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The World Jamboree Shakedown: A Historian’s Perspective |
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One weekend, at Lost Pines camp ground near Bastrop, Texas, 36 Boy Scouts arrived as strangers, and left as team mates (not to mention rough and tough, Jamboree worthy Man Scouts). The primary purpose of the Jamboree was to build the bonds of trust and loyalty between Scouts. The Name Game was a recreational staple during the first few hours of the Shakedown. Soon after, the Troop was broken down into different patrols, and, over the course of the weekend, Patrol positions were filled. Leadership radiated throughout the entirety of the outing, and the long held ideas of the Scout Oath and Law were physically manifested in the bodies of able young men. Safety, of course, was another important issue. Guidelines were given on activities during the weekend, and the phrase “If it’s illegal here, it’s illegal there,” was repetitively imprinted into everyone’s mind. The old sexual harassment tapes were brought out and most viewers- even if in bad taste- had a chuckle or two. However, the seriousness of these talks were not lost upon the Jamboree hopefuls. The well being of Scouters abroad is a high priority for Scout Masters and Scouts alike. Equipment was also tested. From the cooking stoves to those crazy European tents, all the Scouts learned the proper techniques for the proper use of every piece of camping equipment. However, the Shakedown had a purpose that is not as tangible. During those amazing few days, Scouts learned that the Jamboree wasn’t all about the stress associated with last minute packing and deadlines. Troops exercised their creativity with patrol names ( Border Patrol, Spartans, etc.), and laughed aloud during the hilarity of skit night. Through all the preparation and training, Scouts- in their own ways- grasped the excitement and fun of their future visit to England. Two Scouts from Concho Valley Council will be attending the 2007 World Jamboree are Cal Hengst III of Troop 363 from San Angelo and Mathew Smart of Troop 222 from Del Rio. Overall, the Shakedown was a blast. All of the months of hard work and toil culminated in a weekend of friendly bonds and Scoutly understanding. |
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A Merit Badge Counselor is someone who has a Vocation, Avocation, or Special Training in a subject related to one of the many merits badges that our offered to our young scouts. To qualify as a merit badge counselor you must be at least 18 years of age. You must be proficient in the subject of choice. All sessions and instructions must be age appropriate. 
Lastly you have to be registered with the Boy Scouts of America and fill out the merit badge information form. If you are working with one or many boys on a Merit Badge you must come to the Council Office, and fill out a Merit Badge Counselor Form so that we can make a record of your service as a Counselor. Thank you for all of your time, efforts, and understanding you continue to make a difference as a merit badge counselor.
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