Boy Scout codes don't discriminate

I am a scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts of America. Along with thousands of other adults, we volunteer our time and effort to make a positive difference in the lives of youths growing into adults.

The Boy Scout method has been around for 100 years. Its values are timeless. Of course, we get to do many things most other youths don't have a chance to do. We have a strong outdoor program. We climb mountains, canoe, camp, hike and explore. Along the way, the boys learn to cook, clean up and take care of themselves. They learn to plan ahead and how to lead. They have the opportunity to become involved in serving the community and making a difference.

I have been in Boy Scouts since I was 8 years old, as a Cub Scout back in the 1950s. My son was a Boy Scout and my grandson just started Tiger Cubs. Neither the scout oath - "On my honor I will do my best, to do my duty to God and my country, and to obey the scout law, to help other people at all times, to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight" - nor the scout law, "A scout is Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean and Reverent," make any reference to discriminate against other people. Quite the opposite. Getting along with others is part of growing up. As a scout volunteer, I am sorry to hear Theodore Utchen (Fence Post, Dec. 29) had such a negative experience. Like many thousands of other adult leaders, we "Do our Best" to provide a quality program.

Bruce Blake

Glen Ellyn