ACHGEKETUM

1982 - 1988

Firm bound in brotherhood gather the clan, that cheerful service brings to fellowman.
Circle our Council fire weld tightly every link that binds us in Brotherhood, Wimachtendienk.
- Octoraro Lodge 22 Song

The Order of the Arrow is a vital thread in the fabric of Scouting in the Chester County Council BSA. Since Scout Executive Charles M. Heistand started the program in 1926 and in the years that followed, the Octoraro Lodge 22 ( i.e. the 22nd lodge formed in the country) has grown from its modest beginnings to an organization of over 1200 Boy Scout honor campers and Scouters. The Order of the Arrow members' dedication to the principals of Scouting and that of cheerful service over the years is woven into the fabric of our Council and has been a major reason for the success of the Council in 1982 and in the intervening years. The Lodge has nurtured an esprit de corps envied by many other lodges in the Region and throughout the United States. It had served to maintain the active involvement of the older Scouts at a time in their lives when they face many challenges and alternate opportunities. Were it not for the OA in the Chester County Council, our Scouting Program and Camps would lack the eminence enjoyed in 1994.

The Lodge's place in our Scouting history is a reflection of the legacy from people like Chief Heistand, Joe Brinton and Chief Louis Lester. In the world of 1982 and carrying forward, the work of Ernie Heegard and Jim Gawthrop as Lay Advisors and that of Chris Morris in the 1990's as well as other loyal workers built a solid link to the future.

1982 Warren Gray had been a key player with respect to the Lodge's early contributions to the Council . Warren attended the January Board Meeting and was congratulated for being presented with his 60-year Scouting Veteran award. Warren had been Lodge Chief and an active Scouter and Lodge member over the years. Other early Lodge members were continuing to serve. "Ossie" Spellman, who was a Lodge Chief in his younger days, was working as the Sustaining Membership Enrollment (SME) Family Gifts Chairman for the Council in 1982.

The Leadership Gifts Dinner at the Downingtown Dinner Theater was well-attended that year. Tug McGraw, feisty relief pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, was the featured speaker. He was on his way to spring training the next day and was enjoying his last minutes of "freedom" before hitting the baseball trail. He spoke of his early youth as a Scout and its benefits. The Wood Badge Dinner was also held that same month with a fine turn-out of Scouters.

Scout Executive Richard Bennett quickly developed a number of creative ideas for Camp this summer as a supplement to the regular Program. Plans were developed for a Computer Camp recognizing the interest of boys to learn more of computers and their applications. This camp was operated in conjunction with Penn State University and was the first camp of its kind, as later verified by Boy's Life magazine. In addition, there were plans made for the first Council Energy Camp. Each camp had a specialist in the field to work with the Scouts. Jubilee was selected as the site for these new opportunities.

Announcement of the specialty camps was well received at the May Annual Board Meeting at the New Bolton Center of Veterinary Medicine. The opening ceremony was a presentation by Cub Scout Shawn Powell of Pack 22 of Unionville. At the meeting, the current Officers on the Board were re-elected for the coming year. There were many positive happenings in the Council as well as people being recognized. It was noted that by the fall of 1982, the Council would over 250,000 Scouts in it since being Chartered in 1919.

William Sellers, an Eagle Scout from Devon Troop 50 and who most recently was the Troop's Committee Chairman, received a special thanks for his contribution to the Council's Heritage Fund. His contribution established the "Coleman Sellers, III Memorial Endowment Fund" which was restricted to provide for the future maintenance of the Browning Memorial Lodge. Coleman Sellers, III was Bill's Eagle Scout brother who lost his life in World War II.

Jonathan Wood reported on the progress of Exploring in the ncil. He introduced the newly elected President of the Council's Explorer Association, Beth Hagerstrom. He also extended thanks to Vincent Celento for his service as Explorer Advisor. John Rettew, Council Commissioner, thanked Al Rodgers of the Lenni-Lenape District and Jim Kassel and Norm Nields of the Diamond Rock District for their service as District Commissioners.

Vice President Dave Jones had the pleasure of presenting Scout Scott Boetlin with the National Council's Certificate of Merit for his meritorious act using his Scout skills. Sam Long reported on our Scouting membership the past year, citing the fact that from 1975 on there had been a gradual decline. In 1975 we had 8000 Scouts and this past year we were at 6187. He was optimistic at the prospects for the coming fall. In spite of this, other Programs showed the strength of our Council. The Philmont trips for 1982 were the largest groups sent. Pud Warner reported that in 1981 we had 106 of our Scouts at the National Jamboree at Camp A.P. Hill. This was one of the largest contingents from any Council in America. Earl Germond's Scout Show at the Church Farm School in May was a success if not just from the standpoint of selling 2000 doughnuts and 1000 pizzas.

Speaking for Bill Hess, Dick Bennett congratulated the work of Maryann Foard, Cub Day Camp Director, along with Betty Bamberger, Mary Lou Rice, Lois Reitenour and Cathy Bronson. Pete Ciorrocco, Bruce Lord and Bill Waxbom were thanked for their fine efforts in behalf of the Council.

The highlight of the Meeting was the presentation by Howie Lonsdale who had attended the National Scout Meeting in Atlanta, Georgia. He called forward Ernie Heegard, Jim Gawthrop and Dick Bennett for a special presentation to Octoraro Lodge 22. Howie related that he had the privilege of being called forward at the National Meeting as a representative of the Lodge for the presentation of the E. Urner Goodman Award. He presented the award to our Lodge Lay Advisors and to Dick as the Staff Advisor. This award is one of only twelve such awards presented annually to Lodges in the United States for meeting prescribed stringent objectives. It is the highest Order of the Arrow recognition.

At the conclusion of the Meeting, the Closing Ceremony was conducted by Eagle Scout Mark Smith of Troop 21.

It was a great summer for the Council at Camp Horseshoe, Camp Jubilee and at the Philmont High Adventure Camp in New Mexico! The first Computer Camp had 27 scouts while the Energy Camp had 41 participants. At Philmont, we had the largest contingent in the Council's history to that point with 124 Scouts and 16 leaders. Horseshoe Reservation's attendance exceeded the past year as 1785 Scouts were there.

At the July Board Dinner, special commemorative plaques were given our guests Charles M. Heistand and Joe Brinton, pioneer founders of Camp Horseshoe. Ernie Heegard expressed the Camp's appreciation for the new American Flag that Kurt Strauss had contributed. In addition, Chuck Middlestead was introduced and reported on the fall recruiting effort to take place. The theme for the drive was "Footsteps of the Founder" signifying the role of Lord Baden-Powell in founding the Scouting Movement. He announced that Arthur Primmer of England had agreed to be the Honorary Chairman for the effort. Mr. Primmer was the last surviving Scout from the original camp held by Baden-Powell on Brownsea Island in 1907. To assist in the recruiting effort, Mr. Primmer provided a taped message to the Scouts that could be used.

The Golf Tournament to raise funds for the Council was held at the Merion Golf Club this fall. Working on this and future golf tourneys to raise money for the Council were Dr. Tom Murphy and Phil Oulette. In addition, Jim Dukovic, our Council Program Director was honored with his 35-year Veteran Scouter award.

Brian English was the 250,000th Scout to be registered with the Council that fall. New to Scouting this year was the Tiger Cub Scout Program. This program was for boys who were in first grade and were six years of age. The program was initially built around family involvement and loosely connected to a local Cub Pack. The first Tiger Cub to join in Chester County was Scott O'Laughlin. The 1850th Eagle Scout was John Lotz.

Many Scouters gathered at Camp Horseshoe on November 6th to celebrate the dedication of the newly reconditioned winter camp lodge. It was dedicated to Henry Schramm a long time Scouter in West Chester. Bob Lorgus and "Ossie" Spellman took charge of the ceremonies.

The Stone Barn again was the popular spot for our Annual Recognition Dinner as Bill Hess served as the Master of Ceremonies. Gwyn Patrick was the Dinner Chairman. OA Lodge Chief Derek Shakelford conducted the Opening Ceremony and Raymond Lemmon gave the Invocation. President Bob Lorgus and Dick Bennett paid tribute to the efforts of our volunteer Scouters. Howie Lonsdale, Chairman of the Silver Beaver Committee, then presented the Silver Beaver awards. Those honored were Charlotte K. Bowser, Charles J. Bradford, Albert P. Foard and William E. Moffet.

Charlotte Bowser became active as a Den Leader in 1969 in Pack 152 of Marshalton. She served as Pack Committee Chairman and then served as Membership Chairman of the Horseshoe District. Her service included Pow Wow Staff, Roundtable Staff, Training Committee, Vice Chairman of Program for the 1982 Scout Show and Cub Day Camp Coordinator. She was an active Scouter!

Charlie Bradford became a Scout volunteer in 1968 with Pack 36 of West Brandywine Township. He was a Webelos leader and then an Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 82 sponsored by the Messiah Lutheran Church and then Scoutmaster. He is a Vigil Honor member of Octoraro Lodge 22. In 1980, he served as Assistant Course Director of the Wood Badge Course and Quartermaster for the Course in 1982. In 1981 he was an Assistant Scoutmaster of the Council's Troop 230 at the National Jamboree at Camp A. P. Hill.

Al Foard was active in 1964 on the Pack 92 Committee and in 1972 became Scoutmaster of the Troop 92 sponsored by the Mt. Pleasant Methodist Church. For 10 years he was a member of the Philmont Committee, personally sponsoring a number of Scouts to Philmont. He was Philmont Crew Advisor in 1973, 1975 and 1977. He was Philmont Contingent Director in 1974 and served on the National Jamboree Staff in 1981. He was member of the Council Camping Committee and High Adventure Committee. He actively served as a Campmaster at winter camp and "acting" Camp ranger during the Camp Ranger's vacation. He supports camp with his labor, trucks and materials. "Whenever there is a work project, there you will find Al Foard." He is a member of Wood Badge and actively served in the Order of the Arrow.

