Success and Fun at Camp Geiger

Once again, our day at Camp Geiger started shortly after sunrise. The Mile Swimmers (the Messrs.’ Sorensen and Mr. Wawczak) were up to go the half-mile distance today in preparation for the full deal tomorrow morning. Also rising early were several Scouts who are taking the Bird Study merit badge course. The morning was pleasantly coo, continuing with the absolutely marvelous weather we have been enjoying since our arrival (today’s high is supposed to reach a balmy 81!) Although birds were evidently abundant, based on their many, loud songs, none actually emerged from the dense foliage to show themselves to the intrepid quartet of Troop 451 bird watchers (Messrs.’ Covington, McReynolds, Rebodos, and Rawson). Nevertheless, a walk around the camp in the very early morning was a worthwhile experience.

Owing to our high score in yesterday’s campsite rankings, we enjoyed the privilege of raising the Lone Star flag next to the Stars and Stripes at this morning’s colors, making today’s ceremony particularly enjoyable. After a breakfast of ‘cheesy eggs’ and ‘hash browns’, most folks returned to camp. Many of the boys prepared for their first merit badge instruction of the day, which starts at 9:00.

We should be impressed and proud of our young men. They understand how to whip a campsite into shape and why it is important to do so. For some of us, knowing our sons’ rooms, it may be hard to believe but, yes, they actually can keep their living areas neat and tidy. Perhaps it helps that the boys have fewer possessions with them at camp than at home. Perhaps. Then again, maybe the pride of having our Troop 451 Color Guard raise the Texas Flag over Missouri is the motivating factor. Whatever the reason, our boys are doing a good job.  For example, once again, last night, we were awarded ‘Sharpest Unit.’

The announcement of the winners of today’s campsite competition was tense, as always. When the second place troop came in with a score of 107, we were a mite anxious. Anxiety increased when the winning score of 109 was announced. After all, yesterday, our high score had been only 106. When we heard the numbers “four. . . fifty. . . one!” announced, our troop was jubilant. Our exuberance was properly short-lived, however, since it is unbecoming of a scout to gloat (and our boys understand this fairly well). Nevertheless, in two days, our young men have been twice proclaimed ‘Sharpest Unit’ and best campsite; the boys deserve our respect and gratitude.

Today’s accomplishment ensures that the Lone Star flag will continue to grace the Missouri skies tomorrow. While we’d like to see it there all week, we understand that we face some stiff competition from several other sharp outfits who want the prize as much as we do. We will work to keep the Texas Flag flying here and we hope our efforts continue to produce the best results for our unit and our campsite.