You are on page 1of 64

Advancement and Recognition

Policies and Procedures

33088.indd 1 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Purpose

This edition of Advancement and Recognition Policies


and Procedures supersedes all previous editions and
replaces the Advancement Committee Policies and
Procedures book. The material in this book contains
current policies, procedures, and other information
relating to advancement and recognition. Previous
editions and printings should be discarded.

Suggestions and comments regarding this publication and advancement


and recognition policies should be sent to:
Youth Development Team, S209
Boy Scouts of America
1325 West Walnut Hill Lane
P.O. Box 152079
Irving, TX 75015-2079

33088
ISBN 978-0-8395-3088-6
©2010 Boy Scouts of America
2010 Printing

33088.indd 2 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Contents

What Is Advancement? 3 Advancement Rules and Regulations 15


Advancement Principles 3 Article IX. Policies and Definitions—
Charter and Bylaws 15
Unauthorized Requirement Changes 4
Section 1. Declaration of Religious
Advancement in the Four Scouting Program Phases 4
Principle, Clause 1 15
Cub Scouting 4
Section 1. Activities, Clause 2 15
Boy Scouting 4
Section 1. Freedom, Clause 3 15
Varsity Scouting 4
Section 1. Leaders, Clause 4 15
Venturing 4
Article X. Program (Advancement)—
Sea Scouting 4 Rules and Regulations 16
Bestowing Posthumous Awards 4 Section 1. General Principles, Clause 1 16
Section 1. Administration, Clause 2 16
The Council Youth
Development Committee 5 Section 1. Cub Scout Advancement,
Clause 3. Basis for Advancement 16
Setting Council Goals 6
Section 1. Cub Scout Advancement,
Planning a Yearly Calendar and Budget 6
Clause 4. Ranks 16
Recruiting and Training Youth
Section 1. Boy Scout Advancement,
Development Committee Members 6
Clause 5. Basis for Advancement 16
Record Keeping 7
Section 1. Boy Scout Advancement,
Promoting Advancement and Youth Development 8 Clause 6. Ranks 16
Eagle Scout/Silver Award Recognition Dinner 8 Section 1. Boy Scout Advancement,
Promoting Advancement in Camp and Other Venues 8 Clause 7. Responsibility of the
Troop Committee 16
Maintaining a Merit Badge Counselor Database 8
Section 1. Varsity Scout Advancement,
Clause 8. Basis for Advancement 16
The District Youth
Development Committee 9 Section 1. Varsity Scout Advancement,
Clause 9. Responsibility of the
Setting Advancement Goals 10 Team Committee 17
Helping Units Establish Advancement Programs 10 Section 1. Venturing Recognition,
Recruiting and Training Merit Badge Counselors 11 Clause 10. Basis of Advancement 17
Getting Started 11 Section 1. Venturing Recognition,
Clause 11. Ranks 17
Qualifications of Counselors 12
Clause 12. Examination in Camps 17
Training for Merit Badge Counselors 12
Section 1. Responsibility for Merit Badges,
Merit Badge Counselor Orientation 13 Clause 13 17
How to Maintain a Current List of Article XI. Business, Finance, Properties,
Merit Badge Counselors 13 Contracts, Registration (Registration)—
Merit Badge Counselors for Troops, Rules and Regulations 17
Teams, and Crews 14 Section 3. Special Types of Registration,
The District’s Role in Advancement to Eagle Scout 14 Clause 20. Mentally Retarded or Severely
Physically Handicapped Youth Members 17
How to Identify Program Resources 14

33088.indd 1 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Advancement in the Unit 18 Advancement for Venturers With Disabilities 36
Cub Scout Advancement 18 Approval for Special Needs Eagle Candidates 37
Den & Pack Resource Guide—New for 2010 18 Alternate Merit Badges for the Eagle
Scout Rank 37
Cub Scout Advancement Goals 20
Boy Scout Advancement 20 Miscellaneous Topics 38
Positions of Responsibility 20 Extended Absence From Scouting 38
Definition of “Active” 21 Lone Scouting 38
Four Steps of Boy Scout Advancement 21 Lone Scout Advancement Procedures 39
Boy Scout Advancement Age Requirements 21 Youth From Other Countries 40
Troop Advancement Goals 22 Religious Principles 40
Scoutmaster Conferences 22
Record Keeping 22 Special Recognitions 41
Scout Buddy System 23 District and Council Awards 41
The Merit Badge System 23 District Award of Merit 41
Group Instruction of Merit Badges 23 Silver Beaver Award 42
Service Projects 23 Special Recognitions for Volunteers 43
Time Extensions 25 Lifesaving Awards 43
Boards of Review for Tenderfoot Through Meritorious Action Awards 44
Life Scout Ranks and Eagle Palms 25 Local Council Certificate of Merit 44
Age Limitations for Eagle Scouts 26 Spirit of the Eagle Award 44
Eagle Scout Boards of Review 27 Distinguished Eagle Scout Award 45
The 12 Steps From Life to Eagle 27 William T. Hornaday Awards 45
Appealing a Decision 30 Hornaday Unit Award 45
Courts of Honor 30 Hornaday Badge 45
Restricted Emblems, Badges, and Awards 31 Hornaday Bronze or Silver Medal 46
Advancement at Boy Scout Resident Camp 31 Hornaday Gold Badge 46
Varsity Scout Advancement 31 Hornaday Gold Medal 46
Venturer Advancement 32 Hornaday Gold Certificate 47
Venturer Advancement and Tenure 32 Unit Leader Award of Merit 47
Past Credit for Venturers 32 Council Achievement Awards 47
Multiple Credit for Venturers 33 Religious Emblems 47
Sea Scout Advancement 33 Special Opportunities 48

Advancement for Youth Members Advancement and


With Disabilities 34 Recognition Resources 49
Denial of Time Extensions for Eagle
Candidates Registered as Special Needs Scouts 35 Cub Scouting Requirements 51
Advancement for Cub Scouts With Disabilities 35
Boy Scouting Requirements 52
Advancement for Boy Scouts With Disabilities 35
Alternate Requirements Through Venturing Requirements 53
First Class Rank 35
Guidelines for Alternate Requirements 36 Sea Scouting Requirements 54

33088.indd 2 1/5/10 1:25 PM


What Is Advancement?

Advancement is the process by which youth members of Personal growth is the prime consideration in the
the Boy Scouts of America progress from rank to rank in the Advancement program. Scouting skills—what a young
Scouting program and is how a youth grows. Advancement person learns to do—are important, but they are not the
is simply a means to an end, not an end in itself. Everything most important aspect of advancement. Scouting’s concern
done to advance and earn these ranks, from joining until is the total, well-rounded growth of the youth. This growth
leaving the program, should be designed to help the young may be measured by how youth members live the Scouting
person have an exciting and meaningful experience. ideals and how they do their part in their daily lives.

Learning by doing. A Cub Scout, Boy Scout, or Venturer


Education and fun are functions of the may read about fire building or good citizenship. A youth
Scouting movement and form the basis of member may hear it discussed, and watch others in action,
the advancement program. but the youth member has not learned first aid until the
youth member has done it.
A fundamental principle of advancement in Cub Scouting,
Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, and Venturing is the Each youth progresses at his or her own rate. Advancement
growth a young person achieves as a result of the youth is not a competition among individuals; it is an expression
member’s participation in the unit program. of their interest and participation in Scouting. Young people
must be encouraged to advance steadily and set their own
goals with guidance from their parents, guardians, or
leaders. Just because a group of young people join at the
Advancement Principles same time does not mean everyone will earn the same
Council and district advancement committees awards at the same time. Let all members advance at their
implement procedures that help achieve the following own pace.
advancement principles.

33088.indd 3 1/5/10 1:25 PM


A badge is recognition of what a young person is able Varsity Scouting
to do, not merely a reward for what he or she has The Varsity Scout requirements for rank advancement are
done. The badge is proof of certain abilities. It is not the same as for Boy Scouts. However, the advancement
just a reward for the completion of a task. program is supervised by a youth member called an
advancement program manager, who is assisted by an
Advancement encourages Scouting ideals. Scouting adult on the team committee.
teaches young people how to care for themselves and
help others. Advancement should reflect the desire to live
the Cub Scout, Boy Scout, or Venturing Oaths in every Venturing
member’s daily life. A male Venturer who has achieved the First Class rank as
a Boy Scout in a troop or as a Varsity Scout in a team may
continue working toward the Eagle Scout rank while a
Unauthorized Requirement Changes Venturer until his 18th birthday.

No council, district, unit, or individual has the The Venturing Bronze, Gold, Silver, Ranger, Quest, and
authority to add to or subtract from advance- TRUST Awards may be earned by all Venturers who meet
certain requirements. Details on Venturing advancement
ment requirements. (For policies concerning can be found in the Venturer/Ranger Handbook, Venturing
youth members with disabilities, see the chapter Leader Manual, Quest Handbook, and TRUST Handbook.
called “Advancement in the Unit.”)
Sea Scouting
A male Sea Scout who has achieved the First Class rank as
Advancement in the Four Scouting a Boy Scout in a troop or as a Varsity Scout in a team may
Program Phases continue working toward the Eagle Scout rank as a Sea
Scout until his 18th birthday. The Sea Scout can work on the
Advancement is only one of the methods used to achieve Apprentice, Ordinary, Able, and the Quartermaster awards
the aims of Scouting in the four phases of the Scouting as long as he or she is a registered youth member in Sea
program—Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, Scouting. Details of the requirements for these awards can
and Venturing. The aims of Scouting are character building, be found in the Sea Scout Manual.
citizenship training, physical fitness, and mental fitness.

Bestowing Posthumous Awards


Cub Scouting
The Cub Scout program in the den and pack is the basis If a Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or
for Cub Scout advancement. The steps in Tiger Cub, Cub
Venturer has met all of the requirements for a
Scout, and Webelos Scout advancement procedures are
preparation, qualification, and recognition. rank, including age and service requirements,
before the youth member’s death, this individual
Cub Scouting has the following ranks: Bobcat, Tiger Cub,
may receive an award posthumously. If the youth
Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light. The requirements
to reach each rank are authorized by the National Executive member met all of the requirements but a board
Board and set forth in the Tiger Cub Handbook, Wolf of review had not yet been conducted, the
Handbook, Bear Handbook, and Webelos Handbook. review by the council youth development
committee can be conducted posthumously.
Boy Scouting Application should be made to the council youth
The Boy Scout requirements for rank are the basis for a Boy development committee within six months after
Scout’s advancement. There are four steps in Boy Scout
advancement: learning, testing, reviewing, and recognition. the young person’s death. The application may
be made only by the unit committee chair or the
Boy Scouting has the following ranks: Tenderfoot, Second
unit leader.
Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle. The requirements
for each rank are those authorized by the National Executive
Board and set forth in the Boy Scout Handbook and the
current Boy Scout Requirements book.

33088.indd 4 1/5/10 1:25 PM


The Council Youth
Development Committee

The council youth development committee’s purpose is to • Establish procedures within the framework of national
implement throughout the council the policies and procedures BSA policy.
contained in this handbook. This purpose is accomplished • Plan a yearly advancement calendar and committee budget.
by providing training, promoting advancement, and
supervising those involved in the advancement process. • Review procedures for record keeping.
• Recruit and train council and district youth development
committee members.
A strong and consistent advancement program in the
council requires cooperation between the council and • Determine procedures for Boy Scout resident
district advancement committees, the commissioner camp advancement.
staff, and the units they serve. • Approve merit badge counselors and maintain
and publish council and/or district merit badge
The council youth development committee is primarily counselor lists.
a supervisory group that guides the district committees. • Serve as an appeals board for district boards of
The committee’s responsibilities are to supervise the review and conduct posthumous boards of review.
advancement program in all units and to guide the district
youth development advancement committees in their • Recommend candidates for national awards.
work with each unit. The specific duties are as follows. • Present special council awards.
• Promote advancement in units by working with
district advancement committees and through The procedures for presenting special council awards
council publications and activities. are outlined in the chapter “Special Recognitions,”
• Set council goals. under “District and Council Awards.”

33088.indd 5 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Setting Council Goals To monitor advancement goals, the council youth
development committee should establish a system
To measure the quality of the council youth development to follow up on how effectively unit advancement
program, the committee should establish council youth goals are being met.
development goals as part of the Quality Award. These
goals should be set with input from the districts and units.

Meaningful advancement goals cannot be set without Planning a Yearly Calendar


keeping accurate records, which are the only measure of
advancement. Records of the advancement progress of and Budget
each unit should be obtained from the unit’s advancement Calendar. The council youth development committee
reports and its latest charter renewal applications. It is should establish and maintain a calendar of training
highly recommended for all units to use the Internet programs and special events designed to improve and
Advancement software, which accepts input from outside stimulate advancement. Training may include formal or
vendor software such as Troopmaster. informal sessions for district committee members, merit
badge counselors, and unit leaders.

Recruiting and Training Youth Development Committee Members

One of the most important responsibilities of a of NESA members may be obtained from your
council youth development committee is to help local council as needed. NESA members who
recruit and train new advancement committee are qualified can be a resource in serving on
members for the council and district levels. youth development committees as merit badge
counselors, and in providing other types of
The council youth development committee
assistance. Youth development committees
should include executive board members, the
district youth development committee chairs, should encourage the formation of Alpha Phi

and members at large. School administrators, Omega chapters in local colleges in the council.

personnel directors, and business executives These young people of college age are another
are among those who have the type of back- good resource for council and district youth
ground that would be of value to council and development committees.
district youth development committees. Also
Council youth development committee meetings
consider individuals who have been recognized
provide an excellent opportunity for informal
with Scouting’s highest honors, such as the
training to enhance the formal training commit-
Eagle Scout and Venturer Silver ranks.
tee members receive. The training that a district
The council may have a National Eagle Scout advancement chair receives at a council com-
Association committee as a subcommittee of mittee meeting can be the basis for training
the youth development committee. Updated lists district committee members at district meetings.

