January 2024
One of the main benefits of Scouting is leadership experience. In Scout Troops, youth have the primary leadership responsibility for the Troop’s operations. The Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) is the highest leadership level in a Scout Troop for a youth member. He or she runs Troop meetings, leads the Patrol Leader’s Council, and oversees all Troop activities. SPLs are guided by Scouting adult leaders but are ultimately responsible for the success of the Troop. Each SPL is elected by the Troop members and typically serves in the role for 6 months.
The members of Troop 2062 (Boys) in Lawrenceville, PA held their SPL election at the last meeting of 2023. The meeting was called to order by Bobby P., their current SPL, who has been serving since July. Then Scoutmaster Robert Penzone remarked on the importance of voting in American society and how holding an SPL election teaches Scouts how voting works and to practice good voting processes.
The two candidates for SPL then stood and explained how they would lead if elected, and what each would focus on. The ballots were passed out, filled in, and collected, then counted one by one in front of the Troop. The results were in, and Hunter B. was elected SPL. Later, Bobby administered the SPL oath to Hunter B. in front of the entire Troop.
To find out more about Troop 2062, visit their web page at Boy Scout Troop 2062. To find a Scouts BSA Troop in your area, visit our Scouts BSA page.