The Panther Patrol cheerfully accepted Mr. Gould’s challenge to plan and execute an October camping trip as documented in this report.
Under the deft leadership of our affable patrol leader, Preston, who could not attend the actual campout, we resolved a location, meal plan, duty roster, and departure time for a camping trip. We unanimously voted to journey to the Natural Tunnel State Park in Virginia.
Upon arrival at the park, our intrepid patrol found the Primitive Campground and claimed our campsite for Troop 48 by hanging the Panther Patrol Flag. Under the supervision of our fearless assistant patrol leader, Riley, we set up family and individual tents, and parked our famous patrol box beneath the sturdily erected dining fly. Completing the camp setup, which took about an hour, we began our activities.
On Saturday we set off on a hike. We trekked approximately 4.2 miles along a couple of circuitous trails on the Eastern side of the tunnel. Along the beautiful, brisk walk through the budding, fall foliage, we encountered several scenic overlooks on the tunnel rim. We also ate lunch at the overlook above before returning to camp. That evening we had campfire.
Following our hike, the hungry crew returned and prepped a delicious pair of Dutch oven stews. Following the highly recommended and carefully selected recipes, our cooks prepared a Chipotle chuck roast and a French onion mushroom chuck roast. Dinner was topped of with rice and everyone ate their fill. Since we used Dutch oven liners and boil in bag rice, the cleanup crew found their chore to be easy.
The patrol awoke to a frigid, foggy Sunday morning and relished a delicious assortment of delectable hot cinnamon rolls straight out of the Dutch oven, washed down with percolated Black Rifle Coffee, orange juice or milk.
The prelude to the Campfire Program Saturday night was the roasting of marshmallows and the consumption of mouthwatering smores. The official program cheerfully commenced with a humorous array of songs, skits and games. Unfortunately, no new members were admitted to The Ancient Order of Siam. No one deciphered the pattern of the Green Glass Door. We also had several failed attempts and one successful attempt to create The Moon. Overall, the campfire program was a huge success, and requirements for the Communications Merit Badge were completed.
Reverently, the mood then shifted to a more respectful tone as the Flag Retirement Ceremony began. We quietly and somberly retired several American flags (and one Tennessee flag) with the honor and dignity they deserved.
Following camp breakdown on Sunday, the crew silently gathered for a traditional Troop 48 church service. We had prayer, reflection, hymns, and fellowship. Sunday morning concluded with final packing and campground cleanup before the patrol went on the tunnel adventure as described above.
Sunday morning, after we had packed up our tents and gear, we rode the chairlift down to the opening of the tunnel and even witnessed a train booming through the tunnel. The last meal of the trip consisted of PB&J sandwiches and Roast beef sandwiches, Pringles, and cosmic brownies.
The Panther Patrol feels they have successfully met the troop leadership challenge for an October patrol outing. Some of the scouts completed rank requirements, and others merit badge requirements. Everyone had a good time.
