Interview by Commander Jay M. Woodward Pony Express Editor

It’s safe to say that Commander Ken Bustard has had a tremendous impact on the Royal Rangers ministry in Northern New England. From his start in 1994 as a Pioneer Commander at Outpost #29 in Bangor, Maine, to Maine Yukon Day Camp Commander, District Training Coordinator, father of GMA recipient Ben “Broken Limb” Bustard, and most recently, Senior Commander of Outpost #17, Commander Ken has impacted the lives of countless men and boys during his years of service to Rangers. Now, as Commander Ken hangs up his uniform to enter a new season of ministry, he reflected upon his Ranger career to the Pony Express, in his own unique way:

[JW] Describe how you came to be involved in the Ranger ministry.

[KB] I cannot recall life before Royal Rangers. I do remember, though, exiting the womb and a Doctor tying my umbilical cord off with an overhand knot, and I immediately screamed and changed it to a square knot. That just seemed like a more appropriate knot, for some reason.

[JW] What has it been like for you being MYD Camp Commander for 12 years?

[KB] Cold. Lots of noise. Little sleep. Two days to recouperate (Three this last MYD) But, the food has improved beyond my wildest dreams !! Thanks to the absolutely greatest pastor's wife in NNED -- Sue Haynes (and her fantastic help!)

[JW] What is your proudest accomplishment as a Commander?

[KB] There is no single event. However, learning the proper order to wear my Class B ribbons was definitely a shining moment. Thanks to Moose Call.

[JW] Describe your craziest memory with Commander Jerry.

[KB] My craziest memory with Commander Jerry. Well, first, I am trying to think of a memory with Commander Jerry that WASN'T crazy. Let me wrestle with that one for a while first....

[JW] What next for you in your life, and what is the direction God is leading you.

[KB] I would like to find myself in the middle of nowhere, sitting around a campfire with some aborigines and dining on monkey meat. The wife doesn't seem too excited about that, though. So I guess we'll roast hot dogs instead. . .

Seriously, though, the only plan I have to is not have a plan. The Master Ranger has already marked out a trail. I just need to stay on that. NNED Royal Rangers salutes you, Commander Ken, for your tireless service and devotion to this ministry and making it work. You will be missed, but definitely not forgotten!