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Girl Scouts Explore Military Pride across Hampton Roads
By Community Relations Volunteer Southern Van Auken
Girl Scouts in Troop 94 of Virginia Beach traveled across Hampton Roads this past year, earning Military Pride patches. From touring Air Power Park in Hampton for the Explore U.S. Air Force Pride patch to enjoying a scavenger hunt at Virginia Beach Surf and Rescue Museum for the Explore U.S. Coast Guard Pride patch, girls had fun while learning about each branch of our military.
Volunteer troop leader Meagan Mead said she wanted to take the girls to unique locations. She has a knack for getting Girl Scouts outside of their comfort zone and helping them build confidence by trying new things. A highlight of the year was a fall camping trip to Fort Eustis near Newport News. For many girls in the troop, ranging from Daisies to Cadettes, this was their first camping experience. The Army base campout offered many opportunities for adventure. Daisies went on their first hike, Brownies made foil packets for dinner, and Cadettes built a campfire for s’mores. Girls earned Cabin Camper, Photography, and Outdoor Art badges, as well as the Explore U.S. Army Pride patch.
Meagan found the Hampton Roads community to be very welcoming and helpful when they heard the Girl Scouts were visiting to learn about military pride. The staff at Air Power Park shared a wealth of interesting information, and Virginia Beach Surf and Rescue Museum created a custom scavenger hunt for the troop. Girl Scouts had a memorable day in Norfolk, volunteering with Marine Toys for Tots over the holiday season. They enjoyed sorting toys to be distributed to local families and heard first-hand from a member of the U.S. Marine Corps who was proud to share his experience. Not only did he educate Girl Scouts about Toys for Tots; he also informed them about the training requirements to become a Marine.
Several families from Troop 94, including Meagan and her daughter, Cadette Evelyn, have relocated with the military this past summer. Even though they have left Hampton Roads, Meagan knows the special memories, new skills, sense of adventure, and confidence the Girl Scouts have gained will help them wherever they go.
About the Author: Southern lives in Virginia Beach and homeschools her two daughters, who are both Girl Scouts!