33088.indd 6 1/5/10 1:25 PM


The committee should also schedule special advancement It is best that this form be submitted promptly so that unit
events or shows. Special councilwide events are valuable in records remain current and youth can receive their awards
improving advancement. They include events featuring Cub quickly after earning them. Awards cannot be purchased or
Scout, Boy Scout, and Venturing advancement skills, merit awarded until the Advancement Report has been filed with
badge clinics, advancement challenges, and yearly Eagle the council office.
Scout/Silver Award recognition dinners.

Committee budget. The committee is responsible for The council youth development committee periodically
preparing a budget request for approval by the council reviews the procedures used by units in applying for
executive board. This budget request should include funds badges and other awards and in keeping records
for the Eagle Scout/Silver Award recognition dinner, of advancement. These procedures must be as
advancement events, audiovisual materials, conference simple as possible. The goal should be to eliminate
expenses, and advancement forms. Some councils also obstacles so that a youth member may receive the
provide recognition certificates and help subsidize the badge earned without delay.
expense of the Eagle Scout and Silver Award badges.
The committee budget request is included in the annual Many councils have adopted a procedure of filing unit
council budget. advancement reports in a current separate folder or by
using computer spreadsheets. Each year, reports for the
year are transferred to a unit history folder. Whatever
Many councils poll their communities to identify system is used for record keeping, the awarding of badges
adults who have attained the Eagle Scout and to youth members should never be delayed.
Venturer Silver ranks, and ask these individuals to
participate in Scouting leadership. A council compiles a monthly District Advancement Report
Summary. This information, provided to the district each
month, gives a clear picture of advancement progress in
each unit. District reports are summarized annually and
Record Keeping included on the Application for Renewal of the Local
Record keeping and the distribution of awards are the Council Charter, which every council submits each year
responsibility of the council service center. However, to the national office.
each unit is responsible for keeping its own records
and for making reports of advancements to the council.
The advancement statistics reported on the
This is done on the unit Advancement Report form.
Application for Renewal of the Local Council
One copy is kept by the unit and two copies are sent to
Charter are important. These statistics help the
the council service center with an order for the necessary
national advancement committee monitor the
badges and awards. At the council service center, one
interests and activities of youth members.
copy of the Advancement Report is placed in the unit file,
and the other is given to the district executive for the
district records.

Use of Internet Advancement software helps the unit


keep accurate records and saves time. This software allows
the unit to produce the Advancement Report and keep a
perpetual database on each member and the unit.

33088.indd 7 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Promoting Advancement and The procedures for recommending candidates for
national awards are outlined in “District and Council
Youth Development Awards,” in the “Special Recognitions” chapter.
The council youth development committee can make
contacts with local media (radio, television, newspaper,
and popular youth Web sites) to recognize young people Promoting Advancement in
who earn awards, or to give special attention to
outstanding achievements. Camp and Other Venues
Special civic, business, and retail contacts can be made on Make sure the program at camps and other venues
a council level that could expedite recruiting counselors encompasses Cub Scout, Boy Scout, and Venturing
and consultants, as well as provide opportunities for youth procedures for advancement. The procedures should be
to learn special skills. This must not preempt the district established in writing by the council youth development
committee responsibilities, but rather enhance and provide committee, in cooperation with the camp director or
the district committee and units with resources that would program director prior to the beginning of camp. (See the
not otherwise be available to them. complete section titled “Advancement at Camp,” found in
the chapter called “Advancement in the Unit.”)

Eagle Scout/Silver Award


Recognition Dinner Maintaining a Merit Badge
Among the many ways to promote advancement within the
council is to provide an annual recognition dinner for all
Counselor Database
young people who attained the Eagle Scout rank, Venturer The council youth development committee is responsible
Silver Award, Ranger Award, or Quartermaster Award for approving merit badge counselor applications and
during the previous year. This dinner serves as recognition maintaining a current, accurate merit badge counselor list.
to these young men and women and focuses the community’s This committee reviews the district merit badge list at least
attention on Scouting. once a year, and the council service center publishes it.
The list should include the counselor’s name, address,
Distinguished speakers can be engaged, participating
and telephone numbers. It should be mailed to every unit
dinner sponsors can give plant tours, council service centers
leader and commissioner, as well as printed in the council
can be visited, and many other ideas can be integrated
bulletin. (See the chapter “Advancement in the Unit,”
into the program. This can be a council program highlight,
under “Merit Badges.”)
with excellent media coverage and personal contact
between the youth members and business, civic, and
government leaders.

33088.indd 8 1/5/10 1:25 PM


The District Youth
Development Committee

The function of the district youth development and recogni- • Provide assistance in Eagle Scout advancement,
tion committee is to motivate and train unit leaders and including Eagle Scout boards of review.
unit committee members in the advancement program. • Provide recognition to district Scouters.
This should be done under the direction of the council
youth development committee and with the cooperation of • Provide program resources, advancement training,
the commissioner staff and the district training committee. and direct support for all units in the district.
The district youth development committee also should work • Understand and follow council established advancement
closely with the district executive. procedures (i.e., boards of review).
Other responsibilities of the district youth development and • Offer district advancement events.
recognition committee are as follows. To help recruit and orient new district youth development
• Set district advancement goals and maintain accurate committee members, use The District Committee Training
monthly unit advancement reports to determine where Workshop. This resource provides basic training for
help is needed. all district committee members. This resource contains
• Help units establish an active advancement program. a two-hour breakout session just for advancement
committee members.
• Recruit, train, and thank merit badge counselors.
• Maintain an accurate, current list of council-approved Be sure the committee has persons familiar with Cub
merit badge counselors. Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, Venturing,
and Sea Scouting.
• Assemble a resource list of all awards and promote
awards on a regular basis.

33088.indd 9 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Setting Advancement Goals • Emphasizing the importance of each Cub Scout earning
the appropriate rank for his age.
The district youth development committee should encourage • Stressing the importance of regular advancement reports
all packs, troops, teams, and crews to set practical advance- from the pack to the council service center. Promote the
ment goals at charter renewal time. By knowing the unit’s use of Internet Advancement.
goals, the committee can set advancement goals for the
district. Committee members will need to know (1) the • Promoting prompt and meaningful ceremonies for the
number of youth members advancing each year in each awarding of badges to the boys.
unit; (2) the number of units meeting their goal in rank • Encouraging the Cub Scout pack to participate in
advancement; (3) the number of merit badges earned; and council or district advancement programs, including
(4) the number of Venturing awards earned in each unit. roundtable meetings.
This is important for all units because advancement is one • Encouraging achievement of the Arrow of Light Award
way youths grow. and the involvement of troop leadership in Arrow of
The committee should make up progress charts showing Light dinners and crossover ceremonies.
advancement in the district and display them at district com-
mittee meetings, at roundtables, and at commissioner staff Effective with the 2010 program year, promote the
meetings. Publish an honor roll of units reporting advance- Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide, which includes
ment in the district or council bulletin, or both. Publicly the den meeting plans. This resource was designed
recognize units and unit leaders who do well in advancement. for use in conjunction with the youth handbooks.
By following the prescribed den meeting plans as
In analyzing advancement in a district, the trainer commit- written, Cub Scouts will fulfill the requirements
tee should divide the units into three groups—those with necessary to earn the badge of rank by early spring.
good advancement records, those with some advancement,
and those with no advancement.
In Boy Scout troops, advancement responsibilities
The district youth development committee should typically include:
concentrate first on the last group—units reporting • Helping unit commissioners and trainers explain
no advancement. Make an appointment with the unit advancement procedures to new troops.
committee chair and the unit leader and show them how
to use advancement for a better program. Keep the unit • Visiting boards of review of troops with a poor advance-
commissioner informed. The unit commissioner is an ment history. Meet with the Scoutmasters and the troop
important person in helping the unit develop a good committee to review each Scout’s advancement progress
advancement program. and to review the four steps of advancement.
• Helping the troop identify parents, committee
members, and other qualified individuals to serve
Helping Units Establish as merit badge counselors by using the Troop/Team
Resource Survey and the Parent and Family Talent
Advancement Programs Survey. The district’s merit badge counselor list will
In Cub Scout packs, advancement responsibilities supplement the troop’s list.
typically include: • Emphasizing the objectives of new Scouts earning the
• Helping unit commissioners and trainers explain First Class rank during their first year and that of other
advancement procedures to new packs. Scouts earning at least one rank advancement each year.
• Visiting the pack leaders’ meeting at least once a year • Stressing the importance of scheduling monthly boards
to review the Cub Scout advancement plan, using the of review, and recommending at least four courts of
“Introductory Guide for Tiger Cub Adult Partners” in honor for the members of the troop every year.
the Tiger Cub Handbook and the parents’ guide in the • Stressing the importance of monthly advancement
Wolf Handbook, Bear Handbook, or Webelos Handbook. reports from the troop to the council service center.

10

33088.indd 10 1/5/10 1:25 PM


• Helping the Scoutmaster organize an advancement plan • Recognizing achievement in a meaningful and
for when the troop attends Boy Scout resident camp. visible way.
• Encouraging the troop to participate in a council or • Encouraging crews to conduct crew boards of review
district advancement event such as a merit badge show, for Gold and Silver Awards with the board consisting
Scoutorama, Eagle Scout recognition dinner, a First of youth and adults and led by the crew president.
Class Scout recognition, First Class to Eagle Challenge, • Assisting crews that have Eagle boards of review.
or roundtable meetings.
• Encouraging the crew to participate in a council or
In Varsity Scout teams, advancement responsibilities district advancement program such as a Silver Award
typically include: recognition dinner.
• Helping unit commissioners and trainers explain • Assisting crews and their Venturers who need to
advancement procedures to new Varsity Scout teams. identify dens, packs, and troops to help them achieve
• Visiting boards of review of teams with poor advancement their “teach others” requirements.
history. Meet with the Coach, advancement program
manager, and team committees to review each Scout’s
advancement progress and to review the four steps Recruiting and Training Merit
of advancement. Badge Counselors
• Helping the team identify parents, committee members,
and other qualified individuals to serve as merit badge The essence of quality Scouting is having sufficient
counselors by using the Troop Resource Survey and the qualified adult leaders. Nowhere does this become more
Parent and Family Talent Survey. The district’s merit apparent than in the recruitment of adults to serve as merit
badge counselor list will supplement the team’s list. badge counselors. Because counselors must be knowledge-
able in specialized areas as well as able to have a good
• Emphasizing the objective of at least one rank advance- rapport with boys under 18, the district youth development
ment, or Eagle Palm, for every Varsity Scout in the team committee has a challenging task in recruiting, training,
each year. and maintaining merit badge counselors, and in helping
• Stressing the importance of scheduling monthly boards units to do the same.
of review, and recommending at least four courts of
honor for the members of the team every year. All counselors must have an understanding of their role in
advancement. The district youth development committee
• Stressing the importance of monthly advancement makes the appropriate counseling material available to the
reports from the team to the council service center. counselors and provides the essential training and orienta-
• Encouraging the team to participate in a council or a tion sessions to counselors recruited by units and districts.
district advancement program such as a merit badge
show, Scoutorama, or Eagle Scout recognition dinner.
Getting Started
In Venturing crews, advancement responsibilities Step 1: Begin by using the “Worksheet for Building a Merit
typically include: Badge Counselor List,” noting the badges required for the
• Ensuring that commissioners and trainers are aware Eagle Scout Award since they obviously are “musts.”
of advancement procedures for new crews. Step 2: List the merit badges most popular in the district or
• Helping the crew identify consultants to assist council, referring to copies of the past few council charter
with the Bronze, Gold, Silver, Ranger, Quest, and renewals. List the subjects that will require few counselors
TRUST requirements. in the district or council; perhaps counselors for these
• Emphasizing the objective of having all Venturers merit badges can be shared with a neighboring district,
earn the Bronze Award within their first year. or a counselor can be requested at the council level to
service all districts. Troops, teams, and crews should
• Helping the crew Advisor organize and promote a provide as many counselors as they can.
crew advancement plan.

11

33088.indd 11 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Step 3: Merit badges are grouped into logical fields of Qualifications of Counselors
activity. The district youth development committee should Persons serving as merit badge counselors must be registered
appoint a lead counselor for each group. The lead counselor as a merit badge counselor with the Boy Scouts of America.
recruits individual counselors, using knowledge of his or They must be men and women of good character, age 18 or
her field and suggestions of qualified candidates obtained older, and recognized as having the skills and education in
from the district youth development committee. the subjects for which they are to serve as merit badge
counselors, as well as having the ability to work with
Scout–age boys.
As the district or council youth development
committee works down the list in choosing lead Register merit badge counselors by using the basic adult
counselors, record the names of prospective registration form. All merit badge counselors must be
counselors for specific subjects. approved by the council youth development committee.
Merit badge counselors are not required to pay a fee if they
The Merit Badge Counselor and the Boy Scout, Varsity are registered only as merit badge counselors.
Scout, and/or Venturer. The merit badge plan is based on
the concept that a Scout works with an adult knowledgeable There is no restriction or limit on the number of merit
in one or more fields, an experience invaluable to a young badges an individual may be approved to counsel for, but
man. The counselor introduces the Boy Scout, Varsity the counselor must be approved by the committee for each
Scout, and/or Venturer to subjects that may lead to a specific merit badge. There is also no limit on the number
career choice or to a lifetime hobby. of merit badges a youth may earn from one counselor. In
addition, an approved merit badge counselor may counsel
Merit Badges for Eagle Palms. Any merit badges beyond any youth member, including his or her own son, ward,
those used to earn the Eagle Scout Award, and earned or relative.
before or after a Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, and/or Venturer
earns the Eagle Scout Award, may be applied toward
requirement 4 for Eagle Palms. Venturers who are age 18 or older make
excellent counselors.
Merit Badge Counselor Recruitment. Setting up a
district/council list of merit badge counselors may seem
at first like a staggering responsibility, considering that Training for Merit Badge
more than a hundred merit badges are offered. But it is Counselors
not so difficult if the task is approached logically and
All merit badge counselors must be trained in the aims of
maintained on a regular basis.
Boy Scouting, in advancement procedures, and must take
A Guide for Merit Badge Counseling is used to obtain BSA Youth Protection training. The district or council
names of prospective counselors at parents’ meetings youth development committee should train counselors,
and from schools and universities, service clubs, religious either as a group or individually.
institutions, government agencies, industries, armed
services, and chartered organizations.
A lead counselor is in an excellent position to
coach those who have been recruited, beginning
Pay special attention to areas within a district or with a conference. This is perhaps the most
council where qualified counselors are scarce. effective training a counselor can receive.

