| OPERATING GUIDELINES |
Introduction Every Scout needs to know what is expected of him. The success of having an adventurous and safe outdoor program rests in the ability of the Boy Scout to take responsibility for his own behavior. Boy Scout accident, medical and liability insurance depend upon planned activities conducted with regard for safety and protection of property. All Scouts need to know what is "OK" and what is not. In order to guarantee acceptable conduct all adult Scouters need to know what is expected of them. The policies outlined in these by-laws establish the procedures for running Troop 400’s Scouting program. The emphasis of the Boy Scout program is to promote and encourage boy leadership. In support of this program Troop 400 adult leaders are present as advisors, insuring safety and keeping the program oriented toward Scouting ideals. Troop, patrol and Patrol Leaders’ Council meetings, camping trips and day trips shall be run by boy leaders, not by the adults. But, boys are "boys," and there may be many times when you will question, "Why are they so disorganized?" "Why are the meetings so noisy and unproductive?" and "Why don’t the adults step in and do something?" In Scouting we believe that the best way to develop leadership is to let the boys have as much freedom as possible; applying just enough adult authority to keep them safely focused on the task at hand. As long as they are sincerely trying to accomplish the duties of their positions they are learning the rudiments of leadership. BSA policy is written in various official publications and is the final authority for resolving questions of policy. The Troop Committee is the final authority for implementing BSA policy in Troop 400. Proposed changes to Troop 400 policy can be submitted to adult leaders, the Troop Committee Chairman or a committee member for review at a Troop Committee meeting. The policies outlined within this document are the by laws by which Troop 400 will follow during troop meetings, camping trips, committee meetings, and all other Troop 400 Boy Scout related activities. Once again, “Welcome” to Troop 400. Keep in mind, Scouting is a family activity and we encourage parents to be involved in their Scout’s development. Table of Contents Chapter 2: New Scouts Chapter 3: Troop Organization Chapter 4: Troop Funding Policy Chapter 5: Adult Leader Policy Chapter 6: Boy Leader Policy Chapter 7: Advancement Chapter 8: Discipline Chapter 10: Equipment Chapter 1 Parent Participation General: The adults who provide supervision, support and time to make Troop 400 a success are volunteers. They will need your help. How you support your son’s troop depends on your talent and available time. Both mothers and fathers can give a few hours to provide transportation, help maintain troop equipment, be a merit badge counselor, serve on our Troop Committee or serve in some other leadership positions. Whatever your volunteer role, our troop needs you to keep operating as a quality unit which makes our troop worthy of the fine Scouts it serves. Please complete the troop resource survey and return it to the Scoutmaster or Troop Committee Chairman. Personal Growth Agreement: The Scoutmaster will discuss with your son, his strengths and interests and recommend ways he can use these in his Scouting activities. It will be up to your son to decide the goals he sets for himself as a growth agreement. The Scoutmaster will encourage and counsel your son along the way. Your interest in his growth in Scouting is vital in helping him to realize his personal responsibilities. Funding: Each Scout is asked to share the cost of activities. Encourage your Scout to look for jobs where he can earn his own money for the cost of activities. "A Scout is thrifty." Chapter 2
Each Scout joining Troop 400 must complete an application to include the medical history on the back of the application. Each Scout must have a physical examination conducted by a physician and a BSA medical form completed and returned to the Scoutmaster prior to going on any outing with the troop (i.e., camps or hikes). There will be no exceptions to this rule. The taking of prescription medication is the responsibility of the individual taking the medication and/or that individual's parent or guardian. A Scout leader, after obtaining all the necessary information, can agree to accept the responsibility of making sure a Scout takes the necessary medication at the appropriate time, but BSA policy does not mandate nor necessarily encourage the Scout leader to do so. Each parent must submit a Troop Resource Survey form and the signed by-laws acknowledgment sheet no later than the second meeting date after submission of the application to join the troop. General: Troop 400 is a troop with a dynamic membership. While a majority of the new members advance from the Cub Scout Webelos program, the troop does acquire boys transferring from other troops, districts and councils. The Scoutmaster, Senior Patrol Leader or representative members from Troop 400 will attend Webelos bridging ceremonies of those Dens giving advance notice of boys intending to join Troop 400. Each Webelos who has stated his intent to join Troop 400 will be presented with red shoulder epaulets from the troop and will be officially welcomed to the troop. Upon completing the joining requirements, new Scouts will be presented with a Scout neckerchief. All new Scouts, without prior scouting experience and boys advancing from Webelos, will be placed in a "new scout" patrol until they advance to the rank of Tenderfoot. To give these new Scouts the initial attention they deserve, the Scoutmaster will designate an Assistant Scoutmaster to work directly with them. Information Packet: The information packet is designed to give a new Scout and his parents details about Scouting and Troop 400. The packet includes the following:
Completed BSA application along with prorated share of the annual dues to pay for registration, Boys’ Life subscription and insurance BSA Medical Release Form (Parent’s authorization for emergency treatment) Troop Uniform Policy: Wearing a uniform "shows Scout spirit." It is not the purpose of the Scout uniform to hide the differences between boys or make them feel they are all the same. Scouts come from all racial and ethnic backgrounds. They have their own religious beliefs and family traditions. Scouting wants boys to take pride in these differences rather than to hide them or be ashamed of them. There is one way all Scouts are alike. Whenever a Scout sees another Scout in uniform he knows he is like that person because both have committed to the principles of the Scout Promise and Law. This is important in a time when there are too many things dividing people. The Scout Oath and Law bind all Scouts, the world over, in a common purpose. The Scout uniform identifies Scouts openly with someone of the same beliefs and values. By wearing the uniform Scouts are taking an open stand for their convictions. BSA policy allows a troop several options regarding uniforms. Troop 400 has elected the following: Class A, also known as the Field Uniform:
