• Where and when does the Troop meet?
• Why does it seem that the adults are not running the Troop?
• How is the Troop Organized?
• What is a Patrol?
• What is the proper uniform and where do I get it?
• What is the Troop Committee?
• What is a Patrol Leaders Council (PLC)?
• Where does the troop get its money?
• What is a Scout Account?
• How much are dues?
• What do I need to know about camping?
• How can parents help with Summer Camp?
• What do I bring on a camping trip?
• Can I pick up my son early from a camping trip?
• What do I do if I have a problem?
• What is the Order of the Arrow?
• What is YLT (Youth Leader Training)?
• What is the EDGE leadership system?
• What is High Adventure camping?
• Advancement Questions:
• What are the ranks and how do I earn them?
• What is a Scoutmaster Conference?
• What is a Board of Review?
• Can I have more than one Scoutmaster Conference or Board of Review in a single night?
• What is Scout Spirit?
• What are Service Hours?
• Who can sign off on the requirements in the Boy Scout Handbook?
• What is the procedure for earning merit badges?
• What records do I need to keep?
• What do I need to do for the Life rank?
• What are the requirements for the Life Project?
• What do I need to do for the Eagle rank?
• I FINALLY reached Eagle, now what do I do?

Where and when does the Troop meet? (Back to top)

The troop meets in the St. Joseph's cafeteria, from 7:00 PM until 8:30 PM, every Thursday except on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Exceptions to this schedule will be noted on the Base Camp page. The 3rd Thursday is used as an administrative night for the following meetings:

7:00-8:30 Troop Committee Meeting
7:00-7:30 Patrol Leader Council (PLC)
7:30-8:00 Assistant Scout Master Meeting

PLEASE plan to arrive and leave on time unless you have made special arrangements with the Senior Patrol Leader or Scoutmaster.

For details on the troop meeting attendance policy, read the Attendance and Participation section of the Troop 2 Policy Handbook.

Why does it seem that the adults are not running the Troop? (Back to top)

One of the hardest things for adults to do is watch the boys conduct an activity while knowing it could be done better. Remember, if boys already knew how to do everything perfectly, they wouldn't need scouting. Our boys have elected their leaders at all levels. These leaders are expected to lead. There is no greater peer pressure than when scouts feel their leaders are letting them down.

There may be times when you might see the adults in the troop standing by and observing. At such times, perhaps you think they should be involved. Herein, however, lies our method: the boys run this troop, with our guidance, and they need to have the freedom to conduct its business their way. You will see great successes and will witness great failures. This is scouting. Avoid the temptation to correct the boys and take over an activity. Stand back, let it fail, and it will become a learning experience. The boys will respect your patience and your confidence in their abilities.

The only instance when adult leaders should and do step into a situation is one which involves the health or safety of the boys. Every adult in our troop is responsible for the safety of the boys.

The objective of the Scouting program is to build leaders. This is accomplished in many ways. Most importantly we insist that the program be run by the youth. The youth leaders make mistakes and don't always make the right decisions. However we hope that they learn by their mistakes and become better leaders. If your son has a problem, he may be asked to try to have the youth Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) attempt to resolve it first. Don't  get the impression that we do not supervise the youth, we just want the youth to have the first chance at controlling the program. Only through hands-on experience as leaders can boys learn to lead.

Boy Scouts is very different from Cub Scouts. In Cub Scouts the activities are planned and mostly executed by adults. However, In Boy Scouts the youth are responsible for planning, leading and executing their activities. The adults provide guidance mostly by interacting with the Senior Patrol Leader who will correct problems through the youth leadership.

How is the Troop Organized? (Back to top)

Basically, the troop is run by it's youth leaders with the supervision of the Scoutmaster and their Assistant Scoutmasters.

The boys are divided into patrols that work as a team. Each patrol has a patrol leader who reports to the Senior Patrol Leader. The Senior Patrol Leader reports to the Scoutmaster.

The adults participate on either the program side (directly supervising the Scouts) or the administrative side (controlling finances and policy).

Click here for a description of youth and adult positions of responsibility.

What is a Patrol? (Back to top)

A patrol is the basic organizational unit of a Scout troop. Composed of up to eight boys, it is a good size for Scouts to plan and carryout  projects, to hike and camp together, to take part in troop games and events, and to practice leadership on a manageable scale.

There are three kinds of patrols:

• New Scout patrol - For youth just joining the troop

For 11-year-old boys who are just joining. The new Scouts function together as a patrol during their first year in the troop, working toward their goal of completing the requirements for the First Class rank. A new Scout patrol may hold frequent patrol leader elections so that each boy has the opportunity to serve for one or two months.

