Guide to Policies and Procedures 

• Top of Document
• WELCOME
• General
• Ideals
• Activities
• The Scout Oath or Promise
• The Scout Law
• Scout Motto
• Scout Slogan
• Outdoor Code
• Joining TROOP 434
• Troop Meetings
• Patrol Leaders Council (PLC)
• Policies and Procedures
• Registration and Fees
• Additional Cost/Transportation
• Insurance
• Health Information/Medical Forms/Tour Permits
• Outings/Camping Trips
• Camping Guidelines
• Camping Equipment
• Aquatics Activities
• Other General Information
• Uniforms
• Uniform Requirements
• Class "A" Uniform
• Class "B" Uniform
• General Leadership Information
• Junior Leadership
• The Patrol Leaders Council (PLC)
• Patrol Leaders Council Voting
• Senior Patrol Leader (SPL)
• Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL)
• Patrol Leader (PL)
• Assistant Patrol Leader (APL)
• Patrol Organization
• Elected and Appointed Junior Troop Leaders & Their Terms
• Troop Elections
• Termination of Leadership Position
• Advancement
• Rank Requirements
• Scoutmaster Conference/Boards of Review
• Merit Badges
• Court of Honor
• Service Projects
• Order of the Arrow
• Code of Conduct
• Grievances
• Policy Revision, Review & Approval
• APPENDIX
• DUTIES OF PARENTS
• TROOP JUNIOR LEADERSHIP

Troop 434 is sponsored (chartered) by American Legion Post 434 which furnishes the Troop a meeting place and storage facilities. The entire Scouting program is carried out by the Scoutmasters under the direct supervision of the Troop Committee as prescribed by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

We are always happy to admit a new Scout into the Brotherhood of Scouting. The affiliation request of each new Scout gives the Scoutmasters an opportunity to meet with the parents and exchange ideas and ideals and to describe the basic Scouting concepts of Troop 434. The Troop Committee and Scoutmaster pledge to you to assist each Scout in the development of his duties to God and Country, to others and to himself. We hope to develop an awareness of self-reliance, to improve individual and group skills, and to increase his abilities and knowledge, particularly those of the outdoors and nature. The vehicle to accomplish the above will be the Patrol Method.

In turn, we ask the Scout's parents to continue encouragement of his efforts, especially in planning and helping for his advancement. We also ask for direct participation when called upon to assist the Troop. Such assistance will usually be for transportation, refreshments for Courts-of-Honor and other special events However, parents can assist in other ways such as serving on the Troop Committee or as a Merit Badge Counselor. Parents can help the Troop achieve goals by their willingness to help, especially during fund raisers.

Scouting involves more than the basic activities usually associated with the program, such as tying knots, cooking, and camping. While this is an integral part of Scouting, Troop 434's program also includes both adventure and work, with emphasis on growth and advancement in all phases of character building, citizenship, acceptance of responsibility, planning, execution, and evaluation.

Should a question arise or a problem develop, please contact one of the Scoutmasters. Such contact is particularly necessary should any situation arise that may affect the Scout's relationship with his fellow Scouts, Patrol, or Troop. This is not to say that Troop policies will be changed or action will be taken to address the problem every time such a situation arises. The Scoutmasters will weigh the facts and determine what is to be done. If there is no feedback from parents, the Scoutmasters must assume that all is well within the Troop.

The Troop Committee and the Scoutmaster recognize that Scouting has become expensive and can be a strain on a household budget. Troop 434's program includes a variety of activities. No Scout should be prevented from participating for financial reasons. All discussions will be held with the utmost confidentiality.

Policies and Procedures of Troop 434 are adopted by the Troop Committee, with the advice of the Scoutmaster and in compliance with the Policies and Procedures of the Boy Scouts of America.

The unit charter of Troop 434 is granted by the Monmouth Council, Boy Scouts of America to American Legion Post 434 in accordance with the requirements of the bylaws, rules and regulations of the Boy Scouts of America.

Special community, Council, District, and Troop activities are held throughout the year. ALL SCOUTS are expected to attend as a Troop. These activities include, but are not limited to:

Camping's, Camporees, Scout-O-Ramas, Mall Expos, Good Turn Projects, Service Projects, Patrol Leaders Council Service Projects, Courts of Honor (parents also participate), and Fund Raisers (parents also participate).