Bill Moffet's scouting started in Pack 47, Strafford, where in 1968 he was Webelos leader. From 1969 to 1971 he was Assistant Scoutmaster of Devon Troop 50. From 1971 to the present he had been Explorer Post 50 Advisor. He had served as a contingent leader for Devon 50's western trips in 1977 and 1982. On the District and Council level Bill helped prepare and produce the Winter Camp Staffing Manuals in 1976 and 1978. Bill helped rewire Camp Horseshoe from 1971 to 1982. He served on Showando Staffs, OA Conclave Staff as a Host Guide and at District and Council First Aid Meets. He also served as OA camp Promotion Advisor and Winter Camp Staffing Advisor. He was a Vigil Honor member.

As the year ended, our membership had shown a significant increase for the first time since 1974. We had introduced Explorer Career Awareness Programs in the Unionville School. These programs provided those students who signed on for the career of their choice, experts in the field twice monthly to lead discussions about the career. This had been coordinated by the Council's Exploring Committee. And the year ended with a cash flow problem similar to that of the prior year's that the Board would contend with.

1983 Scouting was on the move in Chester County Council as we swung into action in the new year. William E. Iorio had joined the Board in the fall of 1982 and Grahame P. Richards, Jr. was elected a Board member in January.

Exploring, including the new Career Awareness Program, was growing. The decision was made to hire a Council Executive for Exploring. The roster of Posts had grown and had a wide appeal for young men and women of Exploring age. Posts had been formed in Aviation by the Exton-Frazer Rotary Club; a Business Management Post by Lukens Steel; Computer Sciences and Engineering sponsored by Hewlitt-Packard, Engineering/Energy by Philadelphia Electric Co.; Medical Careers Posts in the Brandywine, Chester County Hospitals and the VA Medical Center; Music by the West Chester State College, and Veterinary Medicine Posts by various Veterinary Hospitals and Clinics. There were also the High Adventure camping-oriented Posts in many parts of the County. By the spring, the Career Awareness Program was introduced in the Henderson and East High Schools in West Chester.

Programs for Explorers included a Ski Weekend, Big E Coed Weekend and other activities appealing to the youth. Jonathan Wood continued his active leadership of the Explorer Committee. James E. Waite and Jack McElwee were providing much support. Special recognition was given to Walter MacLaughlin, "father" of Exploring in the Council and continuing help.

The Wood Badge dinner in February brought out 95 members as reported by Bruce Lord. Bruce had been the Course Director in 1982 for the NE-V-66 Course held at Jubilee. Bill Iorio had been elected the Senior Patrol Leader for that year's course. Plans were then being made for the next Wood Badge Course in 1984.

Len Eaton, who presided at the SME Leadership Dinner, paid special recognition to Kurt Strauss for his many years of leadership in the area of finance for the Council. He was presented with a Norman Rockwell reproduction. There was a fine turn-out for the Dinner with Jerry Berndt, successful Football Coach of the University of Pennsylvania, giving some inspiring remarks.

Robert Borst, in behalf of the Council, had been negotiating with the Chester Water Authority for the acquisition of 100 acres of property on the Octoraro Creek flood plain. He reported that discussions appeared favorable for the Council. Bill Hess' recommendation for a Horseshoe Reservation Advisory Committee to oversee acquisitions, development and maintenance at the Camps met with favorable reaction by the Board. Plans progressed that spring to bring this about.

There were 400 OA Brothers, spouses and friends at the Kimberton Fire Hall for the Octoraro Lodge Banquet. Bill Watson was in charge of the Banquet and, as traditional, the Vigil Honor members donated hundreds of door prizes. The entertainment was "Arno the Great" and the lovely Zola! Aside from the Vigil Calling- Out Ceremony, the highlight of the evening was the announcement that the Lodge had been honored with the E. Urner Goodman Award for the second year in a row. In addition, the Lodge was recognized with the Honor Lodge award. Chief Robert E. Matje was pleased to accept each in behalf of the Lodge.

The May Annual Council Meeting again reflected on the Council's many achievements over the past year. David Jones was elected President along with two new Vice Presidents - James M. Wait, Sr. for Exploring and John Sepella for Membership. Don Goebert was the Council Treasurer. Remarks by out-going President Bob Lorgus included the many activities undertaken since Dick Bennett came on board. The establishment of the Explorer Division, the OA Lodge achievements and the membership increases were a few named.

Special awards were given for outstanding work in a number of different areas of the Council's operations. Karla Yeager was thanked for the great job she and her team had done with the Cub Fitness Contest; Pete Ciorrocco, Bruce Lord, Carl Buffington, Bill Waxbom and others were recognized. Betty Holleran was presented with a plaque thanking her for her continued service and her help with the Leadership Gifts Dinner. Scout Vincent VanSon received an honor award from the Eastman Kodak Company for his entry in the National BSA Photo Contest. John "JB" Rettew, Commissioner, had the privilege of presenting J. Edgar McComsey with his 50-Year Veteran award. Charlie Brown was recognized for his being honored by Lukens Steel with the J.F. Wiese Community Service Award for his Scouting service. Cub Scout Wieser gave the Closing Challenge.

The Eagle Scout Dinner later in the spring highlighted the fine work of the 48 Eagle Scouts. Dick Vermeil, the popular Eagles Football Team Coach, provided the Eagle Scouts and their Career Day sponsors with an inspiring talk on the relevancy of Scouting. The high spot of the evening's event was the presentation of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award to Charles E. Swope, successful business man and President of the First National Bank of West Chester. He had been an Eagle Scout in West Chester Troop 14 in 1945, served on the Horseshoe Camp Staff from 1944 to 1947. He also was an organizer of the first Explorer Post in West Chester. He served on the Council's Board since 1962. He was President of the Board of Trustees of West Chester College and had been President of the West Chester Chamber of Commerce. He was a Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves. The presentation was made by Dr. "Ossie" Spellman. The fine arrangements for the dinner were made by National Eagle Scout Association President and Dinner Chairman Dr. David Sherwood. Dave also was an Eagle Scout from the Council and had himself been on the Camp Horseshoe Staff in the early 1970's.

The Council Commissioner this spring urged troops in the Council to set a goal of recruiting Scouts to make up four patrols plus a Staff. At the minimum each Troop should have two patrols and a Senior Patrol Leader to conduct a proper Scout Program. Through the Commissioners' organization troops falling below the standard would be assisted in developing a recruiting plan to help achieve the goal.

Horseshoe during the summer was "bulging" at the seams with over 2000 campers from 127 different troops attending. The exceptional work of Ernie Heegard, Reservation Director along with that of David Mellinger at Jubilee was applauded when the Board Dinner was held at Camp. The dinner was served by the Camp Staff under the direction of this year's Program Director John Kemmerer. The waiters had special ties and vests for the occasion and the tables were gaily decorated. A meal fit for a king was served...from soup to nuts!

In fact an end-of-the-week Scoutmaster survey contained so many positive comments about the Staff, program, food and facilities that copies were made for the Board members. Comments like: "Staff worked after hours for our Scouts"; "I thought the food was very good (I gained 5 Pounds!)"; "Your Camp is really a role model!" We now were catering to numerous troops from outside our Council...from Philadelphia and other Pennsylvania Councils, as well as those from New Jersey, Maryland and Delaware just to name a few.

The summer camping program went exceptionally well with Horseshoe at record attendance, 18 of our Scouts traveling to Western Canada for the World Jamboree, The Philmont expedition having two buses on the road and a contingent of 45 Scouts and leaders at the Maine Matagamon Wilderness Base. In addition, there were 387 Cubs attending one of five Cub Day Camps held that year. 223 Webelos attended the week long camp at Jubilee. 98% of our Scout Troops earned the National Camping Award.

Following Explorer Career Interest Surveys in various schools, the Explorer "First Nighter" was held to introduce interested young men and women in the opportunities the program offered. Jim Wait reported that we could expect 1000 or more students to participate in the Career Awareness Program this year. Meanwhile, John Sepella was busy organizing for the School Night for Scouting recruiting effort. His Committee was setting up the effort as if it were a political election with the Service Center as the base of operations where the results were tallied. The recruiters even had straw hats to look the part. The results were positive across the board...we had a record recruiting effort.

From the finance standpoint, it was necessary to borrow $295,000 from the First National Bank to pay off other debts and mortgages that had been incurred in the period of the Camp Improvement Fund Campaign period. This move would put the Council on a more stable footing for that year. The Council's financial position was a result of a number of factors including many outstanding unpaid pledges from the Campaign, lack of SME fund growth to keep pace with Council operational needs and the inclusion of the SME pledges for an extended period as part of the Campaign contribution. Several of the Lane Farm lots were put up for sale this fall.

The Council Jambo Show and Do proved to be successful this fall. There were 1400 Scouts and leaders attending. Troops erected impressive gateways to their campsites and each District had theirs as well. The quality of our Scout Troops was visibly demonstrated to all who attended this fine event. "JB" Rettew and the Commissioner's Staff sponsored a competition to recognize the top Senior Patrol Leader in each of the Districts. As a part of the program, the Order of the Arrow conducted a Rededication Ceremony under the leadership of Ernie Heegard. It was a thrill to witness 1400 Scouts and leaders repeating the Scout Oath and Law, pledging their allegiance to the Flag and singing songs to honor America.