An older, experienced Scout will be appointed by the senior patrol leader, with the advice of the Scoutmaster, to serve as Troop Guide for the new Scout patrol. The guide helps new Scouts through the early challenges of troop membership. An assistant Scoutmaster should work closely with the troop guide and the new Scout patrol to ensure that each Scout has every opportunity to succeed right from the start.

• Regular patrols - Usually for boys who have earned at least the First Class award

Regular patrols are usually composed of Scouts who have completed the First Class requirements or who are in at least the seventh grade. They are made up of boys similar in age, achievement, and interests. Most of the boys have been around Scouting long enough to be comfortable with patrol and troop routines, and they are well versed in camping, hiking, cooking, and Scouting's other basic skills.

• Venture patrols - Made up of older Scouts

A venture patrol is an optional older-boy patrol within a troop. These boys (ages 13 through 17) have the maturity and experience to plan and take part in more challenging high-adventure outings and sports activities. An assistant Scoutmaster assigned to the Venture patrol can help the Venture patrol leader and other patrol members transform their plans into action. A Venture patrol can be instrumental in keeping older boys interested and active in Scouting.

Click here for a description of youth and adult positions of responsibility.

What is the proper uniform and where do I get it? (Back to top)

Wearing a uniform is part of the thrill of being a Scout. By dressing alike, you and all other Scouts show that you are equals in the spirit of brotherhood and that you stand for certain ideals. Wear your uniform proudly. It is steady reminder to you and to others that a Scout is a person who can be trusted to lend a hand when help is needed. Dressed as a Scout, you want to act as a Scout.

There are two classes of uniforms that Troop 2 currently uses:

1. The Class "A" Uniform shall be worn to all General Troop Meetings (from September to May), all Courts of Honor, all Troop Service Projects, and to all ceremonial functions such as an Eagle Courts of Honor or Religious Services. For insurance purposes, Class “A” uniforms must be worn during transportation of scouts both “to” and “from” any Troop outings.
2. The Boy Scout Handbook should be used as your guide for Class “A" and “B” Uniforms.
3. Class "B" Uniforms are worn during the summer months from June through August to the General Troop meetings. 
4. Order Forms for Troop 2 T-Shirts are issued annually. An ASM will be assigned to coordinate the order.
5. Patches and other ceremonials are purchased by the Troop from dues and presented at the Court of Honor.
6. Under national policy, Scouts may not where paramilitary uniforms of the US or other countries. The Scout shall not be construed as supporting or representing these organizations. The Scout uniform is distinctive to separate it from standard military uniforms.

Click here to see where to sew badges and insignias.

Scout uniforms and other supplies can be purchased at:

• Kelly's Sports (610-436-5458)
• 897 S. Matlock St., West Chester, PA 19382
• Cradle of Liberty Council Scout Store (610-989-9626)
• 1485 Valley Forge Road, Wayne, PA 19087

What is the Troop Committee? (Back to top)

The troop committee is the troop's board of directors and supports the troop program. It is composed of parents of Scouts that volunteer to help run the troop. The Troop Committee's primary responsibilities are supporting the Scoutmaster in delivering a quality troop program, and handling troop administration. For a description of committee job descriptions read Leader Positions. The troop committee performs the following functions:

• Provides adequate meeting facilities.
• Advises the Scoutmaster on policies relating to Boy Scouting and the chartered organization.
• Supports leaders in carrying out the program.
• Carries out the policies and regulations of the Boys Scouts of America.
• Is responsible for finances, adequate funds, and disbursements in line with the approved budget plan.
• Serves on boards of review and courts of honor.
• Supports the Scoutmaster in working with individual boys and problems that may affect the overall troop program.
• Provides for the special needs and assistance some boys may require.
• Assists the Scoutmaster with handling boy behavioral problems.
• Obtains, maintains, and properly cares for troop property.
• Provides adequate camping and outdoor program (minimum 10 days and nights per year).
• Sees to it that quality adult leadership is recruited and trained. In case the Scoutmaster is absent or is unable to serve, a qualified substitute is assigned.

What is a Patrol Leaders Council (PLC)? (Back to top)

The patrol leaders' council is the primary leadership body of the troop. It is composed of the senior patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leaders, the patrol leaders, and any troop guides.

Important functions of the patrol leaders' council are planning the troop's overall program, leading the preparations for troop  meetings and camping trips, and ensuring that all troop events are efficient, interesting, and well run.

