as Tiger Cubs. I don't recall what age exactly that was, perhaps four or five. We became Cub Scouts of Pack 38, and our Den Leaders were John & Cindy Garcia, and Kelly Stewart. After progressing to Webelos, I earned my arrow of light and became a Boy Scout. Boy Scouts is when I first started forming real friendships with the other guys: Nick Evans, Paul Garcia, Gustavo Gil, John Stewart, and Mike Weaver among the foremost of my age-group. I recall looking forward to camping all the time; we camped every month! Rain, snow, heat; none of it mattered. We were all just happy to be outside.

 

I don't know if I ever thought I was benefiting from Scouting, though I was, of course. I think what I really enjoyed most was the camaraderie of the other guys and of our adult leaders: Bruce Evans, Ralph Ford, Cindy Garcia, Keith Mellen and Kelly Stewart. It was the constant instruction and example of the Scout Oath and Law, more than the skills I learned in Scouting (though they are many) that truly influenced the development of my character and had a lasting effect, particularly duty to God.  I still enjoy being outside and camping today. It's something I share with my wife and children, and they share with me.

 

I don't have room to tell you all my Scouting stories in this little biography. Like most stories, they are best told around a campfire, with friends and family.