At the November Board Meeting approval was given for the construction of a pavilion at Camp Jubilee by members of the Octoraro District as a memorial to Al Foard who had passed away that year. In addition, a new Rifle Range was being built at Jubilee. Carl Buffington announced that the reservations for the 1984 Philmont trip were coming in hot and heavy. It looked as if we would need six buses for next summer. It was also noted that two troops were planning to attend Philmont on their own. Dick Weasel was the announced Course Director for the Wood Badge course in 1984.

The Annual Recognition Dinner was held at the West Chester Inn with Earl Germond as Dinner Chairman. The Dinner was well attended. For the first time, a new award was presented to an individual in each Troop or Pack elected by their committee for Extraordinary Service to that unit. The plaque for this award was specially designed by Mrs. Steve MacNeil. The guest speaker that evening was Harry C. Rotenbury, a long time Scouter and member of the National Council's Speakers Bureau. He gave an inspiring message to the Scout volunteers, their wives and friends. ( As an aside, it was noted by many that evening that firm bachelor Ernie Heegard attended with a new found friend - Betsy! Verrry interesting!) The high point of the evening was the Silver Beaver awards to Charles H. Brown, Robert A. Lorgus, Stephen Moylan MacNeil and Kenneth R. Trimble.

Since 1958, Charlie Brown had been involved in Scouting. He had been a member of Pack 70 Committee, a Webelos Leader and then an Institutional Representative. He served as a Unit Commissioner, Assistant District Commissioner and an Advisor on the OA Executive Committee. He also served as a Scoutmaster and SME Chairman. He is a Vigil Honor member of Lodge 22. He was also recipient of the J. F. Wiese Community Service Award at the Lukens Steel Company for his Scouting service.

The next Silver Beaver citation was for Bob Lorgus who was a Scout in West Chester Troop 6 as a boy. He counts among his Scouting activities his camping days at Horseshoe and particularly the devastating fire at Camp when he went to help in the clean up. He served as Council President and during his term we had the largest gain in membership in a decade, the largest Philmont Contingent, highest Camp attendance and the inauguration of the Computer Camp and Science Energy Camp. He took a leadership role in securing funds for the expansion and renovation of the Horseshoe Reservation. He was a Brotherhood member of the Octoraro Lodge 22.

The Scouting work for Steve MacNeil began with Troop 65 of Exton. He served as an Assistant Scoutmaster and Scoutmaster of the Troop. He holds Wood Badge beads and has served on the Religious Relations Committee, Camporee Staffs and Training Committees. He is a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow.

For 32 years Ken Trimble served as Scoutmaster of the Marshalton Troop 52, since 1951. He also served as Assistant Scoutmaster for the 1973 and 1974 National Jamboree Troops from the Council. In 1981, Ken was the Scoutmaster for one of the Council's troops at the National Jamboree in Camp A. P. Hill. He was a member of Wood Badge and has taken his Troop to Horseshoe for 31 consecutive years. He was a Vigil Honor member in Octoraro Lodge 22.

It was another fine year for almost all of our Scouting Programs in the Council. That period and the years ahead might be termed the halcyon days...the Scouting was joyful and prosperous in the Program being delivered.

1984 Again, outstanding effort and support from the Order of the Arrow was provided troops coming to Camp Horseshoe for their winter camping activities. These OA members served as an assistant to the Campmasters Corps. Chief Robert Matje along with his Executive Committee arranged to have OA Lodge members at Camp each weekend to teach skills, support the individual troop's program as requested by the unit and to conduct Sunday Church services. The Lodge also was active in preparing monthly Program Development materials for District Roundtables. In addition it continued its important job of promoting Camp attendance through its Camp Promotion activities in each District.

Don Goebert reported on a number of SME Major Gifts Dinners being held to honor specific individuals this year. J. Lee Everett, III was the honoree at the dinner at the Valley Forge Sheraton Hotel. Mr. Everett was a Scouter from the Council and was Chairman of the Philadelphia Electric Company. Robert McClements, President of the Sun Company, was the dinner Chairman. This was one of many "Good Scout" Banquets to be held to raise funds for the Council. Julian Dyke of the Assistant Chief Scout Executive of National BSA was an exceptionally inspiring speaker at the dinner emphasizing the merits of the Scout Movement. He left us with a very positive feeling of the work in which we were involved for the nation's young people. Kurt Strauss, Chairman of Royal Paper Products, Inc. was honored at a dinner in Downingtown. These dinners were similar to the Lunchoree Programs that Scout Executive Bennett handled when he was with the New York Scout Council.

Advancement in the Council during these years remained strong. The 75 new Eagle Scouts were honored at the Eagle Recognition Dinner in May. Selected for the Distinguished Eagle Scout recognition was R. James Macaleer of our Council Board. Mr. Macaleer was the Founder and CEO of Shared Medical Systems,Inc. of Malvern. The Wall Street Transcript identified him as the number two CEO in the computer industry. He served on the board of directors of numerous companies. He had served Scouting in a number of capacities both as Assistant Scoutmaster and troop committeeman. He was currently a member of the Chester County Council Board and had been the Eagle Scout Dinner Chairman. He was actively involved in the Council's fund raising efforts.

A number of Scouting "old timers" were actively involved in District leadership roles. Mahlon Rossiter, an Eagle Scout, formerly of Paoli Troop 1, had provided exceptional leadership as Lenni-Lenape District Commissioner. He was replaced by Al Rodgers whose years of service to the District were many. Another Paoli 1 member and former Scoutmaster, Frank McCown provided fine leadership as Diamond Rock District Chairman during this period. Kevin Holleran was the new Legal Counsel for the Council, replacing Bill Mitman who had served for many years since his Council Presidency.

Varsity Scouting, a program conducted in the Scout troops for older boys, was begun in this period. Kurt Wolter, a member of our Board and former Devon 50 scout, was the Chairman of this Program. The reception of this program in troops was modest since many of the leaders felt that they were meeting the older Scout needs through their active troop programs.

On the older Scout front, Jim Wait was enthused with the results of his Explorer Program. J. Craig Hadden had been hired as Explorer Executive this year and the program was on the move. There were now 35 Posts with 1175 members and another 845 young people in the Career Awareness programs in various school systems.

Dave Jones was re-elected Council President at the Annual Business Meeting. Also, recognition was given a number of Scouters for their exceptional service to the Council during the past year. William Trowill of Troop 78, who had camped at Horseshoe as a youth with Berwyn Troop 11, was thanked for his continued interest and devotion to Horseshoe. Hab Butler, another former Scout at Horseshoe and now with Parkesburg Troop 135, was recognized for his fine leadership of the Scout Leader Training course. "JB" Rettew presented plaques for service to the Commissioners Staff including Bill Stavrides and Bob Garrett, both of whom were Assistant Council Commissioners. It is noted that over the years, Dr. Stavrides had served as Scoutmaster of Devon Troop 114 and had provided for the printing of tickets, brochures and other items for the various dinner programs and events in the Council. Mark Morris, a Scout with Troop 67 of Chester Springs, conducted the Closing Ceremony at the Business Meeting.

While not specifically part of the Scout Program, but certainly one of interest to many Scouters, there was a special event worth noting that happened at Horseshoe in the spring. It took many Scouters by surprise. The site of the event was the Camp Horseshoe Chapel on a bright, sunny day. Confirmed bachelor Ernie Heegard, Scouter and Camp Director extraordinaire, wed Betsy Stelwagon! This was the first wedding conducted at Camp Horseshoe to our knowledge.

Officiating at the wedding was the Reverend Dan Bechtol, Ernie's brother-in-law and a Professor of Religion at Dickinson College. Dan had been a Scoutmaster at Horseshoe with his Troop. The Bechtol boys, Pete and Tim who had served on our Camp Staff, attended. Betsy's son, Fred Stelwagon, who had been on the Staff and daughter, Margie, were there as well as many of Ernie and Betsy's family and friends. Rob Hopkins, who had spent many years on the Horseshoe Staff and now was a Professor of Music at Hamilton College, played the Camp pump organ at the service. This was quite a fete since one had to pump air with his feet and play at the same time. (It is said that Rob could even play Bach on it).

While not at Scout Camp, another wedding in June saw Council Commissioner "JB" Rettew and Ellie married and off on a honeymoon trip west to visit the Philmont Scout Ranch among other points of interest.

Ernie, following his wedding, continued his fine leadership at the Horseshoe Reservation during the summer. The Program Director at Horseshoe that year was John Kemmerer. To celebrate the year of the Olympics, he implemented programs related to the big event. Mike D'Antonio of Troop 78 served as Business Manager; Frank Edwards was the Camp Chaplain conducting services and taking 'homesick' Scouts under his wing; Pete Motel returned as the Health Lodge

Director; Mark Smith was Food Services Director, assisted by Bob Matje. Charlie Bradford of Glenmore was Head Cook and Web Mayfield was Headquarters Director. Hard-working Sam Dinsmore was the Maintenance Director and Jeff Hughes was the Campcraft Director. Nature Director was Ray Plante and serving with Kyle Kuhn at Field Sports were Marty Summers and Mark Hammond. Aquatics Director was Eric Longenecker of Reading, assisted by Fred Stelwagon of Troop 78, John Spencer and Tim Warram. Pete Lesley was the Boating Director. Mark Kline served as Handicraft Director and was assisted by Bill Davis of Coatesville, Eric Hanson of Parkesburg and Henry Hom of Port Deposit, Maryland.

The 1994 Camp Director at Jubilee was Dave Mellinger. He introduced two new Camping Programs at the Camp that summer. An Aquatics Camp and an Ecology Camp were added to attract older boys to return to Camp.

