“At age 100, Boy Scouts must make changes” (Opinion, Charles Fleming, Jan. 3), concerning the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America, presented an impressive image of one boy’s journey to manhood in 1970. We are proud of our past, and of our standards. In U.S. European Command every week 5,336 youths promise to do their duty to God and country. They learn to do their best, and to be prepared. These standards have not changed in a century. They are timeless.

The Boy Scouts of America remains fresh and vibrant. This month, 350 youths and leaders will travel to Kandersteg, Switzerland, to test their winter survival skills, work as patrols and experience the fellowship of scouting. Across our military installations, Scouts will perform service projects, enjoy the outdoors and learn the principles of “leave no trace” camping. They will learn to set and achieve goals. Scouts learn from older Scouts and develop team and leadership skills.

The Transatlantic Council has served our military communities since 1950. Today, one of every two boys is a Cub or Boy Scout, among the highest percentages of youth served in the BSA. We experienced a 15 percent growth in our high school membership. This is possible because 2,521 adults volunteer as leaders, on unit committees, or provide general support. Success is possible because our command cares about Scouting and provides outstanding support.

Our 100th anniversary is not about “what we are not.” We are proud of who we are. We are up to date delivering timeless values. Our celebration is not just a nostalgic look back at our accomplishments. It is a celebration of who we are, what we are doing and where we are going. During this celebration, Transatlantic Council will be looking forward to a brighter future for youth.

Vincent CozzoneScout ExecutiveTransatlantic Council, BSABrussels, Belgium