A parent or guardian should accompany his/her son to a troop meeting at the time the decision is made to join Troop 434. A membership packet will be given to the parent for review and for completion of the necessary forms. The parent, with son, will meet with the Scoutmaster to discuss Troop 434's Scouting Program, Policy and Procedures. This will normally take place during a regular troop meeting and must be scheduled in advance. The boy will not be permitted to participate in any Scouting function until he is properly registered and all his fees are paid. He may visit up to three troop meetings before joining.

The Membership Packet includes:

Each Scout's parent or guardian is asked to contribute to the Troop and its activities in some way. Many resources and talents are required to operate a Troop and to have a quality program. The Troop is in need of your help. If the Troop Resource Questionnaire does not address your abilities, discuss with the Scoutmaster ways you can assist the Troop. It is expected that each Scout's family unit will contribute to the Scout's Troop and its program.

Every Monday night from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. sharp! Please be punctual. Meetings take place during the school year. This meeting is for all Scouts registered with the unit. 

Once a month. This meeting is for all Patrol Leaders, Assistant Patrol Leaders, Troop Guide, Scribe, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. The Senior Patrol Leader is responsible for conducting the meeting.

Policies and Procedures

The Troop will follow and incorporate all the policies, rules, procedures and bylaws of the Boy Scouts of America in the implementation of this Scouting program. It shall also follow all policies and procedures that currently pertain to all youth organizations sponsored by the American Legion Post 434.

Each Scout must complete a Boy Scouts of America (BSA) registration form which the parent or guardian must sign, prior to participation in any Scout activities. Registration is every January. Fees must be paid every year prior to February l. Registration fees are updated by the Troop Committee.

Additional Cost/Transportation

The cost of food for outings will be shared equally by the Scouts participating in the activity. This money needs to be paid prior to the outing and needs to be paid in cash to the Scout ("Grub master") that is selected to purchase the food and supplies for the outing. All other fees and moneys will be paid to the Troop Committee Treasurer. At times there will be special events that will incur cost for the Scout (i.e., camporees, special outings, etc.). These fees will be collected on an individual event basis. At times there may be Unit money­making projects to defer these costs.

Each parent or legal guardian is encouraged to have health/accident insurance on their Scout. All vehicles used to transport Scouts must have the minimum insurance required under B.S.A. Policy. Primary (1st) accident insurance is purchased by the unit.

Health Information,
Medical Forms & Tour Permits

Each Adult Scouter will have a annual Class III medical form on file with the unit. Each Scout will have a Class II medical form on file complete with a physician's signed physical that has been completed within previous three years. The parent and/or legal guardian will complete a health questionnaire yearly and update information as needed. Every Scout joining the Troop must have a physical examination on file with the unit. (see Health and Safety Guide Book).

Tour permits will be required for all camping trips as well as all other activities that take the Scout out of the Council.

Outings are the heart of Troop 434's Scouting Program and the Troop usually takes one outing per month, RAIN, SNOW or SHINE.

Scouting requires that a boy learn to live in the out­of­doors. In order to advance in Scouting, a boy must go camping regularly. A Scout who does not advance soon loses interest. Special trips are planned and the Troop participates in District and Council events. Scouts are also encouraged to attend Summer Camp, National and World Jamborees, and Philmont Expeditions.

All outings require at least two adult leaders to be present, with at least one registered with the BSA. The BSA "two deep leadership" policy will pertain to all troop functions.

Scouts and adults from other troops who are invited to participate in troop activities or outings must have Patrol Leaders Council and Troop Committee approval in advance.

All Scouts and Scouters will adhere to the "Outdoor Code".

• The Patrol Leader will be responsible for coordinating with the Troop Quartermaster to make sure that his Patrol has adequate tents and Troop furnished equipment for each camping trip. This should be done on Thursday prior to the day of departure.
  
• The Patrol Leader will be responsible for assigning to different Scouts equipment that needs to be carried home for cleaning or drying. All cooking equipment must be clean and all Patrol equipment must be maintained in proper condition. The Patrol Leader will keep a written list of equipment assignments and turn a copy in to the Quartermaster whenever he requests it.
  
• If any damage to Troop equipment is done in a negligent manner, the Scout or Scouter will be expected to replace such equipment or pay for repair.
  
