BSA Troop 156 – Troop Manual
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Scouting founder, Lord Baden-Powell once said
“Scouting is a game with a purpose.” Like any game, Scouting and Troop 156
has rules and regulations, players, umpires and coaches. Boys who join Troop
156 are expected to "play the game." In fact, upon joining the
Troop, they take a pledge to do so, the Scout Oath. The main difference
between Scouting and most other games is that
in Scouting there are no losers.
Below is a Table of Contents to Troop 156’s Information, Policies and
Procedures Manual. We hope you find
the information to be helpful. |
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Table of Contents Parental Participation and Committee Dues, Fundraising, and Activity Fees Summary of General Rules for Outings Boy Scouts of America outside Troop 156 Questions, Comments, Concerns, and Complaints |
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Troop Organization (back) Patrols:
The Troop is usually composed of two or more patrols, which are teams of 6 to
8 boys. Patrols with fewer than 4 or more than 10 members really cannot
function effectively, and will be merged or divided by the Senior Patrol
Leader (SPL) or the Patrol Leaders' Council (PLC) with the Scoutmaster's
approval, so that every boy can fully participate in the "patrol
method." Every Scout is a member of a patrol. Each patrol may meet as
often as weekly, and should meet at least once a month. During these
meetings, which can be separate from the weekly Troop meetings, patrol
members may work on advancements or merit badges, plan for upcoming Troop
activities, and may choose to participate in patrol outings. (Hint to
Patrols: Free campsites are available at The New Boy Patrol: WEBELOS Scout dens and other boys who join Troop 156 as groups usually choose to stick together. We encourage you to do so by providing for one or more New Boy patrols whenever possible. These patrols are called "New Boy" only until they choose a name and animal totem to represent themselves, after which they will be known by their chosen name. These patrols will elect their own Patrol leaders. Realizing that these leaders will be inexperienced, the Scoutmaster or SPL will appoint one or more older Scouts ("Troop Guides") to work with this patrol on advancement, organization, and the patrol method. These Troop Guides do not lead the patrol; instead, they are responsible for seeing that the new Patrol Leader and his assistant are successful. Reconstitution: when there is an influx of new members and it proves impossible to create a New Boy patrol, one or more Patrols will be reconstituted, or even the entire Troop may be formed into new patrols of 6-8 Scouts in order to ensure that no one is left out of Troop activities. The SPL and adult leadership corps will perform the actual reconstitution process. Elections: Troop leaders are elected just before the semi-annual planning/Junior Leader Training outing each spring and fall. In addition, leaders may be elected or appointed whenever necessary. The BSA rules covering junior leaders provide for general Troop elections to be held as often as necessary, and require at least one general election a year.
Youth Leadership Positions (back) Senior Patrol Leader: The Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) runs the Troop. This Scout presides over all meetings and activities, and is the leader of the Patrol Leader's Council (PLC). This Scout must be at least First Class; a Star or Life Scout will probably be more successful. We strongly encourage Scouts who are, or would like to be, SPL to take one of the Council level advanced training courses such as Nagatamen. The SPL appoints the following junior leaders, with the approval of the Scoutmaster: Scribe(s) Quartermaster(s) Librarian(s) Historian(s) Chaplain's Aide Alternately, and in conference with the Scoutmaster, the SPL may choose to have these offices elected by the Troop. The SPL is elected by Troop youth membership to a six-month-year term, and may be reelected with the approval of the Scoutmaster. The SPL may be elected by universal acclaim, or, if there is more than one candidate, by secret ballot. If a balloted election is held, a simple majority (at least 51% of all votes cast) elects the SPL. Only registered Boy Scouts (not adults) may vote in Troop elections, and a quorum must be present to hold an election (67% of the Troop). See the Senior Patrol Leader’s Handbook for a complete description of the duties and responsibilities of the SPL. Assistant Senior Patrol Leader: The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASP) runs the Troop in the absence of the SPL. He is usually also given other duties (e.g., overseeing the Troop Guides and the advancement program, uniform inspection, coop stick). The ASPL is appointed by the SPL with the approval of the Scoutmaster, and should hold at least the First Class rank. We recommend that Scouts who are, or would like to be, ASPL to take one of the Council level advanced training courses such as Nagatamen. Patrol Leader: This is the most
demanding, and can be the most difficult, position in the Troop. These boys
are the frontline managers in the Troop. Patrol Leaders (PLs) are elected by
their patrols either by acclaim or secret ballot as necessary. The PL
appoints his Assistant Patrol Leader (APL). There is no rank requirement for
these officers. The Patrol leader is responsible for holding at least one
patrol meeting per month (at a time and place different from regular Troop
meetings). The patrol leader is responsible for representing his patrol at
the PLC, for communications within his patrol, for planning outings with his