12

33088.indd 12 1/5/10 1:25 PM


If a formal course can be arranged through letters and The district or council list of counselors should be reproduced
phone calls from lead counselors, the dividends are great. for distribution to troops, teams, and crews. When changes
The counselors in each subject group will have much in are made, these should be sent promptly to the units (or
common despite their different backgrounds, and they will listed in the council bulletin/Web site) so that all units have
enjoy meeting each other and discussing mutual interests readily available the names, addresses, e-mail addresses,
and problems. They also will enjoy meeting professional and phone numbers of counselors. Lists are updated at least
and volunteer Scouters with whom they will be associated. once a year, usually when councils and districts reregister.
With computer capabilities, these merit badge counselor
lists can easily be maintained and updated so that units can
A Guide for Merit Badge Counseling is a valuable use current information.
booklet for all counselors and should be made
available to them by the district or council youth
development committee. Merit badge counselors are registered with the local
council using position code 42. As with all council
members, their registration must be renewed annually.
“Merit Badge Counselor Orientation,” a unit of All merit badge counselors must be approved by
training, is available for training merit badge the council.
counselors. It can be used for a one-on-one
Merit Badge Counselor Retention. As part of the
session with a new counselor or adapted to a local council charter renewal process, the council youth
group session. If desired, the orientation also development committee sends a letter to existing merit
can be conducted as a part of other Boy badge counselors who are to continue for another year.
This provides the council an opportunity, at least annually,
Scout training.
to assure that their merit badge counselor lists are updated.
This also is an excellent opportunity to not reregister
How to Maintain a Current List those persons identified as not following the policies and
procedures of the Boy Scouts of America or providing the
of Merit Badge Counselors services as promised.
The district or council youth development committee’s
responsibility does not end with the recruitment and Here are some suggested items to mention in the letter.
training of merit badge counselors. The district or council • Thank volunteers for serving.
youth development committee (or one member selected to
• Tell them it’s time to reregister.
oversee counselors) will follow through to be sure that the
merit badge counselors are working effectively and that • List the merit badges for which they are approved to
Boy Scouts seeking merit badges are finding the help they serve as a counselor.
need. The committee will give on-the-job coaching if a • Ask if they wish to continue.
counselor is not doing well, and will be alert for signs of
• Provide a contact name in the district or council if
difficulty that might be mentioned by unit commissioners,
they need help.
Scoutmasters, Varsity Scout Coaches, Advisors, parents,
or unit committee members. Enclose a response card or form for these volunteers
to use.
District youth development committee members
should attend district roundtables, forums, and
huddles to update the list of merit badge counselors
and to receive feedback.

13

33088.indd 13 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Merit Badge Counselors for The procedures for presenting recognition to district
Troops, Teams, and Crews Scouters—the District Award of Merit—are explained
in the chapter “Special Recognitions.”
As a practical approach to providing merit badge counselors,
troop, team, and crew committees may establish their own
lists of counselors, if necessary, at least for the required and
more popular merit badges. The Troop Resource Survey, How to Identify Program Resources
available from the council service center, can be used to
identify parents and others in the neighborhood who can District youth development committees can help units with
serve as merit badge counselors. advancement by offering physical facilities and expertise in
various fields not commonly available or difficult for unit
All merit badge counselors—even those who serve only leadership to secure. District youth development committees
one unit—must be approved by the council and district can identify resources available in the community that relate
youth development committee, and counselors must to the principal avenues of advancement for use by the units.
register as a merit badge counselor (see “Qualifications of
Counselors” earlier in this chapter). However, it is essential For example:
that a district have the most complete list of merit badge • Citizenship—government officials, teachers
counselors that is possible. Thus, troops, teams, and crews • Communications—Toastmasters Clubs, teachers,
should be encouraged to share lists of counselors willing to newspaper reporters, radio and television personnel
assist districtwide or councilwide.
• Community living—local government officials,
community service agencies, historical societies,
The District’s Role in Advancement social service groups
• Conservation and environment—teachers; government
to Eagle Scout departments of conservation, environment, wildlife,
At the discretion of the council youth development and natural resources; related societies; meteorologists;
committee, the district youth development committee pollution-control agencies
is particularly attentive to advancement from Life Scout • First aid—rescue squads, Red Cross, National Safety
rank to Eagle Scout rank. The committee has three Council, utility company personnel, fire departments,
specific responsibilities: police departments
• Review and approve service project ideas submitted
District youth development committees should encourage
by Eagle Scout candidates. (See “Service Projects”
roundtable, huddle, and forums commissioners to regularly
for the Eagle Scout rank in the chapter “Advancement
include advancement programs at the monthly district
in the Unit.”)
roundtable, huddles, and forums.
• Participate in unit boards of review for Eagle Scout
candidates or conduct district-level boards of review.
(See “Eagle Scout Boards of Review” in the chapter Requirements in each step of the Venturing
“Advancement in the Unit.”) advancement program require Venturers to take
their newly acquired skills and knowledge back to
• Consider and act on appeals from the unit level for
Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. Venturing provides
Eagle Scout applications and Eagle Scout boards of
an excellent advancement program resource to
review. (See “Appealing a Decision” in the chapter
dens, packs, and troops.
“Advancement in the Unit.”)

14

33088.indd 14 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Advancement Rules
and Regulations

Article IX. Policies and Definitions Section 1. Activities, Clause 2


—Charter and Bylaws The activities of the members of the Boy Scouts of America
shall be carried on under conditions which show respect to
the convictions of others in matters of custom and religion,
Section 1. Declaration of as required by the 12th point of the Scout Law, reading,
Religious Principle, Clause 1 “Reverent. A Scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful
in his religious duties. He respects the beliefs of others.”
The Boy Scouts of America maintains that no member can
grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an
obligation to God. In the first part of the Scout Oath or Section 1. Freedom, Clause 3
Promise the member declares, “On my honor I will do my In no case where a unit is connected with a church or
best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the other distinctively religious organization shall members
Scout Law.” The recognition of God as the ruling and of other denominations or faith be required, because of
leading power in the universe and the grateful acknowledg- their membership in the unit, to take part in or to observe
ment of His favors and blessings are necessary to the best a religious ceremony distinctly unique to that organization
type of citizenship and are wholesome precepts in the or church.
education of the growing members. No matter what the
religious faith of the members may be, this fundamental
need of good citizenship should be kept before them. The Section 1. Leaders, Clause 4
Boy Scouts of America, therefore, recognizes the religious Only persons willing to subscribe to these declarations of
element in the training of the member, but it is absolutely principles shall be entitled to certificates of leadership in
nonsectarian in its attitude toward that religious training. Its carrying out the Scouting program.
policy is that the home and the organization or group with
which the member is connected shall give definite attention
to religious life.

15

33088.indd 15 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Article X. Program (Advancement) Section 1. Cub Scout Advancement,
—Rules and Regulations Clause 4. Ranks
There shall be the following ranks in Cub Scouting: Bobcat,
Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light. The
Section 1. General Principles, requirements shall be as authorized by the Executive Board
Clause 1 and set forth in official Cub Scout publications.
Education is the chief function of the Scouting movement
and it shall be the basis of the advancement program. Section 1. Boy Scout Advancement,
A fundamental principle of advancement shall be that
the youth’s progress is a natural outcome of his activities Clause 5. Basis for Advancement
in his unit. The rank requirements in these phases of the The Boy Scout requirements for ranks shall be the basis for
Scouting program, as set forth in the official publications, the Scout’s advancement. There shall be four steps in Boy
shall furnish the basis of the activities of the unit. Scout advancement procedure: learning, testing, reviewing,
and recognition.
a. In Cub Scouting, recognition is earned in the home and
the neighborhood by passing certain achievements
related to simple skills, habits, ideals, and hobbies. Section 1. Boy Scout Advancement,
b. In Boy Scouting, recognition is gained through leader- Clause 6. Ranks
ship in the troop, attending and participating in its There shall be the following ranks in Boy Scouting:
activities, living the ideals of Scouting, and proficiency Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle.
in activities related to outdoor life, useful skills, and The requirements shall be those authorized by the Executive
career exploration. Board and set forth in official Scouting publications. Eagle
Palms may also be awarded on the basis of requirements
c. In Varsity Scouting, recognition is gained through
authorized by the executive Board and set forth in official
leadership in the team, attending and participating in
Scouting publications.
its activities, living the ideals of Varsity Scouting, and
proficiency in activities related to outdoor life, useful
skills, and career exploration. Section 1. Boy Scout Advancement,
d. In Venturing, recognition takes on a wider scope, Clause 7. Responsibility of the
involving the assumption of adultlike roles, Troop Committee
outdoor and other hobby interests, identification
It shall be the responsibility of the troop committee, under
with adults, and participation in community and
the leadership and guidance of the local council, to make
citizenship responsibilities.
sure that the program of the troop is conducted in such a
way that Scouts have an opportunity to advance on the
Section 1. Administration, Clause 2 basis of the four steps outlined in clause 5.
All advancement procedures shall be administered under
conditions that harmonize with the aims and purposes of
the Boy Scouts of America. Section 1. Varsity Scout
Advancement, Clause 8.
Section 1. Cub Scout Advancement, Basis for Advancement
Clause 3. Basis for Advancement The Boy Scout requirements for advancement
shall be the basis for Varsity Scout advancement.
The Cub Scout advancement program shall be the basis
for the Cub Scout’s advancement. There shall be three steps
in Tiger Cub, Cub Scout, and Webelos Scout advancement
procedures: preparation, qualification, and recognition.

16

33088.indd 16 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Section 1. Varsity Scout b. Upon the recommendation of the Corporation, authority
may be granted annually for the above privileges to
Advancement, Clause 9. Scout camps or camps conducted by authorized
Responsibility of the representatives of the Boy Scouts of America that
Team Committee submit evidence of maintaining the program standards,
provided their programs have been approved by the
It shall be the responsibility of the team committee, under
Corporation. No exception shall be made to the time
the leadership and guidance of the local council, to make
requirements to qualify for rank advancement or for
sure that the program of the team is conducted in such a
the award of Eagle Palms.
way that Varsity Scouts have an opportunity to advance on
the basis of the four steps outlined in clause 5.
Section 1. Responsibility for
Section 1. Venturing Recognition, Merit Badges, Clause 13
The responsibility for merit badges shall rest with the merit
Clause 10. Basis of Advancement badge counselor approved by the local council and district
a. The Venturing advancement program shall be the basis advancement committee. Merit badge counselors shall be
for the Venturer’s advancement. There shall be four registered adult members of the Boy Scouts of America.
steps in Venturing advancement procedures: preparation, The merit badge counselor shall prepare and qualify youth
learning, qualification, and recognition. members. There shall be no board of review procedure for
b. A male Venturer who has achieved the First Class rank merit badges, but public recognition may be given at a unit
as a Boy Scout in a troop or as a Varsity Scout in a team court of honor or other suitable occasion.
may continue working toward the Eagle Award while a
Venturer until his 18th birthday. There is no Venturing
advancement route to qualify for the Eagle Award. Article XI. Business, Finance,
Section 1. Venturing Recognition,
Properties, Contracts,
Clause 11. Ranks Registration (Registration)
a. There shall be awards and ranks in Venturing and —Rules and Regulations
Sea Scouts BSA, the requirements for which shall be
approved by the Executive Board as proposed by the Section 3. Special Types of
Venturing Committee and set forth in Sea Scouting
and Venturing publications. Registration, Clause 20. Mentally
Retarded or Severely Physically
Clause 12. Examination in Camps Handicapped Youth Members
a. In special instances, where Scouts are attending educa- In the discretion of the [National] Executive Board, and
tional or similar institutions and/or camps which give an under such rules and regulations as it may prescribe upon
intensive Scouting program, said institutions and camps consultation with appropriate medical authorities, registra-
may, upon application, be authorized by the Corporation tion of boys who are either mentally retarded or severely
to give the prescribed examinations and pass Scouts in physically handicapped, including the blind, deaf, and
such manner and with such special conditions as the emotionally disturbed, over age 11 as Cub Scouts and over
facts presented (as to the facilities and leadership of age 18 as Boy Scouts, or Varsity Scouts, and registration of
the institution or camp) may, in the judgment of the young adults who are either mentally retarded or severely
Corporation, warrant. physically handicapped, including the blind, deaf, and
emotionally disturbed, over age 21 as Venturers, and the
participation of each in the respective advancement programs
while registered, is authorized.

17

33088.indd 17 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Advancement in the Unit

One of the major avenues of achievement in Scouting is Webelos Scout. The rank for boys who have completed
advancing from rank to rank. To advance, a youth member third grade (or are 10 years old).
fulfills specific requirements, usually including active
participation, skill achievement, service to others, and Arrow of Light. For fifth-graders (or 10-year-olds). Earned
leadership experience. after completion of the Webelos Scout badge, usually after
the first year of the Webelos Scout program.

Cub Scout Advancement Den & Pack Resource Guide


Cub Scouting is both den- and home-centered. Advancement —New for 2010
involves both den leader and parental approval.
The Den & Pack Resource Guide becomes
These are the six ranks in Cub Scouting. effective with the 2010 program year. This
Bobcat. The Bobcat badge is earned prior to all other ranks. resource includes core den meeting plans
If a boy joins Cub Scouting as a Wolf, Bear, or Webelos (two den meetings per month) designed for
Scout, he must earn the Bobcat badge before receiving use in conjunction with the youth handbooks.
any other award or rank.
By following the prescribed den meeting plans
Tiger Cub. The rank for boys who have completed as written, Cub Scouts will fulfill the require-
kindergarten (or are 7 years old).
ments necessary to earn the badges of rank
Wolf. The rank for boys who have completed first grade by early spring.
(or are 8 years old).

Bear. The rank for boys who have completed second grade
(or are 9 years old).

