Waterdown Beaver camp out at Warplane Heritage Museum

Post date: Apr 26, 2012 3:16:25 PM

Wednesday, April, 25, 2012

http://www.flamboroughreview.com/community/waterdown-beaver-camp-out-at-warplane-heritage-museum/

-Submitted by Lindsey Ryder

It was a rainy Saturday evening in March as 3rd Waterdown Scouts Beaver Colonies A & B gathered outside the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, waiting to start the Night Ops program. The doors opened and the Beavers were welcomed into the museum along with Cubs and Guides from across Ontario.

They were led to their camp-out location and set up under the wings of the Avro CF-100 “Canuck,” a fine Canadian fighter jet.

Once camp was in order, Night Ops opening ceremonies began and campers were given four missions for the evening: making hot air balloons; watching a demonstration about air pressure and speed and how planes fly; making a simple glider that could fly to the museum’s ceiling and learning about the museum’s vast collection of warplanes during a guided tour.

Campers experienced a mock night attack. In total darkness, they listened to the warning sounds of an air raid siren, followed by the anti-aircraft guns and dropping bombs. Their flashlights illuminated the dark ceiling, just like anti-aircraft fire.

The hands-on experience provided a learning opportunity for the Beavers, leaders and parents.

Lights out signaled time for bed, and although little sleep was accomplished, everyone woke refreshed and eager for breakfast in the hangar before heading home with their hot air balloon, glider, and a Night Ops patch.

Night Ops is just one of the fun, exciting and educational activities the 3rd Waterdown Beavers participate in during the session.

Beavers programming is for boys and girls aged five to seven. The group meets Monday or Tuesday evenings at Sealey Park Scout Hall. Those who would like to try out Beavers can visit www.3rdwaterdown scouting.org or the Facebook page (www.facebook.com/3rdWaterdownScouting) for more information.