BEAUMONT, TX - On April 27, 2019, the Port of Beaumont announced the launch of Sea Scout Ship 1916 at the Sail Daze event in Port Arthur, Texas. Sail Daze, an event hosted by Three Rivers Council-Boy Scouts, provided approximately 100 attendees with a weekend of sailing, camping and a chance to learn more about Scouting's second oldest program, Sea Scouts. Ships from Sam Houston Area Council, Alamo Council, and Bay Area Council participated in the event.


“The Port of Beaumont is looking forward to chartering the new unit in an effort to bring awareness to the opportunities that exist in the maritime industry,” says Port Director Chris Fisher. “We hope to act as a resource to the students who participate and show them how important maritime-related activities are to our region.”

For over 100 years Sea Scouting has promoted better citizenship and improved participants' boating skills through instruction and practice in water safety; outdoor, social, and service experiences; and knowledge of maritime heritage. The new unit, supported by Three Rivers Council-Boy Scouts, is youth led and adult mentored. Participants, also called shipmates, lead the Sea Scout program. Elected youth leaders plan and conduct the program and adult leaders guide and support their efforts as they learn important leadership and life skills. As the shipmates gain experience, they will have the opportunity to contribute to the growth of the program.  

Sea Scouts are recognized and rewarded as they learn different maritime-related skills. Opportunities exist to earn certifications in SCUBA, boating safety and CPR, as well as advance in rank from Apprentice to Quartermaster. Each certification and level of advancement marks a Sea Scout’s growth as a sailor and a leader. One of the most significant benefits of the program is participants gain hands-on seamanship and leadership training that will put a Sea Scout one step ahead of the rest when considering a career path in the military or the maritime industry. Sea Scouts also get a head start on the USCG captain’s license, in addition to countless other skills and opportunities.

The new Sea Scouts “ship” is open to all Beaumont Independent School District high school students. The adult leadership team includes:

  • Chris Fisher, Port of Beaumont, institutional head
  • Richard Evans, Richard N. Evans Attorney at Law, skipper
  • Tonya Tomplait, Veteran, U.S. Marine Corps, first mate
  • Steven Meek, Emerson Automation Solutions, committee chair
  • Sade Chick, Port of Beaumont, chartered organization representative
  • Randal Ogrydziak, Port of Beaumont, committee member

For additional information on the Sea Scouts program, please contact Mr. Richard Evans, skipper of Ship 1916, at [email protected].