SAN ANTONIO – (March 27, 2023) – The American Legion has been a supporter for Boy Scouts of America since the Legion’s first national convention in 1919.
To locally support Scouting, Post Commander Burrell Parmer of Fred Brock Post 828 attended the Blue and Gold Ceremony of Lackland Cub Scouts Pack 561 held at Freedom Chapel on Joint Base San Antonio–Lackland Air Force Base. The post became the chartering organization for the pack in December 2022.
Numerous awards and patches were bestowed upon the Cub Scouts, to include an Arrows of Light Ceremony.
Blue and Gold Ceremonies or banquets are a tradition in Cub Scout packs. They are a celebration of the anniversary of the founding of the Boy Scouts of America on Feb. 8, 1910.
The Cub Scouts’ colors of blue and gold stand for some of the good things Cub Scouts gain through the process of advancement as they make progress through the ranks.
The Arrows of Light Ceremony (crossover) is designed to have a powerful inspirational effect, not only on the Webelos Scouts participating in it, but on the other Cub Scouts witnessing it, giving them a glimpse into what lies ahead on their Scouting journey.
According to Assistant Cub Master Kevin Cartino, having children in Scouting is very important.
“It’s important because it instills morale, ethics and principles into our youth and teaches them leadership at a young age,” said Cartino. “They learn many good principles which starts them on their way to becoming good citizens.”
Additionally, Post 828 became the chartering organization for Boy Scout Troop 10 of the Fiesta District in February.
“It was an honor to have been invited to the ceremony,” said Parmer. “Although I did not get the opportunity to be a Scout when I was a kid, it feels great to be able to be part of it now.”
The American Legion works closely with Scouting and honors the Eagle Scout of the Year during its national convention with $10,000 scholarship, while three runners-up each get $2,500.
Fred Brock Post 828’s mission is to enhance the well-being of San Antonio’s veterans, their families, the military and the community by its devotion to mutual helpfulness.
