Sunday, September 7, 2008

Annual Camp 2008: I'm Loving It

It was 9.37am in the unsually bright and sweltering morning of 7 September 2008. There we stood, right at the center of the NUSH school field, proudly facing the sturdy Gateway structure that held the high-flying troop flag of 23 Eagles Scout Group.

Looking at the skyhigh tower that had braced through the three camping nights of thunderstorms, a deep sense of satisfaction overwhelmed me. The feeling is just great. Too great that I am so proud of myself and the entire pioneering team who had helped erect the tower. More importantly, Benjamin Tan personally commended that the structure was a job well done, and I sincerely thank him for that.

Over the years, I felt that I have not contributed much for the group in terms of the skill development, but at that moment in time, I know and I can strongly sense that I have helped push the skill of pioneering of the group to a new level. Overlooking the campsite that were covered by a sea of blue tents, the tower somewhat exhibited the essential qualities of a great Leader; Persistance to overcome difficulties & Passion to influence people for a change.

Evidently, all of us who were in our uniforms were ready and prepared for the Closing Ceremony of the Group Annual Camp, the last formal proceeding of the day which would mark the end to the group event. To some, the gradual lowering of the flag meant that they are a step closer to getting home, but to me, it meant more...

I felt sad, really really sad. But I know I cannot do anything, other than making my final salute to the Troop Flag which had seen me through for the past couple of years. No one understands...

Gateway Photos

Last Shot


The completion of this Annual Camp project would not have been possible without the help of the respective Leaders and Scouts that I am about to mention below. Many thanks to those who had offered to help and had encouraged me along the way and I would like to take the opportunity to extend my deepest appreciation to all of you.

First and foremost, I wish to convey my most sincere thanks to Nicholas. Thank you so much for extending your help from your area of responsibilies to my Logistic work in the camp. Without your help, I can say that my Group Meeting program, my Tower Test-Build, my Group Gateway and most importantly, the transportation of the equipment before, during and after the camp would not have been possible. Keep your enthusiasm going and all the best in your Scouting life. Best wishes to you and I will be looking forward to the days when you get your Chief Commissioner Award, President Scout Award, Woodbadge and all the achievements that you are aiming for.

To Willy, Keming, Xin Wei, Han Kiat and Edmund. Thank you so much for assisting me in the facilitation of my Gateway construction. Without your contribution and effort, the entire campsite would not have been setted up in time for the camp. I can see that most of your energy were drained because of the preparation process, but none of you had ever really complain and I really appreciated that. Especially to Han Kiat, your effort in helping to coordinate the whole pioneering team had indeed been significant. Anyway, all the best in your planning and execution for the group's National Patrol Camp training. Having difficulties along the way is inevitable, but do stay positive always. When the effective leader is finished with his work, the people say it happened naturally. I know that I have let the group down in the previous NPC outing so do your best this time round. I know you can.

To Ya Kun, thank you so much for your words of encouragement after the camp. There is nothing better than the encouragement of a good friend, especially when one is feeling down and helpless.

To the whole Annual Camp 2008 Committee members and the campers, thank you once again for the last surprise that all of you had presented to us. I am really touched by the efforts made, especially so when I was informed that the person who initiated the idea was Dominique.

Lastly, to all Scouts of 23 Eagles Scout Group, do study hard and aim to excel both in your studies and scouting life. Only then, you are the true victors that people will look up to.

Thank you everyone

and goodbye...

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