997 has been in existence at least since the early 1960’s.   I joined as an 8 year old in 1971 and have never left, although I did take a couple of years break right after college and the year I got married.  I have now done every leadership position, lance corporal, corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, ranger, tree climber coordinator, chief ranger and now brigade chairman.  Not sure what’s next.  I also have spent some time at Northern Frontier as a camper, service crew and father of two sons that are still working as counselors there.  I have also spent 46 years being involved with the Pioneer girls camp, Cedarbrook in the Adirondacks, were I meet my wife and had 2 daughters go as campers and now staff.  What a busy life.