Troop 1889 Cadets Embark on Canoeing Adventure During Blue Springs Ranch Float Trip

Missouri Military Academy's Boy Scout Troop 1889 enjoyed a Scout float trip at Blue Springs Ranch on September 16, 2023, where they fulfilled the requirements for the Canoeing Merit Badge, swam, explored nature and even met new friends (check out the frog below). 

The following Scouts attended the trip: Cadets Belmonte, Carney, Dooley, Fred, Imrie, Jackson, T. Jones, McIlwain, J. Miller, Oberlohr, O'Dwyer-Moore, Peele, Pro, Reen, Robinson, Rodriguez, Semeliss, Sietsema and Urdaneta. 

Through MMA and Scout training before the trip, the cadets had prepared and gained confidence in their canoeing skills. First, cadets had to pass the Commandant's swim test, which is given to all new boys during the first week of school. Then, in the safety of MMA's Natatorium, the Scouters learned to paddle, turn, stop, back up and right a swamped canoe.

During the float trip, there were several stops where cadets had the opportunity to swim and fulfill additional requirements for the Canoeing Merit Badge. 

For more than 100 years, both Missouri Military Academy (MMA) and Boy Scouts of America (BSA) have been helping young men reach their full potential through a curriculum of academic and leadership skills and by imparting values of duty, honor and selfless service. The MMA Troop 1889 offers fun and challenging experiences that enhance character development and leadership skills.

MMA Vice President of Institutional Advancement Rob Silbaugh is the Troop 1889 Scoutmaster. For more information about MMA’s Troop 1889, please contact Silbaugh at Robert.Silbaugh@MissouriMilitaryAcademy.com.