The patrol leaders' council allows the senior patrol leader, patrol leaders, and troop guides to plan the troop's program for the coming month and to assess the progress of the current month's program. It is also an opportunity for patrol leaders to present the ideas and concerns of patrol members to the troop's leadership. The senior patrol leader conducts the meeting with the guidance and support of the Scoutmaster. Members of the patrol leaders' council recognize that their decisions are subject to final approval by the Scoutmaster and the troop committee.

The troops activities are selected and planned at the annual program planning conference. The troops yearly plan is then submitted to the troop committee for approval. The troop committee either approves  the plan or makes alternative suggestions for the PLC to consider. The troop committee interacts with the PLC through the Scoutmaster.

Where does the troop get its money? (Back to top)

The majority of the funds comes from the annual Easter Flower Sale. The remainder comes from the dues.

For more details on the Troop's finances, read the Money Matters section of the Troop 2 Policy Handbook.

What is a Scout Account? (Back to top)

The Scout Account is a personal savings account where the proceeds from fundraiser's goes. This does not include the proceeds from the annual Easter Flower Sale. Money can only be withdrawn for use on approved Scouting oriented items. The "Scout Account Withdrawal Request" must be completed. When a Scout reaches Eagle the funds are returned to the Scout.

How much are dues? (Back to top)

• The dues are $86 per year.
• One half of this amount is collected in March and the other half in September.
• These dues pay for advancement awards, camping fees, equipment, training, annual picnic, registration, insurance, web site, postage, and many other expenses incurred throughout the year.
• Once a scout reaches the Eagle rank, they no longer need to pay dues.

What do I need to know about camping? (Back to top)

• For a complete and up to date description of camping policy, please refer to the Camping Policy section of the Troop 2 Policy Handbook.
• Troop 2 attempts to go on a camping trip every month.
• Trips normally leave on a Friday afternoon and return on a Sunday morning.
• Transportation to and from camp is provided by adult volunteers.
• Scouts MUST travel to and from camp in their Class A uniform.
• A Class II health form must be on file with the troop in order for a scout to participate.
• The troop provides the camping gear (tents, stoves, cooking equipment).
• Scouts should bring their own mess kits.
• The scouts work in patrols. Each patrol prepares their own meals.
• The senior scout is in charge of the youth members on a trip.
• Patrol leaders assign their patrol members to complete chores (cooking, cleaning, fetching water, fetching firewood...).
• Adults prepare their own food and cleanup for themselves.

How can parents help with Summer Camp? (Back to top)

• You are responsible for getting your boy and his gear to and from camp. Please arrange for transportation ahead of time.
• We must maintain a group of about 6 adult leaders in camp all week. Please consider volunteering for all or part of the week.
• If you want to be at camp for any or all of the week, please schedule your visit ahead of time with the Troop 2 camping coordinator. There is a limit to the number of adults we can have in camp at one time, especially for meals.
• Do not drive to the campsite.
• If you come to camp as an adult leader, try to fall in with the troop's daily camp schedule. Please don't plan on doing special activities or out-of-camp activities with the boys during the week. They need to adjust to camp life and will be busy with the camp program. There is usually an open afternoon on the last day of camp.
• If you cannot spend the week, please come toward the end of the week and stay through the end. Don't come at the start of the week and then leave. And, don't come for a day or two in the middle of the week. Having adults moving in and out makes it harder for boys to keep their minds in camp. It also makes it much harder for homesick boys.
• Don't pull your boy out early. Summer camp only works if we are a troop. A scout leaving early undermines troop spirit. The remaining boys, especially the leaders, really feel it. Also, at some camps, early departure creates extra paperwork and takes extra time for the Scoutmaster.

What do I bring on a camping trip? (Back to top)

This varies depending on the time of the year. At the very least, you should have:

• A sleeping bag
• Raincoat or poncho
• Flashlight with fresh batteries
• Toiletries
• Change of clothes
• A sleeping pad is optional, but does make for a better sleep.
• Cold weather camping tips.
• Cold weather camping tips at Weather.com.

The troop provides tents and cooking equipment. Each patrol is assigned a patrol box, which contains stove, pots, pans, clean up material, and cooking utensils.

BATTERY OPERATED DEVICES THAT PROVIDE ENTERTAINMENT ARE NOT ALLOWED!

Can I pick up my son early from a camping trip? (Back to top)

We understand that this is sometimes necessary; however, we strongly discourage this from happening. All the boys are expected to help take down camp and clean the area up. Picking up trash has to be the last thing done. If it is absolutely necessary for your son to leave early, make sure that the Troop leadership is aware of this and understands completely ahead of time.