• IMPORTANT - It is the policy of the BSA NOT to allow any SHEATH KNIVES or folding LOCK BLADE KNIVES with a blade over 4" (inches) long to be worn or carried during any Scout functions or outings. The only exceptions are kitchen knives which may be used in the cooking area only, and must be stored in the patrol cooking equipment box. Any violation will result in an adult taking the knife from the Scout and returning it to his parents.
  
• Axes and saws are to used by those Scouts who have earned the BSA Totin' Chit Card and then only for a task that requires the use of an ax or saw. The Troop will provide any qualified Scout the use of the Troop ax or saw. In any case, saws and axes will only be used in a defined ax yard and under adult supervision.
  
• No individual items of food or drink in cans or bottles will be permitted on camping trips except under the conditions listed below. Canned goods, snacks, cookies, and candy will be purchased only in Patrol size quantities when they are on the menu and approved by the Assistant Scoutmaster.
  
• With outings being the heart of Troop 434's program, it is expected that each Scout will attend each camping. It must be emphasized that Scouts who have told their Patrol Leader they are planning to go on the camping trip must pay their share of the food costs even if they do not attend, unless the patrol Grub master is notified 1 week prior to the camping trip.
  
• Bare feet are never allowed except in water­front areas, or for swimming. Sandal type shoes will be allowed for aquatic activities. At no time are open toe shoes to be worn in the axe yard or during meal preparation.
  
• Radios, tape players, and video games are not allowed on any weekend camping trips and in summer camp. The Scoutmasters are not responsible for these items under any circumstances.
  
• Scouts who have not reached the rank of First Class must have a Boy Scout Handbook on each camping. These should be protected with a plastic bag or waterproof container.
  
• The campsite WILL be left as clean, or cleaner, than it was found.
  
• On Backpacking trips, liquid fuel stoves designed for backpacking may be used, and extra fuel must be carried in containers designed for transporting these fuels in the backpacking environment. Only Adult Leaders will be allowed to refill liquid fuel stoves.
  
• Fireworks or pyrotechnics are strictly forbidden, without prior Committee approval.
  
• Scouts are not allowed in other Patrol sites or adult areas except when permission is obtained, or to see the Scoutmaster in an emergency.
  
• Each Patrol will supply its own paper products, soap, food items, trash bags, etc.
  
• Each Patrol will develop their own approved menu and duty roster; have them approved by a Scoutmaster prior to the camping; and have them posted during the camping.
  
• No Scout will ride on the OUTSIDE of any motor vehicle. This restriction includes hanging or riding on bumpers, in trailers, in the beds of pickups, etc.
• Any Scout who drives a vehicle to a Troop event or camping must be at least 18 years of age; possess a valid driver's license; and have his parents' or Guardian's permission. He will do so only in accordance with the provisions of the tour permit for the event. Upon reaching the destination, the Scout will park his car and leave it parked until it is time to return. He will not transport any other Scout to or from the event. The written authorization will be turned in to the Scoutmaster prior to departure. For all trips outside Monmouth County, New Jersey, all drivers must be 18 years of age.
• The Troop will travel to and from events / camping's as a unit except when permission for alternate travel is granted by the Scoutmaster. Parent cooperation is most appreciated. Each Scout will help load and unload Troop and individual gear.
  
  FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE ABOVE CAMPING GUIDELINES MAY RESULT IN THE SCOUT NOT BEING PERMITTED TO GO ON THE NEXT CAMPING TRIP.
  
  

1. All aquatic activities will follow the Safety Afloat and Safe Swim Defense Plan.
2. Written plans for any aquatics activities will be submitted in advance to the Troop Committee.
3. At least one or more adults will have attended the council Canoe Safe Handling course within the last 5 years for canoe activities.
4. All Scouts will have a safety briefing and/or shakedown prior to any canoe or aquatic activity. Those that do not attend will not be allowed to participate in the activity.
5. Adult Scouters operating a power boat will are highly encouraged be required to have completed either a Coast Guard or Power Squadron Safe Boating Course.

1. All participants must have parental permission obtained prior to outing.
2. All participants must attend the shakedown to participate in the activity.
3. Scout participation from other troops must meet the same requirements for Venture Crew, and have their Scoutmaster's approval.

