Scobey Border Patrol Station Holds Merit Badge Event for Boy Scouts

May 3, 2010 - Havre, Mont. - U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Scobey station participated in a merit badge event Saturday for six different Boy Scout Troops from eastern Montana and western North Dakota. The Scouts, representing the Great Plains District of the Northern Lights Council, came to Scobey to earn various merit badges. The event was hosted by the Scobey’s Troop 298, which is headquartered at the Scobey Lutheran Center.

Border Patrol agents provided the Scouts with a tour and the necessary training for them to earn their Citizenship in the Nation badge. During the tours, agents guided the Scouts through the station, giving them a glimpse of life in the Border Patrol. The Scouts showed the most interest in the weapons, tracking demonstration, the IDENT fingerprinting computer and, of course, the vehicles’ lights and sirens.

The Scouts were also impressed by a CBP Office of Air and Marine Pilatus aircraft that coincidentally flew over the station as the group was receiving the tour. At the end of the 30- minute tour, the group gathered around the flag pole to discuss morals, ethics, the Border Patrol creed and what makes a good citizen. They learned that the everyday citizen plays a key role in making this country the greatest nation on earth by voting, following the laws and helping their neighbors in a crisis.

Scobey Station Patrol Agent in Charge Kurt Nelson said, “I am proud of the dedication of the agents of the Scobey Border Patrol Station. These agents have been such a great part of our small community in all aspects of their duties. It is an honor for our agents to be asked to participate in this and other events that we are involved with here.”

Troops included 382 from Wadford City, 338 from Crosby, 368 from Williston, 283 from Plentywood, 190 form Sydney, and 298 from Scobey. Also on hand from the Northern Lights Council were District Commissioner Kevin Hammer, District Activities chairman Tim Bishop, Assistant Scoutmaster Jim Staricka.

The Border Patrol’s community involvement includes education and youth activities that help improve the quality of life in border communities.