Merit Badge Expo Was A “Success” For Troop 108 Scouts

What an Awesome weekend at Merit Badge Expo. The weather was a bit cold at the start of each morning, but the Scouts and Scouters made it through the night and ended up participating in one of the most productive activities in the Scouting year.

Of the 246 registered scouts from four states that sat in class for a total of 825 Merit Badges, Troop 108’s scouts were 41 of those, sitting for 152 Merit Badges! 73 of which have already been completed!

There were several options for the scouts to choose from this year including the brand new Search and Rescue merit badge.  Those scouts who completed the Astronomy Merit Badge were also surprised to learn from our District Executive, Art Harris, that they will have the opportunity to have their Merit Badge presented to them by United States Air Force Brigadier General Charles Duke –  who also happens to be an Apollo 16 Astronaut and one of only twelve people to have walked on the surface of the moon!

So let’s see….  An Astronaut that has been to the Moon presenting a merit badge AND the brand new Search and Rescue Merit Badge!  What could possibly be better? How about Sixty One (61) BSA Eagle Required Merit Badges either started or completed for Troop 108 scouts?  These are small steps that will not only change these young men forever, but quite possibly mankind itself.

Additionally, Troop 108 played host to two visiting scouts from the Atlanta area as well as a local scout whose troop was not camping at the event.  The spirit of scouting was burning brightly at this year’s event.

Congratulations also to those who participated in ASM Bob Ludolph’s class on Flag Retirement Ceremonies.  This included two classes where the proper way to conduct the ceremonies were taught and  flags were prepared for retirement as well as a moving campfire on Saturday night where over 50 flags were retired from service with dignity and honor.

Many, many thanks to ASM Britt Helms, event chairman, and the best staff that the Merit Badge Expo has ever seen (15+ from our very own Troop 108) for their tireless efforts and dedication to the youth of Troop 108 and the Scouts and Scouters of the York District.