It is recognized that Scout uniforms are expensive! However, a Scout and Scouter is encouraged to obtain a uniform as soon as possible, but not until he's sure he wants to stay in Scouting.

The Boy Scouts of America has always been a uniformed body. The uniforms help create a sense of belonging. They symbolize character development, citizenship training, and personal fitness. Wearing the uniform gives the youth and adult members a feeling of:

* Personal Equality * Identification * Achievement * Personal Commitment

When properly and smartly worn, the uniform can build good unit spirit, and when worn on correct occasions, can attract new members.

The Leaders of Scouting ­ both volunteer and professional ­ promote the wearing of the correct complete uniform on all suitable occasions.

For more information on uniforms see your Boy Scout Handbook, Scoutmasters Handbook or the BSA Insignia Guide.

The first item each Scout should obtain is the Boy Scout Handbook which contains information on rank requirements and general information on the Scouting program. The Boy Scout Handbook is needed at every Troop meeting.

Uniforms and other Scout accessories can be purchased through the local Scout supplier which is Bob's Uniform across Union Square Mall, Hwy 35, Middletown, NJ; The Hobby Shop, Rt. 34, Matawan, NJ; or from the J.C. Penney's catalog desk. You may also obtain an official Boy Scout Catalog from the Scoutmaster, or at The Hobby Shop. The Monmouth Council BSA office in Oakhurst now has a Regional "Scout Store" which stocks most items in the official catalog. The Council office & Scout Store are located at Deal & Monmouth Rds. in Oakhurst, NJ.

Each Scout should have his uniform when he receives his Scout badge. This Class "A" uniform is to be worn on each Troop function, i.e. meetings, travel to and from camping's, Scout ceremonies and other functions as directed by the Scoutmaster. If your Scout outgrows his uniform, the Troop has a uniform closet which loans uniforms to troop members. PLEASE donate your Scout's outgrown uniforms.

Participation in Troop meeting activities requires proper uniform. Scouts arriving to a scheduled Troop meeting or activity out of uniform for no good reason, and without prior approval, may be asked to call their parents for immediate pickup.

NOTE: CAMOUFLAGE PANTS AND SHIRTS ARE PROHIBITED by the Monmouth Council except for members of certain Explorer Posts.

Troop 434 is a "Uniformed" unit.

Class "A" Uniform

1. Official BSA khaki shirt (long or short sleeve)
2. Green Scout pants (long or short)
3. Scout belt with buckle
4. Red and green Scout socks for shorts
5. Red epaulettes
6. Troop Hat
7. Troop Neckerchief
8. Troop Red T-Shirts
9. Insignia for shirt:

• Monmouth Council patch
• American flag patch
• Patrol patch
• Numerals " 434 "
• Rank insignia

Please refer to the front and back covers of the Official Boy Scout Handbook for proper placement of insignia on the shirt or please see the Scoutmaster or another adult Scouter.

Class "B" Uniform

1. Troop T-shirt with Scout Shorts or pants
2. Red and green Scout socks when wearing shorts

The Troop's primary leadership is provided by the boys in the unit and is to be run by the youth. The senior youth leader is the Senior Patrol Leader and all other youth leadership is subordinate to this position. The Scoutmaster and his Assistants serve to provide a quality program for the Scouts. The Troop Committee is comprised of community members and parents who provide administrative and other support to the Scouts, Parents, Scoutmaster and Unit. All Adult Scouters serving in this program are BSA TRAINED VOLUNTEERS, age 18 and over and serve in advisory positions and are to ensure that all activities of the unit follow the rules, regulations and policies of the Boy Scouts of America.

The Patrol Leaders Council (PLC)

The elected junior leaders of Troop 434 are known as the Patrol Leaders Council (PLC). Working under the guidance of the Scoutmaster or his/her designee, the PLC is responsible for the Troop program. This includes planning and carrying out Troop meetings and outdoor programs. In order to properly represent the members of the Troop, Patrol Leaders are requested to meet at least once a month for a PLC. Each Patrol Leader must represent his own patrol, and relate their needs and concerns. He must participate in the Troop's planning and decision making, and help plan outdoor events. The Senior Patrol Leader, or the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader in his absence will preside over this meeting and will call for any votes. The Troop Scribe will record any decisions made and will prepare them to be reviewed by the Scoutmaster.

