Branford Scouts Troop 633/1633 Tour Our Nation's Capital

On August 13, 2025, ten scouts and six adult leaders from Branford’s Troop 633 (Boys) and Troop 1633 (Girls) set off on a five-day journey to Washington, D.C.—a trip designed to deepen their understanding of citizenship and leadership, as reflected in the Scout Oath and Law.

The scouts’ itinerary was filled with opportunities to experience history, culture, and civic responsibility firsthand. Highlights included an inside tour of the U.S. Capitol, a walking tour of the White House, and visits to the Treasury Department, a visit to the national archives and Library of Congress. Along the way, they paused to reflect at some of the nation’s most significant landmarks, including the World War II Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, 2nd Infantry Division Memorial, Iwo Jima Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, World War I Memorial, and the Washington Monument.

The pinnacle of the trip, however, came at Arlington National Cemetery, where the scouts participated in the solemn Changing of the Guard Wreath Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. An adult leader from the troop thoughtfully designed and decorated the wreath for presentation, and four scouts had the distinct honor of carrying and presenting it during the ceremony. Standing in silence before the tomb, all scouts and adult scouters experienced the weight of history and sacrifice in a way no textbook could ever capture—an unforgettable moment of reverence and respect that will remain with them for life.

The group also explored some of Washington’s world-class museums, including the National Air and Space Museum, the National Gallery of Art, and the National Museum of Natural History. Of special significance to the scouting community were visits to the site of the very first National Scout Jamboree and the original National Headquarters—moments that tied the scouts to the proud legacy of their movement.

The trip concluded with lighter, yet no less meaningful experiences, as the scouts enjoyed the wonders of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and visited the beautiful Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

From honoring those who served our nation to tracing the history of scouting itself, this trip was more than sightseeing—it was an unforgettable journey of discovery, service, and fellowship. For these Branford scouts, Washington, D.C. was not only a destination, but a living classroom where the principles of scouting came vividly to life.

If you would like to learn more about Troop 633/1633CT of Branford, visit us at www.branfordscouting.org

See the Full Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Arlington - Click Here