Service to the community remains a cornerstone of the Gardners Community Troop 75, according to Scoutmaster Bill Walmer, who says the troop’s recent projects reflect how Scouting extends far beyond weekly meetings and campouts.
Walmer, a former Troop 75 Scout himself, was inspired to become a leader by his father, Chuck, who served as an assistant scoutmaster with the troop. Now continuing that legacy, Walmer said he finds deep satisfaction in giving back.
“I’m thrilled to give back to the boys,” he said.
A proud father and Eagle Scout, Walmer recently celebrated as his sons, Drew and Nate, earned their Eagle Scout badges — a milestone that reflects the values and commitment fostered through the program.
In 2025, Troop 75 marked its 75th anniversary and is now preparing to begin its 76th year of Scouting and new adventures.
One of the troop’s recent service projects supported the local Ruritan Club, a community organization known for its charitable outreach. Scouts volunteered by repainting picnic tables, helping the group maintain its facilities. Troop 75 also lends support each year to the American Legion Post 262 Flag Retirement Ceremony.
Walmer said service is just one part of the broader impact Scouting has on young people. He shared examples of how Scouting experiences can shape future paths, including one former Scout who developed an interest in the outdoors, went on to study forestry at Penn State Mont Alto, and now works for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Another Scout gained new perspective after participating in a trip to the U.S. Naval Academy, opening doors to future educational and career opportunities.
“These kinds of adventures and service opportunities are part of the whole Scouting experience,” Walmer said. “They help young people discover their interests, build character, and develop a commitment to giving back.”
Troop 75 is sponsored by the Gardners community and meets Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at a cabin on Big Hill Road near Kline’s Church. The troop includes Scouts from Carlisle, Mount Holly, Bermudian Springs, Fairfield, Gettysburg, and surrounding areas, including homeschooled youth.
Walmer, who has served as scoutmaster for about seven years, said one of the most rewarding parts of the role is watching boys grow into confident young men.
“They learn independence and build confidence through outings and events,” he said.
One of the Scouts’ favorite annual winter activities is the Klondike Derby, held each February, where participants rotate through stations focused on fire building, knot tying, first aid, cooking, and other outdoor skills.
The troop recently created a promotional flyer to help raise awareness and welcome new members. Scouts are also looking forward to participating in the Upper Adams 250th celebration on June 13 in Biglerville.
Walmer encourages families interested in Scouting to attend a meeting and see what Troop 75 has to offer. He also recommends visiting beascout.org, where families can enter their zip code to find local Scouting opportunities.
“We’re grateful for the strong support from the Gardners community and surrounding areas,” Walmer said. “It’s what allows Scouting to continue growing strong as we head into our 76th year.”
I am always pleased to hear about the good things Scouting groups in our area are doing for their communities. My Eagle Scout project disapeared from the square in Beverly, NJ decades ago but it wasn’t just the cooperation needed to create those park benches, it was understanding the process needed to make it happen. In my mind, that’s what Scouting is about. Learning how to lead in a respectful way is the way! Scouting does this in a system created for young people to succeed in meaningful ways. Now more than ever would be a great time to join… Read more »