With hands raised and eyes filled with promise, the new Boy Scout Troop #139 officially pledged their oaths Tuesday evening, March 1, at the Sisters-Camp Sherman fire district's community hall.

Scoutmaster Eugene Trahern addressed 15 scouts and recruits, outlining his agenda and goals for the upcoming year while parents listened and filled out required forms with assistant scoutmasters.

A special arrangement with Chief Tay Robertson is allowing the group to use the facilities for their meetings this year in exchange for in-kind work and maintenance around the property. Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Sisters, Troop #139 is a split-off from Troop #188, who are sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

"Couple of weeks ago we didn't know if there would be a new troop or not. But here you all are and we're looking forward to a lot of fun times ahead," said Trahern to his scouts. "I have high expectations for this troop, and our mission will be three-fold: Leadership, community service projects, and outdoor skill activities. Some hardcore backpacking and less car camping. We'll also be doing some climbing with some easier introductory climbs and harder hikes. For those interested in positions of leadership, you're going to have to step it up."

Scoutmaster Trahern announced that there will be a specific theme planned for each month and this March will be "Pioneering."

"We will be working on our knots all month and before you leave please pick up your length of rope to practice with," he said. "All scouts will be expected to master the eight or nine knots all scouts are expected to know. Be prepared to fail in some of your tests and challenges. That's a learning experience and a part of life so you go back, prepare harder and try again."

Among the assistant scoutmasters for the troop are Dave Schlatter, Corey Stengel, Steve Hunt, Doug Stevens and the BSA charter representative, Chris Wilder.

After the meeting, Troop #139 was treated to a special behind-the-scenes tour of the fire station and quarters courtesy of Chief Robertson.

For more information on joining or helping to support the Boy Scouts in Sisters, contact Eugene Trahern at 541-549-1221.