Class B, also known as the activities uniform (may be prescribed for summer events/meetings or travel to/from Scouting events)
Scouts should wear their uniform for all Scouting activities. Encourage your Scout to comply. An entire uniform will be required for courts of honor, some district, council and out-of-council events, e.g., summer camp. A merit badge sash will be required after six merit badges are earned. (Up to six merit badges can be worn on the right sleeve of the long-sleeve shirt.) The merit badge sash is a required uniform item for special occasions. New uniforms are available for sale through the Boy Scouts of America Supply Division (1-800-323-0732 If for any reason a Scout is unable to afford such a uniform the troop will help arrange for one. The Scout’s parents or guardian will discuss with the Scoutmaster or Troop Committee Chairman, in private, the particular financial circumstances. Personal details will remain confidential. Uniform inspections will be conducted, by the troop or adult leadership, at least once a quarter. Meetings: Meetings are held at Woodbine United Methodist Church weekly from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. every Monday, or if not otherwise denoted on the annual calendar. Parents are responsible for arranging transportation for their Scout. Scouts should not arrive any earlier than 6:45 p.m. and should be picked up by 8:35 p.m. unless otherwise directed by the Scoutmaster. Parents are responsible for their own child’s safety before and after Scout meetings. Do not leave your Scout at the meeting place if no adult leader is present. Loitering is not permitted. Scouts are not permitted to loiter outside during meetings. If the Scout does not report to the Scout meeting, Troop 400 is not responsible for him. Courts of honor: Troop 400 conducts quarterly courts of honor to recognize our Scouts’ hard work. Courts of honor are family affairs and parents are encouraged to attend to honor the boys for their achievements. Eagle courts of honor are conducted separately from the regularly scheduled events for individual Scouts as needed. Summer camp: To give Scouts the opportunity to achieve BSA goals for long-term camping, Troop 400 attends at least one week of camp at an approved BSA facility during the summer. Short-term camping: Troop 400 conducts a camping trip or special event each month. When possible these events will take advantage of events planned by the district or council. Short term camps promote advancement opportunities, fun, fitness and comradeship. In preparing the annual calendar the Senior Patrol Leader will canvas the troop for desired events. The Senior Patrol Leader will then hold a meeting of the Patrol Leaders’ Council with the troop’s Scout and adult leadership and prepare a proposed calendar for approval by the Troop Committee. The Troop Committee will consider the boys’ desires for an annual program with respect to the ability to support the program. Once the calendar of events is approved by the Troop Committee, the Scoutmaster will arrange for printing and distribution of the calendar. Chapter 3 Troop Organization General: Troop 400 is organized in accordance with BSA guidelines. The following descriptions highlight areas within the troop’s organization. Organization: Chartering organization: The Woodbine United Methodist Church is the chartering organization (CO) for BSA Troop 400. The charter allows the Church to host a BSA troop for its community and youth objectives. In turn the Church agrees to support the troop by providing a safe meeting place with adequate facilities. The primary function of the CO is to select and approve all adult leaders (Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster, Committee Chairman and members). The chartering organization is responsible for background checks of all adult applicants and will have the final approval for adults filling positions with the troop. Chartering organization representative: A member of the Church who serves on the Troop Committee and acts as a liaison between the troop and the chartering organization. He or she selects a Troop Committee Chairman, and Scoutmaster and encourages training, helps recruit other adult leaders, assists in unit rechartering, encourages service to the organization and is an active member of the district committee. Troop committee: The Troop Committee is a group of adults, generally parents of the Scouts, who support the troop by insuring that the troop’s adult leadership is adequate, by providing various support functions, delivering quality troop program, handling troop administration and by insuring that the troop is functioning according to official policy. Committee meetings are held at Woodbine United Methodist Church as indicated on the calendar of events. The Troop Committee consists of those positions outlined in the BSA Troop Committee Guidebook. Troop committee chairman: The Committee Chairman serves as the "chairman of the board," the board being the Troop Committee. See BSA Troop Committee Guidebook. Scoutmaster: The Scoutmaster is responsible for overseeing the operations of the troop. The Scoutmaster serves as the "chief executive officer." His or her main responsibility is the Scouts of the troop and all Assistant Scoutmasters assigned. The Scoutmaster attends Troop Committee meetings and reports the status of the troop and the annual program of events. Assistant Scoutmaster: Aside from being responsible for a particular function, each Assistant Scoutmaster acts as an advisor to a pre-assigned patrol. Assistant Scoutmaster (new Scout patrol): Insures that all new Scouts are properly oriented to the troop by providing the boys with necessary information, forms and counseling. Senior Patrol Leader: The Senior Patrol Leader is the boy leader of the troop elected by his fellow Scouts. He sets the agenda and presides at all Patrol Leaders’ Council meetings, runs the weekly troop meetings and appoints other boy leaders assigning specific responsibilities as needed. To be considered for the position of Senior Patrol Leader, a Scout must be at least a Life rank Scout. While serving as Senior Patrol Leader, he will not serve as boy staff at Camporees or any other district or council function which would cause him and the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader to be away from the troop during a troop