patrol and planning for their participation in Troop outings, and for ensuring
that all members of his patrol are advancing. Note that being responsible
means that he should see to it that all of these things happen, not that he
must do all these things personally. See the discussions on leadership and
delegation in the Patrol Leader’s
Handbook. Scribe: The Scribe records attendance at each meeting and collects Troop dues. When there is a Troop outing requiring payment and/or reservations, the Scribe maintains a list of who plans to attend and who has paid. In addition, the Scribe is responsible for all Troop correspondence such as invitations, thank you notes, etc. The Scribe may also be responsible for the Troop newsletter. In addition, a second Scribe may take responsibility for the Troop web site and serve as our Webmaster. The Scribe is usually of First Class rank or higher. There may be one or more assistant Scribes as needed. This Scout in this position works with the Troop treasurer. Quartermaster: The Quartermaster is responsible for keeping track of Troop property. He maintains records of who has borrowed Troop equipment, and the condition and completeness of each item or type of item. The QM advises the SPL or Scoutmaster when something needs to be cleaned, repaired, or replaced. The QM is usually of First Class rank or higher. The Scout in this position works with an Assistant Scoutmaster or Troop committee member who has agreed to be responsible for Troop property. Librarian: The Librarian maintains the Troop's collection of Merit Badge booklets and handbooks, plus any other printed material, maps, etc. that belong to the Troop. The Librarian sees to it that there is a checkout system in place, that the collection is up-to-date and complete, and arranges to repair or replace out-of-date or damaged books and other items. The Librarian is usually of First Class rank or higher. Historian: The Historian gathers facts and pictures about Troop activities, maintains scrapbooks and displays, and assists Troop leaders make use of historical materials. The Historian is usually of First Class rank or higher. Photographer (Historian): The Photographer wears a Historian shoulder patch and works with the Historian in preparing and maintaining the Troop memorabilia collection. He is responsible for recording Troop activities with his camera and preparing displays for Courts of Honor and other events. Chaplain's Aid: The Chaplain's Aid plans and carries out religious services at Troop activities. He also tells Troop members about religious emblem program of their faith and how to earn one. This Scout works with the Troop Chaplain. Troop Guide: Troop Guides are appointed by either the Assistant Scoutmaster for New Boys or the Scoutmaster to work with the New Boy Patrol(s). There should be at least one Guide for every New Boy Patrol. There may be additional Guides in charge of recruiting or other responsibilities having to do with recruiting and retaining new members. The Guide(s) is/are are responsible for making sure the New Boy Patrol(s) is/are included in all Troop activities, that they are planning for patrol and Troop outings, that they receive Troop communications, and that they are working on their advancements. Guides work with the Patrol Leader to guide and teach him how to be a good leader, and to ensure that the Patrol is participating and advancing. They do not run the patrol. Troop Guides are usually older Scouts (13+) and have at least First Class rank. Instructor: An Instructor is a Scout who serves the Troop by teaching younger Scouts. Appointed by the SPL or the Scoutmaster, the Instructor may be of any rank, but must have special knowledge in some field of Scoutcraft (e.g., first aid, pioneering, cooking, etc.) and be willing to teach the other members of the Troop on an ongoing basis. Order of the Arrow Representative: The OA representative must be at least an Ordeal member of the Order. He represents the Troop to the local OA Chapter, and informs the Troop about OA activities and opportunities as they arise. The OA representative is appointed by the SPL. Junior Assistant Scoutmaster (JASM): The Junior Assistant Scoutmaster is a Scout of exceptional maturity and achievement who is appointed by the Scoutmaster to hold an Assistant Scoutmaster position. Their duties are as appointed by the Scoutmaster and Troop Committee, and are the same as would be assumed by any other ASM (exceptions: they do not drive on Troop outings and do not count as adult leadership for Youth Protection purposes). These boys must either be a Life or Eagle Scout and at least 16 years old. Den Chief (DC): A Den Chief is a Scout who meets and works with a Cub Scout Den as a junior leader and assistant to the adult leadership. This is a position of tremendous responsibility, since the Scout is serving as an ambassador from Boy Scouts and his Troop to the Cub Scout Pack and Den. He should be mature and enjoy working with younger boys. Den Chiefs volunteer for the position, and are confirmed by the Scoutmaster, Den Leader, and Cubmaster. A Den Chief is usually of First Class rank or higher, and should be at least 12 years old. A separate publication, The Den Chief Handbook contains the requirements for this position. Note that, with the exception of Assistant Senior Patrol leader, "assistant" positions, e.g., assistant Scribe, photographer, Assistant Patrol Leader, etc., do not qualify as "positions of responsibility" for advancement purposes. All leaders in the Troop have vital functions and tasks to perform. These are genuine responsibilities, not just honors and titles (check the Senior Patrol Leader’s