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Philmont Scout Ranch - 2010 |
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Expedition 812-F covered about 45 miles following a modified Itinerary # 17. The pictures won't do it justice and I could write all day about our experiences, challenges and the huge amount of fun we had. What they say is true; it is a life-changing experience. Although there was a fair amount of hiking, the mileage isn't the focus and it isn't what we'll remember. The focus is on getting to the camps so the boys could experience the programs. Click the image to see the whole gallery.
The boys (and adults):
- Climbed Spar Poles
- Attended outdoor church
- Went to two backcountry concerts
- Blacksmithed
- Toured an old gold mine
- Loaded and Shot Black Powder Rifles
- Threw Tomahawks
- Built Trails
- Branded boots, belts and hats
- Rock Climbed
- Rappelled
- Learned about camping in Bear Country
- Ate cheese out of a squeeze packet
- Worked together as a team
- Took more than 3,000 pictures
- And so much more...
Philmont is an amazing place with an extremely rich tradition. Despite nearly 1 million participants, there was no trash, no graffiti, no real indication that the place wasn't brand new. It is a testament to what we teach and what we practice. You simply cannot go there without being changed by the experience. I hope each of you get the chance to make the trip someday; it is magical...
I'd like to thank Nathan for leading the crew. He did an excellent job and his fantastic leadership was another example of what the scouting program is all about. I also want to thank Mr. Schilder for the months and months of planning, training and flawless execution. He had a million little details covered and his experience made our trip that much better; it was like travelling with an insider. I also want to thank Mrs. McClure and Mr. Neukranz for their time and talents; for driving, taking pictures, coaching, "carrying the water" and keeping the conversations lively. We couldn't have made this opportunity available to our boys without you.
Enjoy the pictures and I hope you'll get a chance to hear lots of stories as we leave this trek behind and look forward to the next one.
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