As the school year came to a close, parents of Barrington’s Troop 2 Boy Scouts became acutely aware of how many activities and clubs could not happen last year. Scouting was not among those activities. With determination, the scouts met in person, participated in activities and even had COVID-safe campouts. It helped protect the mental and physical health of almost 50 teens in our town, parents said.

Troop 2 Scoutmaster Wade Ogden made it happen with a group of dedicated adult volunteers. Now, after six years of service, Mr. Ogden has stepped down from his post of the 101-year-old organization. The transition to new a new Scoutmaster, Dan Birch, took place in a change of command ceremony at Barrington Beach recently.

Q & A with outgoing Scoutmaster Wade Ogden

Q: You’ve decided to step down from Scoutmaster. How did it feel and why was the timing right?

A: Being Scoutmaster is a rare privilege and I've cherished every moment. Troops continually evolve as new Scouts and Adults join and older Scouts age out.  This is a part of that cycle and it feels right. 

My family moved here in 2015 and my son and I joined Troop 2 at that time.  I knew that scouting was an organization that was right for my son, Harrison. He loves new challenges and adventure. Over these past six years, we’ve bonded as a father and son and as a troop. When you’ve shared over 150 nights of camping, endless training, meals, fires, hikes, adventures and ceremonies with a community, you become close. The troop has become an extended family and I’m proud of the accomplishments of each and every member. Whether it’s learning how to use crampons to hike on an icy path or becoming comfortable speaking in public, they all have learned valuable life lessons. By being exposed to new places and different experiences these young men have individually developed confidence and new skills. Collectively, I am proud of how we have worked together to improve our community, and I am grateful for the lessons that the scouts have taught me along the way.

Q: What has been your proudest moment as the adult leader of this group?  

A: One of the major tenets of Scouting is that boys lead boys. Adults are present for guidance and safety, but the daily workings of the Troop, by design, are handled by boys in various leadership positions. My proudest moment was when I realized that the Troop was truly functioning this way. Seeing older Scouts actively working with and teaching younger Scouts because they know through experience that 'this is the way' is truly a sight to behold. 

Q: What makes Troop 2 so special?  

A: The magic of Troop 2 is our dedicated families. We have a small army of highly trained volunteers and supportive families. Because of this, our Troop receives out-sized benefits and is able to do remarkable things.