On Monday evening at the Summit Circle, Operation Arrow staff members began their journey of service at the 2017 National Jamboree. This ceremony revisited the Order of the Arrow’s history at past jamborees while inspiring staff to continue to serve as exceptional representatives of the OA.
For many in attendance, the ceremony was the first time they had the opportunity to experience the Summit Circle. One attendee described the ceremony as, “A unique way to be introduced to the circle, especially with the ceremony being tailored to the Operation Arrow’s specific program areas.” Dedicated in recognition of our organization's centennial anniversary in 2015, the Summit Circle is made to resemble the original ceremonial grounds at Treasure Island Scout Reservation. Many of the current elements were even a part of the former site at one point.
This ceremony, coined “Return to Our Roots,” featured four ceremonial parts to detail the OA’s past jamboree initiatives, including a message from 2017 National Chief Forrest Gertin. This directive encouraging staff to recall and remember their individual induction experience, to be able to recommit themselves to the tenets of cheerful service and servant leadership.