Tom McKinney, swimming instructor for Evans City Boy Scout Troop 399, helps Bennie Smith float on his stomach at the Seneca Valley Senior High School pool in this photo from March, 1970. Butler Eagle File Photo

More than 100 swimming patches were given to Butler County Boy Scouts on March 11, 1970, when more than 130 scouts completed a 10-week program at the Seneca Valley Senior High School pool.

According to Richard Gebhardt, health and safety committee chairman for the Western District Pioneer Council, there were 41 beginner swimmers, 24 intermediate and 32 who completed the first class swimming requirements. Additionally, 14 scouts earned the mile swim patch and 30 earned the lifesaving merit badges for swimming.

In addition to the patches given, the 25 instructors who facilitated the lessons received appreciation plaques from Gebhardt.