This year the Boys Scouts of America, an organization that has shaped the lives of millions of boys and their adult minders, will celebrate its 100th anniversary.

Scouting helps develop the character of our young men, teaches them how to be good citizens and strengthens them through a focus on physical fitness. Scouts grow up to be responsible men who care about their families, their community and their country, and have a positive attitude and outlook on life.

Scouting, too, has had a major influence on boys and men in Western Tidewater.

One has to wonder if more boys — and girls — were in the Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts today, what our society would look like a decade later when those boys and girls grow up to become the men, women and leaders of tomorrow.

We congratulate the Boy Scouts on a successful first 100 years, and the beginning of another 100.

We also wish everyone who will be traveling to Fort A.P. Hill for this year’s Jamboree — which is scheduled from July 26 through Aug. 4 — a safe journey.