For almost a quarter century Bethesda’s Troop 233 has participated in the annual placement of 23,000 luminaries to honor each soldier who fell on the historic Civil War battlefield at Antietam. This is one of the most rewarding scouting events of the year and offers a chance for members of the troop to contribute to an important public event while having lots of fun.

Additionally, scouts earned SSL hours towards their MCPS requirements as well as fulfilling scouting service requirements. Typically one of our most popular events, this year as always, it was an amazing, powerful event that parents and families have enjoyed attending for many years. 

The Battle of Antietam, near Sharpsburg, Maryland, was the site of the bloodiest one-day battle in the American history. 23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded or missing after twelve hours of savage combat on September 17, 1862. The Battle of Antietam ended the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia’s first invasion into the North and led to Abraham Lincoln’s issuance of the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.

Preparing the luminaries

Final instructions

Lighting of the Luminaries as dusk approaches

Relaxing around the campfire

A job well done!