Troop History
The Legend of the Phoenix: From fire, ashes and death – new life springs forth.
– Bill Jacobus, Assn. Scoutmaster – March 6, 1984
The genesis of Troop 5 isn’t etched in the annals of Scouting lore with triumphant bugle calls or the crackling camaraderie of a roaring campfire. It begins in silence, a chilling void left by tragedy. In the autumn of 1981, a shadow fell upon Cub Scout Pack 5 – the sudden, accidental death of young Alex Davidsen, son of Anita and Art, pillars of the pack.
The loss reverberated through the community, a stark, heartbreaking reminder of life’s fragility. But from the ashes of grief, a flicker of hope ignited. Instead of mourning in silence, Art and Anita channeled their sorrow into a legacy, requesting donations to Second Presbyterian Church—not just for Cub Scouts, but for the very spirit of Scouting. These gifts became the seed, the promise of a new beginning, a living memorial to Alex.
Then, fate, in its mysterious way, intervened. In February 1982, a cadre of exceptional Cub Scouts, poised to become Webelos, found themselves without a clear path forward. Led by Rick Horowicz and Francis Hogle, with Bill Moore as their Den Chief, these boys were the spark, the kindling waiting for a flame. As Bill Jacobus assumed leadership of the pack, the dream of Troop 5 lay dormant, a seed waiting for the right season to sprout.
That season arrived in September 1982. The architects of this new beginning assembled: Francis Hogle, the steady hand as Scoutmaster; Rick Horowicz, the strategic mind as Assistant Scoutmaster; Eagle Scout Bill Moore, bringing his hard-won wisdom; Bill Jacobus, the driving force as Committee Chair; and Cheryl Baughman, the church coordinator, the quiet strength behind the scenes. The Land family, their experience a valuable resource, joined the ranks.
On October 24, 1982, in the intimate setting of Francis Hogle’s home, the dream stirred. Leaders were registered, the charter application initiated, and the future, though uncertain, began to take shape. January 1983 brought crucial training, equipping the novice leaders with the tools they would need to guide their young charges. The pieces were aligning: dedicated leaders, eager boys, a shared vision fueled by tragedy and hope. Finally, on February 4, 1983, Troop 5 emerged from the shadows, holding its first official meeting.
Matt Baughman, Justin Davis, Francis Hogle IV, Ben Horowicz, Joe Robinson, Chris von Briesen, and Andrew Watson became the charter members, forging their identities as the Pedros and the Rams patrols. Andrew Davidsen and McCurdy Mathias, seasoned Scouts, transferred from Troop 1000, bringing their experience to the fledgling troop.
The first year was a crucible, a trial by fire. The first campout, a brutal test of resilience, became a legend. While other troops huddled indoors, fearing the blizzard’s wrath, Troop 5 braved the 24-inch snowfall, their unwavering commitment solidifying their reputation. They were the only troop at Broad Creek that weekend, a testament to their grit.
At the Parkway District First Aid Rally, the underdogs stunned the competition, seizing first place. Summer camp at Broad Creek, a week of shared adventure, forged unbreakable bonds. And at the Parkway District Orienteering Meet, they proved their mettle once more, navigating the wilderness with skill and determination.
Years passed, and the echoes of that initial tragedy faded into a proud history. Troop 5 grew and grew, both in reputation and in numbers. The troop’s name became synonymous with high adventure, impactful community service, and a deep commitment to the Scout Oath and Law.
By its 20th anniversary, the small band of brothers had blossomed into a thriving troop of nearly 40 Scouts, a powerful force for good in their community. Dedicated leaders stepped forward, including Rick Barton, who would guide the troop throughout the aughts as Scoutmaster, his leadership and commitment to scouting eventually earning him the Silver Beaver award and the highest respect of the city’s Scouting community.
Today, over 40 years in, the troop still meets in Smith Hall, the very same room in Second Presbyterian where those first nine Scouts and their dedicated leaders gathered in 1983. Now a troop renowned for its challenging treks and meaningful service projects, the spirit of those first Scouts, their courage, their resilience, and their dedication, lives on in the heart of Troop 5, inspiring new generations to embrace the Scouting adventure.