Other youth and adults may be invited to the PLC by the Senior Patrol Leader to assist with planning of activities as needed.

The Senior Patrol Leader and Patrol Leaders will vote on all issues and proposals at the PLC. Each member of the PLC will have one vote. Issues concerning policy, equipment purchase, or Troop events must be first voted on at a PLC, and then be ratified and approved by the Scoutmaster and finally by the Troop Committee. A quorum, at least 2/3 of the PLC voting members must be present before a vote can be taken.


The following positions comprised the Patrol Leaders Council (PLC): The following positions comprised the Patrol Leaders Council (PLC):

• Senior Patrol Leader (SPL): Shall be elected by the majority of Scouts registered in the Troop. He shall be at least First Class in rank, and shall have served at least one term as Patrol Leader, Scribe, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader or other junior leadership position approved by the PLC. His term, which can start at any time, will be for a period not to exceed one year, after which an election must be held to determine the next SPL. He shall preside over the Patrol Leaders Council (PLC). He guides the Patrol Leaders and other junior leadership positions.
  
  The Senior Patrol Leader may be re-elected and there is no limit to the number of terms he can be elected.
  
  
• Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL): Appointed by the SPL with the approval of the Scoutmaster, and must meet all the requirements of the SPL. He will take over the job of the SPL in his absence, and will assume the position of SPL, for the remainder of the term, in the event the current SPL is unable to continue in that capacity.
  
  
• Patrol Leader (PL): Shall be elected by a majority vote of the members of his individual patrol by secret ballot. He must be at a least First Class Scout. His term can start at any time, will be for a period not to exceed 6 months, after which an election must be held to determine the next Patrol Leader. There is no limitation to the number of times he can hold the office.
  
  Note: A Patrol Leader shall hold the rank of First Class Scout, however, at the discretion of the Scoutmaster, this requirement may be waived for a new patrol.
  
  
• Assistant Patrol Leader (APL): Appointed by the Patrol Leader to assume the duties of the Patrol Leader in his absence.
  
  

These are appointed by the Senior Patrol Leader with the advice and counsel of the Scoutmaster. Other junior leadership positions appointed by the Senior Patrol Leader with the advice and counsel of the Scoutmaster:

Instructor, Quartermaster, Scribe, Librarian, Historian, Chaplain's Aide, Den Chief, Troop Guide, Bugler.


Note: In the event the Senior Patrol Leader, the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader are absent for any reason at a Troop function, the Patrol leader with the highest seniority will temporarily assume the duties of the SPL for that function.

Patrol Organization

(Appointed by the Patrol Leader and serve 1 Year.)

• Assistant Patrol Leader
  
• Patrol Scribe
  
• Grub master
  
• Patrol Quartermaster
  
• Chief Cook
  

Will be held annually, in December for the Senior Patrol Leader.

Elections will be overseen by the Scoutmaster. Troop members will be notified in advance by letter and phone to attend the meeting and its purpose. Ballots will be made secret. The Senior Patrol leader must be elected by a majority of the youth members present at the election. No adult leaders may vote.

Termination of Leadership Position

As it is vital to the smooth operation of the Troop, all Scouts in leadership positions are requested to attend ALL meetings. In the event of three unexcused absences, that Scout will be removed from the position he is currently holding, and an appointment will be made or in case of a Senior Patrol Leader or Patrol Leader, the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader or Assistant Patrol Leader will then immediately fill the position until the next election.

Any Scout caught using any drugs or alcohol during any Scouting event or activity will be removed from the leadership position he is currently holding, and may not run for any leadership position again until approved by the Scoutmaster after consultation with the Troop Committee Chairperson if needed.

Advancement is the process by which Scouts progress from rank to rank in the Scouting program. The purpose of advancement is to strengthen character, body, mind, and the concept of being a participating citizen. The Boy Scout requirements for rank are the basis for advancement. There are five steps in the advancement procedure: learning, testing, reviewing, recognition, and participation (minimum 75% in all Troop activities including Troop meetings, camping's, service projects, etc.)

