Welcome to Boy Scout Troop 82!
Troop 82 has been an active Boy Scout Troop since the 1920's at The First Church Congregational in Fairfield, Connecticut. We are a very proud Troop, especially proud of the more than 45 boys who have attained the highest rank in Scouting, THE EAGLE SCOUT. The program is for Scouts and is as successful and rewarding as each of us makes it. Troop 82 exists to serve boys by instilling values, preparing them to make ethical choices over their lifetime and to enable to achieve their full potential.
The following material has been written to assist new Scouts and their families in learning some of the rules and procedures that have helped our Troop remain successful and enhance each Scouts enjoyment of the program. Please take the time to fully understand what scouting is all about. Scouting is FUN--outdoor Fun--Indoor Fun--Quiet Fun—-Noisy Fun! We also learn while having fun. We learn to be better American Citizens, to develop the mental and physical skills we need for growth, and to follow a set of Scouting principles which build character and nurture personal values. In other words, the purpose of Scouting is, to develop mature and responsible young citizens through a program of fun and personal advancement.
Once you decide to join the Troop, you will be given a registration form to fill out with your parent's assistance and our help, if necessary. You will be officially registered upon return of the form along with the proper fee. If you are transferring from a Pack or Troop the fee is $1.00. If you are not currently a registered Scout, the fee is $2.00 per month for the rest of the calendar year. (Check payable to Troop 82 or cash). This fee covers registration, Boys Life Magazine, activities, awards and Troop equipment. Your annual dues thereafter are $30.00 for the calendar year and will be collected in October.
TROOP 82 MEETINGS
Troop 82 is an active year-round program. We meet every Thursday evening beginning at 7:30 P.M. in Kosciolek Hall in the First Church Congregational. Meetings end at 9:00 P.M. There are a few weeks where there will be no meetings, school vacations and summer camp week to name a couple. Weeks with no meetings are announced in advance. Please be aware that you are expected to be on time for meetings in full uniform with your Scout Handbook. Any scout without a handbook will not be signed off for any advancements. If you do not have your uniform you will not be allowed to participate in a board of review, Scoutmaster conference, nor will you receive any badges or advancements. PLEASE BE PREPARED! You should attend meetings regularly because it is a primary means of knowing what the Troop is doing. If you cannot make a meeting please contact your Patrol Leader with any questions about that evening.
The Troop operates on a Patrol system. Each Patrol is comprised of approximately 6-8 Scouts and two adult leaders. Each scout is assigned to a Patrol. Patrols are encouraged to operate as independent units for some of their activities, such as camping trips. Patrol meetings, in addition to regular meetings, are encouraged and recommended. Each Patrol will elect a Patrol Leader which is a six month position. The Patrol Leader then chooses his assistant Patrol Leader. The Patrol Leader is responsible for attending all Greenbar meetings which are announced ahead by the Scoutmaster, usually once a month. If the Patrol Leader cannot make the meeting he needs to let the Assistant know so he can be present. He then needs to report back to the patrol with the details that were discussed.
Since the Scout Advancement Program is an integral part of the learning experience, each Scout is encouraged and expected to set certain attainable goals. All Scouts are required to fulfill the requirements to progress to their next Scout rank in a reasonable time. Scouts planning to pursue merit badges are required to seek out Merit Badge Counselors. Merit Badge'Counselors area adults that have a knowledge of the area they have signed up for. The Troop maintains a list of counselors that,are available, both wfthin our Troop and outside our Troop. The parents responsibility is to help us ENCOURAGE their son to achieve the next rank. The Scout should contact these counselors and make arrangements with them to get the badge requirements completed along with a buddy.
We would like to keep out Merit Badge Counselor List within the Troop up to date. If your hobbies or employment fall under one of the merit badge titles, please let our advancement chairperson know and they will give you the necessary information needed to become a Merit Badge Counselor.
PARENTS PARTICIPATION IN THE
ADVANCEMENT PROGRAM
We ask that parents work with their sons on their rank advancement from the time, they join through the rank of First Class. The requirements for these ranks are outlined in the Boy Scout Handbook and it would be helpful if parents read through these and test their sons on what they know. Please feel free to initial any requirement that you worked on with them once they understand it.
 | The actual badge, patch, etc. will be given to the Scout at the earliest possible Troop meeting following the fulfillment of the requirements. |
| A formal recognition and advancement card will be awarded for each achievement earned at the next Troop meeting provided THE SCOUT IS IN PROPER UNIFORM. |
| The Troop does reserve the right to withhold any advancement if the Scout is not in uniform. |
| Scouts are required to keep track of any documentation (blue merit badge cards and rank cards) issued to them from the Advancement Chairperson. |
| Scouts are reminded that notification must be given to the Advancement Chairperson for all achievements to be recorded and awarded. |
As boys develop into adults we feel it is essential that they assume certain responsibilities of listening to announcements to insure that they are aware of upcoming activities and other pertinent information. At each Troop meeting various announcements are made pertaining to updated information that may be additions or changes from previously made plans. In addition to being announced a semi-monthly announcement sheet is handed to each Scout. It a Scout is unable to attend a regular Troop meeting, he is responsible for contacting his Patrol Leader or another Patrol member to obtain any information from that meeting.
