Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Pelham Troop 1. The Pelham Examiner publishes press releases in the form received as a service to the community.
PELHAM, NY – April 13, 2025 – Pelham Boy Scout Troop 1 demonstrated exceptional resilience and adaptability during the 61st Annual West Point Scoutmasters’ Council Camporee, held this past weekend, April 11-13. Facing unexpected winter-like conditions that ultimately led to the event’s early conclusion, the Pelham Scouts embraced the difficulties of this unique and prestigious weekend at the United States Military Academy.
Representing Pelham under the sponsorship of current West Point cadet and Troop 1 Eagle Scout alumnus, Sean Condon, were six older Scouts, all in eighth grade or above, and five adult leaders. This attendance was lower than Troop 1’s participation in some previous years, largely due to the challenging timing of the event weekend this year, which coincided with various religious holidays and school breaks. Opting for the more rigorous ‘Lightfighter’ approach, the Troop 1 contingent began their adventure by hiking 4.5 miles with full gear and successfully summiting Bull Hill to reach their campsite near Lake Frederick. Approximately 2,400 Scouts were registered for the Camporee from across the nation, with adult leaders bringing the total number of registered participants to about 3,000. The event involves Scouts navigating between various stations where West Point cadets teach military and outdoor skills, covering diverse topics such as first aid, tactical training, camouflage techniques, wilderness survival sheltering, and Swiss seat knot tying/rappelling preparation.
However, Mother Nature introduced a significant challenge overnight Friday into Saturday morning. As rain began to fall Friday night, Scouts settled into their tents across the Camporee site, only to awaken Saturday morning to a startling sight: their tents and the entire landscape were unexpectedly blanketed in several inches of wet, heavy snow. This unseasonable snowfall, combined with persistent cold and dampness throughout Saturday, created extremely difficult camping conditions. Prioritizing the safety and well-being of the thousands of attendees, the West Point Scoutmasters’ Council made the difficult decision to conclude the Camporee program ahead of schedule on Saturday around noon.
Troop 1 leaders praised the West Point cadets for their professionalism and efficiency in implementing contingency plans to safely assist units in departing the site as the event wrapped up early. Despite the weather cutting the activities short and the demanding conditions, the Pelham contingent maintained remarkably high spirits. During the available time, the Pelham Scouts successfully completed several challenges presented by the cadets – including knot tying tasks and physical fitness tests – earning commemorative “brass” for each successful completion. Participants unanimously described the overall experience as “Level 2 Fun” – the kind of challenging adventure that is tough in the moment but becomes a rewarding and unforgettable memory.
“This Camporee definitely tested our Scouts’ resilience, especially waking up to that unexpected snow Saturday morning,” said Ted Hopper, Scoutmaster of Troop 1. “I was incredibly proud of their teamwork and positive attitudes as they faced the cold, wet conditions together. Despite the challenges and the early end to the event, they truly embraced the experience – it was tough, memorable fun, exactly what ‘Level 2 Fun’ is all about. They learned a lot about adapting to unexpected situations.”
Even with the abbreviated schedule, the experience provided valuable lessons in perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of preparedness. Pelham Troop 1 is grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this prestigious event and eagerly hopes to be selected to attend again next year, hopefully with a larger contingent.
About Pelham Troop 1
Founded in 1916, Troop 1 is one of scouting’s oldest continually operating troops, serving the community for well over a century. It provides a robust Scouting program for boys and young men from 6th grade through high school, focused on character development, citizenship training, leadership development, and personal fitness. The troop has a proud tradition of guiding numerous Scouts to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, scouting’s highest honor. Activities emphasize challenging outdoor adventures, including regular trips to BSA High Adventure bases like Philmont, Sea Base, and Northern Tier, alongside skill-building and community service. The troop is currently chartered by Christ Church Pelham. To learn more about Pelham Troop 1’s year-round activities and opportunities to join, visit our Facebook page (https://facebook.com/