The July Board Dinner at Horseshoe was well- attended. Prior to the Meeting, a dedication ceremony was held at the Rifle Range at Camp Jubilee. Mrs. Mary Cross was on hand to help dedicate the new facility to the memory of Richard Cross. Mrs. Cross' gift was recognized at the Dinner as was that of Mrs. Emily Hopkins for her gift in memory of George H. Hopkins to renovate the McIlvaine Lodge and its kitchen addition. Roy Cole, Camp Ranger, and his wife Matleen were given a token of appreciation by President Jones for their work in behalf of the Reservation.

Camp attendance exceeded 2500 this summer! A new record. Also we ended up having 213 Scouts and leaders back packing the Philmont trails this summer. We were the ninth largest contingent among all Councils in the nation for attendance there. Our summer activities also saw 31 Scouters take the Council's Wood Badge NE-V-80 Course under the leadership of Dick Wezel. There were 61 leaders being trained at the Troop Leader Training Course as well.

Training remained a key element in the success of Scouting in the Chester County Council. Twenty of our Commissioners took part in the College of Commissioner Science in September. Our Council had entered into a consortium of three different Councils to provide high level Commissioner Training. Besides our Council, Delmarva and South Jersey Councils joined together this September at Camp Horseshoe for the weekend conference. There were 100 Scouters in attendance.

A number of Council publications figured prominently in keeping our volunteers informed of happenings. Besides the Trail Blazer newspaper, there was the Exploring Newsletter published for their members. That fall's copy publicized the Explorer Ski Weekend Event at Jack Frost Mountain, a volley ball tournament, a Big E weekend at Horseshoe and the Merion Golf Outing to raise funds for the Explorer Program. The Commissioners' newsletter was issued to inform them of Staff goals and other Commissioner happenings.

In November, the 65th Annual Dinner was held at the West Chester Inn. This was special evening in that Joe Brinton and Chief Heistand joined us as guests. Both were recognized for their contribution to the history of the Council and the founding of Camp Horseshoe in 1927. Joe, who had been our first Chief Of Octoraro Lodge was the Featured speaker that evening. He reminisced of the days when Chief Heistand and he first came upon Horseshoe and the early days of our Council. Unit leaders were recognized for their service by Jim Wait. "JB" Rettew and Bill Hess presented the Extraordinary Service awards to those individuals proposed by their Scouting unit. Howie Lonsdale, Chairman of the Silver Beaver Committee, presented awards to Stephen J. Baldwin, Attilio A. Ciorrocco, William R. Hess and James M. Wait, Sr.

Steve Baldwin was cited for his many years of devoted service starting in 1947. He had been Scoutmaster of four different Troops and had extensive knowledge of woodlore which he passed on to many a young Scout during his time as a leader. He had camped at Horseshoe for over 15 years and was affectionately known as "Uncle Steve" by his Scouts. He was a Wood Badger and served on served on numerous Wood Badge Staffs. He was a member of the Council Training Committee and a SME worker. ( "JB" Rettew remembers him best for the Scout Leader Training session many years before and the proverbial question...what are we going to do now Steve? "JB" was given a hard time by Steve and his patrol of very experienced Scouters that day. However, the patrol finally turned around and won the top award at the event!)

Pete Ciorrocco had been actively involved in Scouting for 18 years. He served on the Avondale Troop 191 Committee as Chairman for five years. He then came on the Council Board on the Camping Committee of which he currently was Chairman. Many of the Camp improvements at Horseshoe can be attributed to Pete's efforts. he also was an active SME fund raiser. and an active member of the Order of the Arrow.

Eagle Scout Bill Hess was cited as being "the ultimate type of Scouter, combining the qualities of kindness, sincerity and willingness to help others with his executive skills and proven leadership abilities." Bill had served in every level of Scouting, from that of Unit Commissioner to District Commissioner to Council Activities Chairman and Vice President. He served as Camporee Chairman, First Aid Chairman, Campmaster, SME worker and the 1985 Council Jamboree Chairman. He also was a Vigil Honor member of Octoraro Lodge 22.

Jim Wait began as a Cubmaster in Ohio where he was a Webelos leader. He, then, became an Assistant Scoutmaster of a troop in Oklahoma and then Scoutmaster of Troop 216 in the Chester County Council. Here, he doubled the troop size in 9 months through his active outdoor program. In 1979, he was Horseshoe Trail District Chairman and in 1983 became Council Vice President of Exploring. "Wherever his business takes him, he always finds time to volunteer his services for the benefit of someone else," read his Silver Beaver citation.

The 1985 year was much on the minds of many in anticipation of the 75th Anniversary of the founding of the Boy Scouts of America. Our Council had planned a number of events to celebrate it. At the National BSA level there was to be the National Jamboree to cap the celebration during the summer of 1985. We announced that the Council would be sending five troops to the Jamboree to be held at Camp A. P. Hill near Fredericksburg, Virginia. Scoutmasters for the troops were Joseph Warram, Charles "Chuck" Kelly of Unionville, William E. Iorio of Devon, Lee McIlvaine of Downingtown and Bob Reczek.

1985 As the new year dawned, we celebrated the fact that we ended another year of strong gains in our membership. We had 201 Scout units and 7566 members.

February was one of the months highlighting the Diamond Jubilee of the founding of Scouting in America. To celebrate, the Council had an Anniversary Luncheon at the Council Service Center to which many old time Scouters were invited. There were 65 people at the Luncheon on February 8, 1985. The Scouters enjoyed the fellowship and talk of some of the experiences our Scouters had in "their day." Attendees spanned the 75 year period. Among those attending were Chief Charles M. Heistand who was a Scout in 1910 and Francis Maule whose Scouting began 1915; Joe Brinton, Dr. Agnew Ewing, Herb Jewson, Harvey Rettew and Harry Rolin from the 1920's; and numerous Scouters from other decades. Mark Morris of Troop 67 represented the 1985 Scouts that day. It was a special time for all. A 75th Anniversary Book contained the signatures of all present. A Scout Birthday cake topped off the meal. Thanks to Council Board member Jerry Rose of WCAU Radio, the Channel 10 TV news team videotaped the Luncheon and we were on TV that evening on the 6 PM News.

In addition to this publicity, the Coatesville Record printed a special 24-page supplement of the history of the Council for the Diamond Jubilee Camporee at Hibernia park. This event saw 4000 people camp or visit the Camporee. Sam Long had done much work in planning the event. "JB" Rettew and the Commissioners were heavily involved at the Camporee. A special Gateway to the Scout Skill Midway was erected by Chris Rettew and Bill Moffet along with a banner commemorating the 75th. Each of the troops attending had a Midway booth of skills and demonstrations of Scouting in action. WCOJ Radio of Coatesville even set up a remote broadcast at the Camporee. The Commissioners, as had been done at the previous camporee, had each District elect their Scout to receive the Outstanding Boy Leader award.

Arthur Primmer was the last surviving Boy Scout from the first Scouting encampment at Brownsea Island conducted by Lord Baden-Powell and the recipient of the Silver Wolf award. Arthur Primmer, at the request of Rob McCarter had earlier made a recording in England that was played at the Chester County Council's impressive Retreat Ceremony at Hibernia Park. Mr. Primmer stated - "This message is dedicated to the Boy Scouts of Chester County..." He went on to tell of events he recalled in Scouting as a Scout...campfires, games, hikes and experiences he had as a Patrol Leader.

In March, the Order of the Arrow Banquet was a sell-out. For the first time a special award was presented to "Arrowmen who serve the Order over and above their immediate duties. The award was the "Founders' Award" to memorialize the Order's founders E. Urner Goodman and Carroll Edson. The first Scout to receive this honor was Robert E. Matje, Vigil Honor member and Past Lodge Chief from Willistown troop 78. The adult recognized was G. Ernest Heegard, Lodge Lay Advisor and Past Lodge Chief, whose time and effort for the Order of the Arrow was extraordinary. Jim Gawthrop was Chairman of the Selection committee and the presenter.

The Council Board approved another action in celebration not only the Scouting Anniversary but the fine contributions that the Honorable John H. Ware, 3rd had made in his long time leadership in the Council. Jubilee Camp was renamed Camp John H. Ware, 3rd in his honor.

Willard G. Rouse, III was recognized as a Distinguished Eagle Scout at the Eagle Scout Career Day and Dinner this year. Mr. Rouse was the President and Founding Partner of Rouse and Associates, a major East Coast real estate developer. He was a director of a number of major companies. He was instrumental in the Philadelphia Penn's Landing Development project along the Delaware River waterfront as well as in erecting the Liberty One office building in Philadelphia. He was also developing properties in Chester County. He had chaired the "We The People" organization for the Bicentennial.

Len Eaton this year had taken the initiative to Chair the Committee to raise the necessary major funds to replace the Camp Horseshoe pool filtration system and to replace the pad and move the entrance to the shallow end of the pool. Work was completed during the year. In June, a resolution was presented at the pool to Chief Charles M. Heistand to name the pool in his honor as he was the founder of Horseshoe and one of the key people behind having the pool built. Attending and participating in the ceremony were members of the Horseshoe Camp Staff, Joe Brinton and Francis Maule and others. It is interesting to note that this resolution was made 55 years to the date of the original opening of the pool.

There was much excitement at both Camp Horseshoe and Camp John H. Ware, 3rd this summer. A bridge spanned the Octoraro Creek for the first time. Thanks to Colonel David Pergrin (He was the young commander of the Army Engineer battalion that built and held, under fire, the famous bridge at Remagen during the battle of the Bulge in World War II) and the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers and the 114 soldiers from Ft. Meade in Maryland, a "Bailey" bridge had been erected in four days. While this was a temporary bridge, it served the purpose of tying both Camps together. It was planned that a permanent bridge would be built at a future date. The Army also improved the access road to the bridge site.