Handbook and Patrol Leader’s Handbook for details). Scouts elected or appointed to positions of leadership are expected to fulfill their responsibilities to the very best of their ability. Upon acceptance of their election or appointment, they promise themselves, one another, the Troop (their friends and peers) and their leaders that they will fulfill all of their duties. These duties, which will be taught in detail, are specific for each position, but all include proper uniform, attendance and participation in Troop activities and meetings. This is especially important for members of the Patrol Leaders' Council (PLC), which is responsible for what actually happens during Troop activities and meetings. Insofar as possible, no boy should hold more than one office at a time. In no case can the SPL or ASPL also be PL or APL. If the boy leaders do not function, one or more of the Patrols, or even the entire Troop, will cease functioning as well. Boys who do not fulfill their elected or appointed duties will not receive leadership credit for advancement. If a boy discovers that he does not enjoy leadership or cannot keep up with his responsibilities, it is best to step down for the good of the Troop. (See Also: the section under Meetings & Attendance concerning leaders who must absent themselves from the Troop for sports participation or other reasons). Youth leaders who are not functioning, either through lack of participation or for other reasons, can be removed from their office by unanimous vote of the Patrol Leaders Council and approval of the Scoutmaster. Releasing a leader is an extremely grave undertaking and is subject to due process. In order to release a leader: (1) The boy in question must be notified in writing at least two weeks in advance of the projected PLC meeting that he is being considered for release. The letter must outline the reason(s) that the PLC is considering the release and invite a response (with deadline). (2) After considering the situation and the leader's response (if any), the PLC will vote on the proposal to release the leader. Any decision to release a leader must be unanimous. "Train them, trust them, let them lead" -- Lord Baden-Powell
Basic Training for youth leaders is presented to the PLC and other youth leadership following each Troop election, and is offered annually by the Council each spring at the annual Junior Leader Outdoor Workshop (JLOW). Scouts who hold the office of SPL, ASPL, PL, APL, Troop Scribe, Troop Quartermaster, Troop Historian, Troop Librarian, Chaplain's Aide, Junior Assistant Scoutmaster, and Venture Crew Chief should attend the Troop JLT session. Den Chief training is offered several times a year by our local District, and at least once a year by our Council. Basic training for adult leaders is offered twice a year, each spring at Blackfoot training and each Fall at Green Bar training. In addition, some districts offer the basic Scoutmaster Fundamentals course throughout the year. Both youth and adult training opportunities are announced at the monthly District Round Table meetings. The cost for basic training is nominal or free. Each youth and adult leader is responsible for becoming trained in their leadership position. Advanced Training for
youth leaders is offered twice by the Council each summer at Nagatamen and
Eagle Feather training. These weeklong resident camps teach the skills of
small group leadership, and train boys in the Patrol method. Following the
formal course, the Scout has three months ("three moons") to put
what he has learned into practice. The course is formally completed when the
Scoutmaster returns a notice to the Council that the Scout has "shown
his stuff." Troop 156 can usually recommend three participants and three
alternates each year. Nagatamen training is usually offered in June as soon
as school is out, Eagle Feather is offered in August after the regular camping
season. Scouts who have been trained at one of these advanced courses wear
distinctive insignia and are entitled to wear a "Trained" patch
under their badge of office on the uniform sleeve. Adult Leadership (back) While the boys run the troop, it is guided, advised and assisted by the Scoutmaster, one or more Assistant Scoutmasters, the Scouting Coordinator, and the Troop Committee. BSA no longer requires all male leadership of Boy Scout troops; leaders may be of either gender. Troop 156 encourages all parents to take an active part in our Troop's leadership. The Scoutmaster's main job is that of teacher, instructor, and counselor. He or She leads by example, and works with the boys to help them learn and grow. At times s/he must be the disciplinarian, and is always the adult in charge of the Troop. The Scoutmaster is appointed by, and is responsible to the Troop Committee.
The Assistant Scoutmasters help the Scouts with the program, and take
care of Troop administration, advancement, program, and outings. They
generally pitch in to help wherever help is needed. They are responsible to
the Scoutmaster and the Troop Committee. When
the Troop is large enough, the Scoutmaster may delegate these program
functions to Assistant Scoutmasters: Indoor Program (works with the PLC to help plan weekly meetings) Outdoor Program (responsible for helping the PLC plan camping and outings outside the regular meeting) New Boy Patrol(s) (works with Troop Guides and new members) First Class Emphasis (works with new members and those requiring help
with Scoutcraft) Facilities & Operations (works with the Quartermaster and Librarian) Ways & Means (works on fundraisers) Venture (works with the Venture patrol to plan & execute high adventure outings) The Scouting Coordinator (a.k.a.
