The Springs Central Air Scouts shared that member Samuel van de Griendt recently received a Cord Award.

According to the Scouts, the Cord or Thong is considered one of the highest achievable challenge awards for Scouts.

The Scouts said that achieving any one of these indicates a well-roundedness of scouting skills and interests. Cords can only be earned by scouts who have their first class advancement.

The Scouts shared that Van de Griendt has earned two of these awards this year. As each cord requires 15 interest badges, including six compulsory badges, this is no easy feat.

In April, he earned the Bushman’s Thong Award, which focuses on scouting skills such as first aid, mapping, and survival.

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In August, he completed the Service Cord requirements, which focus on environmental awareness, safety, and public health.

“These are the first cords earned at Springs Central Air Scouts in more than a decade, so we are extremely proud of Samuel’s achievements,” said the scouts.

Van de Griendt said earning his cords had been an enriching part of his Scouting journey, as they required learning advanced skills, including first aid, navigation, and wilderness survival techniques.

“What I love about earning interest badges is that it’s not just learning information, but it’s also hands-on activities,” he added.

Van de Griendt shared that working to earn his cords also provided him with opportunities for personal growth and leadership development as he led patrols in activities and organised events.

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