Testimony from an FNE Explorer Patrol Chief

My actual leadership in FNE began in late 2021 when I was assigned to become an Assistant Patrol Chief of my patrol. Being in this new leadership role gave me a completely different perspective of the program; a place for me to hang out with my friends turned into a life-changing program. I achieved new levels of spiritual enlightenment, created life-lasting bonds with my friends, and experienced a new environment where I felt safe, cared for, respected, and loved. The pinnacle of my time at FNE came to me when I first became a full-fledged Patrol Chief in the summer of 2022, which came with its own set of responsibilities, commitments, and initiatives. For the next two years, I guided my younger members and created unforgettable memories, which I will never forget. Being in a leadership position has taught me many situational and intrapersonal skills, such as solving conflicts between other members, being disciplined, and setting an example for the younger members as my actions have a direct influence on them.

I learned that being a leader is not easy, as my actions have consequences and impact on other people. My role as a Patrol Chief included assigning responsibilities to my younger members, organizing events and running them smoothly, and devising various solutions when required. FNE does a lot of volunteer work, which includes assisting at soup kitchens, feeding the homeless, and raking leaves in peoples’ driveways in the fall. There are also camps of varying lengths throughout the year. Being a Patrol Chief required me to exercise honesty and prudence, putting others’ well-being ahead of my desires while being morally just and reasonable. Overall, my experiences at FNE have taught me valuable life lessons and strong leadership skills, and most importantly, has strengthened my relationship with the Catholic faith.

A leader is not created in just one day.