Two years ago (PAH)

Tom_35

Dave,

I read about this tragedy earlier tonight on the internet. It is certainly something that makes us pause and not take our lives for granted.

I'm sure that many prayers are being offered up for their families all across our nation.

Tom Atchley
Ft. Smith, AR

Dave Yates (PAH)

Deaths in BSA

Two years ago, my son & I attended our last BSA High Adventure trip. A canoeing trip through the Adirondacks. On our first afternoon/evening, we were slated to take a swim test - standard fare for BSA. This night would prove to be different for one Scout - an adult leader died during the swim test - his dad. A heat attack, we would later learn. Sobering in that he was the same age as were we who served as adult leaders for our troop. The next morning at 5:30 AM, we took our swim test and the entire staff turned out to be on hand for us old farts as we plunged into the icy waters - the tension was thick enough to cut with a knife.

Today, four adult leaders have perished at Jambo, the national Jamboree held at Fort AP Hill in VA. You may recall the article I wrote for Contractor detailing my own experiences as a volunteer with Jambo security. Earlier today I couldn't help but remember the sweltering hot weather we endured (100 degrees with the heat index pegged at 110!). On our watch, one youth was directly struck by lightening, but thankfully survived. Today four men perished and they were no doubt there because their sons are in attendance and due to their desire to make a difference in the lives of youth. I'd ask you give them a moment's thought tonight. I've seen the face of a son who lost his father at a Scouting adventure and know they'll need your support - even if it's a silent moment's thought.

No doubt Jambo will go on. That's what those Dads would have wanted. 40,000+ Scouts are in attendance with their adult leaders.

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Dave Stroman

I was a Scout leader for a while too. One thing Scouting does is it gets your fanny out of the artificial world we all live in and into the world of survival. Most of what we did on outtings revolved around survival. Staying dry, staying warm, having enough to eat, making sure the bears do not eat you. Staying safe was so important. When something like this happens you realize how unsafe this world can be.

It makes you wonder how our forefathers survived without the modern conveniences we have.

Dave in Denver

ScottMP

MY heart goes out to those young boys

and thier familys.

What a sad tragedy.

Scott

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