Page 8 - Save the Last Dance for Me

scouting, keeping the scoutmaster position filled

was nearly impossible. Some men we asked to take
on the assignment moved from the community. I

don't know if that directly resulted from our

request, but our options for leaders lessened
dramatically.

As the last of the boys turned twelve, we

deliberated many hours about who would be best to
put into the assignment of scoutmaster. He had to

be firm, patient, and have a strong scout

background.

The man we finally settled on was Harry
Ward. It was true that he was an avid scouter, a

patient man, and yet firm. He had been an eagle

scout, raised a large family, and was a vigorous
supporter on our scout committee. His hard work

in the scouting program had earned him the honor

of Silver Beaver, one of scouting’s highest honors.

But the main reason we chose him was because he
came to us and requested the job.

Out of the three of us, I was the only one who

expressed reservations about Harry’s lack of time
with the boys in the field. I had gone many times

as a volunteer. I had hiked, camped, eaten burnt

food, laid in a sleeping bag, unable to sleep, and
followed nature’s call behind many a bush. I knew

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