What do I do if I have a problem? (Back to top)

When dealing with so many families, we are bound to overlook someone's needs. After all, we are only human (and volunteers at that). Many times, people complain among themselves about a problem they have observed, and the Troop doesn't hear about it until it is too late to correct. This FAQ cannot possibly cover all the pertinent facts. Most advancement related questions can be answered in the "Official Scout Handbook". All questions and constructive comments can be directed to the Scoutmaster or Committee Chairman.

What is the Order of the Arrow? (Back to top)

The Order of the Arrow is the BSA's national honor society.

Purpose:

• To recognize those scout campers who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives.
• To develop and maintain camping traditions and spirit.
• To promote Scout camping.
• To crystallize the Scout habit of helpfulness into a life purpose of leadership in cheerful service to others.

Eligibility:

To become a member, a youth must be a registered member of a Boy Scout troop and hold First Class rank. The youth must have experienced 15 days and nights of camping during the two years before his election. The 15 days and nights must include one, but no more than one, long term camp consisting of six consecutive days and five nights of resident camping, approved and under the auspices and standards of the Boy Scouts of America. The balance of the camping must be overnight, weekend, or other short-term camps. Scouts are elected to the Order by their fellow troop or Varsity team members, following approval by the Scoutmaster.

Our local Order of the Arrow Lodge is Octoraro Lodge 22.

Ordeal weekend packet.

 For more details go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Order_of_the_arrow .

What is YLT (Youth Leader Training?) (Back to top)

Each May the Chester County Council hosts a Youth Leader Training Conference. Our troop pays to have eligible Scouts attend the conference. The instruction concentrates on the EDGE leadership system.

The objectives of the camp are:

• To give participants the confidence and knowledge to run the troop program.
• To give participants a working knowledge of the skills of leadership and help them relate these skills to their troop responsibilities.
• To give participants the opportunity to share ideas and experience with Scouts from other troops.
• To create an atmosphere where Scouts will experience Scouting at its best.
• To enhance the relationship between the participant and his Scoutmaster.
• To have fun.

To be eligible the Scout must meet the following:

• Scouts must be completing at least the 8th grade to attend. The course is designed for mature Scouts, age 14-17, who will be your next senior patrol leader or other top troop leaders.
• Scouts must have successfully completed all troop level leadership training and have strong traditional Scout skills.
• Participants must commit to, and attend, all three days of both weekends to complete the course. (Mandatory)
• Must be approved by the Scoutmaster.

A boy distinguishes himself as a future leader by what he does in the troop. Troop 2 offers Troop Leadership Training and Positions of Responsibility (POR) to all boys. Training and POR's allow boys to develop their abilities and gain experience. Also, these features of the troop program give the boys a chance to show their interest in becoming leaders by showing Scout Spirit.

Specifically, a boy is a candidate for YLT when he has met the minimum requirements set by Council and he has done the following within Troop 2:

• Been active and shown leadership qualities in the past.
• Received Troop Leadership Training.  (Troop Leadership Training is offered by the troop once per year, normally during a camping trip.)
• Has held two or more Positions of Responsibility.
• While holding a Position of Responsibility, a scout must show evidence that he is doing his job at least once per month. In addition, the scout receives periodic job reviews during his 6-month term.
• Has shown Scout Spirit in his jobs.
• Shown a concern for other scouts.
• Shown a willingness to take direction from the adult leadership.
• Shown team spirit. Helps his patrol in patrol-oriented activities. Participates in patrol meetings. On campouts, does his job on the patrol duty roster cheerfully and eats with his patrol.

What is the EDGE leadership system? (Back to top)

EDGE stands for Explain Demonstrate Guide Enable.

EDGE is utilized at YLT to give the Scouts tips on how to be good leaders.

Be-Know-Do Leadership Memory Tips

1. Vision - Goals - Planning: Creating a Picture of Future Success
2. SMART Goals - Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Timely
3. Planning and Problem-Solving Tool: What, How, When, Who
4. Assessment Tools: SSC - Start, Stop, Continue
5. Conflict Resolution Tool: EAR - Express, Address, Resolve
6. Ethical Decisions: Right vs. Wrong, Right vs. Right, Trivial
7. Communication: MaSeR - Message, Sender, Receiver
8. Valuing People: ROPE - Reach out, Organize, Practice, Experience

What is High Adventure camping? (Back to top)

High adventure camps involve challenging activities for Scouts who are at least 14 years old.  These trips can involve strenuous activities and a large expense. Although the troop will help a group of boys reach the critical mass of people to form a crew, these trips are organized and funded by the participants and must supply their own registered adult leaders. Some of the  camps require intensive training by both youth and adults before attending. Some camps require a reservation and down payment one year in advance.