Charter Organization Representative) is the liaison between the Troop and the
Charter Organization (Linworth UM Church). He or She is responsible for obtaining
permission for the Troop's use of the Church building and property, and is
also responsible for filing the charter with BSA each year so Troop 156
continues to exist. Since the Church legally owns the Troop and all of the
Troop equipment, s/he works with the Quartermaster, Librarian, and Assistant
Scoutmaster for Facilities & Operations to maintain the inventory and
ensure everything is complete and in good repair. He or She is responsible to
Please note that unpaid volunteers fill all of these positions.
Adult Leader Training (back) The Council offers numerous training opportunities for adult leaders. This training ranges from half-day orientations to extremely intensive courses and covers topics from first aid and cooking to committee management and scoutmaster fundamentals. Troop 156 encourages all its adult leaders, committee and parents to explore and participate in the range of training opportunities offered by the Council, especially the Youth Protection training offered at various times and locations, and Green Bar training, which is offered every fall. The council’s advanced leader training, Wood
Badge, concentrates on developing leadership and management skills, with an
emphasis on personal development and small group leadership. During this
course the leader develops a five-point contract ("ticket") with
him/herself committing to self-improvement and improving the Troop, giving
service through Scouting. This contract may take as long as two years to
complete. Following completion of the ticket, the Scouter is awarded a leather
necklace with two wooden beads (the Wood Badge) and a special neckerchief and
slide that indicate that s/he is Wood Badge Trained. Other
advanced training opportunities include the annual Advanced leader training for both youth and adults involves significant expense and a significant commitment to Scouting: Troop 156 will pay for 50% of the tuition for advanced Scout leadership training providing sufficient funds are available and upon approval of the Troop Committee.
Parental Participation and Committee (back) Troop 156 cannot exist; much less offer a
Scouting program, without the direct and active support and participation of
parents. There is a monthly Troop Committee meeting following the Troop
meeting on the first Monday of each month at The Troop Committee is a group of registered
adult Scouters representing both the parents and the Charter Organization ( The Troop Committee and every other parent also serve as a resource for individual advancement. There are over 120 different Merit Badges, covering virtually every vocation and avocation known. Each parent is almost certainly qualified to teach at least one badge based on education or experience. From time to time the Committee will take a "skills inventory" of all of the parents to determine who is able and willing to teach merit badges to the Troop. There is no cost, and a great deal of satisfaction, involved in becoming a merit badge counselor – registration is easy and free. The BSA rules of Youth Protection require that no less than two adults be present for any Scouting activity. At least one of the adults must be a registered leader. In addition, according to the Rules of Safe Scouting, most hikes and all camping outings require that at least three, and preferably four, adults be present; again, at least one of the adults must be a registered leader. It is best if the registered leader is one of the Scoutmasters, but a registered committee member may serve in this capacity. It is important that one parent of each boy assumes a responsibility to attend as many outings and activities as possible to ensure that adequate leadership is always present. We always need parents to coordinate activities, drive to outings, and participate with your son and his friends. Remember that BSA regulations require that meetings and outing with insufficient leadership must be canceled. BSA stands for Boy Scouts of America, not Baby Sitters Anonymous. Troop 156 is most emphatically a family program. Your son will be most successful at Scouting if at least one adult (over 21) member of your family can commit to supporting your son and our Troop by participating in our program to the best of your ability. Boy Scout Troop 156 meets at 7:00prn on Monday
evenings at From time to time, we may hold a Troop meeting at another location, either to take advantage of an advancement opportunity, or just for fun. Changes in venue will be communicated as far in advance as possible. Usually, a boy must attend 75% of the Troop meetings and outings to be considered an active Scout for advancement purposes. Leaves of absence for sports participation, extended illness, family crisis, or other causes can be negotiated with the Scoutmaster and such leaves will not be unreasonably withheld. Please note that a leave of absence must be formally sought and granted in advance. There is no such thing as a retroactive leave of absence, although they can be granted on short notice. It is best to request a leave of absence in writing so that both the Troop and the Scout have a record of what was requested and agreed upon. A leave of absence is granted for a continuous period of time with a definite start and stop and for a definite purpose. The purpose can be confidential if necessary. Dues must be paid during a leave of absence in order to maintain Troop membership. Time spent on a leave of absence does not count as tenure toward rank advancement. Scouts who hold elected positions (Senior Patrol Leader and Patrol Leaders) should resign their positions in writing if they seek a leave of absence, since their prolonged absence will adversely affect the operation of the Troop. A boy who has resigned a position in order to take a leave of absence may run for reelection later at a regular Troop election. Scouts who are inactive for more than twelve (12) consecutive weeks without a leave of absence or legitimate excuse will be dropped from the Troop's active roll and mailing list. If a Scout remains inactive for an additional fourteen weeks (six months total), his name will be removed from the Troop charter at the next opportunity to do so. Note that the Troop treasury will absorb the contents of his Scout account at that time.