Frank Rodgers, who was in Camp as a leader that summer talks about the Bailey Bridge construction:

"It was fascinating to watch as the Army Engineers worked on the bridge. It only took them several days to finish it. The men were all muscles and would be up at 6 am doing calisthenics and then it was to the job at hand. The bridge was built in sections on land on rollers. As one section was completed they would extend it by rolling it across the water and then continue to build on to it at the land end to counter-balance the piece extending over the water. Although there was a Captain and Lieutenant on site, the real leader was obviously the Top Sergeant."

Meanwhile, as Camp opened, we had added two other specialty camps to the program for that summer. A Field Sports and an Eagle Trail camp were introduced and supported by the Scouts. Many of the 1984 Staff returned that year. New Directors included Scott De Haven of West Chester at Headquarters; Bob Matje of Troop 78 at Campcraft; Jeff Hughes at Handicraft; and, John Muddy at Aquatics.

It is interesting to note that Chapel continued to play a great role in the Camp Horseshoe program. Singing was one way one could feel at home in the Chapel. Ernie recalls the "Taberchapel Choir" that was formed in later years:

"The choir was formed (informally)with anyone who was interested in singing at the Chapel Service. Rich Foot was instrumental in getting the choir recruited by promoting it in glowing terms with signs such as - 'Best Choir We Have Heard in Years! ... New York Times;' or 'This is where I got my start in music - Luciano Pavorotti.' The choir was usually no more than 20 people. They made a joyful noise."

Frank Edwards continued his fine service and conducted Vespers every Wednesday evening after dinner as has been the tradition in Camp since early days. He also attended to the spiritual needs of many of our homesick Scouts.

At the July Board dinner at Horseshoe, the leadership of Ernie Heegard and Dave Mellinger was recognized by our newly elected President, Joseph E. Boyd, Jr. Ernie had been Camp Director for 25 years and this was Dave Mellinger's third year at Ware. Order of the Arrow Chief Marty Summers, a member of the Camp Staff that summer, was called forward at the dinner for a special presentation by Randy Murrill of the Northeast Region, BSA. We had, for an unprecedented third time, won the E. Urner Goodman Award. No other Council in the nation had been so honored.

The high point for our Scouts that summer was the 11th National Jamboree. It was again held at the sprawling Camp A. P. Hill military installation. We had five troops with 225 Scouts and leaders at the Jamboree. A Merit Badge Midway was a popular spot as was the replica of the Brownsea Island Camp. Also enjoyed were the various exhibits from industry, the armed services and the government. It was a jam-packed seven days of fun and fellowship. Our campers were even visited by Hurricane Gloria. That brief visit knocked down tents and gateways in one third of the camp. All recovered, however, and enjoyed the encampment. The Jamboree's theme "Scouting Lives On" was highlighted by a spectacular fireworks display as 60,000 Scouts, leaders and visitors joined in the closing night's extravaganza featuring the popular Beach Boys musical group.

Philmont attendance was off slightly due to the Jamboree. It was a great experience for over 40 of our older Scouts and leaders this summer. Back home, we again broke the record for Horseshoe and Ware attendance with 2578 Scouts attending!

Other events were going on in the Council during the year. We sold off property adjacent that of the Service Center for development. Vice President of Finance Kurt Wolter was working with his committees to raise funds through Leadership Gifts Dinners honoring as "Good Scouts" John H. Ware, 3rd, C. Mercer Sloan and Arthur E. Bone. The SME Campaign went along smoothly under the leadership of Wilson Moyer of Paoli. Dave Jones was heading up the Heritage Society Program this year for interested Scouters and friends of Scouting to make provisions in their wills to leave money to the Council. He was helped by Miles Sucher who was still in charge of the Planned Giving program and Foundation Grants.

As we headed into the fall, "JB" Rettew attended the Pennsylvania Area Key 3 Conference and presented the new program of Unit Service introduced in our Council - the "Key 7" Review. This we viewed as an effective way to reduce "dropped" units. The review included a service team comprised of the District Chairman, District Commissioner, the Unit Commissioner and District Executive meeting with the Institutional Representative, the Unit Leader and the Unit Chairman to review the units goals from every aspect from recruiting new members to advancement, etc.. At the Conference, the Council was recognized for its excellence in summer camp attendance and program. Introduced to the Scouters was the new Quality Council, District and Unit Program for 1986.

Added to the Council Commissioner's Staff that year was Susan Crouch who took on the service to Handicapped Units and handicapped Scouts who were "main-streamed" in Scout units. Bob Garrett continued his service as Assistant Council Commissioner for training.

The Army came back and had to remove the temporary bridge between Horseshoe and Ware that fall. (Oh well. It was great while we had it.)

In November, we celebrated the work of our volunteers at every level of Scouting at the Annual Recognition Dinner. A special brochure had been prepared summarizing the history of our Council and photographically depicting some of the people and events in our Council's history. The Stone Barn was full of Scouting volunteers and dignitaries. Ray Lemmon gave the Invocation and President Joe Boyd greeted the attendees. After the presentation of the Unit Leader Recognition and the Extraordinary Service Awards, Howie Lonsdale conducted the impressive Silver Beaver award presentations. Silver Beaver awards this evening were to David Jones, Carl Lauffer, Albert J. Rodgers and John M. Sepella.

Dave Jones had begun his adult Scouting in Troop 50 of Devon where he became Troop Committee Chairman in 1970. During the 1970's he served in the Conestoga District and was one of the originators of the Main Line SME fund raising dinners. He was elected to the Council Executive Board and became Vice President in 1979 and President of the Council in 1983. He then served as Chairman of the Heritage Fund Society. He is a member of Octoraro Lodge 22. During his Presidency, the Council's membership grew nearly 25% and the capital debt was reduced.

Eagle Scout Carl Lauffer became a Scout in 1924 in Gilead, Ohio. From 1939 to 1943 he was an Assistant Scoutmaster of a troop in Lebanon, Pennsylvania and then held the same position in a New Jersey troop. He also served as an Explorer Advisor for one of the first Explorer Posts in the Nation in 1944-45. From 1970 to 1985 Carl was an Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 6 in West Chester. After a stint as Advancement Chairman for the Lenni-Lenape District, he became a Board member and Council Advancement Chairman. He has also maintained an active interest in the Council's Exploring and Career Awareness Programs.

Troop 108 is where Al Rodgers started his Scouting. He was one of the Troop's first Committee members and always kept a low profile in his assisting the Troop and Scouts. He was tirelessly working "behind the scenes." He has served as Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 37 and as a Committee member of Pack 122, Troop 222, and troop 108. He served as a Commissioner for 15 years, on the Roundtable Staff and on the Council Training Committee. He also served on the Campmaster Corps. He served on three out of seven Wood Badge Courses.

The final recipient was John Sepella whose Scouting began in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania in the late 1930's. From 1963 to 1969 he served on the Pack Committee of Pack 122 and then joined the Council's Executive Board. He has served on the Advancement, Membership and Finance Committees. In 1984 he served as Chairman of the Heritage Fund Society and as the Scout Round-up Chairman. His citation read: "He has demonstrated his persuasive ability to 'tell the Scouting story', both well and convincingly."

Sadly, we noted the passing of George Cole this fall. He had served as our Camp Ranger until his retirement. He was the second of three generations of the Cole family to serve as the Horseshoe Reservation Ranger. Many Scouters who were his friends turned out to pay their respects.

At the end of the year it was announced that Jim Dukovic, Council Program Director, was retiring. His two stints as a professional Scouter in Chester County Council had made the difference in Scouting for thousands of young people in the years he was with us.

1986 Having lost the bridge at Camp, Pete Ciorrocco and others were working with Colonel David Pergrin to arrange for a permanent structure to link the two camps. While Pete, Jim Smith of the Lenni-Lenape District , and other Board members tried that year and in the future years, the attempts proved futile.

The popularity of the Order of the Arrow Annual Banquet made it impossible to accept all-comers. It was decided, as an experiment, to hold two separate Banquets on consecutive weeks with identical programs. One at the Kimberton Fire Company Hall and the second at the Union Fire Company Hall in Oxford. The turnout was great. 650 people attended.

This year's Founders' Awards were made to Martin Summers who had served for two years as Lodge Chief. He was also elected Chief of Section 5A this year. Scout Executive Dick Bennett was the adult recipient of the Founders' Award for his support of the Lodge.

A retirement party was held for Jim Dukovic at the West Chester Inn. He was presented with going away mementos and our best wishes. He made a very stirring talk about his years in Scouting, the people with whom he had been associated and especially his long-time connection with the Chester County Council. In departing, he commented: "However, since I live close by, I liked that I'll show up from time-to- time." And, he did. He had made a mark on Scouting going about his work in a quiet and unassuming way and got the job done.

Each March, representatives of the Northeast Region visited the Council to review its records and operations in the Charter Review process to insure that the Council is conforming to the National BSA guidelines and meets very stringent requirements. So it was that Parker Valentine, a Northeast Region Representative and John Hirschi, Director of the Pennsylvania Area, met with the Scout Executive and the Council's Executive Committee. The results were traditionally positive in that we were conducting an excellent Scouting Program. We were complimented on our efforts.

The Eagle Scout Career day and Recognition Dinner was held at Shared Medical Systems' dining facilities. Each of our Eagles were recognized and the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award made. This year the honor went to The Honorable Richard T. Schulze of the United States House of Representatives. Dick was a 1945 Eagle Scout and had served as Scoutmaster of Berwyn Troop 11 from 1954 to 1959 and then as a Committeeman until 1961. Dick had a successful major appliance business in Paoli for 25 years. He was elected to Congress in 1974. He served on numerous Congressional Committees and in 1977 was voted as the Outstanding Legislator of the Year. He also continued to serve as a member of the Council Board. His son was a Scout in Willistown Troop 78.

