebrate hard work, dedication, and progress! During the Court of Honor, Scouts receive rank advancements, merit badges, and other special awards.

Rank Advancements

Ethan Scott: Achieved the Star Scout rank, a significant step towards Eagle Scout. This rank requires leadership, service, and outdoor skills.
Owen West: Earned the Scout rank, marking the beginning of his journey in Scouting and showing his commitment to the Scout Oath and Law.

Merit Badges Awarded

Beckett Shaw: First Aid
Ethan Scott: Citizenship in Society, Communication, Cycling, Forestry, Search and Rescue
Luke Johnson: Cycling, Farm Mechanics, Fire Safety, Personal Fitness
Maxwell Hawkins: Cooking, Cycling, Sustainability, Swimming
Owen West: Cycling, Farm Mechanics, Fire Safety, Search and Rescue

Special Awards

Sam Miller: Received the Den Chief Award Cord, recognizing his leadership and service in guiding younger Cub Scouts.
Owen West: Earned the Totin’ Chip Emblem, demonstrating his safe and responsible use of bladed tools.

A Generous Gift from the Kiwanis Club of Paris

Troop 63 was honored to receive a generous gift of $500 from the Kiwanis Club of Paris, presented by Pat Lairson Phipps. This incredible support will be instrumental in helping Troop 63 grow and thrive, providing valuable resources for future adventures and activities. The troop expresses its sincere gratitude to the Kiwanis Club for their commitment to Scouting and their investment in the young people of our community.

Food, Fellowship, and Fun!

Following the ceremony, Scouts, parents, and attendees enjoyed delicious food and fantastic fellowship. Everyone had a great time sharing stories and discussing all the adventures that led to this special Court of Honor. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the Scouts’ achievements and strengthen the bonds within the Troop 63 family.

Congratulations to all the Scouts of Troop 63 on their accomplishments! This Court of Honor was a fantastic way to celebrate their dedication and progress. We look forward to seeing what they achieve in the future!

October 21, 2024

Troop 63 Conquers Search and Rescue Camporee (and Chilly Indiana Nights)!

Troop 63 faced a true test of their Scout spirit at the Crossroads of America Council Monon District Fall Camporee in Bloomington, Indiana! From Friday, October 18th to Sunday, October 20th, Luke Johnson, Owen West, Ethan Scott, and Sam Miller tackled Search and Rescue training while enduring some chilly Indiana nights. The days were beautiful, with temperatures in the 70s, but as soon as the sun went down, the mercury plummeted to a frosty 37°F! 🥶

But did that stop our Scouts? Absolutely not! They bundled up in their warmest layers and showed those chilly temps who was boss. 💪 And in the end, they emerged victorious, earning their Search and Rescue merit badge!

Here’s how they conquered the challenge:

Requirement 1: Be Prepared for Anything!

This means understanding the hazards you might face during search and rescue, and boy, did they experience that firsthand! From chilly weather to difficult terrain and the potential for wild animal encounters, our Scouts learned how to prevent problems, stay safe, and handle emergencies like snakebites, dehydration, and shock.

Requirement 2: Don’t Get Lost Yourself!

This requirement focused on wilderness survival skills. The Scouts learned how to use a map and compass, signal for help, find and purify water, and build a survival shelter (which probably came in handy during those cold nights!). They also practiced essential skills like fire building and first aid.

Requirement 3: Gear Up!

Our Scouts had to learn about the essential equipment used in search and rescue, from basic first aid kits and signaling devices to specialized gear like GPS units, radios, and even search dog equipment. They learned how to pack and maintain their gear for any situation, including cold weather!

Requirement 4: Know Your Knots!

Knot-tying is crucial for search and rescue! The Scouts demonstrated their ability to tie knots like the square knot, bowline, clove hitch, and timber hitch, which are used for everything from securing ropes to building shelters.

Requirement 5: Incident Command System

Our Scouts got an introduction to the Incident Command System (ICS), which is used to manage emergencies effectively. They learned about the different roles and responsibilities within ICS and how it helps organize search and rescue efforts.

Requirement 6: Search and Rescue Teams

The Scouts explored the different types of search and rescue teams, like ground searchers, canine units, mounted searchers, and even dive teams. They learned about the unique skills and equipment each team uses.

Requirement 7: Wilderness, Urban, and Water Rescue

Search and rescue can happen anywhere! Our Scouts learned about the differences between searching for someone lost in the wilderness, a city, or a body of water. Each environment presents unique challenges and requires specific techniques.

Requirement 8: Plan a Search!

This involved putting their knowledge to the test! The Scouts worked through a hypothetical search and rescue scenario, creating an Incident Action Plan and discussing how factors like the missing person’s age and behavior would affect their search strategy.

Requirement 9: Hasty Search

Our Scouts planned and carried out a practice search, putting their clue awareness, evidence preservation, and tracking skills to the test. They learned how to conduct a “hasty search,” which is a rapid initial search for a missing person.

Requirement 10: Career Opportunities

Finally, the Scouts explored different career paths in search and rescue, learning about the education, training, and experience needed to become a professional or volunteer in this field.

