Scout campout and graduation for Pack 856
Article and photos by Liz Jurkowski
It just seems like the perfect way to end an outstanding year of scouting is to have a big bonfire and campout. That is just what Pack 856 did on May 11. Of course, after a week of hot and sunny weather, the rain arrived right in the middle of the ceremony, but that just made the evening more memorable.
The scouts all gathered at Larkspur’s Jellystone Campground for an evening full of activity. Scouts and their families enjoyed a pot-luck dinner as the Larkspur Fire Department made an appearance. Smokey the Bear arrived
with them, and the scouts all had a chance to ask the firefighters questions about fire safety and the equipment they use.
Many of the scouts were curious to see the Jaws of Life, and were surprised to see how heavy some of the equipment was. To the delight of a few brave kids who ran into the water, the firefighters sprayed one of their hoses high into the air before they departed.
The graduation, or moving up ceremony, took place after the meal, as the sun began to set. With the fire ban lifted, families sat around a campfire as they watched their young sons move up in rank. They learned about the responsibilities of their new role in the Pack. Older scouts helped the younger ones move up by presenting them with their new neckerchiefs and handbooks.
Many families left after the graduation, but several stayed and braved the elements overnight, camping in tents and cabins.
Pack 856 has had a busy and fun scouting year, but it is not over yet! Many attended the Trailblazer Scout Day-Camp on May 19, and several activities are planned for the summer months.