Communications outside of a regular meeting will be passed by telephone through the Senior Patrol Leader to each Patrol Leader and subsequently to each member. If a Scout has questions about meetings or an outing, he should first consult his announcement sheet and then his Patrol Leader.
If you find you are not receiving required information, first discuss it with your Scout and then contact an adult leader or Committee Member so any problem can be corrected.
Troop activities are planned by Scouts, particularly the Scouts in Leadership positions in coordination with the Scoutmaster at the Greenbar meetings. Camping, backpacking, hiking, service projects and other outdoor activities are an important part of our program. We go camping at least 12 times a year as a Troop. We also do a week long Summer Camp at Camp Sequassen in Winsted, CT. and participate in the District Weekend Camporees held at a camp here in CT. The cost for all trips vary but an average cost is $10-$15 for a weekend. This cost will cover the camp fee, food for the trip and any supplies incurred by the Troop (fuel for Cooking, lighting etc .... ). The Scouts as a Patrol will plan their menu for the weekend. One Scout within the Patrol will be assigned to go shopping for the food. The Troop will repay the individual for the expense. Expense forms are to be filled out with the receipt attached and handed in to the Treasurer. This Form is available in Kosciolek Hall. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THE EXPENSE FOR FOOD SHOULD BE $10.00 PER SCOUT IN THE PATROL. IF A PATROL GOES OVER THIS AMOUNT THE PATROL MUST COLLECT THE MONEY FROM WITHIN ITSELF TO COVER THE EXTRA COST AND TURNED IN TO THE TREASURER. Always check with the Quartermaster to see what is available already from the Troop (ie. Pancake syrup, pancake mix, salt, pepper, hot chocolate etc..). For those Scouts that cancel after the food has been purchased, the Scout is obligated to pay for his food. The early knowledge of which Scouts will be participating in an activity greatly helps in the planning stages. Scouts who sign up for an event and later are unable to attend must notify one of the Scoutmasters PRIOR to the event.
All programs are based on Scout and parent input. If you would like to see something new please bring it up to the Committee or at the Greenbar meeting.
| UNIFORM-- All Scouts are required to wear a uniform to all Scouting activities unless otherwise noted. The uniform includes the official BSA shirt, neckerchief, slide, bell, trousers and proper insignia on the shirt as shown in Appendix #l of this guide. Class A uniform is required for all Troop meetings. Please see Appendix #2 for points of purchase for the Scout Uniform. |
| CAMPING- All gear and clothing are listed in Appendix #3 of this guide. |
General Court of Honors are held twice a year. usually in December and June. At this function we take time to recognize the advancements of our Scouts as a whole with their families. This is a more formal type of meeting and parents and families are expected to attend in support of their son. Everyone is asked to bring some kind of finger snack to this event. (ie. cookies, brownies, fruit, veggies and dip). All Scouts are expected to wear Class A uniform to Court of Honors.
When the Troop collects money we ask that all money be turned in via our "Money Collection Envelope". These envelopes are provided by the Troop in Kosciolek Hall. Cash is accepted and all checks should be made out to Troop 82. It is important that you fill out all information on the front of the envelope. We sometimes are collecting for several activities at the same time. Our scouts have reached the age where they should have enough responsibility to fill out a money envelope. They know what outings and events they want to attend and should sign up for them. This would greatly help eliminate the confusion that Scouts may have as to whether or not they have signed up for an outing. Manv times a Scout will think his parent has signed him up, so they don't. The scouts are always reminded at Troop meetings about events, parents are not. Parents please encourage the Scouts to take this responsibility to do this themselves.
Scouts please let your parents know that you have taken care of it and just let them fill out the permission slip.
Permission slips must be turned in prior to participation in each activity. These slips must be signed by a parent or guardian and will be collected with the money envelope. These slips authorize the adult leader in charge to seek medical assistance should a Scout incur an accident or become ill. Depending on the seriousness of the problem, parents may be notified.
Also there is a section for parents to indicate if a Scout is currently on any medications. All medications must be handed in to the adult leader of the event in the original container with the proper instructions. Any permission slip signed by anyone other than a parent or guardian will not be accepted.
There is an area on the permission slip for the parent to indicate if they will be available for transportation to or from the event and whether or not they will participate in the activity. Parents are encouraged to take part in several of these monthly events yearly. The transportation coordinator will be in contact with you as to whether or not you will be needed.
It is recognized that a parent’s interest in scouting varies, for many reasons. The benefits that the Scout receives are directly proportionate to both the QUALITY and QUANTITY of parental support and participation. Please keep this in mind when your help is requested. In addition, encourage and assist your boy in obtaining the most out of Scouting. He needs your support!
Any suggestions or questions that parents may have are more than welcome. Present them to any committee member or call any of the adult leaders. All parents are welcome to become Committee Members or attend committee meetings. Our Troop committee adds the resources to make the Troop activities happen. This is where parents get involved. A Troop runs on volunteers who provide transportation, supervision and assistance on campouts and other activities. Although we are fortunate t have many adults who already assist in Troop activities, parents are invited to volunteer their services in any manner, small or large. These activities include work on merit badges, advancement requirements, Court of Honors for recognition, leadership functions and special activities, community service projects, camping, hikes, and transportation.