Boy Scout Ranks are as follows:

• Scout
• Tenderfoot
• Second Class
• First Class
• Star
• Life
• Eagle

Currently the only youth leadership approved by the Scoutmaster that can sign off advancement requirements Scout to First Class is the Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and Patrol Leaders and only if that rank is lesser than their own (i.e., a First Class cannot sign off First Class Requirements, but may sign off Second Class, Tenderfoot or Scout requirements). Those qualified to sign off rank advancement from Star to Eagle will be determined by the Scoutmaster. The requirement of "Scout Spirit" in all ranks is specifically reserved for the Scoutmaster's approval, as part of the Scoutmaster's Conference.

The Scoutmaster and Advancement Chairperson or their designees will sign all advancement forms concerning the Scouting program.

Boy Scout Rank Requirements are set forth in the current Boy Scout Handbook, Boy Scout Requirements or Scoutmasters Handbook. They may also be viewed at MeritBadge.com's Website, online at this URL - http://www.meritbadge.com/bsa/adv/

As each Scout completes the requirements for the next rank, his progress is reviewed by the Scoutmaster during a Scoutmaster's conference. The Scoutmasters conference helps the Scout evaluate his accomplishments and set new goals. Once this conference is complete, the Scout is prepared for his Board of Review. The Boards of Review for the ranks of Tenderfoot to Life is the responsibility of the Troop Committee Advancement Chairperson. A periodic review of the progress of Scouts is vital in the evaluation of the effectiveness of the Scouting Program. The purpose of the Board of Review is as follows:

• To make sure the Scout has done what he was supposed to do for the rank. That the work has been learned and completed.
  
• To see how good an experience the Scout is having.
  
• To encourage the Scout to progress further.
  

The review is not an examination. The Scout has learned and has been examined prior to the review. The Scout reviews what he did for the rank. From this review, it can be determined whether he did what he was supposed to do.

One regularly scheduled Board of Review will be held on the last Monday of every month at 8:00 p.m., during the weekly meeting. If others are needed, they should be scheduled with the Troop Advancement Chairperson 1 week in advance. Boards of Review are conducted by members of the Troop Committee. It is expected that each Scout appearing before a Board of Review for advancement will present himself in as complete, proper class "A" uniform with proper insignia and current badges of rank and office permanently and neatly affixed to the uniform. Scouts not wearing a uniform as described above will not be reviewed and will forfeit their opportunity for advancement until the next scheduled Board of Review.

An Eagle Board of Review is conducted by the Troop Committee with the Battleground District Eagle Board Chairman and/or his designee in attendance.

Note: A Board of Review may also be called for by the Scoutmaster, Troop Committee Member, Adult Scout Leader or Patrol Leaders Council for reasons of non­advancement, poor performance, or specific cause, etc.

Through the Merit Badge Program, a Scout learns career skills, develops socially, and may develop physical skills and hobbies that give a lifetime of healthful recreation.

When a Scout is interested in earning a Merit Badge, he must obtain a blue card and requirement tracking sheet from the Scoutmaster or an assistant Scoutmaster. The Scoutmaster will give the Scout the name and phone number of the Merit Badge Counselor who is registered with the BSA for the Scout to contact. The Merit Badge counselor only will certify progress and completion of a Merit Badge. The Advancement Chairman will also be notified of the merit badge activity (Scouts name, date begun, progress and completion). Scouts should utilize the buddy system in working on Merit Badges. After the Scout completes the Merit Badge and returns the signed blue card to the Scoutmaster, the Merit Badge data will be entered in the Scout's records by the Advancement Chairman, and the Merit Badge will be awarded to the Scout. The Scout will be formally recognized at the next Court of Honor.

Scouts are encouraged to complete any Merit Badge requirements within one year. This includes any partial done at summer camp.

Boy Scout Merit Badge Requirements are set forth in the current individual official BSA Merit Badge Books, or Merit Badge Requirements. They may also be viewed at MeritBadge.com's Website, online at this URL - http://www.meritbadge.com/

The Troop will have a semi-annual ceremony to give peer recognition as well as parental and Troop Committee recognition to those Scouts who have earned awards, advanced in rank or attained a leadership position. These ceremonies will be announced and invitations will be issued. All parents, family members, Post members, Troop Committee members and friends are encouraged to attend and support their Scout. A Court of Honor will be scheduled at least quarterly (i.e. every 3 months). Scouts receiving awards and recognition, in addition to those Scouts attending the Court of Honor, are expected to be in complete, properly worn Class "A" uniform (see "Boards of Review"). Scouts who are not in uniform may not receive their awards, rank advancement, or recognition and may forfeit such recognition for their accomplishments until the next regular scheduled Court of Honor.