A special, by invitation only, Camporee was held at the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York during the year. It was an honor for a troop to be invited. Troop 217 of Parkesburg under the Scoutmastership of Donald Wilson, was fortunate to receive an invitation. It was a competitive Camporee for the 3100 Scouts in attendance, conducted by Cadets. It was an impressive event and enabled the Scouts to see the Military Academy in action. Troop 217 placed first in the competition with 125 other troops. They were recognized with a Cadet Saber in recognition of their accomplishment. Upon return to the Council, they presented their award the Council for display at the Service Center.

The Annual Meeting was held and Joe Boyd was re-elected President. Newly elected Vice Presidents were Harriss A. "Hab" Butler, III and William E. Iorio. Jim Smith, Vice President of Operations announced that the first Cub Scout Fun day was being held and that the Districts were being indoctrinated in the newly expanded Cub Program and the Webelos Transition Program. More emphasis was being made to give Webelos a head start upon joining a Boy Scout troop by having the boys know the Scout Oath, Law and other requirements before joining a troop.

A "Back to Basics" Scout Junior Leader Training was conducted this spring. Karen Morris was the Course Director. She was the first woman in the Council to hold this Training position. The course was conducted at Camp John H. Ware, 3rd.

This year marked the 75th Anniversary of the Council's first Scout troop, Paoli Troop 1. As mentioned in earlier chapters, they had been organized in 1911, before our Council came into existence. To commemorate that event, Frank McKown, former Scoutmaster, Dick Bensing, then Scoutmaster, a Committee of Paoli 1 Scouters and parents prepared a fine History of the Troop. Many of the bits of information used in the Council's history and that of our Scout camps, have relied upon their work. Paoli 1 has an enviable reputation for Scouting excellence. They have a tremendous esprit de corps that stems from its early days and the association many of its Scouts and leaders had with Lord Baden-Powell in the infant years of the Scouting Movement. Many of their Scouters have played a prominent role in our Council. Men such as Clifton Lisle, Richard Warren, Leland Smaltz, Frank McCown, Mahlon Rossiter and many others over the years. The Troop set the pace for excellence throughout the County in the early days. Many of their Scouts and leaders staffed our early camps. They showed the way.

Paoli Troop 1 has conducted a world-wide Scouting program from its early days in England at World Jamborees, to the Mountain Climbing parties their Senior Scouts conducted in more recent years, to their high adventure canoe excursions in the wild rivers and lakes of New England. Yet, they have retained most of the basic elements of their original Scouting programs and meeting schedules in the face of outside competition from Little League and the like.

Our Council Key 3: President Joe Boyd, Commissioner "JB" Rettew and Council Executive Dick Bennett, attended the Paoli Troop 1's Seventy-fifth Anniversary Banquet at the St. Davids Golf Club. There were some 350 people who returned from all parts of the United States for the event. Dick Bensing was Scoutmaster at the time. H. J. Simmons was serving as Troop Committee Chairman and the Senior Patrol Leader was Andrew H. Jordan.

The high point of the evening was the presentation of the Distinguished Eagle Scout awards to two Paoli 1 Eagles, Vice Admiral James B. Wilson and Lt. General G. Franklin Good, USMC Retired.

Vice Admiral Wilson had been in the Troop from 1938 to 1940. He had served as Commander of the Nuclear Powered Submarine USS Andrew Jackson. He had been commander of the Naval Forces in Viet Nam. Following this he was Chief of Naval Education and Training. He also served on the National BSA level as Vice Chairman of the National Exploring organization.

Lt. General Good's service in World War II included his battalion rescuing Eddie Richenbacker in 1942. He was the Chief of Staff of the 2nd Marine Division serving on Saipan and Okinawa and then its Commanding General. He saw extensive World War II experience in the Pacific Theater of War. It is interesting to note that as a Scout in Paoli 1, Frank Good formed and was the first Patrol Leader of the Troop 1 Colour Patrol. It is said that this patrol was started as a result of Lord Baden-Powell personally suggesting it to the Scout Good in 1914.

Vice President of Program Hab Butler had the pleasure of announcing to the Board that this year a new Campsite at Camp Horseshoe was dedicated to the memory of Paoli Troop 1' s Clifton Lisle by Mrs. Lisle. He also announced that a successful Wood Badge Course was taking place at Camp Ware this summer with Steve Baldwin as the Course Director of NE-V-95 with five patrols of learners.

Again, another enthusiastic group of Scouts at summer Camp thanks to Ernie Heegard and his Staff. Ray Plante returned as Nature Director and Bob Matje as Campcraft Director, assisted by Mark Kiernan, Mark Cool and Dave Williamson. Health Director and Dining Hall Director was Mark Graham then with Troop 106. Iven Gerrity was Boating Director; Bob Rabe Field Sports Director; John Munday of Newark, Delaware was Aquatics Director assisted by Fred Stelwagon, Eric Swanson, and John Murphy. Pete Motel was part time on the Staff at Camp due to his medical schooling and military demands.

1994 Staff member Rich Foot, whose father, Don Foot, had been a camper at Horseshoe and whose Grandfather Bill Foot had been a Scoutmaster at Horseshoe, has many fond memories of his camping and Staff days. He recalls his days as a Patrol Leader:

"I remember one July day in 1986 when as a Patrol Leader of the Willistown Troop 78 Flying Eagle Patrol at Horseshoe, that I called the 'Most Amazing Day' in the Patrol's log. The patrol got up at 6:30 am and ran the Obstacle Course in record time. Following that, we did our 'Honor Patrol' project and after breakfast we finished up our merit badge work. Then at noon, it was off on a seven mile hike with the Troop to the cliffs of the Susquehanna River for our traditional troop cliff-diving and swimming adventure. Afterwards, we returned to Horseshoe only to get ready to go out on an overnight camping trip for Wilderness Survival merit badge. That's where the patrol had to make the best use of its skills to get along with a minimal amount of food and create their own shelter in the wildnerness. It was a cold night and seemed like we had frost, but I guess we really didn't. The next morning we made quick tracks back to Camp for breakfast. Boy! The french toast and rest of breakfast seemed like the best meal we had ever eaten! That was our most amazing adventure! We had been given all sorts of challenges and we made it!"

Recognitions were made at the Annual Board Dinner at Horseshoe. Lodge Chief Shane Bicking was recognized as he accepted the National Honor Lodge award in behalf of the Octoraro Lodge 22. This, by the way, was the Lodge's 60th Anniversary. For his 27 years of service to Camp Horseshoe, Ernie Heegard was presented with the Horseshoe Award. This was the first presentation of its kind for exceptional service for the Camp.

By the end of the summer, we were basking in the glow of another excellent year at Camp and at the Philmont Scout Ranch. We had four bus loads of Scouts and leaders go to Philmont and something new. For the first time we sent a contingent by airplane. This was the coming mode of travel for our Philmont future where there were time constraints. We had 100% of our troops at camp that summer with a total of 2600 Scouts attending. 92.5% of our Scouts were involved in Long Term camping. This was the best among all councils in the nation. We were number one in the Region for the percentage of Cub Packs participating in Webelos Camp and Cub Day Camp.

Nottingham County Park was the site for the fall Council Camporee. Here, the Scouts had a variety of events to test their skills. Canoeing on the small lake, an obstacle course through the woods and many other special challenging opportunities were enjoyed by the 1200 campers on that bright fall weekend. There were some 35 different events to choose from. Highlighting the Camporee was the emphasis on low impact camping. This was the trend for the future as concern for the environment was paramount in the minds of many people. Religious services were exceptionally well-attended as a result of Walt MacLaughlin's Religious Relations Committee providing prior information to Scoutmasters on this subject.

The fall Scouter Recognition Dinner was held and Silver Beaver awards were presented to Robert M. Borst, Harriss A. Butler, III, George Ann King and James S. Smith.

In 1969, Bob Borst became a Committee member of Troop 147 and then served as its Assistant Scoutmaster and then Scoutmaster. He was active in the Conestoga District as SME Chairman and was instrumental in helping to organize the Major Gifts Dinners within the Council. In 1977 Bob joined the Executive Board and became Vice President in 1978. He currently was serving as Treasurer. He was President of Fisher Tank Company and active in numerous charity causes.

Hab Butler was a Scout in the early !950's in Atglen Troop 20. He attended Camp Horseshoe and the 1953 National Jamboree. In the 1970's, he began his work as a Scouting Coordinator in Parkesburg Pack 135. In 1981, he became an Assistant District Commissioner. He served as District Activities Chairman and SME Coordinator for the Octoraro District. In 1986 he was elected Council Vice President of Program. He had earned his Wood Badge and served on the Wood Badge Staff. He was a Brotherhood member of the Octoraro Lodge 22. He was cited as follows: "He is one of the most congenial, dedicated, hardworking volunteers in the Council."

George Ann King began as a Den Leader in Pack 213 in the Octoraro District. Later, she was Pack Committee Chairman and then a Unit Commissioner. She also served as Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner and was active in the Cub Day Camp Program in the District. She received her Wood Badge recognition and was an active participant in the College of Commissioner Science where she was an Instructor.

