[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 85 (Tuesday, June 9, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1346-E1347]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  SUPPORTING BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. PHIL GINGREY

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 8, 2009

  Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, in celebration of the nation's 
largest youth scouting organization's 100th anniversary, I rise today 
in strong support of H. Res. 356, a resolution expressing support for 
the designation of February 8, 2010, as ``Boy Scouts of America Day.''
  The Boy Scouts of America is an outstanding organization that 
prepares young men to be the future leaders of our Nation. Since 1910, 
Scouting has helped mold these boys by combining educational activities 
and

[[Page E1347]]

lifelong values with fun. The Boy Scouts of America understands that 
helping youth puts our nation on a path toward a more conscientious, 
responsible, and productive society. Scouting helps young people 
develop self-confidence, as well as prepare them with academic, 
ethical, leadership, and citizenship skills that influence their adult 
lives.
  The Boy Scouts of America builds upon strong traditional family 
values to complement the education of our young men through its mission 
of mentoring, lifelong learning, faith traditions, serving others, 
healthy living, and building character.
  While various activities and youth groups teach basic skills and 
promote teamwork, Scouting goes beyond that and encourages youth to 
achieve a deeper appreciation for service to others in their 
communities. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, Scouting promotes 
activities that lead to personal responsibility and high self-esteem. 
As a result, when hard decisions must be made, peer pressure can be 
resisted and the right choices can be made.
  Madam Speaker, from the beginning of the Boy Scout program to the 
eventual completion and rank of Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts of America has 
long trained young men in the necessary skills that will enable them to 
be the future leaders of the United States. I applaud the efforts and 
the accomplishments of all of our nation's Boy Scouts, and specifically 
those of the 11th District of Georgia, which is my privilege to 
represent in Congress. I urge all of my colleagues to continue to 
support this honorable organization and the excellent young men that it 
continues to produce.

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