Boy Scout Troop 325 Scoutmaster Minute

"Show me a poorly uniformed troop and I'll show you a poorly uniformed leader."

Sir Robert Baden Powell

October 28, 2008
Andy Duprey, Scoutmaster

Gentlemen, I let's talk for a minute about the Boy Scout Uniform.

It consists of a
Shirt,
Neckerchief and slide/or bolo awarded to you
pants or shorts (Switchback style gives you both)
Socks with shorts and a belt

So why is that hard?

I hear the money argument, but that really is not that bad, it can be done if you want to... just like anything else. And we do have a FREE uniform bank.

I hear that the uniform is not practical.. not anymore. The switchbacks are very practical.

I hear the boys don't like it... they don't like doing chores either, but it is good for them to learn to do their part.

I know many of you are running in from soccer and wrestling, I myself am often coming straight from work. Mr. Denise used to change in the restroom. I stop at home, grab a bite, throw on my uniform, check the mirror and run out.

To do that requires a bit of discipline and forethought.
You have to lay out your uniform to be able to grab it quickly,
Which means that you have to dig it out from the bottom of the pile over the weekend and make sure your uniform is clean

I think we have trouble showing up in uniform because we are working on self-discipline and forethought.

When you come to scouts in full uniform, it shows to me and the rest of the leaders and scouts that you are disciplined and able to plan ahead.

When you come to scouts in less than full uniform, it shows me, the leaders and your fellow scouts that you are less than disciplined and not quite able to plan ahead yet.

Now, before you object to strenuously, I know there are times when it is a choice between showing up without full uniform, or not showing up at all. It happens, it has happened to me.

We want you to show up!

But that should be the rare exception and not the rule

The uniform is an important part of Scouting.

Baden-Powell wrote:
"The correct wearing of the uniform and smartness of turnout of the individual Scout makes him a credit to our Movement. It shows his pride in himself and in his Troop."

Thank you and good night scouts!

BTW-Don't forget your uniforms and patrol flags next week!