A Major emphasis of the most religious faiths and Scouting is SERVICE, doing something for others. (Note: 75% participation rule applies.)

One of the guiding principles of The Boy Scouts of America is the development in each Scout of a spirit of selflessness and an awareness that he and his troop can make a difference in the community by responding to needs that would otherwise go unmet. Service to others is required for advancement to each rank from Second Class to Eagle.

In addition to individual good turns required of each Scout, Troop 434 has adopted a policy of conducting a Troop service project every two months in which assistance will be rendered to the Troop's sponsoring organization, the community, the nation or world wide mission. By active and dedicated participation in planning and conducting service projects the Scout learns how much the contributions of his time, energy and imagination can mean to the world around him.

Eagle Service project plans must be presented to the Troop Committee Service/Good Turn Chairman prior to any project being started to ensure that current Monmouth Council Life to Eagle guidelines for Districts and Units have been followed and completed. The Eagle Candidate must notify the Troop Committee Chairman prior to the regularly scheduled committee meeting to make arrangements for presentation to the Troop Committee. The Committee Chairman will sign the Eagle application once it is approved by the Troop Committee.

The Troop will follow the Monmouth Council Unit Leaders Guide for Life to Eagle booklet.

NOTE: District approval must be obtained before any Eagle project is begun.

The Troop Committee Service/Good Turn Chairperson will coordinate all service projects in consultation with the Scoutmaster, the Senior Patrol Leader, and the Patrol Leaders Council.

Service hours utilized for rank advancement requirements (2nd Class, Star and Life) must be approved in advance by the Scoutmaster.

The purpose of the Order of the Arrow is fourfold:

1. To recognize those Scouts and Scouters campers who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Scout Law in their daily lives and by such recognition cause other campers to conduct themselves in such manner.
   
2. To develop and maintain camping traditions and spirit.
   
3. To promote Scout camping, which reaches its greatest effectiveness as part of the troops camping program, both year round and summer camp.
   
4. Crystallize the Scout habit of helpfulness into a life purpose of leadership in cheerful service to others.
   

To become a member, a youth must be a registered Boy Scout and hold the rank of minimum First Class. The youth must have experienced a minimum of 15 days and nights camping (including a 6 day/night resident camp). Scouts are elected by their fellow Scouts, following approval by the Scoutmaster.

Adult Scouters can become members and must meet the same requirements as above, with the exception that an adult is nominated by the unit and voted on by the executive committee of the Lodge. The Scoutmaster will nominated the adult after consultation with other adult OA members. The Scoutmaster will be contacted by the Chapter Vice-Chief of elections for the need of a unit OA election.

Along with the opportunities that Scouting offers comes to each Scout the obligation to conduct himself during Troop meetings and activities in a manner that is consistent with the characteristics called for by the Scout Law. Among other expectations of the Scout will be a display by him of courtesy and helpfulness to others and obedience to Junior and Adult Leadership. Also, compliance with safety and troop operation rules will be emphasized and required.

Parents are encouraged to remind their Scouts that his behavior during Scouting activities will reflect on his Patrol, Troop, his family and all who contribute their time and attention in support of the Troop. If a Scout finds himself unable to obey the Scout Law during Troop Meetings and activities his parents will be notified and his opportunities to participate in future activities may be restricted.

Scouts unable to follow the Code of Conduct or policies of the Troop will be brought before the Scoutmaster and the Patrol Leaders Council for disciplinary action.

If any infraction cannot be handled by the Scoutmaster and/or the Patrol Leaders Council, a special disciplinary Board of Review may be held for further action and disposition.

Use of the chain-of-command within both the youth and adult leadership is encouraged whenever possible. For minor grievances, Scouts should first talk with their Patrol Leader, who may take the matter up with the Senior Patrol Leader. The Senior Patrol leader, in turn may utilize the Patrol Leaders' Council and/or the Scoutmaster as resource to settle disputes or resolve issues. Similarly, Assistant Scoutmasters are encouraged to bring issues to the Scoutmaster's attention for resolution. The Scoutmaster may utilize the Committee Chairman or any member of the Troop Committee as necessary.

