USS Slater Overnight
Description
Section titled “Description”Overnight historical education experience aboard the USS SLATER, a World War II Destroyer Escort museum ship docked in Albany. Scouts and families sleep aboard the ship, tour the vessel, and learn naval history.
Overview
Section titled “Overview”The USS SLATER overnight is one of the most unique and memorable events the pack can offer. Scouts and their families sleep aboard a WWII-era destroyer escort docked in Albany, tour the entire ship, participate in educational activities, and experience what life was like for sailors during WWII. Due to the $50/person cost and logistical complexity, the pack schedules this biennially. Minimum 20 / maximum 50 participants per group.
Timeline / Checklist
Section titled “Timeline / Checklist”| When | Task |
|---|---|
| 3 months before | Contact USS SLATER to book overnight; pay $100 non-refundable deposit |
| 3 weeks before | Submit proof of insurance (list USS SLATER / DEHM as certificate holder) |
| 3 weeks before | Submit final payment ($50/person) and participant roster |
| Before event | Collect BSA medical forms for all participants |
| Pre-order deadline (1 week before) | Order dog tags ($5) and patches ($3) if desired |
| Day of event | Arrive at 5:00pm for fire drill and gear stowing |
Event Details
Section titled “Event Details”Schedule:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 5:00pm | Arrival, gear stowing, fire drill |
| 5:30pm | Ship tour |
| 6:15pm | Dinner (mess deck) |
| 7:00pm | Educational activity |
| 7:45pm | Retire colors (flag folding) |
| 8:00pm | Snack time |
| 8:10pm | Free time (explore ship, train guns, turn helm) |
| 9:50pm | Tattoo (get ready for bed) |
| 10:00pm | Lights out |
| 7:00am | Reveille |
| 7:15am | Breakfast (mess deck) |
| 8:00am | Bunk inspection / pack belongings |
| 8:15am | Hoist colors; ribbons/crew cards presented |
| 8:30am | Ship’s store open |
| 9:00am | Vacate ship |
What to Bring:
- Sleeping bag, pillow, weather-appropriate clothes
- Flat rubber-soled shoes (sneakers — no hard soles)
- Rain gear (no umbrellas), toiletries, flashlight
- Prepackaged snacks, card/board games
- Class A uniforms, BSA medical forms, first aid kit (group must provide own)
Do NOT bring: Alcohol, narcotics, chewing gum, appliances, knives/tools
Rules: No running/horseplay; buddy system for kids; adults with group at all times; designated bathrooms only; no restricted areas
Coordination
Section titled “Coordination”- Program Chair coordinates booking, deposit, insurance certificate, and all logistics
- Cubmaster supports program and attends the event
- Secretary manages roster and medical forms collection
Tips (from 2025)
Section titled “Tips (from 2025)”- Consider dinner before tour — kids get hungry
- Dinner portions can be small — bring extra snacks
- Record attendance carefully
- High cost warrants biennial scheduling
Key Tasks
Section titled “Key Tasks”| Task | Category |
|---|---|
| USS Slater: Obtain Insurance Certificate | Administrative |
| USS Slater Overnight: Planning & Booking | Outdoor |