by Mike Matzinger
“Be Prepared” is more than a Scout motto. It’s a mindset that stays with you for life.
This week, that lesson was put into action during an outdoor family movie night in Washington, D.C. When lit Roman candle fireworks were thrown into a crowd, one attendee immediately recognized the danger. Knowing the device would continue firing, he ran toward it, picked it up, and threw it away from families and children before anyone was seriously injured.
Afterward, he explained why he acted:
“I was a Boy Scout, and it’s the Boy Scouts that really taught me that, you know, you act. You stand up and you protect others.”
That simple statement captures something every Scout understands. Scouting is not just about camping, hiking, or earning badges. It is about developing character, courage, and the confidence to step forward when others need help.
For Scouting alumni, the lessons learned years, or even decades, ago continue to shape decisions in moments that matter most. The skills may change over time, but the values endure.
Well done, alum Josh.