Dues, Fundraising, and Activity Fees (back) Fundraisers are held at least once a year, more often if necessary. Every Scout is expected to participate in Troop fundraisers. In general, the Troop will sell a product or service, pay our provider for product or materials, and keep the difference as profit. These profits are divided up between the boys and the Troop. The Troop treasury usually retains a small percentage of all profits. The treasurer or fundraiser chair keeps track of each boy's sales. The remaining profit the boy's efforts realized goes to his Scout account, where it may be used to pay for activity fees or to purchase items at the Scout Shop (with the Scoutmaster's approval). In extraordinary circumstances, and on recommendation of the Troop Committee, the Troop will release funds from a boy's Scout account to pay for a purchase or activity that is in keeping with the ideals of Scouting even if it is not strictly Scout related. Such a request must be made in writing or in person before the Committee, which will judge each request on its own merits. Troop dues are currently (as of July 2007) $35 per year per boy, payable annually by the end of October. This money is used to recharter our Troop with Boy Scouts of America each December. The Troop absorbs the cost of registering adult leaders. When you join Troop 156 you must pay your national registration fee on the day that you join. The fee is prorated through the year. Boys transferring their membership from another unit to Troop 156 pay a $1 transfer fee to BSA. In the event the BSA increases the registration fees, the Troop dues will increase as well. If a Scout resigns from Troop 156 or is absent without leave for 6 months, the Scout is dropped from the active roll, and the contents of his Scout account becomes Troop property. If a Scout transfers to a new Troop, his Scout Account will be transferred to his new Troop upon receipt of written confirmation from his new Scoutmaster that he has indeed transferred his membership. Scouts who must leave the Troop because they pass their 18th birthday also lose the contents of their Scout account; however, they may elect to dedicate the contents of their account to a particular purpose (e.g., to fund a particular outing or be spent toward a particular Court of Honor). The retained proceeds of fundraisers are used to pay for purchase, repair, and replacement of Troop equipment; for awards, patches, and merit badges; for teaching aids; insurance; the newsletter and Web site; scholarships toward advanced training, and for postage and other minor expenses. Activity Fees are levied before each activity, and are simply the direct cost to participate in each activity. These costs can include admission, building use fees, tuition (e.g., for merit badge classes), event insurance, campsite rental, and other direct expenses. Activity fees are paid to the Scribe (or in some cases to the Troop treasurer) when a boy signs up to participate in an activity. The Troop will make every effort to recover fees paid for canceled activities; however, once paid, activity fees usually cannot be refunded even if an entire activity is canceled or a boy must cancel his participation. If the fees can be recovered, the boy can either leave the unused fee in the treasury against the next activity or request a refund. Uniforms
and other Required Materials The Boy Scouts of America is a uniformed organization. All youth members of Troop 156 are required to own and wear the official BSA uniform, including proper insignia. In addition, the Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmasters, and Scouting Coordinator are also required to be uniformed. The uniform is suggested and strongly encouraged, but not required, for members of the Troop Committee. The Troop 156 field uniform is the khaki field uniform shirt (either short or long sleeve) with appropriate patches and insignia, and the solid color red neckerchief with the BSA logo in white. See the inside covers of the Boy Scout Handbook for proper placement of patches and insignia. We recommend the short-sleeved shirt in a size large enough to both allow for growth and to permit it to be worn over a turtleneck or sweatshirt. You may use either the silk-screened or embroidered version of the standard white-on-red BSA neckerchief. Bolos, necklaces, special neckerchiefs, and other neckwear earned or awarded through Scouting programs may be worn in place of or in addition to the red neckerchief. The neckerchief must be secured with a neckerchief slide ("woggle") and never tied around the Scout's neck. We encourage, but do not require, the use of uniform trousers, belt, and socks. If a Scout elects not to use the official trousers, then neat, clean trousers or shorts must be worn with the uniform shirt. Khaki Dockers and similar trousers are ideal for this purpose, although blue jeans and other dark colored pants are also acceptable. Ragged, torn, dirty, baggy, or cutoff trousers are inappropriate and should never be worn with the uniform. Note that some BSA