A group photo in front of the flag on the Yorktown. Thomas is fifth from the right in the front row.
Trip to Patriots Point
My nephew, Thomas McCullough has been a Boy Scout since he was seven years old. Now in 7th grade, he recently shared info about a trip his Scout Troop #173 took in December.The destination was Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum-Charleston Harbor, SC.
I was particularly interested in this trip because my husband, Michael, and I made a visit to Patriots Point ten years ago. A tour of the aircraft carrier the USS Yorktown was especially meaningful to Michael because his dad, Roger McCullough, served on a similar ship during the Korean War. When discovering photos of his dad’s ship, the Essex CV-9 along with the names of the men who served, Michael was especially happy.
When Thomas shared what he had learned and seen on the trip, he was so excited I had trouble keeping up with his enthusiasm. Explaining how the scouts spent the night on the ship in the officers’ quarters, he said a highlight was exploring the flight deck. It was during that exploration the scouts discovered a group doing astronomy. Thrilled when invited to look through the telescopes, Thomas said the scouts thought the lights of Charleston was really beautiful.
The next morning, after a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, the troop was energized, ready to tour the USS Laffey submarine. Amazed at how narrow and tight everything was inside, Thomas was especially amazed at the lack of space in the bathroom. He said there was barely enough room for the toilet.
A mid-morning tour of the USS Laffey was then followed by a tour of the battleship USS Clamagore. During that tour the troop learned even though at one time the battleship could have been called into active duty while at Patriots Point, since the hull is now rusted out that is no longer true.
Following the tour of the battleship, knowing the weekend was coming to a close, as the scouts took a few last minute photos they said their good-byes to the crew, thanking them for a wonderful time. Although a little tired, Scout Troop #173 left Patriots Point not only with fond memories, but a better appreciation for the price of freedom.
In addition to learning about history and the world around them, the scouts are encouraged to participate in service-oriented projects in the community as well as work on personal goals for growth and development. These goals and achievements often are reflected in the badges they earn. Scout leader, John Crawford says he enjoys working with the young men in Troop #173 and is looking forward to new membership next year. Sponsored by Fair View United Methodist Church and Centre Presbyterian Church of Mt Mourne, NC, to learn more about Troop #173 contact the Chartered Organization Leader, Bill Hicks at 704-528-3288 or check out the following link.
Were you a member of the Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts of America? If so, what were some of your favorite activities? Leave a comment below, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Dicy
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