gathering. Assistant Senior Patrol Leader: The assistant Senior Patrol Leader, appointed by the Senior Patrol Leader, assists the Senior Patrol Leader in conducting meetings and acts as the Senior Patrol Leader in the Senior Patrol Leader’s absence. He is responsible for training and giving direction to the Quartermaster, Scribe, Troop Historian, Librarian and Instructors. To be considered for the position of Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, a Scout must be at least a Star rank Scout. While serving as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, he will not serve as boy staff at Camporees or any other district or council function which would cause him and the Senior Patrol Leader to be away from the troop during a troop gathering. Patrol leaders: Patrol Leaders are elected by the Scouts within the patrol and are responsible for their individual patrols at all times. They preside at patrol meetings, as well as control their patrol during troop functions. They represent their patrol at Patrol Leaders Council meetings and report to the Senior Patrol Leader for all matters concerning their patrol. While serving as Patrol Leader, he will not serve as boy staff at Camporees or any other district or council function which would cause him and the Assistant Patrol Leader to be away from the troop during a troop gathering. Instructors: Older Scouts who have advanced in rank and training provide a corps of skills and knowledge on which the Senior Patrol Leader can develop training programs in support of the troop’s annual training objective Venturing Crew: To insure the continued interest and participation of our senior Scouts, Troop 400 supports the formation, organization and development of a Venturing crew at Woodbine United Methodist Church to pursue activities of interest to older or more senior Scouts. Venturing allows concentration on high adventure activities. Venture Patrol: Generally, when a Scout earns the rank of Life, he will be included in the Venture Patrol. This patrol typically is the Instructor side of Troop 400, and assists the SPL and ASPLs with training, instruction, monitoring, and other skills needed for regular meetings and troop events. Troop guides: Older, experienced Scouts appointed by the Scoutmaster and the Assistant Scoutmaster. They will help younger Scouts progress through the ranks of Scouting as assigned by Assistant Scoutmaster of that patrol. Usually two are assigned to each patrol to help the patrol function. To be considered for the position of Troop Guide, a Scout must be at least a First Class Scout with a good working knowledge of basic Scout skills. While serving as Troop Guide, he will not serve as boy staff at Camporees or any other district or council function which would cause him to be away from the troop during a troop gathering. Other Appointed jobs: For additional job descriptions see the Junior Leader Handbook. Forming Patrols: An interim patrol leader is elected by members of the Patrol Leaders’ Council to temporarily lead the new patrol. Each of the existing patrol leaders choose three members who cannot be drafted by the interim patrol leader for the new patrol. The interim patrol leader chooses members from each existing patrol to bring the total in the new patrol to seven. Patrol elections in the new patrol will be held at the next scheduled Patrol Leaders Election. Intra-Troop Transfers: After troop elections a Scout may request to change patrols. The decision will be made by the Senior Patrol Leader and the Scoutmaster. Troop Funding Policy Fundraiser Money Policy: Troop 400's policy for money raised during fundraising activities is to split the profits 50/50 between the Troop and the Scouts. It is Troop 400's belief that those Scouts who do the work should receive the money for their work. On all fundraisers, the adult in charge of that event will keep track of the amount of time each boy works. After the fundraiser is completed, the number of Scout hours will be totaled. This number will be used to figure an "hourly rate". This amount multiplied by the number of hours worked equals the amount earned. Example: A fundraiser earns $1000 profit. $500 goes into the troop account. $500 is divided among the boys that worked on the event. The total amount of hours that Scouts worked is 50 hours. The hourly rate is $10 per hour. If a Scout worked 5 hours then $50 would be placed into his boy account. On some occasions special fund raisers may be held to fund specific events. All profits earned at these special fundraisers will be designated by the Troop Committee to fund that specific event and will not be split on the 50/50 basis described above. On other occasions the split may be determined by the Troop Committee at the time of approval of the fundraiser. Boy Accounts: A Boy Scout is Thrifty. This is part of the Scout Law, it means that a Scout pays his own way and carefully manages his money. By working on fundraisers, boys can earn money for summer camp, uniform expenses, dues and other Boy Scout related expenses. How do I get my money: Troop 400's policy for receiving money from a Scouts account depends on what it will be used for. Summer camp with the Troop: Tell the Scoutmaster or Treasurer that you would like to use the money from your boy account to pay for summer camp. Dues: Tell the Treasurer you want to use the money from your boy account to pay your dues. Have the Treasurer inform the Troop Scribe. Boy Scout Uniform Expenses: Present the Treasurer with a receipt for the uniform items. Camping Equipment: Have the purchase approved prior to purchase by the Scoutmaster or Committee Chairman, present a receipt signed by the approving individual to the Treasurer for reimbursement. Troop Campouts and Activities: Option 1 - Pay for the campout or activity, ask Treasurer to reimburse you from your boy account. Option 2 - Tell the Treasurer that you would like to pay for the campout or activity at least one week before the money is due. Spending Money for Summer Camp: Prior to summer camp, the Troop Committee will set an upper limit on spending money. Tell the Treasurer how much spending money you would like, up to the spending limit set by the Troop Committee. The money will be brought the day that you leave for camp. Summer Camp without the Troop: Have the request approved by the Scoutmaster or Committee Chairman. Have the approving individual contact the Treasurer to report the approval. Other Situations: Have the request approved by the Scoutmaster or Committee Chairman. Have the approving individual contact the Treasurer to report the approval. Remember, it is your responsibility to contact the appropriate people. Also remember that the Scoutmaster, Committee Chairman and Treasurer are