18

33088.indd 18 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Bobcat Requirements. No matter what age or grade a boy When the Cub Scout has completed the 12 achievements,
joins Cub Scouting, he must earn Bobcat badge before he receives the Wolf badge in a ceremony during a monthly
he can be awarded the rank of Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, or pack meeting. The boy may then work on any of the
Webelos Scout. This rank involves learning the Cub Scout 23 fields, called electives, until he completes second grade
Promise, the Law of the Pack, and some signs and symbols (or is 9). Electives mostly cover hobby and sports interests.
of Cub Scouting. His den leader determines when the boy Each of these electives is divided into projects. For the first
has mastered them. 10 projects, a boy is awarded a Gold Arrow Point, to be
worn on his uniform below his Wolf badge. For the next
Tiger Cub Requirements. When a boy is in the first grade, 10 projects completed, he receives a Silver Arrow Point,
he works on the Tiger Cub badge with his adult partner. to be worn below the gold one. Additional Silver Arrow
To begin his path to the Tiger Cub rank, the Tiger Cub must Points may be earned for each 10 projects.
first earn the Tiger Cub Immediate Recognition Emblem by
learning the Cub Scout motto, the Cub Scout sign, and the
Cub Scout salute. When he has accomplished these tasks, All requirements and electives for Wolf Cub Scouts
he may begin working on the 15 achievement requirements can be found in the Wolf Handbook.
to earn Tiger Cub rank. These simple requirements, to be
completed with the adult partners, include a family activity, Bear Requirements. When the boy is in the third grade or
den activity, and Go See It (den outing) in five achievement 9 (or as soon as he completes the Bobcat requirements if
areas. The den leader and adult partner approve the comple- he joins at this age), he begins work toward the Bear rank.
tion of each requirement by signing the boy’s handbook. When he has completed 12 of the 24 achievements and
For each of these 15 achievements, the boy earns a bead to has been awarded the Bear badge, he may work on the
add to his Tiger Cub Immediate Recognition Emblem— 25 electives in the Bear Handbook to earn Arrow Points
white for family activities, orange for den activities, and as he did for Wolf. These Arrow Points are worn below
black for Go See It activities. his Bear badge. In addition, he may earn elective credits
by completing requirements for the 12 achievements not
When the Tiger Cub has completed the 15 achievement used to earn the Bear badge. As with the Wolf rank,
requirements, he receives his Tiger Cub badge in a completion of the requirements is approved by the den
ceremony during a monthly pack meeting. After earning leader and/or the boy’s parents.
the Tiger Cub badge, the boy is encouraged to work on
the numerous elective activities in his book. There are many
elective projects aimed at sparking a Tiger Cub’s interest All requirements for both the Bear achievements and
in a new hobby, activity, or skill. When he completes electives are found in the Bear Handbook.
10 electives, he earns a Tiger Track bead that is worn on
the Tiger Cub Immediate Recognition Emblem, a pocket Webelos Scout Requirements. While working toward the
totem. There is no limit to the number of Tiger Track beads Webelos Scout rank and the Arrow of Light Award, the boy
that a boy may earn; however, each Tiger Track bead must also may earn any or all of the 20 activity badges that range
represent the completion of 10 elective projects. from Aquanaut and Sportsman to Geologist and Forester.
The Webelos den leader approves the boy’s work or assigns
someone else to approve it.
All requirements for both the Tiger Cub achievements
and electives are found in the Tiger Cub Handbook. This is an important step in the boy’s transition to a Boy
Scout troop, and the transition should take place during an
Wolf Requirements. When a boy is in the second grade, impressive ceremony. The Webelos badge and Arrow of
he starts work on the 12 achievements for the Wolf rank as Light requirements include all of the joining requirements
soon as he has earned his Bobcat rank. These achievements for the Scout badge.
involve knowledge of the national flag, his religious duties,
physical skills, and other simple skills geared to his interests.
All requirements for the Webelos badge, Arrow of
The den leader and a parent or an adult family member
Light Award, and activity badges are found in the
should approve his work and sign his book, signifying
Webelos Handbook.
completion of the requirements.

19

33088.indd 19 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Cub Scout Advancement Goals Positions of Responsibility
The administration of the Cub Scout advancement program Each time a Boy Scout is elected or appointed to a position
is primarily the responsibility of the pack committee, with of responsibility, the Scout must be given his position
the support of the district youth development committee and description and responsibilities. If a Scout has been
commissioner staff. unreliable or ineffective in the position, the Scout should
be counseled and removed, if necessary.
• Parents of Cub Scouts should understand their role and
responsibilities in their son’s advancement. For the boy For advancement requirements, serving in a position of
to receive maximum benefit and growth from his leadership means that if the Boy Scout is elected or
advancement, the adult’s standard for completion of any appointed to a position, such as patrol leader, and serves in
requirement should be based on the Cub Scout motto, that position for the required time, they have satisfactorily
“Do Your Best.” completed that requirement. This does not necessarily mean
• Advancement recognition should be given as soon that the youth will pass his board of review, because if his
as possible after a boy completes the requirements, service was not satisfactory, the youth could be denied at
and be done with proper ceremony. Presentation of the board of review.
badges should be a part of each monthly pack meeting. Remember, if the Scout served in the position for two
Suggestions for advancement ceremonies are contained months that is two months fulfilled toward completing
in the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide, Webelos the requirement. Also, if the Scoutmaster removes a Scout
Leader Guide, Cub Scout Ceremonies for Dens and from a position of responsibility, he must notify the Scout.
Packs, and the Cub Scout Leader Book. Putting this in writing is preferable, though not required.
• Packs and troops should be encouraged to work together
to ensure a smooth transition from the Webelos den to When a badge and certificate are awarded to a Boy Scout
the Boy Scout troop. to recognize that he has achieved a rank, they represent
that a young man has:
• Good advancement records should be maintained by
the pack to help ensure that boys are advancing and that • Been an active participant in his troop and patrol.
awards are presented promptly. (See “Definition of ‘Active’ ” later in this chapter.)

• The use of den chiefs (Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, • Demonstrated living the Scout Oath (Promise) and Law”
or Venturers who assist with Cub Scout and Webelos in his daily life.
Scout den meetings) can help stimulate advancement • Met the other requirements and/or earned the merit
through example and experience, as well as encourage badges for the rank.
boys to continue in the Scouting program. • Participated in a Scoutmaster conference.
• Recognize packs in the district that advance well. • Satisfactorily appeared before a board of review.

In the advanced ranks (Star, Life, and Eagle), the badge


Boy Scout Advancement represents that the young man has also:
Advancement is built around the three aims of Scouting: • Served in a position of responsibility in the troop.
citizenship, growth in moral strength and character, • Performed service to others.
and mental and physical development. The Boy Scout
advancement program is designed to provide the Boy
Scout with a chance to achieve the aims of Scouting
while learning new skills, having fun, and growing in
confidence and self-reliance.

No council, district, unit, or individual has the


authority to add to or subtract from any advancement
requirement. A Boy Scout badge recognizes what a
young man is able to do; it is not a reward for what
he has done.

20

33088.indd 20 1/5/10 1:25 PM


1. The Boy Scout learns. A Scout learns by doing. As he
Definition of “Active” learns, he grows in ability to do his part as a member of
the patrol and the troop. As he develops knowledge and
A Scout will be considered “active” in his unit
skill, he is asked to teach others; and in this way he
if he is begins to develop leadership.

1. Registered in his unit (registration fees 2. The Boy Scout is tested. A Scout may be tested on rank
requirements by his patrol leader, Scoutmaster, assistant
are current) Scoutmaster, a troop committee member, or a member
2. Not dismissed from his unit for of his troop. The Scoutmaster maintains a list of those
disciplinary reasons qualified to give tests and to pass candidates. The Scout’s
merit badge counselor teaches and tests on the require-
3. Engaged by his unit leadership on a ments for merit badges.
regular basis (informed of unit activities 3. The Boy Scout is reviewed. After a Scout has completed
through Scoutmaster conference or all requirements for a rank, he has a board of review.
personal contact, etc.) For Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life,
and Eagle Palms, the review is conducted by members
4. In communication with the unit leader on a
of the troop committee. The Eagle Scout board of review
quarterly basis is conducted in accordance with local council procedures.
(Units may not create their own definition of 4. The Boy Scout is recognized. When the board of
review has certified a boy’s advancement, he deserves
active; this is a national standard.) to receive recognition as soon as possible. This should
If the Scout does not initiate communication, be done at a ceremony at the next troop meeting. The
certificate for his new rank may be presented later at a
the unit leader is to contact the Scout and ask if formal court of honor.
the youth wishes to remain in Scouting. If the
answer is negative, then the unit leader should Boy Scout Advancement
no longer communicate with the Scout. If the Age Requirements
answer is affirmative, the unit leader should Boy Scout awards are for young men not yet 18 years old.
provide the unit calendar. After six months of Merit badges, badges of rank, and Eagle Palms are for
registered Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, or qualified Venturers.
nonparticipation, the unit leader may cease to
Any registered Boy Scout or Varsity Scout may earn these
contact with the youth and drop the Scout from awards until his 18th birthday. Any Venturer who achieves
the unit at recharter time. the First Class rank as a Boy Scout or Varsity Scout in a
troop or team may continue working for the Star, Life,
The Scout may return to the unit at any time while and Eagle Scout ranks and Eagle Palms while registered
on the unit charter. At any time a Scout is dropped as a Venturer, up to his 18th birthday.
from a charter, the youth may re-apply to a unit Youth members with disabilities who are severely
for readmission; the acceptance of the applica- mentally or physically handicapped may work toward
tion is at the discretion of the unit. The youth rank advancement after they are 18. (See the chapter
“Advancement for Youth Members With Disabilities.”)
would be reinstated at the rank and level that can
This does not include others with learning disabilities,
be documented by either the Scout or the unit. attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD),
etc., but only those who are severely mentally or physically
handicapped. If you have a question on whether a
Four Steps of Boy youth qualifies for this exemption, please contact the nation-
Scout Advancement al Youth Development Team at 972-580-2189
A Boy Scout advances from Tenderfoot to Eagle by doing or youth.development@scouting.org. It is better to ask
things with his patrol and his troop, with his leaders, and on beforehand than be denied an Eagle application later.
his own. It’s easy for him to advance if the following four
opportunities are provided for him.

21

33088.indd 21 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Troop Advancement Goals A good conference should be unhurried. It helps the Scout
evaluate his accomplishments and set new goals with his
The unit leader must be in charge of advancement in the
Scoutmaster. This can be accomplished at a troop meeting,
unit. It is necessary that the Scoutmaster understand the
camping trip, or in the Scout’s home.
purpose of the advancement program and the importance
it has in the development of the Scouts in the troop. The
troop’s program must provide advancement opportunities. Goal setting by the Scout makes it possible for the
By participating in the troop program, the Scout will meet Scoutmaster to help the Scout with his weaknesses
requirements for rank advancement. and encourage him to use his strengths.
The troop’s unit commissioner and the district youth
The Scout (joining) conference is probably one of the most
development committee that oversees advancement support
important associations the Scout will have in his Scouting
can play an important part in explaining advancement and
career. It is at this conference that the Scoutmaster illustrates
helping the Scoutmaster utilize the advancement program
to him the adult-youth relationship that is unique to Scouting.
in the troop program, making it exciting to the Scouts in
the troop. All through the ranks, it is rewarding for the Scoutmaster
to observe the Scout grow in responsibility and maturity.
It is important that the troop committee and the Scoutmaster
It is through this association and example that a young man
set an advancement goal for the year as part of the Quality
grows and matures, and the Scoutmaster conference helps
Award. A basic goal should be for each Scout to advance a
accomplishes that aim. (See the Scoutmaster Handbook,
rank during the year. New Scouts should earn the First Class
chapter 10.)
rank during their first year in the troop. By doing so, these
new Scouts have a greater probability of staying in Scouting A requirement for advancement is that the Scout
for many more years. When the troop leadership—which participates in a Scoutmaster conference, not that he
includes both adult and youth leaders—emphasizes the “passes” the conference. When advancement is going to
importance of advancement, the youths and their parents be deferred, the Scout should not come to the Scoutmaster
will catch the spirit. Advancement should be a troop conference thinking that everything is OK and then be
philosophy and part of the troop’s culture. surprised that his advancement is deferred. He should
have had plenty of warning and guidance prior to the
Scoutmaster conference.
Troops should conduct boards of review for Scouts
who are not advancing. That board should be This is not a time to shut the door on advancement,
encouraging and developmental. A minimum of but rather to work with the Scout to create goals that
four formal courts of honor a year (one every three will allow him to succeed. However, even after a negative
months) should be held to formally recognize the Scoutmaster conference for the ranks of Tenderfoot to
Scouts in the troop. Life, if the Scout desires a board of review, he should
be granted his request.
Presentation of merit badges and rank badges should not
await these courts of honor; awards and badges should be
presented at the next meeting after they have been earned. Record Keeping
Scouts are recognized again at a formal court of honor. Each unit is responsible for keeping its own records and
reporting advancement to the local council service center.
This is done on an advancement report form. One copy is
Scoutmaster Conferences kept by the troop and two are sent to the council with an
One of the most enjoyable experiences of being a Scout- order for badges and awards. It is best that this form be
master is the opportunity for a Scout and his leader to sit submitted at least monthly so that troop records remain
down and visit together. In large troops, Scoutmasters current and Scouts are able to receive their awards quickly
occasionally assign this responsibility to assistant Scout- after earning them. Awards cannot be purchased or presented
masters or members of the troop committee. This is until the advancement report has been filed with the council
unfortunate, because most Scoutmasters feel that this is office. A Troop/Team Record Book, to be maintained by the
truly the opportunity to get to know the Scout and help troop scribe, is available.
him chart his course in life.

