Normandy Camporee still a success 80 years later, plus more positive news in Scouting this week

Photo credit: Transatlantic Council

The Normandy Camporee, hosted by the BSA’s Transatlantic Council and held in Normandy, France, recently welcomed more than 50 troops and 1,421 participants worldwide. This year’s edition coincided with the 80th anniversary of D-Day, providing a unique historical backdrop.

The event embodies the spirit of Scouting, offering a platform for service, skill-building and commemoration internationally. Activities included memorial services, ceremonies recognizing achievements and visits to historical sites. The camporee also featured a dedicated app, reflecting modern technological integration.

Before the weekend concluded, new Eagle Scouts were honored on Omaha Beach, highlighting the significance of the prestigious rank.

Read more about this story from the Stars and Stripes website.

Scout honored for saving woman’s life

Alex Taylor, a Cub Scout from Independence, Missouri, was recently recognized for saving a woman’s life while vacationing in Hawaii with his family.

While at Waikiki Beach, Alex, 10 years old at the time, heard a cry for help and immediately sprang into action. Drawing on skills he learned as an Arrow of Light Cub Scout with Pack 4865 of Independence, Alex rescued the woman by swimming her to shore after she got caught in a strong current near a break in the beach wall. Other adults who were there helped the woman get safely to dry ground. His quick thinking and courage earned him the BSA’s Heroism Award for saving a life.

Alex says he thinks it’s important that all Scouts take their training seriously, highlighting how their skills can make a significant difference in real-life situations.

Read more about this heroic story from the KSHB website.

Troop returns the favor to the organization that came to its aide last winter

The Martins Ferry American Legion Post 38 was there when Bridgeport, Ohio, Scouts BSA Troop 109 needed help, and a recent service project opportunity gave the Scouts the chance to return the favor.

After the Scouts’ trailer was burglarized last winter, the post donated items to replace the stolen equipment. In return, the Scouts cleaned the veteran banners that the post places around Martins Ferry, Ohio, to honor military veterans. Scoutmaster Pete Ehni emphasized the importance of teaching his troop about community service.

Read more about this story on the Times Leader website.


About Sheniece Chappell 60 Articles
Sheniece Chappell is an associate editor of Scout Life and Scouting magazines.