2007
Southern Region Chief Interview
Alex Gomez, the 2007 Southern Region Chief, was asked by the national web site
staff to answer some questions about the OA and his experiences. Let's take a
look at what he had to say.
How do you feel to be a national officer? What do you find most exciting
about the role?
I'm very honored and humbled by this opportunity to serve my fellow Scouts, and
I'm looking forward to a spectacular year in the Southern Region. I believe
that the most exciting aspect of being a national officer is the ability to
have an impact on all the Arrowmen I come in contact with.
What are you most looking forward to?
I'm really looking forward to meeting and training with Arrowmen from all over
the Southern Region and the country in general, and I cannot wait for the
National Conservation and Leadership summit to start.
What are your earliest memories of the OA?
My first clear memory of the Order of the Arrow is from my Ordeal ceremony. The
blazing bonfire and the lodge closing ceremony with all my new brothers circled
up and singing the song of our Order - it was just overwhelming and inspiring.
What was your first leadership position, and what was the greatest lesson
you learned from it?
The first leadership position I ever held was that of a patrol leader in my
troop. It taught me that leadership is often times very difficult, but when you
have strong support from your family and friends, everything will turn out for
the best.
What is the coolest thing you've done in Scouting?
Last summer, I had the opportunity to participate in the OA Wilderness Voyage
program. It was life changing and unmatched by anything I've ever done in and
out of Scouting. I think a part of me will always remain in the boundary
waters.
What makes you proudest to be an Arrowman?
I've seen Scouts in my troop with no real direction called out to join the OA,
and watching them grow into servant leaders with a passion for the principles
that govern our Order, and our lives. That is truly inspiring.
What awesome things have you done in the OA?
As a ceremonialist, I was able to attend our Order's 90th Anniversary
celebration at Treasure Island in the summer of 2005, and recreating one of the
OA's original ceremonies in the place of its inception gave me chills.
What makes the OA so cool?
As Arrowmen, we dedicate ourselves to a lifetime of brotherhood and cheerful
service; is there any greater calling?
|
