Camp Geiger Sunday, June 19, 2022

You would have thought that it was a rock band whose tour bus was pulling into the first Methodist church parking lot on a steamy Saturday night.  Oh no, it was the 2022 camp Geiger bus there to haul 40+ scouts and adult leaders the 600 mile trip to St. Joseph, MO.  The troop has competed this journey 21 years in succession.  A little organized chaos always shows it’s face when trying to corral the excitement of summer camp in addition to the bus ride up.  The bus all loaded, hugs abound, pictures and maybe a tear or two (high fives for some).   

This year the movie selection took a small change as it sometimes will and the troop watched Up.  Some tried to sleep, some played with their electronics as much as they could as they are rounded up when we arrive at camp.  The excitement in the air has always been one of the most enjoyable parts of summer camp.  Whether you are a first year scout or a seasoned veteran, Geiger is a special place that holds so much in our hearts.  Loves truck stop is our normal stop for restroom breaks, sodas, candy…all assorted junk foods.  Back on the road until daybreak where we arrive to St Joseph.  

Unfortunately St Joseph isn’t immune to labor shortages, as we found out trying to open the doors to the McDonald’s.  As someone very smart once said, “there’s always that one thing…this is our thing”.  We adapt and overcome.   Online orders delivered curbside and a small side venture to Taco Bell for the rest.  All scouts were fed and that’s all that matters.

Arrival at camp the “Geiger, Geiger, Geiger” chant began as we traveled our way through the gateway.  Unloading the bus storage that was filled with footlockers, fans, chairs, etc was a considerable team effort.  The scouts scrambled to claim their home away from home for the next week.  Lots of setup on the pavilion, wash station, tents, the whole camp.  A sack lunch in the shade seating registration was followed up with assorted board games and cards.  Sunday, I say is an odd day at camp…similar to the first day of school.   You aren’t in your routine yet, lots of paperwork, let’s stand here, now let’s stand here, over there.  Just part of the checkin process.  Swim checks for those utilizing the aquatics merit badges or even for just use of the pool.  

Dinner at Geiger is always in a class A uniform.  If you wonder why we double and triple check that your scout has it, it’s so that they are easily accessible when dinner arrives.  Every scout is full uniform with Troop 451…class A shirt, scout shorts, scout socks, belt, neckerchief and woggle baseball caps and the 2022 Geiger caribeener.  Flag ceremony at the dining hall before dinner consisting of chicken fried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy and access to the salad bar (after so many years without).  

The troop once again won best dressed unit and will be afforded the opportunity to participate in the flag ceremony where we get to hang our Texas flag.  Our troop is a consistent winner of that award along with the cleanest campsite.  We will find out tomorrow at lunch if we were able to make it a clean sweep.  

Sunday evening campfire is the next event for the troop.  We have a new ranger this year, Ranger Evan who after his introduction took the time to go over new emergency processes and procedures.   Some skits from the different staffer groups and it was time to head back to camp for a shower and a good nights sleep.   The troop was an exhausted one that could use some shuteye.  It’s now 12:30 and I need some myself.  

On behalf of the the campers, I say goodnight.