Boy Scout Troop 325
Scoutmaster Minute
The Price of Freedom
September 11th, 2001
George Denise, Scoutmaste

A terrorist attack was carried out against the United States of America, today. At this time, we do not know who carried out this attack, what their purpose was, nor how many people have been killed or injured. We assume it was an attack against our nation and what it stands for. To many in the world, we represent wealth, political power, and military might. As such, we are a symbol at which to strike. Especially from poor, war torn nations, nations plagued with ethnic, racial and religious hatred and nations led by petty dictators. They strike out at the United States, partly for not supporting them, but also, by striking out at the most powerful nation on Earth, it makes them appear heroic to their followers and even helps them gain more followers. Yet, it is ironic that while we are the wealthiest and most powerful nation on Earth, we are also the most diverse, the most tolerant, the nation with the greatest freedom, and we are the most giving nation on Earth. It is partly the very freedoms that we so cherish, and our tolerance of others that make us vulnerable to attack. Yet, it is those same freedoms that keep us strong. There is nothing stronger than the will of a free people.

Over two hundred years ago, Thomas Jefferson stated: “The price of liberty is eternal vigilance.” That could just as easily be summarized as ”Be Prepared," our Boy Scout Motto. Prepared for what? For whatever might happen. As a nation, we need to maintain our security services to watch over terrorist organizations throughout the world. We need to maintain our military might to protect us and to deter terrorist attacks.

Today, we experienced the worst terrorist attack in our nation’s history, yet there have been other planned attacks over the past decades that have been intercepted and stopped. We need to understand that we cannot always keep “evil” from happening. When it occurs, as individuals we need to be ready to respond.  We need to be prepared. Hundreds, possibly thousands lost their lives today. Yet, thousands of others were saved, by fire fighters, emergency medical technicians, police officers, and regular citizens trained in first aid and CPR. Many of these men and women received their first emergency training through Scouting.  First aid on the trail to Tenderfoot, 2^nd Class, and 1^st Class. Merit badges in First Aid, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness.  Certification in BSA Lifeguard. Beyond Scouting, they became certified in first aid, advanced first aid, and CPR, just as so many of our older and graduating Scouts have done.

Continue the training you were first introduced to in the Boy Scouts all of your life. Pray that you never have to use it. But in case you do, Be Prepared!

Thank you. God be with you.