activities at the Council, Regional, or National level will require a complete official uniform, including the shirt, trousers, belt, hat, neckerchief, and socks. A "Class A" uniform for the purposes of Troop 156 is the complete Field uniform as described plus the merit badge sash, any earned medals and service stars, and the Order of the Arrow sash if the Scout is a member of the Order. If you do not own uniform trousers, then khakis or other dress pants (not jeans) should be worn with the Class A uniform. The Merit Badge Sash is worn over the right shoulder so it does not cover the left pocket. Merit badges are worn in neat, even rows on the front of the sash. The badges do not have to be displayed in any particular order. If a Scout is a member of the Order of the Arrow, either the merit badge sash or the OA sash is worn over the right shoulder and the other sash may be worn on the belt on the Scout's left side, folded in such a way as to present a neat appearance. One of the many things we must do in order to maintain Quality Unit status is to conduct (and pass) at least one official Uniform Inspection each year. By Troop custom, we usually perform an inspection on the first meeting of each month. The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader is usually in charge of the inspection. Uniforms and Scouts are checked for a neat and tidy appearance and to ensure that the uniform shirt displays complete and proper insignia. Notes on the phrase "A neat and tidy appearance: " This means that the uniform shirt must be actually tucked into the waistband of the Scout's trousers and not merely rolled or folded around the waist to give the appearance of being tucked in. If the trousers have belt loops, there must be a belt in them. Scout trousers should be worn with one of the official web or leather belts. It also means that the Scout's shoes should be properly tied, without dangling or trailing shoelaces. A Scout is Clean. Due to recent unfortunate events involving uniformed radical and vigilante groups, the Boy Scouts of America is anxious to avoid associating our movement with any of these organizations. For this reason, the use of camouflage clothing of any description, including hunting camo, is strongly discouraged at Troop 156 and District activities (including Summer camp), and is forbidden at Council, Regional, and National events. The cost of a uniform shirt, neckerchief,
and insignia is about $50. All Scouting clothing, insignia, books, and other
materials are available at the Scout Shop, There are templates inside the front and back of the Boy Scout Handbook which show where most of the common patches, insignia and awards belong on the uniform shirt. If a Scout earns an award not listed in the Handbook, ask to see the Troop's copy of the current BSA Insignia Guide, which describes the placement of every BSA award. Note that the merit badge sash goes over the boy's right shoulder. The Field uniform is required at almost all Troop meetings and activities. If a Scout cannot wear his uniform to a meeting for some reason, then he should attend in dress shirt and tie. Scouts who are not properly attired may be sent home. Troop 156 always wears the Field uniform while traveling to and from an event, activity, or outing. Once we arrive, the Scouts may change into other clothing appropriate for the scheduled activity. The Class A uniform is required at all formal occasions: Scoutmaster Conferences, Boards of Review, Courts of Honor, in church, on parade, and at any other occasion where appropriate civilian wear would be a dress suit and necktie. In some situations, a Class B uniform may be appropriate. This consists of the official Troop T-shirt or some other Scout theme T-shirt with trousers and footwear appropriate to the activity. Class B uniforms are usually appropriate during the day at summer camp and while hiking, backpacking, working, or in camp. In addition to the uniform, each boy is required to own a copy of The Boy Scout Handbook and to bring it with him to every Troop meeting and to all outings which involve camping, hiking, or the exercise of Scout skills (including Summer camp). The Handbook outlines the Scouting program, describes most of the skills necessary to be a Scout, provides a record of the boy's advancement, and serves as a general-purpose reference. It is best to write the boy's name on the edge of the book in indelible ink since the covers are easily torn off and lost. It is important not to lose the Handbook, since it contains signoff tables that serve as the indisputable record of if and when a Scout completed his requirements for advancement. Each boy is responsible for providing a few personal items for camping and hiking (see the Troop Activities section), but these items can be purchased as required, and most of them can be borrowed from the Troop until your family is ready to purchase them. While there are many items that a boy may choose to own as part of being a Scout, only the uniform and Handbook are required by Troop 156 for membership.
