Troop 395, Hamburg, Michigan

Troop 395 is based in Hamburg, Michigan, and is part of the Three Fires District of the Michigan Crossroads Council (MCC), Scouting America.

Advancement Overview

ADVANCEMENT OVERVIEW

Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps to be overcome through the advancement method.  Each Scout plans their own advancement and progresses at their own pace as they overcomes each challenge.

Newer Scouts are involved in advancement early in their scout experience starting with the Troop 395 back-to-basics outing in March after crossing over to scouts. These experiences are designed by the troop to jump-start a scouts experience and help them attain their first rank, the “Scout” rank. These scouts are part of a “Trail to First Class” program, especially during the summer long-term camping experience at one of the many scout camps that Michigan has to offer.  This type of program is designed to introduce the newer Scouts to basic Scouting skills in a paced and progressive manner while they become acclimated to the Troop and Scouting in general.

All Scouts may work on merit badges and advancement to upper ranks while simultaneously developing their own leadership skills.

The Scout is rewarded for each advancement, thus helping him gain a prevailing sense of self-esteem and self-confidence.  The steps in the advancement process also help a boy grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others.

BOARD OF REVIEW

As the final step prior to each rank advancement (except the initial “Scout” rank), the Scout appears before a “Board of Review.”  The review has three important purposes:

  • to make sure that the Scout has done what he was supposed to do for the rank
  • to determine the kind of experience the Scout is having in the Troop
  • to encourage the Scout to progress further

Boards of Review are conducted at the Troop level.  For the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank in Scouting, a special Board of Review is convened at the Troop level and includes representation from the Great Sauk Trail Council.

COURT OF HONOR

In order to recognize a Scout’s advancement, the Troop Committee conducts a Court of Honor in August (after scout camp), in December (at the troop christmas party), and in April. It is important to each Scout that their parents/guardians attend each Court of Honor to join in the celebration of all of their accomplishments.