At the formal campfire of the Brownsea Training Camp at Camp Currie in Camas, WA, this past Sunday, I had the privilege of recognizing two of Outdoor Service Guides’ most outstanding members with the Chief Commissioner’s Award, affectionately referred to as the Red Lion. Rovers Ethan Jewett and Carrie Davis were honored for their extraordinary contributions, leadership, mentorship, and dedication to the organization, embodying the very essence of the Red Lion.
Ethan Jewett has been a cornerstone of Outdoor Service Guides, with contributions that extend both nationally and internationally. His commitment to building bridges between Scouting communities and expanding OSG’s reach has left an indelible mark. Ethan’s efforts in developing our BTC3 program, born from his collaboration with BPSA-BC to incorporate Wood Beads training, have been pivotal in aligning OSG’s educational resources with our core mission and values. His dedication to fostering a strong relationship with the Vietnamese Scouting community further underscores his commitment to the global siblinghood of Scouting.
Ethan is well known across OSG as the leading canoe enthusiast and instructor, a passion that has fueled his dedication to Scouting. However, his impact goes far beyond canoeing. He serves as Group Scoutmaster of the 55th Cascadia, Regional Commissioner for the West, and plays a crucial role as Provost Commissioner, providing support for all regions. Ethan also efficiently manages the Pacific Northwest Quartermaster Store, ensuring smooth operations for all regional events.
These are a few of the responsibilities which place Ethan at the heart of OSG leadership. His proactive approach in stepping into vacant roles, creating design collateral, and his remarkable volunteerism, both inside and outside OSG, are testament to his unwavering dedication. During a challenging period of volunteer shortages, Ethan volunteered to spearhead efforts in onboarding, recruitment, and administrative tasks, ensuring OSG stayed grounded in its core values. His work doesn’t end at the administrative level – Ethan has been instrumental in organizing and running annual Brownsea Training Camps, Hullabaloos, paddle camps, and countless other key events, exemplifying the Rover motto of “service” each and every day.
These accomplishments merely scratch the surface of Ethan’s immeasurable contributions to OSG and his broader community.
Similarly, Rover Carrie Davis has made an incredible impact, reshaping OSG’s training programs and resources. Carrie’s leadership as Group Scoutmaster of the 150th Willamette, National Training Commissioner, and now Board Member at Large has significantly influenced the growth and development of our organization. While her dedication as a GSM is impressive, it is her work at the national level that truly sets her apart as a deserving recipient of the Chief Commissioner’s Award.
Among Carrie’s most impactful contributions is her complete overhaul of the BTC3 materials, which she meticulously rewrote. Her attention to detail, clarity, and dedication to making these resources accessible ensure that future generations of scouts and leaders are well-prepared to thrive. In addition, Carrie has played a pivotal role in developing the Virtual Online Training (VOLT) program, originally pioneered by Chief Richard Sowdon, and continues to enhance this invaluable resource.
Beyond her technical contributions, Carrie has served as a personal mentor to many Rovers. Her ability to balance the demanding role of GSM with her extensive national duties speaks volumes about her time management, dedication, and passion for service. Carrie has guided, mentored, and inspired countless individuals within OSG, setting a standard of excellence that resonates throughout the entire organization.
Both Ethan Jewett and Carrie Davis have shown exemplary service, earning their rightful place among the few who have received the Chief Commissioner’s Award. Though their contributions are different in scope, they share a common thread: an unwavering commitment to leadership, mentorship, and the principles that define our Scouting community.
As we honor their achievements, we are reminded of the lasting significance of the Red Lion – a symbol of service, and the embodiment of Scouting ideals. Ethan and Carrie have not only lived by these values but have shaped them for all of us. We are incredibly fortunate to have them as members of the OSG family, and their influence will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of Rovers for years to come.
