Wood Badge

Over the last 18 months, Matt has been working on his Wood Badge "Tickets Items" which were part of his requirements to receive his Wood Badge Beads.  This weekend Matt received this Award. 

Wood Badge is Scouting's premier training course and is designed to be a pinnacle experience.  It is learning by doing the skills and methods of Scouting.  The entire adult troop lives in the out-of-doors for a week, camping, cooking their own meals, and practicing Scouting skills.  It is an amazing Leadership Training Program.  Here are some pictures of Matt receiving his awards. 

Mason and Josie were a little rambunctious, to say the least during this ceremony.

Here is a little poem of what the beads represent...

Two Tiny Beads

Two tiny wooden beads on a leather thong doesn't sound like an outstanding badge and

mark of distinction, but it is known and respected as such around the world.  It is symbolic of the

efforts and interests of one man, on behalf of others, that created and launched the

greatest movement for youth the world has ever known. 

It is the mark of those who have demonstrated that they are people of character and

who are devoted to a cause; adults who strive for perfections, well knowing that even the

best is not enough; adults who hold the welfare of others before self; Scouters who live up to

all that the name implies.  The Wood Badge is awarded to Scouters on the basis of

what they think, more tan on what they know.  They  must demonstrate that they

"know how," also.  Good intentions count for little until, by the application of ability

and determination, they produce results that count.  Striving for perfection in themselves

that they might better train and coach others to this end, exists the wood badge. 

It is doubtful that the thought ever entered the mind of Robert Baden-Powell, that his

efforts on Brownsea Island would grow to influence the youth of the world and that in the

days ahead, thousands upon thousands of men and women would carry his efforts forward to

an ever increasing number of young people and adults. 

Who knows, but to this effort, this crusade may flourish to the end that two tiny wooden

beads on a leather thong may yet become the symbol of a succeeding effort to bring about a

world brotherhood of people under the watchful eye of God.  To that end, may the wood badge

serve and the Scouters never falter or fail.  Two tiny wooden beads on a leather thong; they

could symbolize the hope of the world.  It's up to you.

Matt worked really hard to finish up his "ticket items" while finishing up his last semester at UNM.  He graduated with his BAFA December 18th, 2009 and completed his Wood Badge Requirements

December 19th, 2009.  Just in time!  It is a great honor for him to finally receive his

recognition for this great accomplishment. 

Way to go Matt!  We are all so proud of you!

For more information on Wood Badge Training go to http://www.woodbadge.org/.