Promotion Video: USA Contingent WSJ 2027
The video serves as an invitation and announcement, encouraging scouts and scouters to join the USA Contingent for the 26th World Scout Jamboree, which is scheduled to take place in Poland in 2027.
Facts about Gdańsk
Gdańsk, a city nestled on the Baltic coast of northern Poland, is a place where history, culture, and maritime tradition blend seamlessly. Known as the “Pearl of the Baltic,” Gdańsk is a city of stunning architecture, rich heritage, and a vibrant atmosphere that continues to draw visitors from around the world.
A City Steeped in History
Gdańsk’s history is as rich and diverse as its landscape. The city’s roots date back over a thousand years, and throughout its history, it has been a significant player in the political and economic landscape of Europe. As a member of the powerful Hanseatic League, Gdańsk flourished as a major port and trading hub, connecting Western Europe with the eastern territories.
One of the city’s most significant historical moments occurred in the 20th century. Gdańsk is famously known as the birthplace of the Solidarity movement, which played a pivotal role in the fall of communism in Central and Eastern Europe. The Gdańsk Shipyard, where Solidarity was founded in 1980 under the leadership of Lech Wałęsa, remains a symbol of resistance and freedom. Today, the European Solidarity Centre, located in the shipyard area, stands as a museum and cultural institution dedicated to the history of this movement and its impact on the world.
Architectural Splendor
Walking through Gdańsk is like stepping back in time, with its beautifully preserved and restored architecture telling the story of its past. The city’s Old Town, meticulously rebuilt after World War II, is a masterpiece of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The Main Town, with its iconic Long Market (Długi Targ) and the towering Gdańsk Town Hall, is a stunning example of the city’s historical grandeur.
One of the most striking buildings in Gdańsk is St. Mary’s Church, one of the largest brick churches in the world. This Gothic marvel dominates the skyline and offers panoramic views of the city from its tower. Nearby, the Artus Court, a former meeting place for merchants and a symbol of the city’s wealth, showcases the opulence of Gdańsk’s golden age.
Maritime Tradition
Gdańsk’s identity is deeply intertwined with the sea. The city’s port has been a gateway to the world for centuries, and its maritime heritage is celebrated throughout the city. The Crane (Żuraw), an iconic symbol of Gdańsk, harks back to the city’s days as a bustling port in the Middle Ages. This medieval port crane, one of the largest in Europe at the time, now houses part of the National Maritime Museum, which delves into the city’s rich seafaring history.
The riverside area of Gdańsk, along the Motława River, is bustling with activity. Modern ferries, traditional ships, and pleasure boats navigate the waters, offering visitors a chance to explore the city from a different perspective. The Maritime Culture Centre and the Museum Ship SS Sołdek are also located here, providing insights into Gdańsk’s enduring relationship with the sea.
A Hub of Culture and Innovation
Gdańsk is not only a city of history but also a thriving cultural hub. The city hosts numerous festivals, concerts, and exhibitions that reflect its dynamic spirit. The annual St. Dominic’s Fair, one of the largest and oldest fairs in Europe, brings together artisans, performers, and visitors from across the continent in a lively celebration of trade and culture.
In recent years, Gdańsk has also emerged as a center for education and innovation. The city’s universities and research institutions attract students and scholars from around the world, contributing to its growing reputation as a hub of knowledge and technology.
Meet the CMT (Part 2)
Each month, we’ll introduce you to members of our dedicated Contingent Management Team (CMT). These volunteers are working tirelessly behind the scenes to make this the best Jamboree ever, and we look forward to introducing you to them.
[Part 2 & continue…]
Ella Ozier has a long history of embracing international Scouting adventures. Her involvement began with living and working in South Korea and supporting her younger son’s 2015 World Scout Jamboree (WSJ) trip to Japan. She continued her journey by serving as a Crew Advisor at the 2019 WSJ and as Scoutmaster for Troop 13 at the 2023 World Scout Jamboree. In 2017, Ella also led her council’s contingent to the National Jamboree, where her crew camped in Foxtrot and connected with many international units.
Ella is an active member of the Potawatomi Area Council in southeast Wisconsin. She is a Vigil Honor member of the Wag-O-Shag Lodge, an active member of the council advancement committee, and Advisor to the CST 6 Venturing Officer Association. Her service and leadership have been recognized with the Venturing Leadership Award at the council, territory, and area levels.
Along with her husband, Kent Johnson, Ella shares a love for the outdoors. Together, they rescue large-breed dogs and enjoy adventures with them and their two Eagle Scout sons, Tom and Theo.
Tony Woodard is a dedicated leader in Scouting, holding the prestigious titles of Eagle Scout, Silver Beaver, and Baden Powell Fellow. He has a strong passion for International Scouting, as evidenced by his service on Council and National International Committees and the Messengers of Peace Committee.
Tony’s commitment to international Scouting has earned him several awards, including the International Scouter’s Award and the International Spirit Award. His extensive international experience includes attending numerous global events:
- Assistant Scoutmaster at the 23rd World Scout Jamboree in Japan (2015).
- Scoutmaster for the USA Contingent at the 24th World Scout Jamboree in the USA (2019) and the 25th World Scout Jamboree in Korea (2023).
He strives to expose Scouts to the richness of cultures around them. In 2018, he also served as IST at the National Muslim Scouts Jamboree and as the Council Contingent Chair to Kandersteg.