In order to insure a successful program, parents will be required to occasionally participate in an outing and/or provide transportation. Parents are expected to help with transportation at least a couple of times a year. If adequate transportation cannot be arranged for an event some Scouts may not be able to attend.
Periodically, Troop parent's meetings are held to solicit suggestion, comments and ideas on how to enhance the program. Troop financial information, as well as future Troop plans, are normally available at these meetings. PLEASE BE THERE ----- the Troop needs the support and input from all its Scout's parents.
Our Troop desires that all boys be able to participate in the Scouting program regardless of their personal financial situation. All Scouts are required to participate in two major fundraisers in order to insure that the financial requirements of the Troop are met. The Troop financial records are always available for review by interested parents.
| Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale |
| Car Wash |
The Troop 82 committee is made up of all adult members and parents. Committee meetings take place on the Third Wednesday of the month at 7:30 P.M. at Kosciolek Hall. All parents are encouraged to participate. Everyone's thoughts and suggestions to make this a better program are always welcome.
Although we have organized games or competitions at our meetings and activities for Your, fun and enjoyment, there are times when we must be serious. Usually these are times to learn about new skills or to obtain information about the next Troop activity. Scouts are expected live up to the rules established by the Boy Scouts of America, the Troop, and the leaders. Horseplay will not be tolerated under any circumstances, because it could lead to someone getting hurt. In the event any Scout does not follow these rules or threatens the health or safety of any of it's members, he will be brought before the Discipline Leadership Group. We will at all times respect our meeting facilities and protect the church property. Please be aware of the following special rules:
| NO tree or fence climbing without specific leader permission. |
| NO participation in waterfront activities without proper adult supervsion. |
| NO throwing of any objects except as part of an organized activity. |
| NO use of cutting tools (ax, knife,etc.) or matches without successful completion of Totin Chip Training. |
| NO food in tents. |
| NO flame in tents. |
Appendix #1 - Insignia Placement
(to be completed)
Liberty Army & Navy 1439 Post Poad East Westport, CT 06880
203-255-6066
Jimmy's Army & Navy 4200 Main Street Bridgeport, CT 06606
203-374-7172
203-847-2445
CAMPING CHECKLIST
Always
Waterproof Boots, Boxers/Underwear
Sleeping Bag Long Underwear
Utensil Kit,( knife, spoon, fork) Pants
Hot/Cold CUP Sweat Pants
Mess Kit (Plate, Bowl, Cup) T-shifts
Long Sleeve Shirts Soap
Wind Breaker Coat
Shampoo Hat
Unscented Deodorant Mouthwash
Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Floss Comb
Bug Repellent (Cufter,Aloe,Pump Spray)
Sunscreen Paper, Pencil
Chapstick Toilet Paper
Wash Towel & Wash Cloth in Ziplock
Rain Gear/ Poncho FlashlighV Batteries
Pocket Knife (BSA) Whistle
Compass Book to Read
Uniform Handbook
Bathing Suit (summer) Totin'Chip
Merit Badge Materials,
Winter
Hand Warmers Sleeping Cap
Fleece Sweater/Hooded Sweatshirt Mittens or Gloves
Summer Camp
Mosquito Netting
Hiking
Trail Food
Backpacking
Framed Pack (internal/External) First Aid Kit
Trail Food Survival Kit
Beef Jerky Extra Socks
Mesh Bag Mole skin
Water Bottle Pack Cover
Miscellaneous
Camera Prayer Book Handkerchie
Gear Playing Cards
Bandanas Mirror
Sunglasses Fishing
Binoculars Watch
Troop 82 Eagle Scout Honor Roll
Edward Pratt 1928 Brad Roger 1978
Charles Pratt 1929 David Corkum 1980
Leslie Smith 1931 Edwin Buddenhagen1981
Allen Otis 1936 Brad Eddy 1984
Gordon Otis 1936 Brian Kaufman 1987
John Storrs 1936 Stephen Kosciolek1990
Stephen Page 1937 William Wargo 1992
Robert Calvin 1939 David Zack 1992
Ernest Wiehl 1939 Adam Rinehart 1993
William Wiehl 1943 Christopher Grant1994
Joseph Overstreet 1952 Steven Zack 1994
David Wahlquist 1952 Charles File 1994
David Thomas 1952 Brett Crossland 1995
Carl Benson 1952 Nick Garamella 1996
Henry Hawkes 1954 Christopher Sargent Dematteo 1996
Robert Edmonds 1957 Scott Jahnke 1997
Kurt Boulton 1966
Allen Appleton 1967
Herb Appleton 1967
Allen Butcher 1967
Mark Smith 1968
Darryl Sargent 1968
Paul Wetterhorn 1969
Scott Vereb 1969
Roy Doar 1969
Marcus Wetterhorn 1971
Mark Cross 1972
Joseph Sladek 1976
David Adams 1977
Chris Woods 1978