all busy people. Make your requests far enough in advance as to not inconvenience these individuals. Poor planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on their part. What Happens to the Money in my Boy Account When I Leave Troop 400: The money in your boy account is money earned at Troop 400 fundraisers. Troop 400 allows you to use this money for Boy Scout activities for as long as you remain in Troop 400. For this reason, when a Scout leaves Troop 400 whatever money is in his boy account will go back into the Troop account. In the event that a Scout transfers money into his boy account from sources other than Troop 400 fundraisers, once it is placed into the account it will be treated just like money earned at Troop 400 fundraisers. Bottom line, any money in a Scout's boy account when he leaves Troop 400 stays in Troop 400. Chapter 5 Adult Leader Policy General: The adult leadership of Troop 400 has two major goals: 1. Provide an environment for the boys to live the ideals of Scouting, including a chance to develop and demonstrate leadership abilities. 2. Provide an adult organization structure that can adapt to changes in its staffing requirements. In keeping with these goals the adult leaders will act primarily as advisors giving maximum opportunity for the Scouts to show responsibility. Adult Leader Positions: The following positions reside at the committee level: Committee Chairman -- Responsibilities as described above Secretary -- Attends all committee meeting, takes minutes and types and distributes minutes for approval. Chartering Organization Representative – A member of the Church who serves on the Troop Committee and acts as a liaison between the Troop and the Chartering Organization. He or she selects a Troop Committee Chairman and Scoutmaster. The COR also encourages training, helps recruit other adult leaders, assists in unit rechartering, encourages service to the organization and is an active member of the district committee. Treasurer -- Responsible for the entire troop’s financial records (this includes the recording of all incoming and outgoing moneys) and provides a monthly written report on troop finances to the Troop Committee. The yearly projected troop budget is to be compiled and submitted to the committee for review at the January committee meeting. Advancement -- Responsible for the administration of the troop advancement program, keeps records and prepares reports for submission to the Gulf Coast Council. The Advancement Chairman recruits qualified merit badge counselors and maintains a list of all registered merit badge counselors. Arranges for the appropriate adult leaders needed to conduct Board of Reviews. Provides the Scoutmaster with necessary advancement and award information for Courts of Honor. Fund Raising -- Researches and recommends fund raising projects to meet the troops financial requirements. Organizes volunteers to assist in fund raising. Obtains approval from Gulf Coast Council. Quartermaster -- Responsible for working with the Troop Quartermaster in the organization, control, and maintenance of troop equipment Outdoor -- Works with the Scoutmaster to determine transportation requirements for camping trips/special events and organizes drivers and vehicles for events. Prepares tour requests and submits to council. Chaplain – Responsible for providing a spiritual tone for troop meetings and activities. Promotes regular participation of each member in the activities of the religious organization of his choice. Encourages Boy Scouts to earn their appropriate religious emblems. Reports to the Troop Committee at each meeting. Service Project Coordinator – Organizes community service projects for the troop. Committee Member at Large – Individuals who wish to be on the Troop Committee but can not hold any other Committee position. Scoutmaster Assistant Scoutmaster (New Scouts) Assistant Scoutmasters (assigned to individual Patrols) Although all parents are encouraged and welcome to attend committee meetings, only those registered adults, holding committee positions may vote at committee meetings. Adults holding the position of Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster are non-voting committee members. Committee positions will be filled as supported by the number of adult volunteers. If the number of adult volunteers is not sufficient to fill all requirements the Committee Chairman may combine committee or troop positions. (With the exception of the Committee Member at Large Position.) In the event that an Assistant Scoutmaster also holds a Troop Committee position, he/she will become a voting committee member. Adult Leader Training: Any adult who becomes involved with the troop is strongly encouraged to take advantage of Leadership Training courses offered by the Pensacola Bay District, Gulf Coast Council, BSA. This training insures the troop’s adult leaders remain on target with the aims of Scouting. Until leadership training can be arranged adult leaders will be required to view the BSA “Fast Start” video and be familiar with the Youth Protection Program guidelines for Boy Scout leaders. Adult Leaders’ Meetings: Adult leaders are encouraged to become involved with all aspects of the Scouting program. The following is a list of some of the suggested meetings that adult leaders may attend:
Adult Leader Conduct: Adult leaders shall exhibit the ideals of Scouting when working with boys. They will strive to set the example in their handling of the boys. Standards of conduct in personal habits, language, hygiene and interaction with Scouts will be in accordance with the Scout Oath and Law. The Committee Chairman and Scoutmaster are responsible for the conduct of adult leaders. The Scoutmaster is responsible for the conduct of adult leaders on campouts. Chapter 6 Boy Leader Policy General: Like any other activity, a leadership role within Scouting requires an extraordinary commitment. A leadership role with Troop 400 demands time and sacrifice of the Scout. Although Scouting is open to any boy, Troop 400 leadership positions should only be considered by those boys who:
Available Boy Leader Positions: Elected positions: Senior Patrol Leader -- Elected by the troop Patrol leader -- Elected by individual patrols Troop Guide(s) -- Selected by the Scoutmaster Den Chief – Selected by the Scoutmaster of the troop Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (Logistics) – Elected by the Troop Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (Planning) -Elected by the troop Assistant Patrol Leader – Elected by the patrol Scribe -- Elected by the troop Chaplain’s aide – Elected by the troop Quartermaster – Elected by the troop Librarian -- Elected by the troop Historian –Elected by the troop Patrol scribe -- Elected by the Patrol Leader Patrol quartermaster -- Elected by the Patrol Leader. Troop Elections: Troop elections are held semi-annually at the regular meeting, except in the New Scout Patrol where the patrol leader will be elected every two months. Newly elected leaders assume their new posts at the first regular meeting of January or July. A general election of the entire troop will be conducted for Senior Patrol Leader. The outgoing Senior Patrol Leader will preside over the election, accepting nominations and supervising the collection of ballots. Voting will be conducted by secret ballot. Election for Senior Patrol Leader will be conducted first to allow candidates not elected to run for assistant Senior Patrol Leader and/or Patrol Leader. The Scoutmaster or an Assistant Scoutmaster and the outgoing Senior Patrol Leader or a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster will count and verify the vote. The candidate receiving a simple majority of the members present will be declared winner. If more than two boys are running for a position and no one receives 50 percent of the votes, a revote will be taken between the two candidates until one candidate receives a majority of the votes. An attempt will be made to get 100 percent of the troop’s membership in attendance during the night of the election. No election will be conducted if less than 50 of the general membership are present. Qualifications: Senior Patrol Leader: Each Scout running for the office of Senior Patrol Leader must be a Star Rank Scout and must have attended Troop Leader Training. Assistant Senior Patrol Leader: Each Scout appointed to the office of Assistant Senior Patrol Leader must be a Star Rank Scout and must attend Troop Leader Training. Patrol Leader: Each Scout running for the office of patrol leader must be at least Second Class Scout except in the New-Scout Patrol. Troop Leader Training: When instructors are available the troop will offer a Troop Leader Training (TLT) course twice a year. For a Scout to be eligible to hold a troop leadership position he must attend the next available course. It is required that all newly elected or appointed leaders attend the TLT course given just prior to taking office. Leadership Ticket: Every Scout holding a troop leadership position will make and complete a leadership ticket. This leadership ticket will contain three items which must be completed during the Scout tenure in that leadership position. The ticket items will include at least one task from each of the following sections: Personal improvement; Something that will benefit the troop; Something that will benefit the community. Impeachment: The seriousness of impeachment must be understood before proceedings are begun. Impeachment will be initiated only when the situation can not be reversed with direct leadership and the added supervision by the adult leadership. Given the above; impeachment proceedings against a patrol leader, assistant patrol leader and/or Senior Patrol Leader can be initiated at any time during his tenure in office. To initiate an impeachment a written petition must be presented to the Scoutmaster, including:
Patrol Leaders’ Council (PLC):
The Patrol Leaders’ Council meets monthly to:
Chapter 7 Advancement Education is the chief function of the Scouting movement and the basis of the advancement program. A fundamental principle of advancement is that the boy’s progress is a natural outcome of his activities in his patrol and troop. The rank requirements shall furnish the basis of the activities of the unit. Recognition is gained through leadership in the troop, attending and participating in its activities, living the ideals of Scouting and proficiency in activities related to outdoor life, useful skills and career exploration. All advancement procedures shall be administered under conditions that harmonize with the aims and purpose of the BSA; to strengthen character, body, mind and the concept of being a participating citizen. The Boy Scout requirements for rank advancement shall be the basis for the Scouts’ advancement. There are four steps in the procedure -- learning, testing, reviewing and recognition. Scouting ranks are Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life and Eagle. Eagle Palms may be awarded for additional merit badges until the Scout’s 18th birthday. The responsibility for merit badge qualifications shall rest with the counselor. Merit badge counselors are required to be registered adult members of BSA. The merit badge counselor shall prepare and qualify youth members. There is no board of review procedure for merit badges, but public recognition should be given at a Court of Honor. Advancement Policy: Advancement in BSA is totally dependent upon the boy. Each boy is expected to pursue the various advancement requirements, awards, badges and ranks at his own pace. We encourage him to involve his family, other Scouts, the Scoutmaster, his Assistant Scoutmaster and any other sources to help him. The troop’s routine program will emphasize Scouting skills and leadership training; both at weekly meetings and at camping trips. As a matter of routine, merit badges will not be taught as part of Troop 400’s regularly scheduled meetings. Some meetings may focus on a particular merit badge as a means of introducing Scouts to the subject, but completion of the badge is an individual effort by the Scout. The troop will provide guidance and assistance in completing merit badges outside the weekly meetings, i.e., classes prior to meetings or on camping trips. (On occasion, a merit badge may be taught in the regular meeting if for a unique reason.) The extra effort and experience gained by pursuing merit badges through approved counselors is important in maintaining the quality and maturity of the upper ranks of Star, Life and Eagle. Eagle advancement: An advancement packet discussing Eagle requirements can be obtained from the Scoutmaster upon completion of the Life Scout award. The packet contains the following items: Merit Badges:
Youth Protection Program: The BSA Youth Protection Program policy requires that a Scout must have at least one other person with him at each meeting with the merit badge counselor. BSA policy prohibits one-on-one situations between adults and Scouts. The buddy can be a parent or guardian, brother, sister, relative, friend or another Scout. Group instructions: While merit badges may be earned in group instruction, this method is not preferred for most merit badges as it bypasses one of the key purposes of the merit badge plan; working closely with a qualified adult. Group instruction is most practical when special facilities, expert personnel and/or limited counselors make individual instruction inappropriate. When the group method is used as much individual attention as possible should be afforded each candidate’s project and his ability to fulfill all requirements. Merit badge counselor: A counselor working with a Scout acquaints the boy with an adult knowledgeable in one or more fields, an experience invaluable to a Scout. The counselor introduces subjects that may lead to a career choice or to a lifetime pursuit. The Troop Advancement Chairman and the Scoutmaster will maintain a list of approved merit badge counselors. The troop has approved merit badge counselors other than those on the council’s approved list. Merit badge counselors, even those parents only serving one unit (Troop 400) should be approved by the council and district advancement committee. Counselors should register as Scouters. In all cases the Advancement Chairman should have a completed Merit Badge Counselor Application on record for each applicable person. Merit badges will not be offered as part of the regular troop calendar of events as a matter of routine; however, to spark an interest in a subject area the troop may use merit badge counselors to make presentations covering the highlights of a merit badge. Scouts are then given an opportunity to try a skill related to the badge. Also, work on some merit badges may be arranged at some camping trips. No Scout, parent, Assistant Scoutmaster or committee member will arrange for a merit badge class to run concurrent with the regularly scheduled troop meeting unless specifically approved by the Patrol Leaders’ Council. Troop meetings are reserved for conducting skill and leadership training and general troop business. With the approval of both the Scoutmaster and Advancement Chairman, merit badge classes may be scheduled prior to the regular meeting. Scoutmaster approval will insure reservation of a meeting place. Approval of the advancement chairman will ensure approved counselors are available, and will supply "blue cards," and merit badge books, and also insure that other administrative requirements are met. Service Projects: Star and Life: Work on service projects for credit toward advancement to Star and Life ranks shall be approved by the Scoutmaster in advance of starting the project. Only adult leaders are authorized to sign-off service project requirements. If there is any doubt as to the validity of the project the matter will be referred to the Troop Committee for resolution. Eagle: Eagle service projects shall be of lasting value to the community rather than completion of routine upkeep and preventive maintenance. The project shall be approved by the Troop Committee and a member of the District Committee in advance of beginning any work. The Troop 400 Committee requires that the Eagle candidate brief the Troop Committee on his project at a regularly scheduled committee meeting. The Eagle candidate must take into consideration the lead time required for troop and district committee approval in planning work schedules. The briefing shall outline the scope, scale and requirements of the proposed project. The committee will review the candidate’s plan for completeness in planning and ability of the troop to support the project to completion. The schedule of work should be examined in detail to ensure there are no major conflicts with other planned troop activities. Upon completion of the service project, the Eagle candidate shall provide the advancement chairman with a written description of the project and, where appropriate, a schedule of participants and hours worked. Scouts of any rank can arrange for service projects that benefit the community. However, if the project will require Troop 400 resources then the project should be presented to the Patrol Leaders’ Council for discussion, scheduling and Scoutmaster approval. Position of Responsibility Requirements for Star, Life and Eagle Rank:
In addition to simply holding a position, the officers holding scribe, quartermaster, librarian and historian may be required to perform one major project to improve his respective area. This project must be approved by the Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster. These projects will be separate and distinct from the "service projects" required for the above ranks. For example a new historian may construct his own record of the troop during his tenure. Leadership Ticket: Every Scout holding a troop leadership position will make and complete a leadership ticket. This leadership ticket will contain three items which must be completed during the Scout tenure in that leadership position. The ticket items will include at least one task from each of the following sections: Personal improvement; Something that will benefit the troop; Something that will benefit the community. Requirements for Scout Spirit And Participation: Scout Spirit -- In order to fulfill the requirements for Scout spirit, the Scout must demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath and the Law in his everyday life. Participation -- Fulfillment of the Participation Requirement is defined as attending 50% of scheduled troop activities over the six months period immediately prior to any rank advancement. Chapter 8 Discipline Obedience: Obedience in Troop 400 is to the Scout Oath and Law. The Oath and Law make being a good citizen of the troop, camp or community possible. Obedience to the Scout Law includes respect for Scout leadership and adult leadership and all members and guests of the troop. Respect for adult and Scout leadership is expected. Under no circumstances will adult or boy leaders administer punishment for any reason. Hazing, of any type, will not be tolerated. Boys or adults observing such activity will take immediate measures to stop such activity. Enforcing Discipline: Discipline in the patrols will be handled by the patrol leaders. Patrol leaders have the authority to ask any patrol member to leave a patrol meeting and report to the Senior Patrol Leader. When the patrol leader cannot handle the problem, he must obtain help from the Senior Patrol Leader. The only person the Senior Patrol Leader will accept a complaint from is the patrol leader. The Senior Patrol Leader has the authority to ask that Scout to leave the meeting area and report to the Scoutmaster. When the Senior Patrol Leader cannot handle the problem, he must obtain the help of the Scoutmaster. The only person the Scoutmaster will accept a complaint from is the Senior Patrol Leader. When the Scoutmaster is approached with a complaint, the complaint will be recorded on the Scout’s record. Note the following actions: First Senior Patrol Leader complaint -- Conference with the Scoutmaster Second Senior Patrol Leader complaint -- Conference with Scoutmaster and a phone call to parents