We learned from the best, with demonstrations from:

Rescue helicopters 🚁
Search canines 🐕
Search drones 🛰️
The National Guard

And even with the cold nights, our Scouts had a blast at the National Jamboree-style camp bash Saturday night! 🎶🎉

To top it all off, Troop 63 ended their adventure Sunday morning with a hearty, hot breakfast at Cracker Barrel. Nothing like some pancakes and bacon after a weekend of camping and conquering challenges! 🥞🥓

We were also super impressed with the Ransburg Scout Reservation! Their facilities were top-notch – everything was updated and clean, and the Scout grounds were amazing. It was the perfect setting for a weekend of adventure!

A big shout-out to Troop 109, Troop 1090, and Crew 1109 of Fishers, Indiana for putting on such a memorable event!

Check out the photos from our adventure!

October 13, 2024October 13, 2024

Troop 63 Tackles 22 Miles on the Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike and Hike Trail!

This past weekend, Troop 63 embarked on a grueling 22-mile cycling adventure to earn their cycling merit badge! Scouts Luke Johnson, Owen West, Sam Miller, Ethan Scott, and Max Hawkins took on the Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike and Hike Trail, a 9-mile path that follows the historic route of a 19th-century railway. To reach their goal, they extended their ride beyond the main trail to explore additional paths and rack up those miles!

This trail isn’t just a flat, easy ride though. It features some challenging hills and a gravel surface that requires focus and skill to navigate. Our scouts were up for the challenge, with most of them conquering the full 22 miles!

Unfortunately, Sam Miller had a bit of a wipeout during the first leg that slowed him down. We’re happy to report that he’s okay, just a little scraped up. It’s a good reminder that safety always comes first, and even experienced cyclists can encounter unexpected obstacles. But, showing true Scout spirit, Sam was back on the trail later that day to finish the remaining miles with his fellow scouts! Way to go, Sam!

The Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike and Hike Trail is a beautiful ride, offering scenic views and glimpses into the area’s rich history. Along the way, the scouts encountered historic sites, interpretive waysides, and even some scenic overlooks. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of Mammoth Cave National Park while getting some exercise and working towards a merit badge!

“Ok, so it was smooth in some parts, it’s up and down combinations of both, not too much up and not too much down.” – Max Hawkins, perfectly describing the varied terrain of the trail.

Congratulations to all the scouts who participated in this challenging and rewarding adventure! We’re proud of your perseverance and dedication.

In addition to working on their cycling merit badge, Sam and Max also took some time to work on their cooking merit badge. They stopped along the trail and prepared a delicious pot of soup over a small campfire.

This was a great way for them to practice their cooking skills and learn more about how to prepare meals on the go. They were able to use the natural resources of the trail to gather ingredients, and they enjoyed a hot and satisfying meal after their long ride.

This experience was a valuable one for Sam and Max, and it helped them to earn their cooking merit badge. For Luke, this challenging ride marked the completion of his final requirement for the prestigious Eagle Scout rank! Congratulations, Luke!

October 6, 2024

Kentucky Scout Among 91 to Earn Nuclear Science Merit Badge at Florida Workshop

Samuel Miller, a member of Troop 63 in Paris, Kentucky, recently traveled to Florida to participate in a unique opportunity to earn the Nuclear Science merit badge. The workshop, hosted by the Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC) Radiochemistry Laboratory, provided scouts with hands-on experience in the field of nuclear science. This marked the fifth time AFTAC has hosted this event to help scouts explore the field of nuclear science.

The day-long event, held on Saturday, October 5th, 2024, at AFTAC, Bldg 10989, Patrick SFB, was open to scouts. Miller was the only scout from outside of Florida to attend.

During the workshop, Miller and 90 other scouts learned about radiation, nuclear fission, and safety from top AFTAC scientists and engineers. They also had the opportunity to build their own cloud chamber to “see” radioactive particles and use instruments to measure radiation.

To earn the merit badge, Miller also had to complete other requirements, such as:

Explain the difference between radiation exposure and contamination.
Describe the hazards of radiation to humans, the environment, and wildlife.
Calculate his approximate annual radiation dose and compare it to that of someone who works in a nuclear power plant.
Explain the meaning of terms such as atom, nucleus, proton, neutron, electron, quark, isotope, alpha particle, beta particle, gamma ray, X-ray, ionization, radioactivity, radioisotope, and stability.
Construct 3-D models for the atoms of three isotopes of an element, showing neutrons, protons, and electrons.
Build an electroscope and show how it works.
Perform an experiment demonstrating half-life.
Discuss decay chains.
Using a radiation survey meter and a radioactive source, show how the counts per minute change as the source gets closer to or farther from the radiation detector.
Explain how time, distance, and shielding can reduce an individual’s radiation dose.
Make a drawing showing how nuclear fission happens.
Explain how a chain reaction could be started and stopped in a nuclear reactor.
Give an example of how energy from an atom can be used in nuclear medicine, environmental applications, industrial applications, space exploration, and radiation therapy.

Miller said that he was excited to learn about nuclear science and that the workshop was a great experience. He also said that he was proud to be the only scout from outside of Florida to attend.

The Nuclear Science merit badge is one of the more difficult merit badges to earn, but Miller’s hard work and dedication paid off. He is now one of the few scouts in the country to have earned this prestigious award.

Miller’s accomplishment is a testament to his hard work and dedication. It is also a reminder that there are many opportunities available to scouts who are willing to put in the effort.

Troop 63 would like to remind all scouts to look for outstanding opportunities for merit badges and events. An excellent resource is the Scouts BSA Merit Badge Opportunities group on Facebook.