The Patrol Leader

A Patrol without a Patrol Leader is like a human without a head. The body doesn't do anything. It decays into nothingness. That isn't what we want for a real Patrol, so already you can guess that the Patrol Leader is pretty important. So the next question is, what exactly does the Patrol Leader do?

A Patrol Leader has a lot of responsibilities, but that doesn't make the job hard. Sure, it'll be difficult until you learn how to do the job and your Patrol learns to trust your leadership. But, after a while a good Patrol Leader won't have to work very hard. Most of the hard work will almost take care of itself as the Patrol learns to work together. Above that, the hardest part of being a Patrol Leader is this:

Every one of your boys is going to be a decisive factor in making the Patrol into whatever it turns out to be, but the biggest responsibility, the biggest trust is yours. Your leadership, your ideals for yourself and the Patrol, your example and attitude as a Scout, your sympathy with and understanding of the group, individually and as a whole, are going to make all the difference in the world to the rest of them.

William Hillcourt - Handbook for Patrol Leaders

If you want your Patrol to be the right kind of Patrol, then it's up to you to be the right kind of leader. Let's take a look at what it takes to be the right kind of leader:

The right kind of Patrol Leader believes absolutely in his Patrol.

He truly believes his Patrol is the best Patrol in the troop, made up of the best Scouts, living by the Scout Oath and Law better and better.

The right kind of Patrol Leader knows how to get the job done.

He knows that no one likes to be bossed around, and that it's up to him to keep the patrol together and moving in the right direction.

The right kind of Patrol Leader is a leader in Scout Spirit.

The Patrol Leader sets the tone. He's an example to the other Patrol members. If he isn't trustworthy, they won't be trustworthy either.

The right kind of Patrol Leader stays ahead of his Patrol.

The patrol leader knows most people prefer to hear the words "come on," rather than "go on."

The right kind of Patrol Leader understands.

You can't lead a Patrol if you don't know where and who they are. Getting to know the Scouts in your Patrol is vitally important.

The right kind of Patrol Leader keeps his Patrol active.

The Patrol needs to remain active to stay alive. It must have plenty of things to do, and a plan for getting them done. The job of making sure that happens falls to the Patrol Leader.

The right kind of Patrol Leader shares his leadership.

Your Patrol looks to you for leadership, but that doesn't mean they stand around watching you. They should be right by your side, as much involved in the Patrol as you are.

The right kind of Patrol Leader represents his Patrol and his troop.

The Patrol Leader has responsibilities beyond his Patrol as well. He's a leader in the troop, along with all of the other Patrol Leaders.

That sounds like an awful lot to remember, but don't worry. You've got plenty of help. There are other Scouts in your troop who have been Patrol Leader, and you'll be able to count on them for help and advice when you need it. You also have the Scoutmaster to turn to. He's there to help as well, giving you advice and a kind word to boost your confidence. You're not alone, but the job is all yours.