1978 Esperanza Base
Esperanza Base, located at Hope Bay on the Trinity Peninsula of Antarctica, is one of Argentina’s prominent research stations. Established on December 17, 1953, the base has been continuously operational since its inception. Its primary objectives encompass scientific research in disciplines such as glaciology, seismology, oceanography, and biology. Notably, Esperanza Base is among the few Antarctic stations that accommodate families, fostering a unique civilian community in this remote region.
In 1978, Argentina initiated a program to establish a civilian presence at Esperanza Base by relocating seven families to the station. This initiative aimed to strengthen Argentina’s territorial claims and promote a year-round community in Antarctica. Consequently, various facilities were developed, including the Presidente Julio Argentino Roca Provincial School, which provided education to the children residing at the base.
The southernmost Scout unit of the world, the Grupo Scouts 1556 “Esperanza Blanca,” is at the Esperanza Base at the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula; it is affiliated to the Scouts de Argentina. Originally, the group belonged to the Asociación Diocesana de Scouts Católicos Argentinos Castrense (Diocesan Association of the Catholic Scouts of Argentina - Military Diocese), an independent Scout organization with links to the Union Internationale des Guides et Scouts d’Europe.
As of now, Esperanza Base continues to operate, serving as both a scientific research hub and a civilian settlement in Antarctica. The base’s enduring presence underscores Argentina’s commitment to Antarctic exploration and habitation.
1987 NSF / Boy Scouts of America World Explorer Program
The Boy Scouts of America (BSA), in collaboration with the National Science Foundation (NSF), established a program to send Eagle Scouts to Antarctica as part of scientific research expeditions. This initiative aimed to provide young leaders with unparalleled opportunities to contribute to and gain experience in scientific exploration.
PROGRAM INCEPTION AND EVOLUTION
1928: The program’s origins trace back to when Admiral Richard E. Byrd selected Eagle Scout Paul Siple to join his Antarctic expedition. Siple’s participation highlighted the valuable contributions that Scouts could make to such endeavors.
1957–1958: Building on this precedent, Eagle Scout Richard Chappell was chosen to participate in the International Geophysical Year, marking another significant involvement of Scouts in Antarctic exploration.
1978: Eagle Scout Mark Lienmiller was selected to join an Antarctic expedition, commemorating the 50th anniversary of Byrd’s initial journey.
1985: Eagle Scout Doug Barnhart continued the tradition by participating in Antarctic research, further solidifying the program’s commitment to involving Scouts in scientific missions.
1987: The NSF and BSA formalized the initiative, announcing that an Eagle Scout would be sponsored to join the U.S. Antarctic Program once every three years. This structured approach ensured regular opportunities for Scouts to engage in Antarctic research.
NOTABLE PARTICIPANTS
Tim Brox: Served as the Antarctic Scout for the 2001–2002 research season.
Brad Range: Participated during the 2003–2004 season, contributing to various scientific projects.
Benjamin Pope: Joined the Antarctic research team in the 2005–2006 season, continuing the legacy of Scout involvement in polar exploration.
PROGRAM CONCLUSION
The program continued into the early 21st century, with the last documented Eagle Scout participant joining an Antarctic expedition in 2006. Since then, there haven’t been further reports of Eagle Scouts being selected for this specific initiative. The collaboration between the BSA and NSF provided invaluable experiences for the participating Scouts, fostering a spirit of adventure and scientific inquiry that aligned with the core values of Scouting.
The Antarctican Society
1997–98 Spirit of Australia South Pole Expedition
On New Year’s Day 1998, three members of Scouts Australia — Ian Brown, Keith Williams, and Peter Treseder — made history as the first Australians to walk unaided to the South Pole. After 60 grueling days trekking across the icy expanse of Antarctica, the trio stood proudly at the bottom of the world, raising the World Scout flag high over the Pole to mark their incredible achievement.
The team carried everything they needed to survive — pulling sleds packed with food, fuel, and gear across hundreds of kilometers of snow and ice. Battling extreme cold, shifting weather, and physical exhaustion, they relied on teamwork, preparation, and the skills they had gained through years of Scouting.
“We gained our zest for adventure in Scouts. Scouting is fun and you learn to adventure safely,” they shared in a live message broadcast from Antarctica to thousands of Scouts attending the 1997/98 Australian Scout Jamboree. Their expedition was more than a test of endurance; it was a powerful reminder of the role Scouting plays in shaping bold, resilient leaders — and a message to every Scout that the spirit of adventure can take you to the ends of the Earth.