There are 2 types of high adventure camps:

1. Camps run by BSA national. There are 3 of these camps (see below).
• Philmont - The mountains of New Mexico offer the adventure that you have always dreamed about. Backpacking, rock climbing, western lore, living history, and the views from peaks over 10,000 feet tall will make memories that last a lifetime. Crew size is 7-12 Scouts.
• Northern Tier - One of the most beautiful, and remote parts of North America offers a unique opportunity for Scouts. Canoeing, hiking, fishing, and winter camping in and around the beautiful lakes of northern Minnesota and southern Canada await you at the Northern Tier. Crew size is 5-8 Scouts.
• Florida Seabase - Head to the Florida Keys and dive into an amazing Florida Sea Base adventure and wade into more excitement than you ever though possible. Snorkeling, SCUBA, boating, and beach camping are among the many possibilities.
2. Camps run by BSA councils. There are about 40 of these camps across the country.  Descriptions can be found at BSA national list of high adventure camps or USSP list of high adventure camps.

Click here to see details about the Chester County Council high adventure program.

What are the ranks and how do I earn them? (Back to top)

This information is just a brief overview of the progression through the ranks. A detailed description of how to attain each rank is found in the Boy Scout Handbook.

All ranks require:

• Being active in the Troop. (For details see the section Attendance and Participation in the Troop 2 Policy Handbook.)
• Having Scout Sprit.
• A Scoutmaster's Conference.
• A Board of Review.
• Completion before the age of 18.
   

What is a Scoutmaster Conference? (Back to top)

After a Scout has completed all of the requirements for a rank they must have a meeting with their Scoutmaster. A Scout can request a conference at any time but must schedule one after all of the requirements for a rank have been completed and before their Board of Review (BOR) for rank advancement. The Scoutmaster will determine if the Scout is ready for a BOR.

The Scout must:

• Request the conference themselves.
• Be in the Class A uniform.
• Bring his BSA handbook.

What is a Board of Review? (Back to top)

After a Scout has completed their Scoutmaster Conference they must participate in a Board of Review (BOR) before they can be awarded their rank advancement. A Scout might be invited to a BOR if he isn't advancing or if there is another issue that needs to be discussed. The BOR for the Eagle rank is handled by the BSA council. The purpose of a BOR is:

• To make sure the Scout has completed the requirements for the rank. If the Scout held a Position of Responsibility the review will also verify that the Scout understood and fulfilled the duties of position.
• To see how good an experience the Scout is having in the unit.
• To encourage the Scout to progress further.
• Give the Scout an opportunity to discuss problems with the troop.

The review is handled by at least 3 committee members and can not include a relative or guardian of the Scout.

The Scout must:

• Request a BOR from the person in charge of advancement.
• Make sure that all of their requirements are in the troop database.
• Appear in their Class A uniform.
• Bring their Boy Scout handbook

Can I have more than one Scoutmaster Conference or Board of Review in a single night? (Back to top)

No. It is important that the Scoutmaster and committee have an opportunity to discuss each rank advancement separately.

What is Scout Spirit? (Back to top)

Each Scout is expected to have Scout Spirit. This is important to his advancement. BSA changed the wording of this requirement to "Demonstrate Scout Spirit by living the Scout Oath and Scout Law in your everyday life." Scout Spirit can be demonstrated by cheerfully cooperating with the adult leadership. A boy with Scout Spirit is helpful during camping trips and does his share of the work. He is respectful and attentive during meetings and does what he can to help his troop and fellow Scouts, especially young and new Scouts. Boys who are frequently disruptive or uncooperative may be refused rank advancement based on this requirement.

What are Service Hours? (Back to top)

A Service Project is a special Good Turn that allows you to put Scout spirit into action.

Service projects can take many forms - a scouts life or eagle project, community cleanup , repairing a church, a museum, or the home of an elderly person; improving wildlife habitat; volunteering at a hospital or with a public safety group; organizing a recycling effort; cleaning up a neighborhood lot or park; or any of a thousand other possibilities.

Giving of yourself will improve the lives of those around you. It will also enrich your own life as you discover that your actions make a real difference. The more you give, the more you will get back - in satisfaction, in accomplishment, and in understanding that you have done the right thing.

