Summer Camp 2001

July 1 - July 6, 2001

Troop 57 returned to Camp Frank Rand, near Chimayo, Mew Mexico, for summer camp 2001. This time, though, the troop combined the available high adventure activities at Camp Rand with a more traditional merit badge oriented summer camp. While two crews of older scouts were out in the Pecos Wilderness enjoying challenging days of hiking, mountain climbing, and white-water rafting those who stayed in base camp were busily attending classes and earning merit badges. Troop 57 earned the Honor Troop Award while there. We also had the privilege of performing two flag ceremonies on July 4th, Independence Day. We performed the opening flag ceremony for the whole camp on Wednesday morning, complete with a resounding salute from our very own black powder cannon. We were able to obtain special permission from the camp director to use it for the ceremony. Then, at the campfire that night Troop 57 performed for the camp a flag retirement. At the conclusion of the ceremony, two staffers bugled 'Taps' in a most unique way. Located at opposite ends of the camp, one bugler would play a phrase which would then be echoed by the second. With the starry night and the echo of the sounds off the surrounding mountains, it was awe inspiring to say the least. The guys did a wonderful job and we received many compliments from other troops as a result. During the time we were at Camp Rand, a burn ban was in effect which prohibited open fires. However, for the flag retirement a real fire was built in a container, just for the ceremony. Afterwards several of the camp staff remained behind to allow the fire to burn completely to ashes. Staff presented the troop with some of the ashes from this fire.
On our way to camp Troop 57 had the opportunity to live the scout slogan, "Do a good turn daily", by helping another troop who was on their way home to Amarillo. One of their vehicles had become disabled and they did not have sufficient transportation to get home. We provided them with transportation as far as Claude, Texas, where they were met by other members of their troop.
On the way home from Camp Rand, the troop stopped in Palo Duro Canyon for the night were we also attended a performance of the musical drama, "Texas", performed in the canyon amphitheater. We were thrilled by the performance and also by the fireworks display afterwards.
The scoutmaster is very proud of all the guys and thankful for the other adults who accompanied the troop and helped make this trip a reality.

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