22

33088.indd 22 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Some councils require computer-generated advancement A merit badge cannot be taken away once it has
reports through BSA Internet Advancement. If so, two been earned, provided the counselor is a registered
copies of the computer-generated report must be submitted counselor for the merit badge.
to the council service center. Any authorized vendor
advancement software (such as Troopmaster) that is
compatible with BSA Internet Advancement may be Group Instruction of Merit Badges
used to generate the advancement report form. Electronic The question arises as to whether it is permissible to have
record keeping and reporting is good for accuracy, speed, Scouts earn merit badges in groups. Many subjects may be
and record keeping. presented to groups of Scouts without defeating one of the
purposes of the merit badge plan—working closely with a
qualified adult.
Unit training resources, such as Boy Scout
Advancement, are available for instruction The National Executive Board has approved this policy
through your local council in how to carry out statement on merit badge counseling:
the advancement program.
“To the fullest extent possible, the merit badge counseling
relationship is a counselor-Scout arrangement in which the
Scout Buddy System boy is not only judged on his performance of the require-
ments, but receives maximum benefit from the knowledge,
The Scout sets up his first appointment with the counselor.
skill, character, and personal interest of his counselor.
The counselor should explain the requirements to the Scout.
Group instruction and orientation are encouraged where
The Scout and his buddy then meet as appropriate with the
special facilities and expert personnel make this most
counselor until the Scout completes the badge’s requirements.
practical, or when Scouts are dependent on only a few
These guidelines apply whenever a Scout meets with his
counselors for assistance. However, this group experience
merit badge counselor.
should be followed by attention to each individual candi-
• A Scout must have a buddy with him at each meeting date’s projects and his ability to fulfill all requirements.”
with a merit badge counselor.
In the end, the Scout must be reviewed individually by the
• A Scout’s buddy can be another Scout, a parent or counselor to ensure completion of the badge’s requirements.
guardian, a brother or sister, or a relative or friend.
In harmony with this policy, a troop or team may use
• From his Scoutmaster, the Scout obtains a signed merit
merit badge counselors in unit meetings. The merit badge
badge application and the name of the appropriate merit
counselor can make a presentation covering the highlights
badge counselor.
of a merit badge subject. Scouts should then be given an
opportunity to try some skill related to the badge. This
A Scout may earn any merit badge at anytime. However, introduction to a merit badge can spark an interest in
a few merit badges may have certain restrictions. the subject.

The Merit Badge System Service Projects


Earning merit badges gives a Scout the kind of self-confidence Second Class Rank. For the Second Class rank, a Scout
that comes from overcoming obstacles to achieve a goal. must participate in a service project or projects approved
Through the merit badge program, a Scout also learns by his Scoutmaster. The time of service must be a minimum
career skills, grows confidence, develops socially, and may of one hour. This project prepares a Scout for the more
develop physical skills and hobbies that encourage healthful involved service projects he must perform for the Star,
recreation for life. Life, and Eagle Scout ranks.

The steps to follow in the merit badge program are outlined Star and Life Ranks. For Star and Life ranks, a Scout must
in the current Boy Scout Requirements book. This book lists perform six hours of service to others. This may be done as
the requirements a Scout meets to earn each of the more than an individual project or as a member of a patrol or troop
100 merit badges that are available. Scouts must be tested project. Star and Life service projects may be approved for
individually, and they must meet all the requirements. Scouts assisting on Eagle Scout leadership service projects.
No additional requirements may be added. The Scoutmaster approves the project before it is started.

23

33088.indd 23 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Eagle Scout Leadership Service Projects. For a service The most current Eagle Scout Leadership
project to qualify as an Eagle Scout leadership service Service Project Workbook must be used to
project, the Scout, while a Life Scout, must plan, develop, meet this requirement.
and give leadership to others in a service project benefiting
any religious institution, school, or community. These The youth must secure the prior approval of his unit leader,
projects, of course, must conform to the wishes and a committee from the unit that is composed of a minimum
regulations of those for whom the project is undertaken. of three members and a maximum of six members (21 years
of age or older), and the benefactor of the project. The
The Eagle Scout leadership service project provides the project must also be reviewed and approved by the district
opportunity for the Eagle Scout candidate to demonstrate or council youth development committee or their designee
the leadership skills he has learned in Scouting. He does the to make sure that it meets the stated standards for Eagle
project outside the sphere of Scouting. As a demonstration Scout service projects before the project is started. This
of leadership, the Scout must plan the work, organize the preapproval of the project does not mean that the board of
personnel needed, and direct the project to its completion. review will approve the way the project was carried out.
Eagle Scout leadership service projects should be about Upon completion of the project, the Eagle Scout Leadership
service to others. Here are guidelines to follow. (See the Service Project Workbook, available on www.scouting.org,
Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook.) is properly filled out and submitted with the Eagle Scout
• An Eagle Scout project involving council property or Rank Application. The Workbook must include the
other BSA activities is not acceptable. following information.
• An Eagle Scout project may not be performed for a 1. Describe the project.
business or an individual. 2. Explain how the project was of benefit to others.
• There is no minimum number of hours required, but 3. Tell who from the group that benefitted from the
the amount of time must be sufficient for the Scout project gave guidance.
to clearly demonstrate planning, organization and
leadership skills. 4. Tell who helped carry out the project.

• The project is an individual matter; therefore, two Eagle 5. List the materials used and tell how they were acquired.
Scout candidates may not receive credit for working on Although the project idea must be approved before work is
the same project. begun, the board of review must determine the manner in
• There is no requirement that an Eagle Scout service which the project was carried out. Questions that must be
project have lasting value. addressed include:
• An Eagle Scout project may not be of a commercial nature. 1. Did the candidate demonstrate leadership of others?
• An Eagle Scout project may not be a fund-raiser. 2. Did he indeed direct the project rather than do all of the
• Fund-raising is permitted only for securing materials work himself?
needed to carry out the project. 3. Was the project of value to the religious institution,
• Donors to Eagle Scout projects must be made aware of school, or community group?
what entity is benefiting from the project, and that it 4. Who from the group benefiting from the project may
clearly is not the Boy Scouts of America. Substantiation be contacted to verify the value of the project?
of tax deductibility, if any, for donations is the responsi- 5. Did the project follow the approved plan or were
bility of the entity benefiting from the project. modifications needed to bring it to its completion?
• Any funds raised for an Eagle Scout project that are not 6. Was all the work on the project done while the candidate
used for the purchase of project materials must be was a Life Scout and before his 18th birthday (unless a
returned to the donor. time extension has been allowed)? (See “Time Extensions”
Routine labor, a job or service normally rendered, should later in this chapter.)
not be considered. There is no minimum number of hours
that must be spent on carrying out the project. The amount For other extension options, see the text box called
of time spent must be sufficient for the Scout to clearly “Age Limitations for Eagle Scouts” under “Boards of
demonstrate leadership skills. Review” later in this chapter.

24

33088.indd 24 1/5/10 1:25 PM


The Eagle Scout service project is an individual matter; Boards of Review for Tenderfoot
therefore, two Eagle Scout candidates may not receive
credit for working on the same project. Through Life Scout Ranks and
Eagle Palms
The variety of service projects performed throughout the
A periodic review of the progress of a Scout is vital in
nation by Scouts earning their Eagle Award is staggering.
the evaluation of the effectiveness of the Scouting program
For ideas and opportunities regarding service projects, the
in the unit. The unit committee can judge how well the
Scout can consult people such as school administrators,
Scout being reviewed is benefiting from the program.
religious leaders, local government department directors,
The unit leader can measure the effectiveness of his or
or a United Way agency’s personnel. The district or council
her leadership. The Scout can sense that he is, or is not,
youth development committee also can be helpful by
advancing properly and can be encouraged to make the
identifying possible projects.
most of his Scouting experience.

Time Extensions
When a Scout has completed all requirements for
If a Boy Scout or a Venturer foresees that he will be unable
a rank advancement, including the Scoutmaster
to complete the requirements for the Eagle rank prior to
conference, he may not be denied a board of review.
his 18th birthday, he may file a petition in writing with the
National Youth Development Committee through the local
Not only is it important to review those Scouts who have
council for special permission to continue to work toward
learned and been tested for a rank, but also to review those
the award after reaching age 18. The petition also may be
Scouts who have shown no progress in their advancement
filed by the unit leader or unit committee. The petition must
over the past few months.
show good and sufficient evidence and detail the extenuat-
ing circumstances that prevented the Scout from completing The review is not an examination; the board does not retest
the requirements prior to his 18th birthday. Extenuating the candidate. Rather, the board should attempt to determine
circumstances are defined as conditions or situations that the Scout’s attitude and his acceptance of Scouting’s ideals.
are totally beyond the control of the Boy Scout or Venturer. The board should make sure that good standards have been
met in all phases of the Scout’s life.
Should circumstances prevent a Boy Scout or a Venturer
from requesting the extension before he is 18, it is The decision of all boards of review is arrived at through
still permissible to ask for the extension, detailing the discussion and must be unanimous.
extenuating circumstances that prevented him from
completing the requirements and from requesting the
extension before age 18. A discussion of the Scout Oath and Scout Law is
in keeping with the purpose of the review, to make
sure that the candidate recognizes and understands
Extenuating circumstances are defined as conditions the value of Scouting in his home, unit, school,
or situations that are totally beyond the control of the and community.
Scout or Venturer.

25

33088.indd 25 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Age Limitations for Eagle Scouts A Boy Scout’s unit leaders, assistant unit leaders,
relatives, or guardians may not serve as members
Scouts who have completed all requirements for of his board of review.
a rank prior to their 18th birthday, or who have
The review should be conducted at a convenient time and
been granted a time extension to complete the location, such as a meeting, summer camp, or the home of
requirements (see “Time Extensions,” page 28) a member of the troop committee. The three purposes of the
after “18th birthday, should submit their review are to:
application and be reviewed and recognized 1. Make sure the work has been learned and completed.
within three months after that date.” 2. See how good an experience the Scout is having in
his unit.
Boards of review conducted between three and
3. Encourage the Scout to advance to the next rank.
six months after the candidate’s 18th birthday
must be preapproved by the local council. Scout Spirit is defined as living the Scout Oath
A statement by an adult explaining the reason (Promise) and Scout Law in a Scout’s everyday life.
for the delay must be attached to the Eagle
Because many boys are ill at ease when talking to adults, it
Scout Rank Application when it is submitted to
is important that the board be held in a relaxed atmosphere.
the national Youth Development office. A certain amount of formality and meaningful questioning
should be used during the review.
If an Eagle Scout board of review will be held
after the six months following the candidate’s Again, the review is not an examination. The Scout has
learned his skill and has been examined. This is a review.
18th birthday, the Eagle Scout must petition
The Scout should be asked where he learned his skill,
the national Youth Development office for an who taught him, and the value he gained from passing
extension of time to hold the board of review. this requirement.
The petition must be processed through
The Scout reviews what he did for his rank. From this
the local council, detailing the extenuating review, it can be determined whether he did what he was
circumstances that prevented the board of supposed to do. The review also reveals what kind of an
review from being held within the six-month experience the Scout is having in the troop. With that
knowledge, the troop leaders can shape the program to
period following the candidate’s 18th birthday,
meet the needs and interests of the Scouts.
and must be accompanied with a copy of the
The board should attempt to determine the Scout’s ideals
Eagle Scout Rank Application.
and goals. The board should make sure that a good standard
of performance has been met. A discussion of the Scout
For the composition of boards of review for Varsity Oath and Scout Law is in keeping with the purpose of
Scout teams and Venturing crews, see “Varsity Scout the review, to make sure the candidate recognizes and
Advancement” and “Venturing Advancement” later in understands the value of Scouting in his home, unit,
this chapter. school, and community.

The board of review members should feel free to refer to


Each time a Boy Scout has completed all requirements for
the Boy Scout Handbook, Scoutmaster Handbook, or any
Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, and Life ranks,
other references during the review. The Troop Committee
or an Eagle Palm, he appears before a board of review. This
Guidebook contains examples of questions that could be
board of review is made up of at least three and not more
asked during a review.
than six members of the unit committee. One member serves
as the chair—usually the committee member responsible The review should take approximately 15 minutes. At the
for advancement. conclusion of the review, the board should know whether
a boy is qualified for the rank or Palm. The Scout is
asked to leave the room while the board members discuss
his achievements.

26

33088.indd 26 1/5/10 1:25 PM


The decision of the board of review is arrived at through It should be the desire of the board to encourage the Scout
discussion and must be unanimous. If members are to talk so that the review can be a learning experience for
satisfied that the Scout is ready to advance, he is called in, the candidate and the members of the board.
congratulated, notified as to when he will receive his
recognition, and encouraged to continue his advancement
or earn the next rank or Palm.
Eagle Scout Boards of Review
The Boy Scouts of America has placed the Eagle Scout
If the board decides that the Scout is not ready to advance, board of review in the hands of the troop, team, crew,
the candidate should be informed and told what he has not or ship committee, or the district or council committee
done satisfactorily. Most Scouts accept responsibility for responsible for advancement. Additionally, the council
not completing the requirements properly. The members of shall serve as an appeals board for district boards of review.
the board of review should specify what must be done to If the board of review is conducted by the district or
rework the candidate’s weaknesses and schedule another council, the method used must be applied consistently to
board of review for him. the entire group under the respective leadership level. The
council will decide on—and make known—which method
A follow-up letter must be sent to a Scout who is turned or methods will be used. The BSA has also made the local
down for rank advancement, confirming the agreements council responsible for providing assistance in Eagle Scout
reached on the actions necessary for advancement. Should advancement, including program resources, and assistance
the Scout disagree with the decision, the appeal procedures and leadership for Eagle Scout boards of review.
should be explained to him. (See “Appealing a Decision”
later in this chapter.) The unit must keep a copy of this Regardless of which method is used, an Eagle Scout
letter on file. candidate may have only one board of review. All steps
beyond an initial board of review fall under the appeals
process, which is discussed later in this chapter under
The process for appealing the decision of a board of “Appealing a Decision.” Review “The 12 Steps From Life
review is outlined in the chapter “Advancement in the to Eagle” below for additional policies and procedures.
Unit,” under “Appealing a Decision.”

