Reaching for the Stars: Astronaut Mike Fossum Uses His Scout Skills on the International Space Station

Hey Scouters, welcome back to Scouting America! I'm Miss Alice, and today, we're embarking on an extraordinary journey as we explore the patrol method in a setting unlike any other – the International Space Station.

As we lift off with Astronaut Mike Fossum, we're transported to a world where dreams become reality and challenges are conquered among the stars. Fossum, an ordinary kid from the Rio Grande Valley, shares his remarkable journey from scouting camps on the shores of Falcon Lake to commanding a space station worth billions of dollars.

It was under the clear night sky, surrounded by the stark beauty of the stars, that Fossum first felt the pull of the cosmos. Inspired by the vastness of space, he set his sights on reaching for the stars, a dream that fueled his determination to excel in school, pursue engineering, and eventually join the Air Force.

But it was his experiences in scouting that laid the foundation for his success. From learning the value of setting goals to mastering the art of teamwork, Fossum credits scouting with instilling in him the essential skills needed to navigate the challenges of space exploration.

As the commander of the International Space Station, Fossum's leadership skills were put to the ultimate test. Responsible for the safety and well-being of his crew, he drew upon the lessons learned as a patrol leader and senior patrol leader in scouting. Just as in scouting, Fossum prioritized taking care of his team, ensuring that everyone worked effectively and looked out for one another.

But Fossum's commitment to scouting extends beyond his time in space. Despite his demanding schedule, he remains dedicated to volunteering, driven by a desire to pay forward the opportunities that scouting provided him as a young man. For Fossum, scouting isn't just a hobby – it's a lifelong commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.

As he guides young scouts on their journey to adulthood, Fossum emphasizes the importance of self-correction, feedback, and logical consequences. Through scouting, he hopes to prepare them not only to lead their troops but also to become leaders in their communities and beyond.

So, as we reflect on Fossum's incredible journey, let's remember the words of the Scout Oath: "On my honor, I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country, to obey the Scout Law." Through scouting, we can all reach for the stars and inspire others to do the same.

Thank you for joining us on this inspiring adventure. Until next time, happy scouting!