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 IPHC Royal Rangers
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GENERAL FCF INFO
Territories & Staff
Procedures & Guidelines
Outfit Judging
Pathfinder Award
Black Powder Safety
Patches
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ADVANCEMENTS
TRAIL OF THE GRIZZLY ADVANCEMENTS


 Trappers Brigade

WEBSITES
Santee Trappers
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Johnnie Barns - circa 1966

 

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 FCF Handbook Cover ©GPH 1971
Artwork by Fred Deavers

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The Pledge

I share with you the warmth and glow of this campfire. These crimson flames are a symbol of our fellowship and adventures in camping. I promise to share with you the warmth of Christian friendship and with others the light of my Christian testimony. I promise to keep alive the spirit of FCF in my personal life and to observe at all times the principles of Royal Rangers.

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The History

The Frontiersmen Camping Fellowship (originally called "Frontiersmen Camping Fraternity") was founded during the summer of 1966. For some time prior to this date, the national commander had felt the need for a special honor society to give recognition to men and older boys who had distinguished themselves in advancement, training, and camping.

The early American frontiersman was an excellent example of man's ability to adapt to the outdoors and the wilderness. His achievements were also an example of courage and determination. The national office, therefore, made the decision to base this fraternity on the lore and traditions of these early frontiersmen.

The first FCF chapter was organized in the Southern California District on July 8, 1966. High in the San Bernardino Mountains in a clearing surrounded by gigantic trees, a large group of Royal Rangers sat around a blazing campfire. As they waited, a feeling of mystery and expectancy filled the air.

Suddenly, the blast of a hunter's horn shattered the night's stillness and echoed through the trees. National Commander Johnnie Barnes stepped into the firelight, dressed in a buckskin outfit and a coonskin cap. As lie began to explain the new FCF program, a hum of excitement rose above the sound of the crackling campfire. Assisted by two district leaders, Ron Halvorson and Bob Reid, these men proceeded with the first FCF callout. After pledging to endure a time of testing, the candidates were led away carrying a large rope to a mountaintop nearby for an all night initiation.

Later as the new members (five men and five boys) were officially inducted into the fraternity at the final friendship fire, they sensed that this ceremony was a milestone in Royal Rangers history.

That same year, three more chapters were organized in the Northern California, the Southern Missouri, and the Iowa Districts. This exciting and unique fraternity has so captured the imaginations of men and boys until the program has now grown to include organized chapters in the majority of our country.

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"Ad Dare Sevire" (Latin), meaning
"To Give and To Serve"

THE SPIRIT

FCF endeavors to develop in each member the same courageous and undaunted spirit of the early frontiersmen. High morale and contagious enthusiasm are developed by urging each member to strive to achieve five important things: develop courage, display achievement, develop friendship, demonstrate leadership, and develop woodsmanship.

THE SYMBOL

The blazing campfire is the official symbol of the FCF.   The campfire provided the early frontiersman with light and warmth and was essential for cooking.  It was used for other vital needs as well.

The blazing campfire therefore symbolized the spirit of FCF, which is (1) Christian love (2) personal witness (light) and (3) dedicated service (usefulness).

THE PURPOSES
            

  1. To give recognition to boys and men who have shown exceptional interest and outstanding achievement in the Royal Rangers program and in Royal Rangers camp craft.
  2. To build a brotherhood of top-notch boys and men over the years who will continue to be Royal Rangers program and camping enthusiasts.
  3. To emphasize the importance of involvement in the advancement program, development of camp craft skills, and completion of the leadership training programs including a National Training Camp (NTC).
  4. To develop a corps of elite Royal Rangers who will strive to be the very best in Christian example and leadership.
  5. To encourage the boys and men of Royal Rangers to always prefer others above themselves and to let their leadership be by example.
  6. To show a spirit of servanthood, willing to give of time and energy above and beyond what is expected for Royal Rangers.