New Scout Patrol

Scouts who are new to the Troop become part of the ‘New Scout’ patrol.

        Generally new scouts join from Cub Scout Packs.  Troop 140 recruits new scouts from many Packs, in and out of the Oregon City area.  Pack’s typically hold their Arrow of Light ceremonies in February.  Troop 140 will accept new members at anytime but New Scout patrols are typically formed in March.  New members joining before then, will accompany the existing New Scout Patrol in Troop activities.

  In April (normally during the first Troop meeting of the month), semi-annual Troop wide elections are held.  The troop elects a new Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Chaplin’s Aide, Historian, and new Patrol & Assistant Patrol Leaders.  The New Scout patrol will also vote on a Patrol name.  Troop Guide/s will be selected by the Scoutmaster to assist the New Scout Patrol.

  The Troop Guide/s are at least 1st Class Scouts or above.   The Troop Guide helps the new boys adjusting to the Troop, keeps them on the advancement trail,  along with an adult who is the Assistant Scoutmaster for new Scouts.

  The New Scout Patrol meets with the Troop.  After Troop business, the new boys meet to work on their advancement requirements (as planned at the Patrol Leaders Council).  The trail to Eagle begins with ‘Scout’.  The ‘Scout’ requirements are similar to those required for the Webelos Arrow of Light.  This advancement could be accomplished within weeks of joining the Troop.  All advancement must be approved by the New Scout Patrol Guide or Senior Patrol Leader.  New Scouts should assure that their Boy Scout manual is signed and dated as each advancement requirement is met.  Before a rank change, a meeting must be held with the Scoutmaster.  

  Boy Scout advancement is based on the Scouts individual abilities and desires and less on the group as in Cub Scouts.  There is no requirement to advance to any level based on age.  Some levels require membership in the previous level for a pre-determined time before advancement.  BSA recommends New Scouts work toward ‘First Class’ rank.  Changes to rank advancement in recent years have changed the timeline to reach 'First Class".  Based on the requirements and Troop 140 activity calendar, in approximately 2 years Scouts should be able to complete the ‘Scout’, ‘Tenderfoot’, ‘Second Class’ and ‘First Class’. 

  Camping trips are held each month by Troop 140.  New Scouts should read the list of camp gear suggested for Scouts through fourteen years old.  The Troop leadership suggests that parents not purchase all new, top of the line equipment for their son when they join the Troop.  We have several items to check out until you find the right items for your son. 

• • The Troop owns several lightweight two-person tents for use by new scouts.  New Scouts are may not use one person tents. This is reserved for First class and above. 

  • A good lightweight bag sleeping bag rated at +10-20 degree’s with a waterproof stuff bag is important.

  • Backpacks come in assorted designs.  Choice of internal or external frames at affordable prices are available at most outdoor supply stores. The pack should have at least two large sections, 2-4 side pouches, 1-2 front pouches, space for sleeping bag attached to the frame, and a hip belt is suggested.  

  • Dinner ware comes in many forms.  Expensive ‘mess kits’ often are missing parts in there first year of service.  Simple and cheap plate, hot cup, bowl and old utensils from home is all that is needed.

  • Flashlight with extra batteries are a must.  Head lamp lights are great for back packing trips and setting up gear after dark.

  • Walking shoe/socks should be of good fit and comfortable.  New scouts may participate in hikes up to 10 miles or greater during their first couple of years.  New shoes should be ‘broken in’ before used on a hiking trip.

  • Wicking liner socks and densely woven outer socks help keep blisters to a minimum.  A small packet of ‘mole skin’ in the camper's pack can come in handy when problems arise.

  • Clothing will help keep a camper comfortable on the trail.  Fleece and wool are recommended.  Pants must be a durable material such as jeans, Carharts, Scout pants. Sweat pants and athletic pants are reserved for sleepwear.  Use the camp supply list for additional recommendations.

  The New Scout Patrol will normally be active until approximately one year later. At that time, Scouts may be placed in different Patrols.   This decision is made during the Feb PLC and is normally based on attendance, friends, compatibility, existing Patrol make-up and number of Scouts in each Patrol.