Kids
Embracing tradition and community with the Baumholder Cub Scouts
Baumholder Cub Scouts December 22, 2024
On Veterans Day this year, the Baumholder Cub Scouts proudly played a significant role in honoring those who have served. The Cubs led the community in the Pledge of Allegiance, a meaningful moment that united attendees in gratitude and reflection. This heartfelt ceremony allowed both young and old to join together in remembering the sacrifices made by veterans, and the Cubs’ participation was a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring those who have served our country.
In addition to leading the Pledge of Allegiance, the Cubs showed their appreciation by creating and distributing heartfelt, handwritten cards to veterans, which were later shared through the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). These personal tokens of gratitude were a tangible expression of the Cubs’ respect and admiration for the veterans. The Scouts also took time to connect with the veterans by taking selfies with them, offering personal thanks and building lasting connections across generations.
The Cub Scouts’ involvement in the Veterans Day event was part of a larger tradition of service and community engagement that has become a hallmark of their activities. This year’s event was particularly special, as it marked a collaboration with the Baumholder High School Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC). The Cub Scouts were inspired by the leadership and dedication displayed by the JROTC cadets, and they look forward to continuing their work together in the future. The partnership with JROTC is just one example of how the Cubs are learning from others in their community and using those lessons to grow as young leaders.
Veterans Day provided the perfect opportunity to highlight the Cubs’ ongoing commitment to service. Last year, the Cubs also participated in a thank-you cadence during a coin recognition ceremony with the Exchange, showcasing their dedication to expressing gratitude in creative and meaningful ways. This year’s Veterans Day involvement continued to build on that tradition, with the Cubs’ actions inspiring the community and reinforcing the value of service and respect for our veterans.
Cub Scouting, at its core, is about developing character, building leadership skills, and fostering strong community connections. Through events like these, Scouts learn the importance of gratitude, teamwork, and selfless service. They also gain hands-on experience in citizenship activities and develop a deeper understanding of the role they can play in shaping their community and society as a whole.
Baumholder, a military community with a strong history of camaraderie and service, once had an active Cub Scout Pack that was beloved by its members. In the 1960s, Cub Scouting was an integral part of life here, and it continued to foster young leaders for decades. However, the pack eventually became inactive in 2013, leaving a gap in the community for almost a decade.
But in 2023, a renewed spirit of Scouting returned to Baumholder, as efforts to revive the Cub Scout Pack began. Since its resurgence, the Pack has worked diligently to strengthen its presence in the community, providing a safe space for young girls and boys to learn, grow and serve. The enthusiasm and hard work of the new leaders and families involved have been inspiring, and the Pack is quickly becoming an important part of the Baumholder community once again.
It’s always wonderful to see different parts of our community come together. Working with groups like the VFW, Girl Scouts and JROTC to honor our veterans is especially meaningful. It not only strengthens community bonds but also teaches our Cubs the value of service and respect. These collaborations provide valuable learning experiences for the Scouts, reinforcing the importance of working together and contributing to the well-being of the entire community.
The Cubs’ participation in the Veterans Day ceremony was more than just a way to honor veterans—it was also a lesson in the power of community. In Baumholder, Scouting provides a unique opportunity for young people to connect with veterans and their families, strengthening the bond between generations. Through these interactions, the Scouts gain not only a sense of pride in their country but also a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have served.
The impact of the Cubs’ service extends far beyond the events themselves. The Scouts are not only learning about the importance of giving back, but they are also building valuable relationships with veterans, military families and other community members. These friendships and connections help to create a supportive network that benefits everyone involved. The Cubs’ efforts to honor veterans and engage in community service set an example for their peers, inspiring others to follow their lead and contribute to the well-being of those around them.
The Baumholder Cub Scouts are also working to make a lasting impact in the community in other ways. Recently, the Pack began a local tradition by introducing live Christmas tree sales to Baumholder for the first time, which has been met with enthusiasm. This new initiative, along with their participation in community clean-ups, showcases the Cubs’ dedication to being responsible and active members of their community. Whether they’re honoring veterans or caring for the environment, the Cubs are always looking for ways to give back and make a positive difference.
Through these experiences, the Cubs learn valuable lessons about leadership, compassion and the importance of service. They understand that even small acts of kindness, like rescuing an injured animal or helping a classmate, can have a big impact on the world around them. These acts of service not only help the Cubs grow as individuals, but they also foster a greater sense of responsibility and community connection.
Many parents have shared how the Cub Scouts have positively influenced their families, particularly in strengthening bonds between service members and their children. Scouting has helped foster a deeper connection between parents and kids, providing a supportive environment for families navigating the challenges of military life, including deployments and relocations.
Looking ahead, the Baumholder Cub Scouts are excited to continue their tradition of community service and involvement. They remain committed to honoring veterans, supporting military families and fostering a spirit of gratitude and kindness among their members. The Cubs are eager to continue building bridges across generations, fostering leadership and inspiring others to give back to their communities.
For more information about Cub Scouting in Baumholder, contact baumholderscouts96@gmail.com.