The "Cross Over Ceremony" Story

The traditional final skit done by the Webelos
before becoming Boy Scouts.

It was an ordinary day.  Watching my grandson, Caden, "Crossover" from Webelos to Boy Scouts.  I can still remember when he became a Tiger Scout over four years ago and wore his uniform for the first time.  He was so proud of himself as he entered Cub Scouts with his family.  I say "family" since that is exactly what scouting is at the entry level.  But, as you "Crossover" from Cub Scouts, or Webelos Scouts (We'll Be Loyal Scouts) to be exact, it is done under the assumption that you are able to make a few of your own decisions.  

My daughter-in-law Barbara, second from the left, receiving
a special award for being a Cub Scout leader.

About half a dozen other Webelos Scouts made the "Crossover" along with Caden into Boy Scouts today when the Arrow of Light badge, a Boy Scout Handbook and a troop neckerchief were awarded to all who engaged in the "Crossover".  Pretty neat ceremony with each Webelos Scout walking across a wooden bridge with his parents and receiving his new neckerchief.  But, before the ceremony took place, the Webelos had a chance to perform for the audience of Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts and their parents and guests.  

The Webelos Scouts and parents are addressed by the Scout
Leader before "Crossing Over" into Boy Scouts.

One final performance included a skit which featured two Webelos Scouts sticking their heads through openings in a sheet while two others placed their hands through holes in the sheet to act as the hands for the heads.  Pretty funny as they tried to eat various items and pretended to shave using shaving cream (whipped cream).  

Caden, in the blue Cub Scout uniform leads his parent's
across the bridge into Boy Scouts.

The audience was totally entertained and laughing as the Webelos Scouts performed together for the last time.  My grandson's arms and hands were part of the young scout on the right side of the curtain while Caden's best friend, Max, was the head for the other scout.  The 10 minute skit drew big applause as it came to an end.  The Boy Scout leader began the "Crossover" Ceremony with the printed ceremony wording of, "Today we are here to witness a milestone in a Scout's advancement, the bridge crossing over, from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts."  

Caden receiving his new neckerchief from another Boy Scout.

Wasn't long before all the Cub Scouts were newly anointed Boy Scouts and received a big round of applause.  A few photos with Caden and his mom and dad finished my day before I had to excuse myself and head to another appointment.  I hope Caden enjoys his experience in Boy Scouts as much as he has enjoyed himself while going through the levels of Cub Scouts.  He's a fantastic young man who loves scouting and the scouting experience.  It was another extraordinary day in the life of an ordinary guy.

The proud new Boy Scout has a big smile on his face.

Caden holds his new Handbook with mom Barbara and dad Derek.

Final time to wear his blue Cub Scout uniform before donning his traditional tan Boy Scout uniform.