Scoutmaster's Minute

Welcome to Scout Troop 318!

Troop 318 proudly serves the youth of Lexington, Missouri, and the surrounding rural areas, offering Scouting opportunities for boys ages 11 to 18. We are part of the Blue Elk District within the Heart of America Council and are chartered by the Lexington Lions Club.

Founded in 1922, Troop 318 is Lexington’s oldest Scouting unit. Over the past century, Troop 318 has guided 391 young men to achieve Scouting’s highest honor—the rank of Eagle Scout.

Our Troop is supported by a dedicated team of trained volunteer leaders who complete Youth Protection Training every two years to maintain the highest standards of safety and accountability. We strive to ensure that every Scout enjoys a meaningful and engaging experience while developing leadership, outdoor skills, and lifelong values.

Our mission is to help Scouts make ethical and moral choices throughout their lives by living according to the Scout Oath and Law.

If you’re interested in volunteering or have a child who would like to join Troop 318, please complete the contact form to the right, and we’ll reach out to you as soon as possible.

Shawn Meyer
Scoutmaster, Troop 318

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Troop 318 Organization & Youth Leadership

Troops are organized into Patrols and operate under a youth-led leadership structure. Scouts take an active role in planning their own activities — including campouts, service projects, and fundraising events — with the guidance and mentorship of dedicated adult leaders.

There are many youth leadership positions within the Troop, each designed to help Scouts develop strong leadership, teamwork, and organizational skills. The Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) is the top youth leader in the Troop and is elected by the Scouts once or twice each year. The SPL leads the Troop with the support of the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and the Patrol Leaders, who guide their individual patrols.

This structure empowers Scouts to learn by doing, take responsibility, and grow into confident leaders — both within Scouting and in life.

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Troop 318 Meetings

Meetings are held Wednesday evenings from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at the Scout Cabin, located next to the basketball courts at College Park, just off the Lafayette Regional Hospital parking lot.

Regular attendance is expected of all youth who join Troop 318. If school is cancelled due to inclement weather, Scout meetings may also be cancelled for safety reasons.

Parents are responsible for arranging transportation for their Scouts to and from meetings and events.

A Troop calendar listing monthly activities and local Scouting events is distributed regularly and updated as changes occur. Families are encouraged to keep this calendar accessible, as consistent participation in Troop meetings and activities is key to a rewarding and successful Scouting experience.

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Troop 318 Camping

Camping has always been at the heart of the Scouting experience, and Troop 318 makes every effort to hold a campout each month. These outings give Scouts the opportunity to develop outdoor skills, practice leadership, and enjoy the camaraderie of the Troop in a natural setting.

Each summer, Troop 318 attends a 9-day Summer Camp at the H. Roe Bartle Scout Reservation in Osceola, Missouri. During camp, Scouts can earn merit badges, participate in a variety of outdoor adventures, and take part in experiences that can’t be found anywhere else.

These camping experiences build confidence, self-reliance, and teamwork — cornerstones of the Scouting program that stay with our youth for life.

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Advancement and the Trail to Eagle

As members of Troop 318, Scouts progress through the ranks on their Trail to Eagle — the journey that marks their personal growth and achievement in Scouting. The ranks of Scouts BSA are: Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and finally, Eagle.

The Eagle Scout rank is Scouting’s highest honor, representing exceptional leadership, service, and commitment.

The dedicated leadership of Troop 318 works closely with each Scout, providing guidance, encouragement, and opportunities for advancement as they climb the Trail to Eagle and develop into capable, responsible young adults.

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Parent Involvement

Parents are encouraged to participate in Troop 318 in any way they can — whether by sharing their skills, assisting with activities, or supporting leadership roles. There are many opportunities for parents to get involved, from helping plan events to serving on committees or lending a hand during outings and service projects.

Parents are also welcome and encouraged to attend the Troop Committee Meetings, which are held once per month. These meetings provide insight into Troop operations and are a great way for families to stay connected and contribute to their Scout’s experience.

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Registration and Recharter

All members of the Troop—both youth and adults—must be registered with Scouting America. Registration can be completed either on paper or online through www.beascout.org.

The Heart of America Council conducts background checks on all adult leader applicants. Adult applicants may not participate in any Scouting activity as a leader until the background check has been completed and approved.

All adult leaders are required to complete Safeguarding Youth every before their application is accepted and must renew this training each year. Other position-specific training relevant to their leadership role may also be required.

Each year, every member’s registration must be renewed through a process called recharter, which is managed by the Troop Committee. Recharter fees are typically collected before October, and details are announced as early as possible to ensure timely renewals.