Discipline (back) The Scout Oath and Law apply at all times to all Scouts and Scouters everywhere. Scouts and Scouters have all taken an oath (or promise) "on their honor" to obey the Scout Law. In joining they have promised to play the game. Obeying the law and playing the game involve an explicit promise to obey the patrol leader, senior patrol leader and other junior leaders as well as the adult leaders. The Troop is organized in this hierarchical manner for reasons of efficiency and training in leadership. All boys will have the opportunity to become leaders, so it works out best if they learn to treat their leaders as they would like to be treated when they become leaders themselves. Leaders must remember the Scout Law and what it is like to be a follower, and make every effort to be helpful, friendly, kind and fair. In order for Scouting to work properly, all Scouts must cooperate and help their leaders so that everyone can benefit from the patrol and Troop activities. Our Troop meets so everyone can plan for our adventures, learn new things, advance in Scouting, and have a good time. We do not anticipate problems with behavior or discipline; however, the Senior Patrol Leader and the PLC will take up matters of discipline if and when necessary. The adult leaders and Troop committee will, except in rare circumstances, support disciplinary actions taken by the SPL, and PLC. Ground rules: We do not tolerate fighting, bullying,
intimidation, humiliation, verbal abuse, or hazing in any form of anyone by
anyone at any time. Even friendly rough housing and horseplay are strongly
discouraged. We strive to make Scouting a The misuse of fire will not be tolerated. The misuse of bladed tools (knives, axes, saws, etc.) will not be tolerated. Use of alcohol and controlled substances is absolutely forbidden at all Scouting activities. This applies to Scouters as well as Scouts. Tobacco is forbidden to Scouts and its use is strongly discouraged for Scouters. Leaders who must smoke should do so in private, away from the Scouts. If a Scout's behavior gets out of hand at a meeting or outing, the offending Scout will be required to serve time in "time out" away from the group. If the first offense is serious enough, the boy must call his parents, explain what has happened, and have them remove him from the meeting. If there is a second offense after serving time out, or after a particularly serious first-time offense, the Scout will be required to call his parent or guardian and ask to be immediately taken home from the meeting or outing. If a boy continues to be a problem over two or more meetings or outings, he and his parent(s) or guardian will be asked to appear before the Troop committee, and chronic offenders will be required to attend all Troop functions with a parent. As a last resort, failing resolution of the problem, the boy will be asked to leave the Troop. Dismissing a boy from the Troop requires the Troop Committee and the Chartering Organization (Linworth UM Church via its representative, the Charter Organization Representative) to concur that the boy's attitude and behavior leave no alternative to dismissal. When a Scout is dismissed, a letter from the Troop Committee will be issued informing the Scout and his family that he has been released from Troop 156 for cause, explaining the cause, and offering to transfer his advancement records to another Troop upon request. The Troop Committee Chair and the Charter Organization Representative must sign this letter. Each Scout and his parents will be required to sign a statement agreeing to these rules of behavior when the boy joins the Troop and again at least once a year at re-charter time. Troop 156 engages in both heavy (“tailgate”) and backpack camping. Heavy camping involves delivering camping kitchens, large tents, etc. via van or truck, while backpacking is just that, camping with the gear we can carry on our backs. Troop 156 tries to go camping at least once a month. Almost all camping is organized by patrols, which are encouraged to go camping on their own as well as with the Troop. The Troop furnishes tents and ground cloths for both heavy and backpack camping. Patrol cook kits (chef kits) and propane stoves are provided for each patrol. Each Scout is responsible for providing his own mess kit (eating utensils) and silverware. The boys are responsible for the Troop equipment that they use. Prior to each activity, the Scouts who need to use it may check out Troop gear. After a camping activity the tents must be cleaned, dried, folded, and packed for the next outing. The patrol cooking equipment must be also be cleaned and repacked for next time. Tents will be assigned to "tent partnerships," pairs of boys who will alternate the responsibility of taking the tent home after an outing. If a tent is torn, damaged, or found to leak, notify the Quartermaster immediately so repairs can be made before the next outing. The Patrol Leader, who may either distribute the items among the patrol or assign a particular member to take it all home, assigns responsibility for the cooking gear. In either case, the items should be scoured, dried, and returned in good condition. If a Scout loses or breaks an item, he is responsible for repairing or replacing it. If an item is unaccountably lost or wears out, the Quartermaster should be notified so the Troop can replace it. NOTE TO PARENTS: The tents mildew easily. If your son brings a tent home from an outing, it should be set up or hung in the yard, basement, attic, or garage right away and allowed to dry thoroughly and air out before it is repacked. ANOTHER NOTE TO PARENTS:
Spoiled food sticking to cooking gear causes food poisoning: all cooking gear
should be scoured and dried before it is repacked. Soot and resin from open
fire cooking is difficult to remove with detergents, and may leave a residue
in dishwashers. Utensils that have been used over an open fire should be
