Dear Editor,

As Senior Patrol Leader of Boy Scout Troop 336 in Hartselle, I am writing to inform readers of the happenings of our Troop and reach out to young men to join us. Our Troop meets on Monday nights from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Hartselle First Baptist Church, in the basement. Our Charter is through the Kiwanis Club.

I have been involved in scouting myself since I was in first grade. This is my ninth year. I plan to reach my goal of Eagle Scout. This troop has been very important to me on my journey and I have seen and done lots of things I would not have done if not for scouting. One of the most memorable experiences was a 16-day backpacking trip at the Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, N. M. My Dad went also. It was amazing reaching an altitude of over 12,000 feet above sea level and hiking 90 miles over 10 days. Our troop plans to make this trip again next summer and you can count me in. On a more local level, we have trips planned for the next few months to go floating the Hiwassee River, hiking Mt. Cheaha, Sipsey Wilderness to the Big Tree, and the Prentice Cooper Wildlife Area, not to mention Fall Camporee. We also do service projects for our community when needed. Scouting is adventurous, fun and an excellent leadership opportunity. I invite young men between 6th and 12th grade to come out and see what we are all about. We also welcome parents interested in leadership.

I would also like to thank the community for all the support it has given Troop 336 since 1968, when it was first chartered by the Kiwanis Club.

Sincerely,

Gunnar Walling, Danville