March 12, 2000

Initially, the Bear Patrol was known as the Skipper Gidney Patrol.

Francis "Skipper" Gidney The first Wood Badge course was held, as scheduled, from September 8th to 19th, 1919. Although Baden-Powell had outlined the course syllabus, he did not lead the course, but left that to thte newly appointed Camp Chief, Francis "Skipper" Gidney. Gidney was a young man who had served as a captain during the War and had immense energy. More importantly from Baden-Powell's views, he had tremendous spirit. Thus Gidney has the honor of being the very First Wood Badge Scoutmaster.