explaining the problem and stating that one more complaints may result in a suspension for one month. Parent(s) may be requested to attend meetings to help supervise their Scout. The Scout may be assigned to appear before a board of review as a lesser disciplinary action prior to suspension from troop activities. Third Senior Patrol Leader complaint -- Conference with Scoutmaster and parents. Based on the Scoutmaster’s recommendation, the Scout may be suspended from all troop activities for a period of time as recommended by the Scoutmaster. Troop Reinstatement Review Board: Based on the conclusions of the Board, the Scout will either: Drugs, Alcohol And Tobacco: No Scout will be allowed to use a controlled substance of any type at any Scouting function. This includes those boys who have parental permission to use tobacco. Parents of Scouts required to take prescription medication over the period of a troop event will discuss the requirement with the Scoutmaster. Serious medical requirements may require a parent to attend an event and administer medication. Dos and Don’ts: The Scoutmaster has the authority to confiscate and destroy all items deemed inappropriate or dangerous. The Boy Scouts of America prohibits the securing, use and display of fireworks in conjunction with programs and activities except where the fireworks display is conducted under the auspices of a certified or licensed fireworks control expert. Scouts of Troop 400 are prohibited from possessing or using fireworks on any Troop 400 activity. Firearms will be permitted at troop meeting only if the troop program calls for such activities. Any such activities will have the approval of the Scoutmaster and the Troop Committee. Sheath knives are not permitted. For Scouts to carry pocket knives, they must have earned their “Totin’ Chit” as prescribed by BSA training requirements and have their “Totin’ Chit” card in their possession whenever they handle a knife. Scout drivers under 18 shall meet the Youth Member Exception clause in local and national tour permits before they act as drivers on any Scout event, including weekly meetings. As a reminder the Youth Member Exception states: When traveling to an area, regional or national Boy Scout activity or any Explorer event under the leadership of an adult (21+) tour leader, a youth member at least 16 years of age may be a driver subject to the following conditions:
Chapter 9 Outdoor Activities Planning For Activities: Camping trips and activities shall be planned for an entire year by the summer Patrol Leaders’ Council as part of the process of planning the troop’s calendar of events. Camping trip themes/activities shall be related to the troop meeting themes. Camping trip themes are to be planned by the Patrol Leaders’ Council at its regular meetings. Support for Activities: Two registered adult leaders or one adult leader and a parent of a participating Scout (at least one leader must be 21 years of age) are required for all trips or events. If there is a female guest then one leader must be a female 21 years of age or older. The Scoutmaster, an Assistant Scoutmaster or a Troop Committee member will be assigned responsibility for each camping trip and event. Responsibilities include:
Guidelines for arranging transportation:
Food will normally be the responsibility of the individual or patrol. As part of the camping trip planning process each patrol will determine a camping trip menu then derive a shopping list prior to the camping trip. From the shopping list the patrol will assign a member(s) to purchase food. The Scout(s) buying food will determine the cost per Scout and announce that amount prior to the camping trip/event. Scouts participating in the event will bring all moneys by the Monday meeting just prior to the Friday/Saturday departure for the camping trip. This allows the Scout(s) purchasing the food that week to purchase supplies for the trip. Scouts wishing to participate in a camping trip/event should be present. Regular attendance is defined as attending 50%of scheduled troop meetings the month immediately prior to the camping trip/event unless prior arrangements have been made with the Scoutmaster. Scouts intending to participate in a camping trip/event should be present on the Monday meeting prior to the camping trip with funds or they will not be allowed to participate unless they make prior arrangements with the Scoutmaster, Patrol Leader and the Scout purchasing the food. On occasion the troop will practice troop dining rather than the normal patrol method. In these cases the procedures above will be used to plan/purchase food. While we realize the dynamics of family schedules, parents must understand camping with large groups of Scouts requires detailed planning to ensure enough food, water, transportation, troop equipment, funds and adult supervision. Unannounced participants create a hardship on the entire troop, who have already made plans, and creates disharmony and ill will. Simply put, the troop should have a firm commitment for camping trip participation, with supporting funds, not later than the last Monday meeting before departure on an event. Troop Camping: Camping: Whenever possible patrols should camp as individual units and practice the patrol method. The intent is that each patrol will have:
All Scouts will share in the work and duties of their individual campsites. Patrol Leaders or equivalents will establish rotating schedules to assure that work such as cooking, cleaning and wood gathering is done by all in a fair manner. All members of Troop 400 will observe the outdoor code. This will include leaving the campsite better than found. Cooking: Various forms of cooking will be experienced, including individual, patrol and troop. Camping trip format will be determined by the Patrol Leaders’ Council and will depend on the other activities scheduled. Visitors On Outings: Prospective Boy Scouts may be invited to attend camping trips/events in accordance with BSA regulations. A Scout intending to invite a guest for a camping trip will notify the patrol leader, Senior Patrol Leader and Scoutmaster to insure the guest is factored in the planning for logistic support. A permission slip authorizing the guest to attend the event and a medical release form authorizing emergency treatment will be required from the parent or guardian. Non-adult female guests under 18 will be permitted on overnight camping trips provided they have parental permission and on-site supervision by parents of at least one of the parties. Under no circumstance will unmarried male and female campers share tents. If there are female guests, one adult leader must be a female, 21 years of age or older. Siblings attending regular troop campouts are discouraged.