After the board of review is completed, the Scoutmaster The 12 Steps From Life to Eagle
is informed of all of the decisions that were made by the The following 12 steps have been outlined to help ensure
board of review. a smooth procedure for the Scout, the unit leadership, the
local council, and the volunteers who are to conduct the
When a Scout satisfactorily completes a board of review board of review. Share these steps with each Eagle candidate
for a rank or an Eagle Palm, he cannot be awarded his rank so that he can fully understand the procedure that must be
until that action is reported to the council service center on followed by the Scout, the district, and the council.
an Advancement Report. However, tenure for his next rank
or Eagle Palm begins immediately. 1. In order to advance to the rank of Eagle, while a Life
Scout, a candidate must complete all the requirements of:
A monthly report keeps unit records current and is a good
practice. The troop scribe should also keep a record in • Active tenure (For a definition of active, see “Boy Scout
the Troop/Team Record Book for easy reference by the Advancement” in the chapter called “Advancement in
Scoutmaster and use by other boards of review. the Unit.”)
• Scout spirit
The Scout should be neat in his appearance; • Any remaining merit badges
however, a uniform is not required. Local boards • Positions of responsibility
of review may not make up their own rules about • Planning, developing, and providing leadership to
wearing a uniform. others in a service project
• The Scoutmaster conference

27

33088.indd 27 1/5/10 1:25 PM


2. Using the Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project If desired by the council, the candidate may be asked to
Workbook, the candidate must select his Eagle service deliver a blank reference form and envelopes to the listed
project and have the project concept approved by his references. However, the candidates should not be
unit leader, the unit committee (which is composed of a involved personally in transmitting any correspondence
minimum of three members and a maximum of six between people listed as references and the council
members, age 21 or older), the benefactor of the project, service center or advancement committee. If the initial
and reviewed and approved by the council or district reference letter or form is not returned to the council in a
advancement committee. (See “Eagle Scout Rank,” timely manner, the council youth development committee
under “Service Projects” earlier in this chapter.) must make direct contact with the reference in question
Without exceptions, the most current Eagle Scout (listed on the Eagle Scout Rank Application) by follow-up
Leadership Service Project Workbook must be used letter, phone contact, or other methods it chooses. The
in meeting this requirement. See www.scouting.org for candidate shall not make any follow-up contact with the
the most current version. reference or submit other reference names.

3. All requirements for the Eagle Scout rank (except the A Scout cannot have a board of review denied or postponed
board of review) must be completed prior to the because the council office or council youth development
candidate’s 18th birthday. When all requirements for committee does not receive the reference letter forms or
the rank of Eagle (except the board of review) have been fails to follow up.
completed, an Eagle Scout Rank Application must be
filled out and promptly sent to the council service center. 7. After the contents of an application have been verified
(See the chapter “Advancement for Youth Members and appropriately signed, the application, Eagle Scout
With Disabilities” and also “Time Extensions” earlier in Leadership Service Project Workbook, and references
this chapter.) will be returned from the council service center to the
chair of the Eagle board of review so that a board of
review may be scheduled. Under no circumstances
The Eagle Scout Rank Application can be found at should a board of review be scheduled until the
www.scouting.org. application is returned to the chair of the Eagle
board of review. Reference checks that are forwarded
4. The application should be signed by the unit leader. with the application are confidential, and their contents
The unit committee reviews and approves the record of are not to be disclosed to any person who is not a
the Eagle candidate before the application is submitted member of the board of review.
to the local council. If a unit leader or unit committee
fails to sign or otherwise approve an application, the 8. The board of review for an Eagle candidate is composed
Eagle candidate may still be granted a board of review. of at least three but not more than six members, 21 years
The failure of a unit leader or unit committee to sign an of age or older. It is not required that these persons be
application may be considered by the board of review in members of the advancement committee or be registered
determining the qualification of the Eagle candidate. in Scouting; however, they must have an understanding
of the importance and purpose of the Eagle Scout board
5. The Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook, of review. Unit leaders, assistant unit leaders, relatives,
properly filled out, must be submitted with the application. or guardians may not serve as members of a Scout’s
6. When the completed application is received at the board of review. The Scout may have no input into
council service center, its contents will be verified and the selection of the board of review members. At least
the references contacted. The Scout shall have listed six one district or council advancement representative must
references (five if there is no employer, and a parent if be a member of the Eagle board of review if the board of
there is no organized religious association). The council review is conducted at a unit level. A council or district
youth development committee or its designee contacts may designate more than one person to serve as a
the references listed on the Eagle Scout Rank Application, member of Eagle boards of review when requested to
either by letter, form, or telephone checklist. (The council do so by the unit. The chair will schedule the board of
determines the method or methods to be used.) review location, date and time in coordination with the
unit leader and the Eagle Scout candidate. The board
The candidate should have contacted individuals of review members should convene at least 30 minutes
listed as references before including their names on before the candidate appears in order to review the
the application. application, reference checks, and service project report.

28

33088.indd 28 1/5/10 1:25 PM


9. The candidate’s unit leader introduces him to the If the Scout chooses to appeal, provide the name and
members of the board of review. The unit leader may address of the person he is to contact. (See “Appealing a
remain in the room at his or her own discretion to Decision” later in this chapter.)
observe only and may not participate in the board of 10. Immediately after the board of review and after the
review unless called upon to clarify a point in question. application has been appropriately signed, the applica-
In no case should a relative or guardian of the candidate tion, the service project report, references, and a
attend the review, even as a unit leader. There is no set properly completed Advancement Report are returned
of questions that an Eagle candidate should be asked. to the council service center.
However, the board should be assured of the candidate’s
participation in the program. This is the highest award 11. When the application arrives at the council service
that a Scout may achieve and, consequently, a thorough center, the Scout executive signs it to certify that the
discussion of his successes and experiences in Scouting proper procedure has been followed and that the board
should be considered. of review has recommended the candidate for the Eagle
Scout rank. The Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project
After the review, the candidate and his unit leader leave Workbook and references are retained by the council.
the room while the board members discuss the accept- The Workbook may be returned to the Scout after
ability of the candidate as an Eagle Scout. Because council approval. The council then forwards this
of the importance of the Eagle Scout Award, a paperwork to the national Youth Development office.
unanimous decision in favor of awarding the Eagle
badge must be reached. If the candidate meets the 12. Upon receiving the council submitted Eagle application,
requirements, he is asked to return and is informed the national Youth Development office, Eagle processing,
that he will receive the board’s recommendation for will screen the application to ascertain correctness of
the Eagle Scout rank. If the candidate does not meet information (proper signatures, positions of responsibility,
the requirements, he is asked to return to the room tenure between ranks, age of the candidate, and so on).
and told the reasons for his failure to qualify. If the
candidate does not meet the requirements, and a The local council forwards only the Eagle Scout
positive, unanimous decision is not reached, then Rank Application to the national Youth Development
only two possibilities exist. office. This may be done electronically to hasten
1. I f the Scout’s 18th birthday is not imminent and the process.
the board of review feels the Scout needs to improve
in certain areas within a defined time frame, the After the council’s Eagle Scout processor verifies
board of review may adjourn and then reconvene and certifies that the application is correct, it should be
at a later date and continue the review of the Scout. submitted to the national office electronically. Submitting
A reasonable attempt should be made to reassemble the application electronically is efficient and expeditious.
the members of the first board when the board of Any errors that occur during the verification process can
review is reconvened. be corrected to insure an error-free application before
2. I f the vote was negative and final, the Scout must be submitting. Normal processing, when done manually,
informed of his options for appealing the decision will take from four to eight weeks. Electronic submission
and the proper procedures for an appeal, as outlined may reduce the time to approximately two weeks.
in “Appealing a Decision” later in this chapter. Any item not meeting national standards will cause the
application to be returned for more information. If the
The board must elect either 1 or 2 above and after doing application is in order, the Scout is then certified as an
so, asks the Eagle candidate to return to the room and he Eagle Scout by the Youth Development office on behalf
is then told the reasons for his failure to qualify. If the of the National Council. Notice of approval is given by
board elects option 1, then a discussion should be held sending the Eagle Scout certificate to the local council.
with him as to how he may meet the requirements The date used on the certificate will be the date of the board
within a given period. of review. The Eagle Award must not be sold or given to
Should the applicant disagree with the decision, the appeal any unit until after the certificate is received by the council
procedures should be explained to him. A follow-up service center. The Eagle Scout court of honor should not
letter must be sent to the Scout confirming the agreements be scheduled until the local council receives the Eagle
reached on the action(s) necessary for the advancement. Scout rank credentials.

29

33088.indd 29 1/5/10 1:25 PM


After earning the Eagle Scout Award, a Scout may work Upon initial receipt of an appeal, the district and the council
to earn Eagle Palms. An Eagle Palm or Palms must be youth development committee charged with hearing the
earned before the Scout’s 18th birthday. Palms must be initial appeal shall provide for a prompt review to determine
earned one at a time, in the order of Bronze, Gold, and the facts.
then Silver. Each Palm level can only be earned after a • All parties must be interviewed or written statements
three-month tenure since his effective Eagle date or since obtained. Confrontations between opposing parties must
earning the last Palm. be avoided.
• The appeal review is not a second board of review and
Appealing a Decision thus a unanimous decision is not required.
There are two sets of circumstances in which a Scout or • A decision may be reached by majority vote.
his parent(s) or guardian(s), acting on his behalf, may
appeal a decision. • A written report setting out all details of the appeal and
the reasons for the committee’s decision shall be
1. The first situation occurs when a unit leader or unit prepared and forwarded to the council Scout executive.
committee does not recommend a Scout for a board of • A copy shall be furnished to the Scout bringing
review, or refuses to sign the Eagle Scout application. the appeal.
In such cases, the Scout or his parent(s) or guardian(s)
may appeal the decision to the committee responsible Appeals to the National Youth Development Committee
for advancement at the next level, as described below. shall be processed through the local council, and the local
The committee hearing the appeal shall then grant the council shall furnish copies of all pertinent documentation
Scout a board of review and appoint its members. to the national office, including a statement of the council’s
2. The second situation occurs when a board of review position on the matter. If the appealed issue concerns an
does not recommend a candidate for rank advancement. Eagle Scout candidate, a copy of the Scout’s Eagle Scout
In such a situation, the Scout or his parent(s) or Rank Application shall be included. If the Scout’s Eagle
guardian(s) may appeal the decision. Scout leadership service project is at issue, a copy of his
Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook shall be
All appeals, under any circumstances, shall initially be included. All decisions of the National Youth Develop-
directed to the next highest level. If the decision leading ment Committee in reference to appeals shall be final.
to the appeal occurred at the unit level, the appeal shall be
directed to the district committee responsible for advance-
ment. If the decision leading to the appeal occurred at the Courts of Honor
district level (i.e., an Eagle Scout board of review conducted Each time a Scout advances in rank, he should be recognized
by the district), the appeal shall be directed to the council on two occasions. The first should occur as soon as possible
committee responsible for advancement. A decision at after he has been approved by a board of review and an
either level finding in favor of the Scout shall be final. Advancement Report has been filed with the council office
Units have no right of appeal of a decision. —preferably at the next unit meeting. This ceremony should
be dignified, simple, and not much more than presenting the
If the initial committee hearing the appeal does not find in Scout with his new badge of rank.
favor of the Scout, he or his parent(s) or guardian(s) may
appeal that decision to the next highest level. If the initial The second occasion is a court of honor—a public ceremony
appeal was made at the district level, the next highest level to recognize Scouts for successful achievement and to describe
is the council youth development committee. If the initial the importance of the program. The main purposes of the
decision was made at the council level, or if the council court of honor are to furnish formal recognition for achieve-
youth development committee upheld the unfavorable ment and to provide incentive for other Scouts to advance.
finding of the district advancement committee, the Scout Formal courts of honor should be conducted at least four
or his parent(s) or guardian(s) may appeal to the National times a year. All Scouts who have advanced since the
Youth Development Committee. previous court of honor are honored. Their families and
All requests for appeal shall be made in writing, signed by friends should be invited to attend the ceremony.
the Scout and/or his parent(s) or guardian(s), and shall set
forth in detail the reasons for requesting an appeal. Procedures for conducting courts of honor and
special First Class and Eagle Scout courts of honor
are described in Troop Program Resources.

30

33088.indd 30 1/5/10 1:25 PM


When a Scout has earned the Eagle Scout rank, he deserves not make up their own rules about who qualifies as a merit
a special recognition. The Eagle Scout ceremony may not badge counselor at camp. Camp staff members who are
be conducted until the action of the board of review has qualified in the subject and are younger than age 18
been approved by the national Youth Development office may assist the merit badge counselor with instruction.
and the candidate has been officially approved as an Eagle. The merit badge counselor or instructor in a particular
subject should be available to both individuals and groups.
However, regardless of the class format, each Scout
Restricted Emblems, Badges, and Awards
must be reviewed individually by the counselor to
Badges of rank, merit badges, and Eagle Palms ensure completion of the badge’s requirements.
are restricted items. These items may not be Each counselor must maintain the exact standards as
sold or distributed unless the Advancement outlined in the merit badge requirements—nothing deleted,
Report has been properly filled out and has nothing added—and make himself or herself available at
the time most convenient to the Scouts. Partial completion
been submitted to the local council office.
of merit badges should be credited to a Scout on the
To do otherwise will jeopardize an individual Application for Merit Badge (blue card) and given to the
youth member’s record of achievement. Scoutmaster at the end of the week.

Keeping detailed advancement records for merit badges


Advancement at Boy Scout or partial work on merit badges while at a resident camp
Resident Camp is very important and should be a top priority of camp
In developing council procedures for handling advancement and council leadership. The council youth development
reports and distributing badges, remember that many committee should periodically visit each resident camp
Boy Scout advancement opportunities take place in camp. to ascertain that a quality merit badge instruction program
Special attention should be given to ensure that the procedures is offered.
include Boy Scout resident camp.

The procedures for advancement in camp are established by There is no time limit for completion of merit badges
the council youth development committee in cooperation other than age 18.
with the committee responsible for camp, the camp director,
and the program director. These procedures must be
approved by the council youth development committee
prior to the opening of camp. This procedure must include
Varsity Scout Advancement
the four processes of advancement—learning, testing, Position of responsibility requirements for Star and Life
reviewing, and recognition. ranks may be met by a Varsity Scout serving as a team
captain, cocaptain, program manager, squad leader, or in
The camp program director will organize program staff,
other leadership roles assigned by the Coach. The acceptable
specialists, commissioners, and department heads in such a
way that the program in camp is completely operative from positions of responsibility for the Eagle Scout rank
the beginning of the camp season. These procedures should are listed on the Eagle Scout Rank Application.
be given to each troop as part of precamp orientation. The Varsity Scout Coach will conduct a Coach conference.
The program director is responsible for assuring that all (See “Scoutmaster Conferences” under “Boy Scout
program equipment relating to advancement is available for Advancement” earlier in this chapter.)
use. Camp staff members should be prepared and available
As the Varsity Scout meets the requirements for each rank,
to assist unit leaders in teaching and testing Scouts on
a board of review is conducted by the team committee
Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class requirements.
member responsible for advancement, the advancement
Resident camp merit badge counselors must be qualified program manager, and the Varsity Scout Coach for all
(see “Qualifications of Counselors” in the chapter “The ranks except Eagle Scout. The Eagle Scout board of review
District Youth Development Committee”). Councils may follows the procedure established by the local council.