Tony is passionate about helping youth grow and expand their horizons beyond what they believe their limits are. Locally, he serves as a Committee Chair for both a girls’ troop and a boys’ troop, helping them achieve their best and, most importantly, have fun along the way.
Szymon Laczny serves as the Marketing and Communications Lead for the US Contingent, marking his first direct involvement with a World Scout Jamboree. Growing up as a Scout in Poland, he was inspired to get involved when the 26th WSJ was announced to be hosted by his native country.
Szymon’s Scouting journey in the United States began when his son joined Cub Scouts. He later became an Assistant Scoutmaster when his son crossed over. He is a Wood Badge recipient, having staffed two courses, and has served for five years as an adult staffer at his council’s NYLT courses. Additionally, he has served as the District’s Eagle Board Chair. His son’s Eagle Project had an international focus, involving the collection of supplies for a school in Haiti following the devastating hurricane in 2016.
An avid fan of sports and the outdoors, Szymon has led six crews to high-adventure bases, including three trips to Philmont and three to Sea Base. He is excited to help Scouts discover the rich beauty, history, and culture of his birthplace, Poland.
Hoc Minute – 09/2025
Head of Contingent Minute – September 2025 (Contingent Newsletter Volume 4)
Registration is finally open and we’ve had over 200 youth and adults sign up so
far in the first few days. I’ve also been getting a few questions at our email
address usapoland2027@gmail.com which I am answering as quickly as
possible. These questions will also be added to an FAQ that we are developing
for our website. Speaking of the website, I hope you’ve noticed that it has been
much improved with more content added. Many people are putting in a lot of
time and effort on the Jamboree and I want to thank them for their efforts,
including those who you will read about in this issue and future issues.
Update on Contingent Preparations
Greg and I will be heading to Poland in a few days for a Head of Contingent meeting. While
there, we will be meeting with US Embassy personnel in Warsaw to discuss the Jamboree
and have plans in place for whatever may happen while we are over there in 2027. After we
get back we will have one or two webinars to talk about the Jamboree and answer any
questions you may have. These will occur in early October and those date(s) will be
announced shortly.
Recruitment is on for the Jamboree!
Youth Participants – Scouts born between July 30, 2009 and July 30, 2013
Adults – born before July 30, 2009 – Unit Leaders, IST, and CMT
- If you plan to attend as either an International Service Team (IST) member or a Unit Leader, please register now as IST. We will reassign you if you are selected as a Unit Leader.
- If your only goal is to serve as a Unit Leader, please join our mailing list to receive updates. Unit Leader selections will begin in the second quarter of 2026.
Meet the CMT (Part 1)
Each month, we’ll introduce you to members of our dedicated Contingent Management Team (CMT). These volunteers are working tirelessly behind the scenes to make this the best Jamboree ever, and we look forward to introducing you to them.
[Part 1 & continue…]
Greg Szczesny: US Contingent Finance Lead
Greg Szczesny, the finance lead for the US Contingent, brings a wealth of Scouting experience to the team. His journey began as a Scout at the 1987 World Scout Jamboree in Australia. More recently, he served as an Assistant Scoutmaster in West Virginia for the 2019 Jamboree and as a Scoutmaster in South Korea in 2023, where a special highlight was sharing the adventure with his son, Maximilian.
Born near Poznań, Poland, Greg is excited for U.S. Scouts to experience the rich culture and extensive history of his home country. In addition to his leadership within Scouting—including a recent three-year term as Twin Rivers Council President—Greg is an avid hiker and diver. He’s actively working on hiking the Adirondack 46ers and recently earned his PADI Divemaster certification.
Michael Files: A Global Scouting Veteran
Michael Files, a retired Navy Sailor and a veteran of international Scouting, is a deputy for the Program Pillar on Scouting America’s International Committee. With over 35 years of Scouting experience, he has dedicated more than 15 years to the international side of the movement.
His extensive background includes serving on the International Service Team at the 21st World Scout Jamboree in the United Kingdom and as a Contingent Management Team member for the 25th World Scout Jamboree in South Korea. He also recently served as the course director for the 2025 International Scouting Philmont Training Center Course.
Michael’s commitment to global Scouting was strengthened during his time with the U.S. Navy and the United Nations, where he supported various National Scout Organizations abroad. His goal is to share this passion with everyone involved in preparing the U.S. contingent for the upcoming Jamboree in Poland.
Ron Ratto: US Contingent Logistics & Registration Lead
Ron Ratto, an accomplished Eagle Scout, will serve as the logistics and registration lead for the U.S. Contingent. Ron brings extensive experience to the team, with the upcoming 26th World Scout Jamboree being his twelfth.
His impressive history includes serving as an Assistant Scoutmaster at the 1983 Jamboree in Canada and the 1987 Jamboree in Australia. Since then, he has held various roles on the International Service Team (IST) and Contingent Management Team (CMT), traveling the world and participating in Scouting on six continents. Ron notes that his most challenging and fulfilling Jamboree experience was working on the management team for the 24th World Scout Jamboree in West Virginia, where he led a team of over 100 Scouters who ran the three Trading Posts.
With registration set to open soon and an unforgettable pre-jamboree tour in the works, Ron is ready to ensure a smooth and successful experience for the entire U.S. Contingent.