Scouts of all ages will gather at Fantasy of Flight in Central Florida for the Annual Scout Aviation Camporee, Friday, March 16, through Sunday, March 18.
Troops will earn their aviation merit badges with the help of aviation experts and interactive activities and experiences with some of the attraction’s more than 40 rare and vintage aircraft. Fantasy of Flight has hosted thousands of Boy Scouts over the previous annual camporees, where troops have come on a mission to earn their merit badges and have enjoyed the added benefit of bonding over their fascination with aviation with their fellow Boy Scouts.
“There is no better place to get the aviation merit badge than Fantasy of Flight because aviation is what they do,” said Lynn Brown, scout master of Nokomis, Fla.-based boy scout troop 1001. “Some places try to accomplish the program with printed materials, pictures and write-ups, but to actually be there is definitely another dimension of learning that really boosts it up. When Kermit fires up the Mustang, it doesn’t get much better than that. There are enough different stations and activities provided so there is something for everyone. They can make their own planes or hear talks about the history behind them. There’s something of real interest for everyone.”
Scouts can practice their primitive camping skills while participating in a variety of educational and immersive aviation-themed activities. Not only will Camporee-goers tour Fantasy of Flight and visit real working aircraft maintenance and restoration areas, but they also will have the chance to talk with aviation mechanics, restoration specialists, and pilots as they participate in a variety of special merit badge stations. This year, Mid-Florida RC Club will present a special R/C flying demonstration as part of the weekend festivities as well.
As a former Boy Scout, Fantasy of Flight founder Kermit Weeks is proud to provide an educational venue for scouts to immerse themselves in the captivating world of aviation. “Fantasy of Flight’s hands-on, interactive learning experience will inspire and fascinate scouts of all ages,” said Weeks, who began a successful construction of an aircraft at the young age of 17. “I am so excited to welcome back our intrepid and inquisitive scouts for another successful Camporee!”
Cost of the Camporee three-day, two-night weekend is $32 per person plus tax. The $32 rate includes unlimited admission to Fantasy of Flight, specially tailored tours and Scout merit badge stations, activities, campsite and lunch on Saturday. Troops or individual scouts are invited. Individual scouts under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Reservations are required and admission is limited. To book, call Stephanie Conner, 863-984-3500 or e-mail [email protected].
For more information: FantasyOfFlight.com
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