Service to others, to your community, and to the environment should become a habit that you want to practice often.

Specific Rank Requirements:

• Second Class - Participate in an approved (minimum of one hour) service project.
• Star and Life - Participate in at least six hours of service projects for each rank.
• Eagle - Plan and lead a significant service project.

Note: It is the responsibility of the scout that is running the service project to have a signup sheet to record the hours of the scouts that participate. After the project they must give the signup sheet to the database administrator so that the participants can be credited with their service hours.

Who can sign off on the requirements in the Boy Scout Handbook? (Back to top)

• Any Scout in the Troop that has obtained First Class or above.
• Only the Scoutmaster can sign off on the Scout Spirit requirement.
• The person in charge of the Troop database should sign off on service hours.

What is the procedure for earning merit badges? (Back to top)

Frequently the troop will hold a merit badge jamboree where several merit badges will be worked on by the entire troop. Also some camping trips may provide an opportunity to earn a merit badge. In all cases you should follow this procedure:

• Ask the Scoutmaster or Advancement Chairperson for the name and phone number of a qualified merit badge counselor. If you are going to use a counselor outside of the Troop, you must first get your parents' permission.
• Ask the Scoutmaster or Advancement Chairperson for permission to start. Ask them for the blue card (There is an example below). Fill in your name, address and the name of the badge and ask them to sign it.
• Meet with the merit badge counselor before you start work on the badge. Give the signed blue card to the counselor. Discuss the requirements for the badge with the counselor, to make sure that you understand them.  Agree on a plan for what work you must do to complete each of the requirements. In the case of requirements with several optional ("or") parts, you and your family decide which part you would prefer to do. Try to identify requirements where it is not clear exactly what work will satisfy the requirement. In these cases, you should discuss the possibilities with the counselor and agree on an interpretation.
• Arrange to meet periodically with the counselor to go over work completed. If the counselor does not accept your work on a requirement, you should discuss how your work compares with the plan that you both agreed to at the start. If the problem is that the requirement was not clear and your original plan did not specify how to satisfy the requirement, then the counselor should accept your work as long as it is reasonable. If not, the counselor should explain why your work does not meet the requirement and what you must do to fix it.
• When you have completed work on a badge, the counselor should sign the blue card and keep the portion titled "Counselor's Record" for themselves and give the rest of the blue card to you.
• You should give the completed blue card to the leader who is in charge of records. They will give you the portion titled "Applicants's Record" and keep the remainder for the troop's records.
• Note that whenever you meet with a merit badge counselor outside of a troop meeting, you must have a buddy.
• If you lose the card, you will have to start the badge over unless the counselor is willing and able to vouch for what you already completed.
• If you change counselors for any reason, it is up to the new counselor whether or not he or she will accept the work you did with the previous counselor.
• After you complete the merit badge and the counselor signs your card, he or she will keep the counselor's section and return the rest of the card to you. Bring the rest of the card to the Advancement Chairman, who will keep the troop section and return the Scout section to you.

For more information read the Advancement and Awards section of the Troop 2 Policy Handbook.

What records do I need to keep? (Back to top)

Your advancement records are kept in three places: Your council office, troop advancement chairman and yourself. The council office keeps records supplied to them by the troop Advancement Chairman, who also keeps copies of these records for the troop. The troop also maintains the advancement information in the troop database. You will receive three kinds of documents that you need to KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE UNTIL AFTER YOU TURN 18 (or receive your Eagle Scout Award, whichever is later)! These documents are: your Scout Handbook with requirements signed off, your portion of completed blue merit badge cards, and the wallet-sized certificate cards for rank advancement and merit badge completion. Make sure all of them are signed or initialed by the appropriate Scout leader. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP THESE DOCUMENTS IN A SAFE PLACE AND DO NOT LOSE THEM! If it should happen that there is a discrepancy of missing records, your personal records are your most important ally in proving what you completed and when.

What do I need to do for the Life rank? (Back to top)

In addition to completing all of the requirements for the rank you must also perform a Life Project. A Life Project is a service project that the Scout plans and executes. The project must be approved by the Scoutmaster and an Assistant Scoutmaster (ASM) that he designates. The project should perform a service of some significance for the community.
The purpose of the project is to:

• Gain leadership experience by planning and managing the activity.
• Perform a service for the community.
• Practice the skills needed for the more difficult Eagle Project.

For more information on planning a Life Project click here.

