December was scheduled to be our event for firemanship and fire safety, but due to the rain it was rescheduled and we audibled to an indoor event at St. Stephen’s. For each of these discussions, we had a separate father lead the training which included: how to put together a first aid kit, first aid treatment for scrapes and cuts, treating burns and snake bites, and how to identify poison oaks and treat those rashes. After the first aid basics, we had a break, then the fathers worked with their sons on learning how to tie 4 knots: bowline, clove hitch, overhand on a bite, and a square knot.

Here was our agenda:

6:30AM – Rorate Mass

8:30AM – Breakfast

9:00AM – Opening Prayer; Brief Meeting (mainly to discuss the Junior and Senior Cadet program requirements)

9:30AM – First Aid basics

• First Aid Kit Basics
• Wound Dressing (Scrapes and Cuts)
• Burn Treatment
• Snake Bite
• Poison Oak/Allergic Reactions

10:30AM – Break

10:45AM – Knots

• Bowline
• Clove Hitch
• Overhand on a Bight
• Square Knot

11:30AM – Concluding prayer

In December we had a special event where our troop visited a senior center and we sang traditional Christmas Carols. We’re hoping this will become an annual tradition!

Our November event was our inaugural meeting for the troop and included a hike along Quarry Road Trail in Auburn along the upper fork of the American River, and a meeting to approve our by-laws and officers. In addition, one of the lieutenants taught the cadets a knife safety class. On the hike back to the parking lot, the boys marched in formation and recited the holy Rosary.

8:30AM – Meet at parking area/trailhead

8:45AM – Opening prayer and commencement: Recite the rosary as we begin our hike

9:30AM – Arrive at Mammoth Bar: Rest, Eat, Light Exploration

9:45AM – Charter Meeting: Vote on bylaws, install officers, discuss plan for remainder of the year

10:15AM – Knife Safety Demonstration

11:00AM – Depart for trailhead/Disband: Concluding Prayer

11:45AM – Estimated arrival at parking lot

We’ll be hosting our first introductory meeting in November. Check back soon for more information.