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Sorry. . . a lot of journaling!

Although I have only been “officially” involved with the Boy Scouts of America for about 71/2 years,
this organization has had a big impact on my life. I am a third generation Scouter. My grandfather,
Fred Walter Foster, became a Scout Leader when my dad, Herman Wilbur Holmes Foster became a Boy Scout
in the 1930’s.My Dad was a highly decorated Eagle Scout and later became a Scout Executive for the BSA.
My mom, Virginia Martin Foster, was a Den Leader
when they were still called Den Mothers! My early memories include Scout Camps, Pinewood
Derbies, long speeches at banquets, and waiting for my Dad while he was in the Scout Office.
In May of 2001 my oldest son, Colby, turned eight and was able to become a Cub Scout.
He was very excited! Unfortunately he missed his first few meetings because we had to
make an emergency trip to Maine. My Dad died just a week after Colby’s birthday, but
one of his last acts was to give Colby all his Scout memorabilia. That last conversation
made a huge impact on me and I knew that the torch had been passed to me.
Determined to be the best scout leader possible, I read every manual and pamphlet
available! I have rarely missed a Round Table Meeting and I have taken nearly every
training available.We even had the opportunity to go to the Philmont Training Center in New
Mexico.I have had the opportunity to serve in several different positions in our Pack, Troop,
District and Council.Most of the time I have served in several places at the same time!
Although I know that the administration of the program is vital to its success, I like working
directly with the boys.Leading the Webelos Den every week keeps me on my toes as I am
always looking for new ideas.I love teaching Merit Badge Classes and helping the boys
advance toward the Eagle Rank.Receiving Mentor pins from Colby and Paul Struthers in
2006 was a very special moment for me.
I know that there are a lot of organizations that need volunteers, but I have found my niche.
I believe in Scouting. I know that a well-run program can make a difference in the life of a
boy. Because today’s boys become tomorrow’s fathers, helping them make the Scout Oath and
Law a part of their lives will improve our society. Scouting is one of the last bastians of patriotism.
I love the United States of America, and I enjoy teaching the boys about this
great nation of ours. Above all else, I can fully support an organization that pledges Duty
to God before anything else. I am proud to be a Scout Leader and honored to give my
time, resources, and energy to such a fine organization. If I can make a difference to
just one boy, my time is well spent.