Jim Smith was an Eagle Scout from Scranton, Pennsylvania. In 1937 he attended the first National Jamboree held in Washington, DC. He served in a number of leadership capacities in another Council. In 1976 he became active in West Chester Troop 21 and served there until 1984. He served as the SME Chairman for the Lenni-Lenape District in 1982 and then District Chairman. From 1985 to the present he has been the Council Operations Vice President. He took his Wood Badge Training in 1986 at Camp Ware and was a member of the Order of the Arrow.

This was another banner year for Scouting in the Chester County Council. On the horizon was a special event that would command the time of many people in the Council and challenge the Camp Staffs at both Camp Horseshoe and Ware. The Board gave its approval that fall for the Council to hold the Fourth International Jamboree for Polish Scouts in Exile at the Horseshoe Reservation in 1988. It was a challenging undertaking.

1987 The Council's First Aid Meet was held in January at the Devereux School gymnasium. It saw the best patrols from each of the Districts competing for top honors. There were a variety of First Aid problems that the patrols had to work through in front of the judge. The Scouts really needed to "know their stuff." Chairman for this year's event was Dr. William Lenker, an Eagle Scout. He took great care to make sure all went well as he had experienced such an event as a Scout. His Patrol had won First Place in Council First Aid Meet in 1950 with a perfect score!

The final figures were in at the January Board Meeting and for 1987 the Council had surpassed 8500 Scouts in the Council's Programs. Hab Butler reported on planned events which included a February Wood Badge Dinner. That summer a Council contingent was going "down under" to the World Jamboree in Australia under the leadership of William Iorio, Greg Acland and other leaders. Hab that year was also approved to be the Course Director for the Council's Wood Badge Course NE-V-105 to be held at Camp Ware in 1988. He also announced that George Ann King was to be on the Cub Scout Wood Badge Course Staff in Maryland that summer.

Other items of interest reported was the appointment of Chris Morris as the Chairman for the Basic Leader Training Course; and, that Dr. Kenneth Perrin, President of West Chester State University was to host a reception for the leaders involved with the Handicapped Scouting initiative. Boyd Kurt was to be the Chairman for the Council's Show N Do event in the fall. Sadly, the passing of Erwin "Dutch" Duchovnay, Assistant Scoutmaster of Devon 50 and Scout Roundtable Commissioner in Diamond Rock District was noted.

The Eagle Scout Career Day and Dinner was the largest in recent years. There were over 80 Eagles cited for their fine work. The Distinguished Eagle Scout award this year was to Dr. Daniel H. Wagner. He was founder and Chairman of the Board of Daniel H. Wagner Associates of Paoli. Dr. Wagner had spent his career in research and consulting in operations research and related areas of mathematics. The principal areas had been in anti-submarine warfare, air craft carrier warfare, electronics and finance. His firm using mathematical skills had located a lost atomic bomb device in the Mediterranean Sea. Dan was an Eagle Scout in Berwyn Troop 11, attended Camp Horseshoe and was on the Troop Committee of Willistown 78. He also served as the District Chairman of the Conestoga District.

The Order of the Arrow Banquet was again split into different sections to accommodate the Lodge's burgeoning membership. This year's Founders' Club awards were presented to William J. Prestia for his special service to the Lodge as a youth member. Richard M. Mason, Sr. was the adult member honored for his service as a Lodge Executive Committee Advisor. He had served the Lodge in many capacities including the "Where To Go Camping" book projects and many other activities.

Bob Borst, Vice President of Camp Assets, had meetings with his committee to identify needs at both Camps. There were many pressing items that were prioritized including new kitchen facilities at Ware. The results of his effort was the identification of the need to conduct a Capital Campaign to raise funds for the work. "The Legacy Lives On" was the name chosen for the Campaign. Approval had been given by the Board to hire a Council Finance Director to assist in this and other fund raising efforts. Selected was Vance Hein of the Los Angeles Scout Council. Thanks to a gift of a 'friend of Scouting', he was brought to the Council that summer.

Vice President of Camping Bill Hess reported on his further negotiations with the Polish Jamboree's leadership . His counterpart with that organization was Stanislaw Kus. There were to be 1200 Polish Boy and Girl scouts representing 15 countries in attendance. Both Camp Horseshoe and Camp John H. Ware, 3rd facilities would be required to hold such a convention. Bill had spent much time and effort in developing the plans and negotiating terms in behalf of the Council. "JB" Rettew and Jim Smith set about the plan to recruit support Staff from our Council to insure the top quality of the Jamboree. Work was continuing.

The Sustaining Membership Enrollment fund-raising efforts were progressing this spring. Kurt Wolter, Finance Vice President, had scheduled two "Good Scout" dinners during the year to raise major SME gifts. The southern Chester County event at the Red Rose Inn honored Hewlitt-Packard, Avondale Division and Herrs Foods, Inc. of Nottingham. In June, Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. McNeil were honored at their Coatesville farm. They were gracious hosts arranging to have the reception at their home. A tent had been erected for the occasion and the first silent auction was held by the Council to raise funds. Both events were helpful in getting our SME fund drive off to a good start.

Camp Horseshoe that summer was celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the founding of Camp. Ernie Heegard's fine leadership was recognized by the Board members at the Annual Board Dinner at Horseshoe. Many of our past Council Presidents were there to celebrate including: J. Frederic Wiese from the 1949 - 1953 period; William H. Mitman from 1970 - 1972 years; Donald Givler from the 1972 - 1975 years; and, Bob Lorgus from 1981 - 1983. The members were serenaded by Music Explorer Post 280 sponsored by the West Chester State University. Ernie Heegard gave a talk about Horseshoe and its founding which all enjoyed.

Dr. Norman Goodman presented the SHOFAR Award to Kurt Strauss that evening. This was the highest Jewish Religious award that could be presented an adult Scouter. It was also announced that the Chester County Council was one of five Pennsylvania Councils to be in the Chief Scout Executive's Winner Circle for growth achievements.

The Staff Ernie assembled this year included Scott DeHaven, back as Business Director; Mark Graham as Health Lodge Director; Earle Test as Headquarters Director; Jeff Matthews as Trading Post Manager and Mike McKinney as the Head Cook. Mike was to make a great impact on food service at Camp. Bill Davis was the Handicraft Director this year and Bob Matje returned as the popular Campcraft Director. Mark Kiernan of Troop 106 was the Maintenance Director and Bill Prestia served as the Nature Director.

Each year a number of younger Scouts would serve as Counselors in Training. These CIT's were at least 14 years of age and would serve for part of the summer. They would be given time off from their respective Department to take part in the Camp's Merit Program. Many of these boys would eventually work their way up to a summer Staff position.

This was the last Camp Staff before Ernie Heegard announced his retirement. And, next summer was to be the Polish Jamboree.

Bill Hess' camping report was glowing in terms of attendance and spirit that year. We again had a record number of Scouts and leaders in Camp during the summer.

As Hab Butler reported that fall, our High Adventure Program was in full gear. We had Scout contingents to every one of the Scout High Adventure Bases - Philmont Scout Ranch, the Florida Sea Base, Maine High Adventure Base and the Northern Tier Wilderness Canoe Base in Minnesota. Brian Bennett had been one of the leaders at Philmont and had taken the Exploring Training Course offered at Philmont. There were also 22 Scouts and leaders at the World Jamboree in Australia. Leaders for that trip, Bill Iorio and Dr. Drew McCausland gave a glowing report of that trip including the fact that a wind storm hit the camp knocking down most of the tents and gateways save the Council's 50 foot flag pole. Also noted, Bill Iorio had been named the "vegimite king" of the Jamboree for consuming a jar of that terrible tasting stuff from "down under."

The Council conducted a "Drug Awareness" campaign this year. Dr. Drew McCausland was Chairman. Scout Drug Awareness literature was distributed throughout the Council to the local school systems in an effort to educate people concerning this terrible scourge in our society.

It is noted that Mahlon Rossiter was now serving the Council on a professional basis this fall. Dave Horton was the Program Director and Vance Hein was now serving in the Finance spot in the Council. However, Vance's duties would change shortly. Ernie Heegard announced his retirement as Camp Director that fall. Vance Hein, having had experience at three other Scout Camps before coming to the Council was selected to replace Ernie that next summer.

In November, top priority was being given a dining hall facility for Camp Ware. This was now of prime concern not only for the approaching Jamboree but also was created out of our need to better serve Handicapped Scouting and to enhance the Ware facility for Cub and Scout camping. Also this month, Jim Dukovic (now a volunteer) was named the Council's Chairman for the 1985 National Jamboree. Larry Spinelli of the Southeastern United Way attended the November Board Meeting to present the United Way's Home Town Hero Award to "JB" Rettew for his service to Scouting, his TV Guide leadership in their United Way campaigns and for his involvement with the Philadelphia United Way organization.

At the Stone Barn in November, Unit Leaders were thanked for their valuable services and the Extraordinary Awards were presented to the people selected by their Unit Committees for exceptional service within the unit. A special tribute was given Ernie Heegard who had announced his retirement as Camp Director after 29 years as Director. The Silver Beaver awards were made to James L. Good, Edwin F. VanOcker, Joseph E. Boyd, Jr. and to Brian E. Bennett.

Jim Good began his Scouting service as an Assistant Scoutmaster in Troop 14 of West Chester in 1946. He then served in that same position in Troop 68. He also served as a Neighborhood Commissioner, Assistant District Commissioner for Lenni-Lenape and Unit Commissioner. He was Scoutmaster of West Chester Troop 43 from 1975 to 1978 and currently Scoutmaster of Troop 65 of Exton. He is a Vigil Honor member of Octoraro Lodge 22 where he has given outstanding service to the Lodge.

