Page 73 - 116838_BOSC_Eagle Scout Program D_Proof

ROOTS OF NESA
From its inception in1925 to the 28th conclave in 1960, the Knights of Dunamis experienced periods of dynamic growth, near extinction, and repeated revision of its constitution and bylaws.
Raymond O. Hanson had exhibited great foresight when he conceived the Knights of Dunamis as a way to enhance the Eagle Scout rank, promote fellowship among Eagle Scouts in service to Scouting after they receive their award.
As a Scout executive in San Francisco, Hanson was close to the needs of the Movement, and in a short time. Dunamis has spread from coast to coast. However, the call to arms in the early 1940’s put a halt to Dunamis’ growth and the “Sword of Dunamis” lay dormant.
After World War II, the spirit was renewed and Dunamis came to life again. Once more Eagle Scouts found fellowship and a common purpose in “ power through service.” Loss of young men to the Korean conflict caused small setback, but Dunamis proved again its will to live.
In 1958, the Boy Scouts of America launched a new Explorer program. With the energies of the National Council channeled toward Exploring, Knights of Dunamis temporarily found itself without adequate support.
By 1960, then, it became evident that the Knights of Dunamis was going to have to make some major changes in the structure if it was to continue as an association of Eagle Scouts. A suggested plan for improved local chapter representation at both the young man and adult level in the national organization was purposed during July of that year at the 28th conclave in Santa Barbara. This plan, calling for an advisory committee, was the first step in what was to become a total restructuring of the Knights of Dunamis.
Early in 1962, necessary papers were filed and the Knights of Dunamis became a tax-exempt charitable organization with the rights to acknowledge gifts, which might help finance, its programs of service. Later that year titles were changed and all reference to “grand” became “national”, the Board of Governors eliminated several officer positions; the National Advisory Board under a chairman and a executive committee became responsible for major policy, and fiscal matters were delegated to the trustees.
This was a trying time – making necessary changes in order to create a national organization for young men and adults who would be elected by delegates of local chapters in the nation. In keeping with the general streamlining, the powers of the trustees were transferred to the advisory board.
Dr. Lester R. Steig’s acceptance of the Chairmanship of the National Chapter, and the rapport with the Boy Scouts of America which he brought to that office, were positive signs that there was a renewed hope and the “Sword of Dunamis” was to prevail.
Verbal and written communication between the Knight of Dunamis and the Boys Scouts of America was enhanced by Dr. Steig’s close affiliation with many National Council executives and by the close proximity of Dr. James Cochran to the national office in North Brunswick, NJ.
Dr. Cochran, living in Morris Plains made numerous trips to North Brunswick to meet with Scouting officials and discuss the future of the Knights of Dunamis. Dr. Steig visited with Chief Scout
71