What are the requirements for the Life Project? (Back to top)

The Life Project is an exercise that Troop 2 created many years ago to act as a “dry run” for your future Eagle Project.  While it is not expected to be as difficult and involved as the Eagle Project, the Life Project does require some preparation. Since the purpose of the Life Project and Boy Scouts in general is to teach the Scout leadership skills, it is important that the project be planned and executed by the Scout, NOT by the parents.

Planning

Having found a suitable project, you should prepare a brief letter outlining topics such as:

• Description of the Project in some detail.
• Who will it benefit?
• How will they benefit from your efforts?
• What officials will need to be contacted for any approvals?
• Number of Scouts and Scouters you require to help with the effort.
• Material list, if any.
• Suggested clothing and tools.
• Plans for the disposal of any waste.
• An alternate date in case weather conditions are undesirable.

Approvals

Next, you should seek the approval of the Scoutmaster and any officials at the site.  With these approvals in place, you should set a date and print up some flyers to hand out at a Troop meeting. It would also be helpful to have the notice placed on the Troop web site. Be sure to give people enough advance notice.

Execution

• Once your crew has assembled at the site, you need to provide clear leadership on how to accomplish the task.  Again, your thoughtful planning will make the effort that much easier.  Anticipate the kinds of questions and situations that might arise and have a strategy to deal with them.
• Maintain a roster during the event.  You are responsible for keeping track of the volunteer's hours, but that does not mean you can not assign it to someone in your crew, (do not forget to delegate when necessary). Be sure that you give the roster to person that manages the Troop database so that Scout that help can get credit for their service hours.
• Do not overlook refreshments.  Hungry workers are cranky workers.  Think about the time of day and if that means a lunch break or a snack of some kind.
• Make sure that you have two deep adult leadership at all times. According to the Youth Protection section of the Troop 2 Policy Handbook this is defined as:

Two trained leaders or one trained leader and a parent of a participant, one of whom must be 21 years of age or older, are required on all trips and outings.

Summary

Lastly, when the project has been a success due to your planning and leadership, you should sit down and prepare a brief report on the results.  Was the project a success?  Did the project meet your goals?  Were you able to stick to the plan you crafted?  Were there any deviations?  If so, how did you manage them?  Were you the project's leader in the field?  How did you demonstrate leadership, (describe examples)?  And finally, you should write a simple summary about the project and your experience.

Please keep in mind that the planning steps, committed to paper, will give you the control you need in the field. 

What do I need to do for the Eagle rank? (Back to top)

• Select an Eagle Project. (Click here for information on how to find a project.)
• Read the "Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook" (ESLSPB).
• Near the end of the ESLSPB there is a form called "Project Approval". It needs to be signed by You, the Scoutmaster and the service project contact.
• Execute your project.
• Fill out six "Confidential References for the Board of Review". The six copies need to go to the 6 people you list on your "Eagle Scout Rank Application". Notice that they include "Parents/Guardians", "Religious", "Employer" and "Two Other References". You need to get references from each of the categories. You should fill out the first page and give this to your reference with a stamped envelope addressed to the Scoutmaster. Write "Confidential References" on the lower left of the envelope and put the references name, c/o your return address as the return address. You do not want the references to hand these to you. They should be mailed. Check with the Scoutmaster periodically to make sure he is receiving them. If they aren't getting to him, YOU need to make it happen.
• Have a Scoutmaster's Conference. Bring your binder and talk about your project. It's your last Scoutmaster's  Conference and it should be about your Scouting experience more than the Eagle Scout Project.
• Fill out the "Eagle Project Summary" form. Be brief (one paragraph describing what you did and how). Include your hours.
• Write a letter outlining your life goals. This may take some thought, but it should be about a page long. There are no right or wrong answers. You can be an Football star or a brain surgeon - it doesn't matter. However, the Eagle Board will read them and talk about your plans and how your leadership training in BSA may help you get there.
• Fill out a "Request for Eagle Scout Rank Application". Take a blank form to the person that manages the troop database and fill in your information. The Scoutmaster needs to sign it.
• Call Maureen Milman or Harry Hiddleson at CCCBSA for an appointment to submit your paperwork. This is a helpful step. Even more helpful if you can get the Scoutmaster to accompany you. The "Eagle Project Summary", "Life Goals" letter and the "Request for Eagle Scout Rank Application" all get submitted at this meeting. At the end of the meeting you will have your records "locked", and they will hand you the "Eagle Scout Rank Application".
• Council will then schedule a BOR.
• Do NOT give your Eagle Project binder to anyone.
• You and a parent should go to the Eagle BOR. Bring your Eagle Project binder and the "Eagle Scout Rank Application".
• At the BOR you are on your own!