Edwin VanOcker's service in the Council began in 1971. he has served as a Unit Commissioner, Committeeman, Assistant District Commissioner and District Commissioner of the Horseshoe Trail District. He was serving as Assistant Council Commissioner in charge of Charter audits and review. He is a Wood Badge member and a member of the Order of the Arrow. His citation read: "He continues to make an impact on the lives of hundreds of Scouts."

Citing Joe Boyd's involvement in communities affairs as numerous, his service as Council President was recognized. Joe had prior extensive service as Pack and Troop Committee member, Lenni-Lenape District Committee, Campmasters Corps, District Vice Chairman and for nine years District Chairman. He was well known for his weekly President's Breakfast for Scout leaders at Horseshoe. He was a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow.

Active in all three phases of the Scouting Program - Cubbing, Boy Scouting and Exploring - Brian Bennett was honored for his extensive service. Most recently, he had given outstanding service to the Exploring Committee. From 1974 to 1977, Brian served as Cubmaster of Pack 140. In 1977 he became Scoutmaster of Troop 140 and held that position until 1980. He then became Advisor for Explorer Post 140. He then was serving the Council in Exploring where he was involved in the planning of Explorer Programs involving Ski Weekends, Explorer Big E weekends and the Explorer White Water Raft Trip on the Lehigh River. He also served as Philmont Contingent Leader, SME Major Gift Committee Co-chairman and held numerous awards including his Wood Badge Beads presented that year.

The Trail Blazer newspaper sadly reported the passing of Chief Charles M. Heistand in November this year. He was one of the Nation's first Scouts. " ...(his) involvement in Scouting spanned more than 52 years and included service with the National Council as Assistant Chief Scout Executive. He was well-known to Scouters as the Scout Executive who founded Camp Horseshoe in 1928 and the Octoraro Order of the Arrow Lodge 22 in 1926." The article goes on to read-" In 1960 he directed the National Jamboree in Colorado Springs which attracted 56,000 boys and leaders. He was also in charge of the Boy Scout'[s 50th Anniversary celebration. He was the first recipient of the Boy Scouts of America's veteran pin in 1960." A Chester County Council delegation of Scouters and friends who had camped with Chief attended the memorial services at his Lancaster Church.

That fall there was extensive activity among our Council Board members at the Pennsylvania Area Scouter Conference at the Hershey Hotel. We had the largest contingent there. "JB" Rettew was a presenter at the Commissioners' sessions, discussing the Key 7 Review process that Chester County had adopted in its Long Range Plans. Joe Boyd took charge of the presentations at the Council President's sessions.

The Council standing in the Pennsylvania Area and Northeast Region was highly regarded at that time. We were to continue this eminence into future years as more of our leaders assumed roles in these higher Scouting organizations.

1988 This was a pivotal year for the Council. Challenges were facing us this year in a number of different aspects. The challenge to raise funding for the Council's Programs remained constant. The Capital Fund Drive that year was of paramount importance. For the first time in 29 years we were faced as a Council with filling a most challenging job at the Horseshoe Reservation with the retirement of Ernie Heegard as Camp Director. In addition, there was the challenging opportunity after the regular summer camp season of executing our Council's commitments for the Fourth International Polish Scouts in Exile Jamboree and making it a stellar affair for the expected 1200 participants.

At Camp Horseshoe, the Horseshoe Campfire Circle had seen the ravages of 59 years of use for the Order of the Arrow's weekly Pageants. We had outgrown the site and it was difficult to maintain control over the hundreds of Scout families who would journey to Camp to picnic and enjoy the popular Ceremony and recognition of the campers. Thanks to the leadership of Ernie Heegard a new campfire site had been selected behind the Roberts winter Lodge (that serves as the Nature Lodge during the summer) and he had drawn up the plans for the new site. Members of the Lodge at past Lodge weekends had devoted much time to preparing the site. "Moose" Winsch and his Assistants, including Harold Weber, had taken the lead in building benches, foundations and in executing Ernie's plans. Work continued that year for its completion by the opening of Camp.

Camp Ware that summer was to expand its Webelos Camping Program. Three of the Camp's seven weeks of operation were to be devoted to the Webelos. Dave Mellinger continued as the Camp Director. In anticipation of the Polish Jamboree, Roy Cole was erecting a temporary structure over the Octoraro Creek to serve as a limited access bridge between Ware and Horseshoe.

Frank Edwards of the Scouting for Handicapped Program was honored for his outstanding service and dedication with the "Torch of Gold" award. An Eagle Scout, Frank served on the Camp Staff conducting Vespers and in other areas as Camp Chaplain. He also devoted much of his time to the Commissioner's staff in the Lenni-Lenape District.

In March, it was reported that Bill Iorio had been selected as a Chief of a Sub Camp at the National Jamboree in 1985. Also reported was the Annual Order of the Arrow Dinner which was held at the LGM Hall in Coatesville. The Lodge Chief that year was Chet Darlington. The Founders' Award for the youth member was presented to Willliam Davis for his exceptional work for the Lodge. Then, Jim Gawthrop who was on the award's Selection Committee was surprised when he was called forward as the adult recipient. He well-deserved the recognition for his many years of outstanding and devoted service to the Lodge.

The Eagle Scout Career Day and Dinner at SMS was well-attended.

The 67 Eagles from 1987 were saluted. The high point of the evening was the presentation of the Distinguished Eagle Scout award to William W. Sellers by Charles E. Swope, Chairman of the First National Bank of West Chester. James Macaleer assisted in the presentation. Bill was cited for his successful Sellers Company business which was one of the leaders in the asphalt paving industry. He had been a Scout in Devon Troop 50 where he earned Eagle in 1935. A camper at Horseshoe in the 1930's, he served as Handicraft Director on the Camp Staff. He later became Troop Committee Chairman for Devon 50 and was currently a Board member. Dave Perri served as the Chairman for the dinner.

In the spring a new Dining Hall was under construction at Camp Ware. A new roof was planned for the Morrison Health Lodge at Horseshoe and many other projects were in the working stages. Also, "JB" Rettew was announced as Chairman of the Leadership Gifts Dinner to be held at SMS in June. It was also announced that a special day, June 25th, had been set aside to honor Ernie Heegard. Matt Christenson was the Special Event Chairman along with "JB" Rettew.

An unfortunate accident happened at Camp Horseshoe this spring when the OA Bridge partially collapsed with some leaders and Scouts on it following the Lodge Ceremony at the OA Circle. Quick action on the part of Bill Iorio and Ernie Heegard managed the situation in good fashion. Only minor injuries were sustained by a few people one of whom was Ernie. The occurrence made the local news. The Bridge was eventually examined, repaired and approved for use.

At the Annual Meeting, John B. "JB" Rettew, III was elected President of the Council. Harriss A. "Hab" Butler, III was elected the Council Commissioner. Council Vice Presidents included Brian E. Bennett, Robert M. Borst, Dr. William E. Brantley, William R. Hess, Jerald M. Rose, John M. Sepella, James M. Wait, Sr. and H. Kurt Wolter. Kevin Quinn was Treasurer and Chairman of the Board was Robert W. Donohue.

The Leadership Gifts Dinner held in early June was in honor of G. Ernest Heegard. He was presented with the "Good Scout" award as many of his fellow Troop 78 members participated in the opening ceremonies. "JB" Rettew gave the opening remarks and Jamie Iorio of Troop 50 was the Scout speaker. Kurt Wolter spoke on the financial commitment for Scouting and requested attendees to join in supporting the Council. Dr. William F. Lenker presented an effective tribute to Ernie after which he presented the "Good Scout" award to Ernie in behalf of the Council.

"Ernie Heegard Day" invitations were extended to all unit leaders, Scouters, Order of the Arrow members, present and former Staff members, Council and District leaders as well as dignitaries and friends of Scouting. The "Day" arrived and Camp looked in great shape thanks to the Order of the Arrow, Camp Staff and Vance Hein.

Visitors were welcomed at the Rossiter Lodge where tours of the Camp had been arranged. In the evening a Retreat Ceremony was held on the Parade Ground and Dinner followed in the Allen Memorial Dining Hall. Following dinner the 350 friends and well-wishers convened in the new Campfire Circle that Ernie had designed and which had just been completed in time for the ceremonies. Many fine tributes were paid to Ernie and his many years of service to the Council, the Order of the Arrow and Camp Horseshoe. Tributes came from Jim Gawthrop, Matt Christenson, "Moose" Winsch, Dick Bennett and many, many others who had camped or known Ernie. Citations were presented including the following by Council President Rettew:

"Tonight, we have the pleasure of honoring a man as well as a legend. In the annals of the history of Horseshoe, many have made significant marks but no one has made a greater contribution in terms of longevity, service or total dedication as Ernie Heegard. He has served the Camp for over 42 years as a camper, Staff member and as a Director. He has probably walked every foot of the property. But, the imprint of his footsteps are deeper than the worn trails and the cleared campsites.

His record is written in the hearts and minds of the 50,000 young men whom he touched. It is only fitting that we dedicate a portion of this hallowed ground in honor of Ernie... we dedicate this totem pole circle in his honor. Ernie was instrumental in choosing the site, designing the circle and its erection. Each summer the highlight of every camp week is the traditional closing campfire ceremony in this circle. Therefore, be it resolved that this totem pole circle shall be perpetually known as -

'ACHGEKETUM CIRCLE'

Achgeketum is Ernie Heegard's Vigil Honor name...I am pleased that my first official act as Council President is the naming of this Circle in honor of a distinguished Scouter and dearest friend...my teacher...our teacher - Achgeketum- Ernie Heegard!

Following the citations and dedication, members of the Order of the Arrow put on a Pageant entitled "Achgeketum" specially written for the occasion. In addition a special rock monument had been constructed to hold the formal brass plaque to commemorate the dedication.