31

33088.indd 31 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Venturer Advancement Additional Venturing awards include the Ranger, Quest,
and TRUST awards.
The district and council’s youth development committee
should become familiar with the Venturing program and Ranger. The Ranger Award is based on outdoors/high-
in particular the Venturing advancement program to help adventure requirements. A Venturer must complete
those crews meet their advancement goals. The Venturing eight requirements and at least four of 18 electives.
advancement program is available to all youth Venturing The Outdoor Bronze Award is half of Ranger. There is
members of the BSA. no board of review.

Interviews with Venturers have shown that advancement is Quest. The Quest Award is based on fitness and sports.
the way they learned and grew. Like many young people, A Venturer must complete five core requirements and
they may say up front they don’t want to work, but just have at least one of five electives. There is no review board.
fun. However, the purpose of Venturing is not to just have The Sports Bronze Award is the first requirement.
fun, but to help those youths have a meaningful growth TRUST. The TRUST Award will help Venturers learn
experience that will last a lifetime. It is the responsibility of about themselves, their communities, and their religion
the district and council youth development committees to and culture, as well as those of others. They must complete
assist crews with advancement opportunities that will help five areas of requirements with the support of a religious
these young people reach their goals. The purpose is to: leader in their community.
• Provide a pathway for personal development.
• Encourage Venturers to learn, grow, and serve. Venturer Advancement and Tenure
• Recognize the high level of achievement of Venturers
who acquire Venturing skills. Details on Venturing advancement may be found
• Identify trained and highly motivated Venturers who in the Venturing Leaders Manual, Venturer/
will be a training, leadership, and program resource for Ranger Handbook, Quest Handbook, and TRUST
other Venturers, Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, organizations, Handbook. Unlike Boy Scouting—except for
and the community.
the Gold award, which has a 12-month tenure
The Venturing advancement track includes the Bronze,
requirement—the other ranks and awards have
Gold, and Silver awards.
no tenure requirement. A Venturer may work on
Bronze. The introduction to specific Venturing skills. many ranks and awards at the same time and
Venturers may earn one or more of the five Bronze awards:
Arts and Hobbies, Sports, Sea Scouting, Outdoor, and potentially could even be presented with several
Religious Life. One Bronze is required for Gold. awards in the same court of honor.

A new Math and Science Bronze will be introduced


in 2010. It is appropriate to present Venturer and Sea Scout
awards at a court of honor or Eagle/Silver banquet,
Gold. The intermediate level requires at least 12 months of and to recognize them in local and school newspapers.
tenure and work. Requirements are based on three areas of
work: personal development, service, and leadership. Gold
requires a preapproved (by the Advisor) plan of action and Past Credit for Venturers
a crew review board consisting of youth and adults and All requirements for all awards require Venturers to do
conducted by the crew president. It is appropriate to present work as Venturers. As an example, they may have earned
the award at a court of honor and may be combined with a the Backpacking merit badge as a Boy Scout, but must do
troop court of honor. Gold is required for Silver. all that is required in the Ranger backpacking elective while
registered as a Venturer. Some requirements may require
Silver. The highest award for Venturers. In addition to
some type of certification such as Scuba Open-Water Diver,
earning a Bronze and Gold award, Venturers do additional
American Red Cross Standard First Aid, or BSA Lifeguard.
work in the areas of leadership, emergency preparedness,
This certification may be used regardless of when it was
and ethics. Silver requires a preapproved plan of action and
earned as long as the certification is still current.
crew review.

32

33088.indd 32 1/5/10 1:25 PM


The Scoutmaster conference will be conducted by the
Multiple Credit for Venturers Advisor. Then, as the Venturer meets the requirements
for the Star and Life ranks, a board of review is conducted
Venturers may receive multiple credit for
by the crew committee. The Eagle board of review follows
requirements in Venturing, such as using an the procedure established by the local council.
American Red Cross Emergency Response
course for credit in the Ranger first aid core All work on all Venturing advancement must be
requirement, first aid elective, Lifesaver completed prior to the young person’s 21st birthday.
elective, and the Silver Emergency Prepared-
ness requirement. However, Venturers may
Sea Scout Advancement
not receive multiple credit when required to Sea Scout advancements are approved by the ship’s
do a tabletop display or presentation. These quarterdeck. In the case of the Quartermaster Award,
must be done for each requirement that the application is reviewed by the ship’s committee
requires one. with a member of the district advancement committee
serving as chair.
Qualified members who are working on Boy Sea Scout advancement includes Apprentice, ordinary,
Scout advancement may receive credit for work Able, and Quartermaster.
toward Boy Scout advancement and Venturing
Apprentice. The first step of the Sea Scout advancement
advancement. An example would be getting dual program involves youth who are members of Sea Scouting
credit for hikes for the Backpacking merit badge and have learned the Sea Scout Promise and are active with
and for the Ranger backpacking elective, or for a ship. They learn about seamanship, its safety and customs,
swimming, and working with ships as a crew member.
a conservation project required in Boy Scouts
and in Venturing. Ordinary. The next step involves being active with the
ship, explaining the Sea Scout emblem, understanding
the history of the U.S. flag, participating regularly in
Scouts who earn the First Class rank while a registered
meetings, and learning special skills on the operation of
member of a Boy Scout troop or Varsity Scout team may
boats, marlinspike seamanship techniques, yacht racing
elect to continue working toward Eagle as a registered
procedures, sailing abilities, ornamental rope work, and
member in the Boy Scout troop or a registered member
engine maintenance.
in a Venturing crew, or while retaining dual membership
registration in both a troop/team and a Venturing crew. Able. This step involves the Sea Scout in ship ceremonies,
Whichever registration status a young man elects, both the etiquette in boarding boats, ship participation, sharing of
Scoutmaster and crew Advisor should confirm with the experiences with other youth, and showing proficiency in
youth which adult leader will oversee his advancement a variety of watercraft specialties.
process toward the rank of Eagle.
Quartermaster. In addition to earning the above Sea
If the Advisor takes the primary role and is unfamiliar with Scouting awards, the Quartermaster candidate must
Boy Scout advancement, the district youth development write and submit a paper on how their ship can contribute
committee should work with that Advisor or select an to the world fellowship of Scouting, be an active member
experienced Scoutmaster to assist the Advisor. That selected of their ship, develop and conduct a service project helpful
adult leader must be fully cognizant of the 12 steps from to others, and show specialty skills in boating and marlin-
Life to Eagle (see the details in this manual), the timeline spike seamanship.
requirements of certain merit badges required for Eagle (see
the current edition of Boy Scout Requirements), and the The Quartermaster rank/growth opportunity for Sea
requirements of the Eagle Scout leadership service project Scouts is based on seamanship skills. It requires a
(see the reference in this manual). preapproved plan of action and a board of review.
The Sea Scouting Bronze may be earned by Sea Scouts
Position of responsibility requirements may be met by the and is half of Quartermaster.
Venturer serving as president, vice president, secretary,
or treasurer in his crew, or as boatswain, boatswain’s mate,
yeoman, purser, or storekeeper in his ship.

33

33088.indd 33 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Advancement for Youth Members
With Disabilities

There has been much confusion among volunteers and The operative words are: mentally retarded or severely
professionals as to the rules and regulations regarding physically handicapped young people. Examples of these
who qualifies, and—most importantly—who doesn’t medical conditions include:
qualify for age exemption as a Scout with disabilities. • Down syndrome
In an effort to clear up confusion, under Article XI, section 3, • Legal blindness
clause 20 of the BSA’s Rules and Regulations governing • Severe autism
Special Types of Registration, it states the following.
• People permanently confined to wheelchairs,
Mentally Retarded or Severely Physically Disabled i.e., someone who is quadriplegic
Youth Members. In the discretion of the (National) • People who are deaf
Executive Board, and under such rules and regulations
as it may prescribe upon consultation with appropriate The Annual Health and Medical Record form must be used
medical authorities, registration of boys who are as part of the procedure for registering a severely physically
either mentally retarded or severely physically disabled youth in Scouting. Their medical condition must
handicapped, including the blind, deaf, and emotionally be certified with a signed statement from a licensed
disturbed, over age 11 as Cub Scouts and over age 18 physician. In the case of mentally retarded or emotionally
as Boy Scouts or Varsity Scouts, and registration of disturbed candidates, their condition must be certified by a
young adults who are either mentally retarded or statement signed by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist.
severely physically handicapped, including the blind, This extension of age is not provided as a window of
deaf, and emotionally disturbed, over age 21 as opportunity for those who are less challenged such as
Venturers, and the participation of each in the someone who has a moderate learning disability or for
respective advancement programs while registered, those who just can’t seem to advance within the normal
is authorized. time restrictions. Individuals whose medical conditions are

34

33088.indd 34 1/5/10 1:25 PM


not as severe as defined in clause 20 do not qualify for the While leaders must be enthusiastic about helping
age restriction exemption and must follow the normal age youngsters with disabilities, they must at the same
requirements for advancement. If in doubt, contact the time fully recognize the special demands that will be
national Youth Development office. made on their patience, understanding, and skill in
teaching advancement requirements.

Denial of Time Extensions for Eagle


Candidates Registered as Special
Advancement for Boy Scouts
Needs Scouts
With Disabilities
In the past, in an effort to secure national
These guidelines apply to advancement for all Boy Scouts
approval for a time extension beyond the with disabilities.
normal range so that their Eagle candidate son • All current requirements for an advancement award
could work on his Eagle Scout requirements (ranks, merit badges, or Eagle Palms) must actually
past his 18th birthday, some families have be met by the candidate.
tried to use nonsevere, temporary medical • There are no substitutions or alternatives permitted
conditions such as a learning disorder or except those that are specifically stated in the require-
ments as set forth in the current official literature of
ADD/ADHD as “extenuating circumstances.”
the Boy Scouts of America.
Such requests will continue to be denied,
• Requests for alternate rank requirements for Tenderfoot,
and families and/or individuals should be Second Class, and First Class can be made using the
discouraged in requesting a time extension information outlined in this chapter.
for these reasons. • The Scout is expected to meet the requirements as
stated—no more and no less. Furthermore, he is to do
exactly what is stated. If it says “show or demonstrate,”
Advancement for Cub Scouts that is what he must do; just telling about it isn’t enough.
With Disabilities The same thing holds true for such words as “make,”
“list,” “in the field,” “collect, identify, and label,” and
The advancement program is so flexible that, with guidance, so on.
most boys can do the skills. It might take longer for a youth
with disabilities to complete the requirements, but these Alternate Requirements Through
accomplishments will be more personally meaningful.
The standard for every boy is, “Has he done his best?” First Class Rank
A Scout who has a permanent physical or mental disability
A Cub Scout who is physically disabled may be given and is unable to complete all of the requirements for
permission by the Cubmaster and pack committee to Tenderfoot, Second Class, or First Class rank may submit
substitute electives for achievement requirements that are a request to the council youth development committee to
beyond his abilities. It is best to include parents in this complete alternate requirements. Below are the procedures
process of determining substitutions since they are most for applying for alternate requirements.
familiar with their son’s abilities.
To keep Scouts with disabilities as much in the advancement
Immediate recognition of advancement is even more mainstream as possible, some advancement accommodations
important for boys with disabilities. The Tiger Cub and may be required. Thus, a Scout in a wheelchair can meet
Cub Scout Immediate Recognition Kits, the den doodle, the requirements for hiking by making a trip to a place of
and the Den Advancement Chart all help provide immediate interest in his community. Giving more time and permitting
recognition in den meetings as achievements and electives the use of special aids are other ways leaders can help Scouts
are completed. Remember that a month seems like a long with disabilities in their efforts to advance. The substitute
time to a boy and that completing requirements for a badge should provide a similar learning experience.
might seem like forever to him. Be sure to give him periodic
recognition at pack meetings when he earns a badge.

35

33088.indd 35 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Guidelines for Alternate Requirements

1. Do As Many Standard Requirements requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class,


As Possible. Before applying for alternate and First Class ranks. The request should
requirements, the Scout must complete as include the standard requirements the Scout
many of the standard requirements as his has completed and the suggested alternate
ability permits. He must do his very best to requirements for those requirements that he
develop himself to the limit of his abilities cannot complete. This request should be
and resources. detailed enough for the youth development
committee to make an informed decision.
2. Secure a Medical Statement. A clear
The request should be prepared by the Scout,
and concise medical statement concerning
his parents, and his Scoutmaster, and should
the Scout’s disabilities or limitations must
include a copy of the medical or educational
be submitted by a licensed health-care
statement as required in step 2.
provider. It must state that the disability is
permanent and must outline what physical 4. The Youth Development Committee
activities the Scout may not be capable of Reviews the Request. The council youth
completing. In the case of a mental disability development committee should review the
such as a learning disability, an evaluation request, utilizing the expertise of professional
statement should be submitted by a certified persons involved in Scouts with disabilities.
educational administrator relating the ability The committee may want to interview the
level of the Scout. Scout, his parents, and the unit leader to
fully understand the request and to make a
3. Prepare a Request for Alternate
fair determination. The committee’s decision
Requirements. A written request must be
should be recorded and delivered to the
submitted to the council youth development
Scout and the unit leader.
committee for the Scout to work on alternate

Bear in mind the outcome of the Scouting experience • Requests for alternate rank requirements may be
should be one of fun and learning, and not completing made using the information outlined in this chapter.
requirements for rank advancements, which might • The Venturer is expected to meet the requirements
place unrealistic expectations on the Scout. as stated—no more and no less. Furthermore, he or
she is to do exactly what is stated. If it says “show or
demonstrate,” that is what he or she must do; just telling
Advancement for Venturers about it isn’t enough. The same thing holds true for such
words as “make,” “list,” “in the field,” “collect, identify,
With Disabilities and label,” and so on.
These guidelines apply to advancement for all Venturers
with disabilities. No council, district, unit, or individual has the
authority to add to, or to subtract from, any
• All current requirements for an advancement award advancement requirements.
must actually be met by the candidate.
• There are no substitutions or alternatives permitted
except those that are specifically stated in the require-
ments as set forth in the current official literature of
the Boy Scouts of America.

