Patrol Names, Patches, Flags and Yells

When it applies to a Boy Scout Patrol they could mean a lot. It might offer a hint to the Patrol members' interests. It may describe the Patrol's attitude or personality. But then, it may mean nothing at all. It may just be a name most of the members agreed upon.

There have been a lot of Patrols during the six year Troop 152 history. A few Patrols have nearly faded from Troop history. A few have accomplished great things. And a few will be remembered for being unique, or troublesome. Patrols change their names, while other Patrols last for a year or two or more. Once in a while one Patrol will absorb a smaller Patrol, thus increasing its membership and lasting awhile longer.

Usually, at least in our Troop, when a new Patrol chooses a name they will open the Patrol Names document and pick one from the many patches already available. We call these the "traditional" Patrol names.

Troop 152 has Patrols named such as the Falcons [our first Patrol], the Wolves, the Cobras, the Bats, and the Scorpions.

Patrol Flag

A Patrol flag is the Patrol’s trademark, and it should be a good one. Have a competition to see who comes up with the best design and who is the best artist.

Make the flag out of a heavy canvas and use permanent markers to decorate it. In addition to the Patrol name, the Patrol flag should have the Troop number on it as well as the names of all the Patrol members. Mount the flag on a pole, which also can be decorated. Remember, the Patrol flag should go wherever the Patrol goes.

Patrol Yell

Every Patrol has a Patrol yell, which should be short and snappy. Choose words that fit the Patrol's goals. Use the yell to announce to other Patrols that your Patrol is ready to eat or has won a Patrol competition. Some Patrols also have a Patrol song.