Despite the torrential rain which could normally dampen spirits, the scouts of Troop 118 braved the weather and participated in two wreath laying ceremonies at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The rain stopped long enough for them to do the ceremonies. Arlington Cemetery limits the number of participants during wreath layings; the Troop ordered two wreaths, so that eight scouts had an opportunity to participate. The troop also got to watch the changing of the guard, a ceremony that impressed the scouts and leaders alike.

The rest of the weekend was spent exploring the museums and monuments in Washington. The Scouts camped at the Kampgrounds of America in Arlington, Va. On Sunday, those Scouts who were attending summer camp left from Washington and headed directly to Camp Bayshore, which was actually closer to Washington than it was to New Jersey. They spent the week at camp working on Merit Badges and skills, and enjoyed swimming, boating, archery, shotgun shooting, and more.

Trost’s Eagle Scout Project Complete

In April, Tim Trost, Life Scout, led a band of Scouts and adults to refurbish the softball field on Haddonfield Road, diagonally across from the Mr. Softee store in Pennsauken, as part of his Eagle Scout project. Under his leadership, the workers repaired the back stop, replaced the benches, and added additional fencing in front of the benches to add protection for the players. Pennsauken Township delivered a load of soil, which the Scouts spread around the infield and pitcher’s mound.

The remainder of the summer will be spent planning for the upcoming year. The Scouts generally do not meet weekly during the summer, allowing for family vacations and activities. The first meeting of the new year will be Monday, Sept. 21 at the Scout Room at Grace Episcopal Church on Maple Ave. in Merchantville. Meetings run from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Young men between the ages of 11 and 17 are welcome to attend to see what Scouting is all about. For more information, call (856) 313-7751.