For major grievances, disputes, and infractions of the "Code of Conduct", the Scout may go to any adult Scouter directly for resolution.

Parents who perceive inequities or any infractions of the "Code of Conduct", or wish to discuss any issue, are encouraged to speak with the Senior Patrol Leader and an Adult Leader to resolve any concerns.

Any revision and approval of troop policies and procedures will be done by the Troop Committee with input from the Scoutmaster and other adult leaders. These policies, procedures and information will be reviewed annually by the Troop Committee.


In the event of any contradiction to policies and procedures in this operations manual, the rules, regulations and Bylaws of the Boy Scouts of America, and that of American Legion Post 434 in that order, will prevail over that which is written here.

A. Each Family Unit is expected to assist in the Troop program in one or more areas by:

1. Serving as an active Assistant Scoutmaster (Must be a registered Scouter.)
   
2. Chairing or serving on committees to organize functions in support of the Troop program.
   
3. Providing refreshments for Courts-of-Honor and other occasions.
   
4. Serving as a Merit Badge Counselor in area's) of expertise (Must be a registered Scouter. This position requires no fees.)
   
5. Serving as an active member of Troop Committee (Must be a registered Scouter.)
   

B. Each Family Unit is expected to contribute, when requested, in:

1. Providing transportation for Troop activities.
   
2. Assisting Scout to purchase patrol food for camping's.
   
3. Attending Courts-of-Honor. (This is very important to your Scout, and therefore, each family has a standing invitation to be present at every Court-of-Honor.)
   

The PLC, not the adult leaders, is responsible for planning and conducting the Troop activities. The PLC is composed of the following voting members: Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leaders, Troop Guide, and Venture Crew Chief. The Troop's activities are selected and planned at the annual program planning conference. The Troop's yearly plan is then submitted to the Troop Committee for approval. The Troop Committee either approves the plan or makes alternative suggestions for the PLC to consider. At this monthly meeting, the PLC organizes and assigns activity responsibility for the weekly Troop Meetings. The Troop Committee interacts with the PLC through the Scoutmaster. Troop Committee Members, Assistant Scoutmaster and other Scouts in the Troop may be invited to the PLC meeting to assist in planning certain activities. The Scoutmaster or his designee attends the meeting to advise the PLC. The Troop is actually run by its boy leaders. With the guidance of the Scoutmaster and his assistants, they plan the program, conduct the meetings and provide leadership among their peers.

Senior Patrol Leader (SPL)

Top elected junior leader of the troop. He leads the PLC and in consultation with the Scoutmaster appoints other junior leaders and assigns specific responsibilities as needed.

Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL)

Fills in for the Senior Patrol Leader in his absence. He is responsible for training and giving direction to the Quartermaster, Scribe, Troop Historian, Librarian, and Instructors.

Historian

Collects and maintains troop memorabilia and information on former Troop members.

Librarian

Keeps troop record books, pamphlets, magazines, audiovisuals, and Merit Badge counselor list available for use by troop members.

Instructor

Teaches one or more advancement skill requirements.

Chaplain Aide

Assist in Troop religious services and promotes religious emblems programs.

Patrol Leader (PL)

Gives leadership to members of his patrol and represents them on the PLC.

Assistant Patrol Leader (APL)

Fills in for the PL in his absence.

Venture Crew Chief

Leader of the Venture Crew.

Troop Guide

Advisor and guide to new Scout Patrol

Den Chief

Works with a Cub Scout or Webelos den as a guide.

Quartermaster

Responsible for Troop equipment and supplies. Keeps record of Patrol and Troop equipment and keeps it in good repair. He is responsible for checking out equipment and sees to it that it is returned in good order. He will make recommendations to the SPL as to the needs of new equipment. The 3rd Assistant Scoutmaster will act as advisor and will see to it that proper equipment and inventory logs are kept.

Scribe

The Troop secretary. Keeps a log of all Patrol Leaders Council decisions and maintains Troop advancement and dues records. He will also report to the PLC on any delinquent dues owed the Troop and maintain a weekly attendance and uniform log. The Troop Committee Advancement Chairman and Treasurer will serve as advisors.