The Patrol Method

What

Devise conditions for emphasizing use of the Patrol Method. Demonstrate many possible patrol activities. Develop patrol spirit in an ever-increasing manner. Demonstrate good patrol leadership and then give all participants chance to be Patrol Leaders. Develop equal share of competition and cooperation among patrols.

Why

Prove that the patrol method is the method to use and that it works. Show every aspect of patrol life and program. Achieve a high degree of belonging, loyalty and self-giving, have a closely knit gang. Showing is not enough, only doing establishes a pattern in the individual. Learn to work as a team, learn to work to excel by doing one's best. Learn to be leader of such a group.

How

The patrol is the basic unit for White Stag camp. During first three days of PLD and TLD, encourage learners to elect patrol leaders who by their behavior demonstrate knowledge of basic philosophy and practice of patrol method.

In PMD and PLD, the youth staff observe and advise. Rotate all patrol jobs in the patrol daily. Pick spirited individual as Yell and Song Leader first day or two in camp. Have patrols camp separately, do all things as a patrol. Highlight patrols that do things well as a group. In PMD, the high point of this experience is the Adventure Trail. In TLD, the high point is the Trek. Use other patrol-centered activities including discussions, role-playing, daily patrol meetings, hikes, and so forth. Use patrol representatives at all times.