Equipment Categories of Equipment: Personal equipment: Includes items such as tent, pack, sleeping bag, individual cooking and eating utensils, canteen, flashlight, foul weather gear, etc. Scouts not in possession of personal equipment, safe for the conditions of an event, shall not be allowed to participate, i.e., rain or cold-weather clothing, sleeping bag suitable for the climatic conditions, etc. Troop equipment: Generally limited to those items necessary to provide for group activities, special events and to support adult participation at camping trips; tarpaulins, ropes, saws, camp shovels, canoes, etc. Patrol equipment: The troop will provide each Patrol the major portion of available equipment to include small group items such as chef kit, large cooking pots and pans, lantern with box, stove, propane, patrol box, dish pans, etc. Control of Equipment: Personal equipment: Each Scout is responsible for the purchase and use of his own equipment. It is strongly recommended that individual equipment be labeled or etched with the Scout’s name, initials and/or identifying mark to avoid disputes over ownership of similar items. Troop equipment: The Troop Quartermaster is responsible for storage and control of troop equipment. The troop equipment is issued to the Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader or Acting Patrol Leader and is returned to the Troop Quartermaster in clean usable condition. Patrol equipment: For use by members of the patrol. Each item shall be marked with the Patrol name or emblem and stored in the Patrol box or locker. Duties And Responsibilities: Committee Quartermaster is responsible for:
Troop Quartermaste is responsible for:
The Patrol Leader or Assistant Patrol Leader will check out and return troop equipment used by the patrol and will assure that it is returned in a clean and useable condition. Safety Considerations with Equipment: Chemical stoves and lanterns: The troop will furnish compressed-gas (propane) stoves and lanterns for all camping trips. These items will be operated under the supervision of knowledgeable adults and in accordance with the Guide to Safe Scouting and the regulations of the camping trip facilities. A troop fire extinguisher shall be maintained in the immediate area of all propane equipment. Patrol Leaders, under the supervision of their Assistant Scoutmaster, will hold patrol inspections for all Scouts of their patrol attending an event, prior to departing the meeting place. Concerns with serviceability of a Scout’s personal gear will be brought to the attention of the Scoutmaster. Scouts not in possession of personal equipment suitable for the conditions of the event will not be allowed to participate, i.e., rain or cold weather clothing, sleeping bag suitable for weather conditions. Damage To Equipment: Accidental damage to equipment will be investigated by the Troop Quartermaster under the supervision of the Adult Quartermaster. If determined the accident was a result of negligence the negligent party shall be afforded an opportunity to replace the damaged equipment. Gear damaged or worn through normal wear and tear will be replaced by the troop as recommended by the Adult Quartermaster. Gear Needs for New Scouts: Uniform requirements as covered earlier. Due to the high cost of uniform items the purchase of uniforms may be spread out over several weeks. The shirt with the proper identification symbols should be the first priority. Due to the cost of equipment the purchase should be restricted to essential items until you confirm the level of your Scout’s interest in outdoor camping. The following personal equipment items will be required at some time during a Scout’s career. Discuss equipment purchases with the Scoutmaster and Scout before you make expensive purchases.
It is Troop 400 recommendation that at least two boys sleep in every tent. This fills safety requirements and promotes working together as a patrol. The patrol leader will adhere to the desires of his patrol for tenting arrangements as much as possible. Scouts desiring to use personal tents will be allowed to provide their own tent but must be prepared to share their tent in accordance with BSA and troop safety considerations. Adults desiring to accompany the troop on a camping trip must be able to provide their own tents. Later gear needs: As your Scout gets into Scouting activities he will have some additional equipment needs. An active troop will do at least 10 days and nights of camping each year. Eventually he could use hiking boots, pocketknife, rain/foul weather clothing, etc. Use your own good judgment. Only you know what you can afford. If you are planning to purchase camping equipment check with our leaders first. They have a good idea of the best type of equipment our troop uses. As last Amended
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), the Gulf Coast Council’s district office located at 9440 University Parkway, Pensacola, or from any other authorized BSA distributor.
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