I think Lono has nailed it - training is key. It is your prime requirement, first and foremost. Your attitude is exemplary - if only more Scout leaders felt the same way!

This subject always gets my attention.My introduction to SAR was an extensive search for three Boy Scouts over fifty years ago. We found them all right - about two weeks after they had perished in an epic storm. They were unprepared, to say the least. I will never forget my memory of a distraught Scoutmaster breaking down at the command post (we called them base camps back then).

Later in my NPS career, I have met other troops. While many were great, far too many were not. I never encouraged my sons to engage in the Boy Scouts.