scoured (with Comet, Make sure your son checks the equipment with the Quartermaster when it is returned. Troop equipment is usually due to be turned in no later than the second meeting following an outing. This gives the Scout two weeks to clean and inspect the borrowed equipment and have it ready to return to the Troop. At this meeting, the tents may be set up and the cook kits unpacked and inspected to ensure the gear is in good condition before it is stored. Of course, the Troop cannot provide everything a boy will want and need to participate in Scouting; a certain amount of equipment must be obtained by each boy for his personal use (see the checklist). Not everything on the list is required for every outing: use your judgment based on what you are likely to use versus how much you can afford and are willing to carry. Many of the items on the list are not required immediately. It is best if everything you take camping or hiking is identified in some way as yours (initials, etc.). There are usually a few items left over after an outing, and it is easier to return them if they are identified. PARENTS: Feel free to ask the Troop leaders before purchasing camping equipment, especially major items such as tents, backpacks, and sleeping bags. It is possible to both over and under spends for these items. In general, the most expensive items are not necessarily the most appropriate for Scout camping while cheap items are often unserviceable or of very poor quality. Personal Equipment Check List (You Will Probably Need or Want these things)
NO AEROSOL CANS, LASER POINTERS, RADIOS, TVs, PERSONAL STEREOS, VIDEO GAMES, OR ELECTRONIC DEVICES ARE PERMITTED ON ANY SCOUT OUTING. *Only Scouts who have earned the Tot'n Chip (and carry it) may use these items. NB: proper sheaths must cover all saws and axes. First Aid Kit: Check out this subject in the Boy Scout Handbook. A homemade first aid kit with just a few necessary items in a small zip lock bag is all you need. At least one Scoutmaster certified in First Aid and CPR carries a complete medical kit on all outings. Backpack: Official BSA external frame backpacks and similar models are acceptable. Internal frame packs, while certainly acceptable, are usually quite expensive, and are necessary only for extended hiking trips in the backcountry. In any case, the pack material should be water-resistant and all of the seams reinforced and double sewn. The troop owns a few backpacks to loan a boy until he gets his own. Frame: Again, the official BSA external aluminum frame is acceptable. Newer plastic frames that are adjustable and slightly flexible are more expensive but a better buy in the long run since they are more comfortable and can be adjusted to "grow" with the boy. Make sure the frame is equipped with a padded hip belt, since the weight of the backpack is more easily borne by the hips and legs rather than the back and shoulders. Sleeping bag: A must have item. A lightweight bag rated to 20 degrees F is suggested. Down filled bags are lightweight but expensive and useless when damp. Bags filled with synthetic fibers are heavier, but less expensive and will keep you warm even if slightly wet. Mummy style bags with taffeta linings are best for cold weather camping and general backpacking, while square bags with flannel linings will do for heavy camping and Summer camp. Ground bed. Another must have item. There are a number of products on the market to cushion you and keep you off of the ground. It is important to have something, since you lose a great deal of body heat through contact with the ground. Air mattresses are comfortable, cheap, heavy, and must be inflated; foam pads are usually comfortable, expensive, lightweight, and are usually self inflating. Both can develop leaks. Closed cell foam pads are less comfortable, of intermediate price, don't need to be inflated, and can't leak. A ground bed is a matter of personal taste, budget, and comfort. Make sure you test self-inflating and closed cell pads for comfort before purchasing them. You will want a ground bed for Troop and Patrol camping, but they are NOT required at Summer Camp. Mess kit: The cheap aluminum kits corrode easily, give food a metallic taste, are easily damaged, and really are not economical. Stainless steel kits are heavier, won't react with food, are more expensive, and are designed to last. Actually, a homemade kid that includes a plate, bowl, cup, knife, fork, and spoon works just as well, even if it takes up a bit more room in your backpack. In any case, make sure that all eating utensils are marked in some way so you can identify them as yours. Canteen: A plastic quart canteen or water bottle is recommended. Whichever you use, make sure it has a belt hook or carrying strap: remember that a quart of water weighs two pounds, and you don't want to carry that in your hands. Avoid the red European lacquer covered metal water bottles: they are heavy, expensive, and can crack if the water inside freezes. Moreover, they look exactly like the red metal safety bottles used for Coleman fuel, a similarity that can lead to accidental poisoning. Knife: A pocketknife is satisfactory for all Scouting applications. The standard BSA Scout pocketknife or Victorinox (Swiss Army) Scout knife are both good choices. Multiplex knives with more than 8-10 blades are expensive, fragile, and generally not necessary. Sheath knives are heavy to carry and dangerous to use, and are generally not necessary in Scouting situations. The use of sheath knives is strongly discouraged by Troop 156 for safety reasons and is forbidden at District and Council camping events. Poncho: This is a must have item: Scouting happens rain or shine! The official BSA (red) plastic poncho is satisfactory; however, a heavy-duty military poncho (in green or black, NOT in camo) with the extra material in the back is recommended since it will last longer, can be used as an improvised shelter, and is designed to cover your backpack. Tent: Definitely NOT required, since the Troop has enough tents for everyone. Investing in a tent is expensive and very much a matter of personal taste and budget. A good three season backpacking tent will be lightweight, roomy enough for two people plus gear, and have a rain fly in case of heavy weather. Expect to pay at least $150, and possibly as much as $500, for a decent tent. Avoid cheap tents and very expensive four season tents. Hiking Clothes and Equipment: Hiking clothes consis |