For more information on earning the rank of Eagle see Eagle Scout Resources.

I FINALLY reached Eagle, now what do I do? (Back to top)

1. Do not plan the date for the ceremony until you receive the official ok from Council. It can take as little as 2 weeks or as much as 6 weeks to get an application back from National. Don’t put yourself in the position of having an Eagle Ceremony date rapidly approaching without an ok from National. Council will notify you when the approved application has been returned from National.
2. Contact your troop Advancement Chair. You should already have gotten an official merit badge list for the Eagle application. Most of the planning for the Eagle ceremony is performed by the parents. The Advancement Chair will explain which parts the troop handles.
3. Once you have received the ok from Council, select a date and one or two alternates. The Advancement Chair can help you reserve the facility.
4. Send out your invitations. The Advancement Chair can provide you with preprinted address labels.
5. Make sure everyone knows their part for the ceremony and has a script at least 2 days in advance. If you want to video tape or photograph, enlist the help of a guest to do it. You will be very busy and excited the day of the ceremony. Make sure to get a family portrait. You will want to remember this day.
6. So now you have gotten the ok from Council. You have the date and site selected. You’ve ordered refreshments, gotten helpers lined up, gotten all of the BSA equipment. There is film in the camera. Everyone has their script. Your son’s uniform if clean and laid out. The Master of Ceremonies has the velvet box. The flags and letters of congratulations are on the table with Cub/Boy Scout photos and memorabilia as a back drop. So take a deep breath. Relax. This is your son's big day. You should be proud of his accomplishment.
    

Family's Responsibility

Troop Responsibility

Selecting a date for the COH. Selecting and reserving a location for the COH. Mailing out invitations. (Preprinted labels can be obtained from the Advancement Chair Selecting a script for the ceremony. The Scout Shop has a book of Eagle ceremonies that costs around $10.00. You may write it alone or with your son or with the troop or your son may write his own. Don’t forget to ask other parents who have been through this for their ideas and input. AND don’t forget the Eagle oath, challenge and charge, if you write your own ceremony. Click here for information about Eagle Scout Ceremonies. Be sure to contact everyone in the ceremony to let them know they have a part and are expected to attend. This includes: Scouts to serve as honor guards for the flags. Scoutmaster for give the Eagle charge and oath. Committee Chair to the ceremony to order. Candles and fire starter. The Eagle  scout should personally attend a troop meeting before their ceremony to invite everyone to attend. Table/Dais runner (to catch candle wax). Food and refreshments (including all paper products and table cloths). Eagle COH programs and copies. The Troop flag and a US flag can be borrowed from the Troop. Make sure that a quartermaster is available on the day of the COH. It is customary to have a presentation board that highlights the scouts history from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts. Some items that might be displayed are: photos of troop activities, badges earned, neckerchiefs from different ranks, the Eagle Workbook, certificates earned, pinewood derby cars, patrol flags,  caps, scout handbooks for the different ranks, Order of the Arrow sash. Eagle decorations (These can be borrowed from the Altiero family). Candleholders (These can be borrowed from the Altiero family). It is the families responsibility to make sure that the facility is cleaned. They may request help from the troop at the COH.

Scoutmaster When a Scout completes their Eagle BOR, Chester County Council should notify the Scoutmaster. Let the Advancement Chair and Committee Secretary know that the Scout has passed and can start planning their ceremony. Pick up the Eagle Packet (Patch, Pin, Mothers Pin, Fathers Pin, Certificate, wallet card). The Scoutmaster should hold onto this packet until the COH. Writes an abstract of the Scouts career with the troop to send with commendation letters. Scoutmaster notifies the Eagle Coordinator that Scout has passed Eagle board of review and to send out commendation letters. Eagle Coordinator (Click here for the job description) Send out commendation letters. After being notified by the Scoutmaster that the Scout has passed their Eagle BOR, contact the Scout's parents and make sure they are aware of their responsibilities. (See column on the left.) Provide the Eagle family with preprinted labels for the invitations. Purchase an Eagle Neckerchief and Slide. Purchase the Eagle gift (Eagle Ring Paperweight). Apply for a 5 Year NESA Membership. The membership form should be in the Eagle Packet. Application Form. Purchase an Eagle Cake for the ceremony. (Unless family wants to order their own and get reimbursed from troop.) The Eagle Coordinator should attempt to be present at the COH to handle any last minute questions and present the gifts.