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***image1***Behind every good woman stands a good man and the same apparently holds true for good young ladies.
Landstuhl-based Girls Scouts are getting a helping hand from such a group of good men, dedicated fathers who’ve taken some initiative of their own during the past few years.
The Green Knights are about 40 men who routinely assist in scouting projects around Landstuhl. The men have become so valuable that a “knighting” ceremony in October was set up to officially add them to what has traditionally been an all-girls’ society.
“We come to troop meetings or just help out whenever we are needed,” said Nick Lalena, the designated leader of the Knights. “We set up or build things when projects dictate and we grill food for the members. Whatever we can do to help them and their mission.”
The mission of Girls Scouts, since its founding in the state of Georgia by Juliette Lowe back in 1912, has been to “build character and skills for success in the real world.” Landstuhl’s group has about 150 young ladies ranging from ages 5 to 13.
“It doesn’t matter that we’re men, helping with something that’s been all-girls,” said Capt. Phil Bossart, an Air Force officer and father of four daughters. “There is no stigma attached. They are our children. It’s a chance to make what they do into a family event.”
The Green Knights are unique to Landstuhl.
“I like to be involved with my children,” Mr. Lalena said. “I have two boys as well, and I’m active with local Cub Scouting. We teach kids to be independent and self-sufficient but help is always accepted and it should be that way.”
The girls are happy to have both parents involved in their group, Captain Bossart said.
“It’s about things like integrity, loyalty and just being a better all-around young lady,” Captain Bossart said. “It’s a good feeling for us, too.”
