Troop 95 gets a taste of boot camp

Last Updated on Wednesday, 22 February 2012 11:19 Written by Staff Reports Wednesday, 22 February 2012 00:00

Scouts from Troop 95 were very fortunate to have PFC Venzie of the U.S. Army National Guard come to their meeting last week. From the moment he entered the room, he commanded respect.

Scouts were shown the proper way to be in parade formation, and some close order drills. Venzie then led them in some PT (physical training) drills, and exercises - just like in boot camp.

"It was hard, but we did it,” said scout Marshall Kohler.

Many were huffing and puffing at the end.

"We never did this in gym class,” said Anthony Stanzioni, referring to the push-ups and frog-crawls.

As the scouts saluted the American flag, Venzie showed them the three-second salute and some military flag protocols. While in formation, he got the attention of some of the scouts with his voice and "drill instructor" demeanor. Every scout was soon screaming “Yes, sir!”

It was a very unique experience for many of them, but as the night progressed it got a little easier. As the end of the meeting approached, Venzie led a discussion about rights and obligations of a U.S. citizen, and the importance of the Constitution. He finished up by telling the scouts how as a serviceman, he is called upon to defend the country. After a question and answer session, the last question from the scouts was "When can you come back?"

Upper Township Boy Scout Troop 95 meets Wednesdays at the primary school and anyone wishing to be a part of the action, monthly campouts and trips and more can come to any meeting, or go to www.facebook.com/troop95. Boys who are 11, or are graduating from Cub Scouts, are welcome to join.