The Patrols

The patrol is a group of Scouts who belong to a troop and who are probably similar in age, development, and interests. The patrol method allows Scouts to interact in a small group outside the larger troop context, working together as a team and sharing the responsibility of making their patrol a success. A patrol takes pride in its identity, and the members strive to make their patrol the best it can be. Patrols will sometimes join with other patrols to learn skills and complete advancement requirements. At other times they will compete against those same patrols in Scout skills and athletic competitions.

The members of each patrol elect one of their own to serve as patrol leader. The troop determines the requirements for patrol leaders, such as rank and age. To give more youths the opportunity to lead, most troops elect patrol leaders twice a year. Some may have elections more often.

What Patrols Provide:

1. Greater Sense of Belonging
2. Opportunities to Experience Leadership
3. Framework for Conducting the Program
4. Experience Stages of Team Development
5. Gain Fresh Perspectives on Individual and Team Dynamics
6. Learn What Makes Teams Function
7. Learn What Leadership Styles are Most Effective in Different Situations

Patrol Member Responsibilities:

1. Fully participate in the troop and achieve all that you can
2. Help patrol meet its obligations to fulfill assignments
3. Set the example by living the Scout Oath & Law
4. Wear the Scout uniform correctly
5. Show Scout Sprit
6. Have FUN!!

Daily Patrol Self-Assessment:

1. START — "What should we be doing that will make things better?"
2. STOP — "What should we stop doing because it isn't helping?"
3. CONTINUE — "What is our strength and is working well that we want to continue doing?"