Scouts represent nation's finest

To the editor:

Tragedies occur in some form almost daily. Recently the news gave an account of a group of Boy Scouts who were in the Sierra Nevada canyons when a severe storm suddenly developed causing a bolt of lightning to claim the life of the group's leader and injuring a number of others.

Boy Scouts like to explore, and possibly that is the mission they were undertaking. These incidents, however, are often unexpected and cannot be prevented. This, unfortunately, was one of those times.

I like to follow the news pertaining to the Boy Scouts. I have yet to learn of their equal in accomplishment, courage and dedication.

Interest in Scouts among youths continues to grow. Life is indeed rewarding for a Scout.

My nephew's picture on my wall in his Scout uniform always gives me a feeling of pride. His theory is, "Once a Scout, always a Scout." He is 74 years old.

I strongly feel the Boy Scouts will continue in splendor and perfection to represent the nation's finest citizens in the future. I am sure you agree.

PAULA E. KEMPE, Cape Girardeau