36

33088.indd 36 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Approval for Special Needs 3. A clear and concise medical statement concerning
the Scout’s disabilities and limitations must be
Eagle Candidates made by a physician licensed to practice medicine,
or an evaluation statement must be certified by an
These guidelines apply only to those who are qualified for
educational administrator.
the age restriction exemption.
4. The candidate must earn as many of the required merit
When submitting an Eagle application for special needs badges as his ability permits before applying for an
Eagle candidates over the age of 18, written documentation alternate Eagle Scout rank merit badge.
of approval must be given by the council youth development
5. The Application for Alternate Eagle Scout Award
committee and council executive board that the Eagle Scout
Merit Badges must be completed prior to qualifying
candidate is over the age of 18 and has met the qualifications
for alternate merit badges.
for a special needs Scout as stated in Article XI, section 3,
clause 20 of the BSA’s Rules and Regulations governing 6. The alternate merit badges chosen must be of such a
Special Types of Registration. The Scout executive must nature that they are as demanding of effort as the
attach a letter to the application indicating that the executive required merit badges.
board has approved the application. 7. When alternates chosen involve physical activity, they
must be approved by the physician.
Alternate Merit Badges for the 8. The unit leader and the board of review must explain
Eagle Scout Rank that to attain the Eagle Scout rank, a candidate is
expected to do his best in developing himself to the
These guidelines must be followed when determining
limit of his resources.
appropriate alternate merit badges for the Eagle Scout rank.
9. The application must be approved by the council youth
1. The Eagle Scout rank may be achieved by a Boy Scout, development committee, utilizing the expertise of
Varsity Scout, or qualified* Venturer and Sea Scout who professional persons involved in Scouting for people
has a physical or mental disability by qualifying for with disabilities.
alternate merit badges. This does not apply to individual
10. The candidate’s application for Eagle must be made on
requirements for merit badges. Merit badges are
the Eagle Scout Rank Application, with the Application
awarded only when all requirements are met as stated.
for Alternate Eagle Scout Award Merit Badges attached.
2. The physical or mental disability must be of a permanent
rather than of a temporary nature.

*In order for a Venturer to be an Eagle candidate, he must have achieved the First Class rank as a Boy Scout or Varsity Scout.

37

33088.indd 37 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Miscellaneous Topics

A number of topics are common to all phases of the Scouting


program. These subjects are discussed individually in order
Lone Scouting
to form a handy guide for the council and district youth Throughout the country and the world, boys who do not
development committees as well as for the unit leader and have access to traditional Scouting units can become
unit committee. Lone Cub Scouts and Lone Boy Scouts. Circumstances
in the life of a boy that may make Lone Scouting a desired
option include:
Extended Absence From Scouting • Home-schooled Scouts whose parents do not want them
in a youth group
Many times Scouts become active again after dropping out
from other units because of other interests, moving within • Children of American citizens who live abroad
the community, or relocating to another part of the country. • Exchange students away from the United States for
Youth who were members of a “dropped” unit also may a year or longer
become active again. A proper term for such a Scout is • Scouts with disabilities that may prevent them from
“separated-reregistered.” When this happens, the tenure attending regular meetings of packs and troops
for a Scout’s rank is often questioned.
• Scouts in rural communities and who live far from
Upon reregistration, the youth should assume the last a Scouting unit
attained rank verified by documentation from the council • Sons of migratory farm workers
service center. His previous verifiable service time in that
rank applies toward qualification for the next rank and • Scouts who attend night school or boarding school
should commence with his reregistration and with guide- • Scouts who have jobs that conflict with troop
lines set by his new unit leader. meeting times

38

33088.indd 38 1/5/10 1:25 PM


• Scouts whose families frequently travel, such as circus Lone Scout
families, families who live on boats, and so on
Advancement Procedures
• Scouts who have alternate living arrangements with
Lone Scouts are not registered with a Cub Scout pack or a
parents who live in different communities
Boy Scout troop, and must rely on their Lone Scout friend
• Scouts who are unable to attend unit meetings because and counselor for leadership and guidance. They are not
of life-threatening communicable diseases expected to meet the specific advancement requirements in
• Scouts whose parents believe their child might be the same way a member of a regular pack or troop does.
endangered in getting to Scout unit meetings
For instance, the Boy Scouts of America allows the Lone
These boys can apply to the local council service center Scout friend and counselor to suggest alternative require-
to become a Lone Cub Scout or a Lone Boy Scout. Scouts ments. This is important, since the Scout cannot meet all
and adults who live outside of the United States may the advancement requirements because he is not in a unit.
inquire about Lone Scouting by contacting the International
Department of the Boy Scouts of America. However, All such alternative requirements should be equal to
Lone Scouts is not an alternative for Scouts who cannot the replaced requirement. Alternative requirements must
get along in a unit or just don’t like units they have attended. be approved by the local council youth development
It is not an alternative means to earning the Eagle Award. committee. Any unequal or dissimilar requirement should
be allowed only in extreme circumstances, or when such
A Lone Scout works with a designated Lone Scout friend like requirements could not be met without extreme hazard
and counselor, who can be a parent. This friend is respon- or hardship to the boy. See the Lone Scout Friend and
sible for the Scout’s learning, testing, and reviewing, and Counselor Guidebook for more details.
for awarding his badges.
Some problems in the wording of requirements are simple
and do not require council approval. When a requirement
Boys who can attend regular meetings of packs and asks a boy to do something with his patrol or troop, interpret
troops are not eligible for the Lone Cub Scout or Lone “patrol” or “troop” to mean family, buddies, school, club,
Boy Scout programs. or religious group. Translate “Scoutmaster” to mean “friend
and counselor.” You will want to help the Lone Boy Scout
Lone Scouts may meet monthly (or less frequently) you counsel to make an appropriate substitute and to feel
with others in the area. These meetings may provide the comfortable about the change.
opportunity to give additional instruction and counseling
so that the boy has a better chance to advance. This also For example, the Star, Life, and Eagle ranks require a
is an excellent time to award him his rank and recognize Scout to serve a period of months in a Boy Scout troop
his achievements. leadership position. Instead, a Lone Boy Scout may carry
out a leadership responsibility in his school, religious
organization, or club, or elsewhere in his community.

39

33088.indd 39 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Youth From Other Countries 2. The Boy Scouts of America does not require member-
ship in a religious organization or association for
A youth from another country who either temporarily enrollment in the movement but does prefer, and
resides in, or has moved permanently to, the United States strongly encourages, membership and participation in
may join a BSA unit and participate in the BSA advancement the religious programs and activities of a church,
program. The youth must present to the council service synagogue, or other religious association. If a Scout
center available evidence of membership and of his or her does not belong to a religious organization or association,
advancement level from the previous association. Having then his parent(s) or guardian(s) will be considered to
done this, the youth then must appear before the district or be responsible for his religious development.
council youth development committee with at least one 3. Boy Scouts of America respects the convictions of those
member of the receiving unit committee present to review who exercise their constitutional freedom to practice
any previous advancement work and to determine which religion as individuals without formal membership in
BSA rank he or she is qualified to receive. organized religious organizations. In a few cases, there
This policy applies to all ranks except Eagle Scout. The are those who, by conviction, do not feel it necessary to
BSA rank of Eagle Scout cannot automatically be consid- formally belong to an organized form of religion and
ered the equivalent of another association’s highest rank. seek to practice religion in accordance with their own
A Boy Scout who holds his association’s highest rank personal convictions. Religious organizations have
could qualify for the rank of Life Scout, and the district commended the Boy Scouts of America for encouraging
or council youth development committee should prescribe youth to participate in organized religious activities.
certain merit badges for him to earn before consideration However, these same organizations reject any form of
for the rank of Eagle Scout. He must also fulfill all other compulsion to enforce conformity to established
requirements for the rank of Eagle Scout. religious practices.
4. If a boy says he is a member of a religious body, the
This policy also applies to members of the BSA who, standards by which he should be evaluated are those
while living abroad, have earned advancement in another of that group. This is why the application for the
Scouting association. Eagle Scout Award requests a reference from his
religious leader to indicate whether he has lived up
to their expectations.
Religious Principles
The Boy Scouts of America has a definite position on Throughout life, Scouts are associated with people of
religious principles (see Article IX, section 1, clause 1). different faiths. Scouting believes in religious freedom,
The following interpretative statement may help clarify respecting others whose religion may differ from
this position. theirs, and in the right of all to worship God in their
own way.
1. The Boy Scouts of America does not define what
constitutes belief in God or the practice of religion.

40

33088.indd 40 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Special Recognitions

Awards are recognitions that Scouts and adults are presented The award is made available annually on the basis of one
when others wish to honor them for accomplishment. award for each 25 traditional units, or fraction thereof,
Awards, for the most part, are not earned by the recipients. registered on December 31. The district need not present
Awards for individuals are proposed, approved, and all of the awards to which it is entitled each year.
presented without the recipient’s request or participation.
A professional Scouter or other council employee may
Exceptions to this general rule will be noted. For example, not receive this award based on employment service.
the recognitions listed under “Special Opportunity Programs” However, a professional Scouter or employee who also
and “Religious Emblems,” discussed later in this chapter, serves as a volunteer Scouter may be eligible, based on
are earned by Scouts and, in some cases, by unit leaders. volunteer service.
Since these programs are not a part of the advancement
process of the Boy Scouts of America, they are more Requirements
appropriately managed as a segment of the awards program. A nominee must be a registered Scouter and must have
rendered noteworthy service to youth.

District and Council Awards


The nature and value of “noteworthy service to
youth” may consist of a single plan or decisions
District Award of Merit that contributed vitally to the lives of large numbers
The District Award of Merit is a council award presented of youth, or it may have been given to a small group
by districts in the same manner that the Silver Beaver Award over an extended time.
is a national award presented by councils. The award is
available to any registered Scouter who renders service of
an outstanding nature on the district level. It is not appropri-
ate to nominate a Scouter who has already received this award.

41

33088.indd 41 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Consideration should be given to the nominee’s position Requirements
and the corresponding opportunity to render outstanding
service beyond the expectation of duty. The nominee’s • This award may be presented each year upon the
attitude toward and cooperation with the district and nomination of chartered local councils. These nomina-
council is to be taken into consideration. The nomination tions shall be submitted to the national Youth Develop-
is confidential. To avoid possible disappointment, the ment office not fewer than 30 days in advance of the
committee should not advise the nominee of action on date upon which it is desired to present the awards.
his or her behalf. • The award is presented for noteworthy service of
exceptional character to youth by registered adult
Procedures leaders in Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity
1. Annually, the district chairs will appoint a temporary Scouting, and Venturing, within the territory under
special District Award of Merit committee of not more the jurisdiction of a local council.
than five persons. This group will consider all district • As evidence of the award there shall be presented: a
candidates and make their recommendations of those to suitable certificate, duly supplied by and authenticated
receive the award to the council through the Scout by the Boy Scouts of America, pursuant to the action
executive. The committee’s term of office shall be for of the National Court of Honor; and a miniature silver
one year from the date of appointment. beaver suspended by a blue and white ribbon to be
2. The Scout executive will inform the district chair of worn around the neck.
those nominations approved by the council committee. • It shall be general policy that no public announcements
3. The following procedure is suggested for such shall be made by the local council in advance of action
presentation ceremonies. by the National Court of Honor with reference to names
presented for consideration.
a. T
 he recipient and spouse should be in attendance
at the annual meeting or recognition dinner. • These awards shall be made to the recipients by the local
council in connection with its annual recognition dinner
b. A
 district and/or council officer should explain the or other public function.
award and its significance.
• Each local council shall be entitled to one nomination.
c. E
 agle Scouts or Silver Award Venturers should be Councils having more than 60 traditional units shall be
asked to escort the recipients to a place of honor at entitled to further nominations on the basis of one for
the head table or on stage. each additional 60 traditional units or fraction thereof in
d. A
 suitable citation for each recipient should be read their territory, as of December 31 preceding the nomina-
indicating what each has done in Scouting. tion, according to the records of the national office.
e. T
 he award should be presented at this time with • Councils not using their full allotment in any year
appropriate congratulations. may accumulate the unused portion for use in any
f. T
 he only uniform insignia which accompanies this subsequent year.
award is an embroidered knot. • In extraordinary cases, the Silver Beaver Award may be
g. A
 group picture may be taken for use in neighbor- made by the National Court of Honor to a Scouter upon
hood or community newspapers (and its distribution the recommendation of Scouting authorities who have
is the district’s responsibility). supervision of one or more units of the Boy Scouts of
America, located outside of the United States, and not
under the jurisdiction of a local council.
Silver Beaver Award
The Silver Beaver Award is a national award offered by Procedures
the National Court of Honor and presented by councils.
Annually, the council president will appoint a Silver 1. Give the full name and titles, if any, of the nominee
Beaver Award committee that will consider candidates exactly as you want them to appear on the certificate.
and make recommendations. Do not use abbreviations, initials only, or nicknames.
2. Furnish as much information as possible. (Specific group
identification enables us to provide a name to national
The Silver Beaver Award nomination form can be organization headquarters that may wish to compliment
found at www.scouting.org. the recipient of the honor.)

42

33088.indd 42 1/5/10 1:25 PM


3. Nominations will not be considered for current or Requirements
former professional Scouters within five years of their
leaving employment with the BSA. Other council Recognition may be given to a youth member or adult
employees (part-time or full-time) are eligible to leader of the Boy Scouts of America where the evidence
receive the Silver Beaver Award based on their volunteer presented to the National Court of Honor, in accordance
service, not employed service. with prescribed regulations, shows that he or she saved
or attempted to save human life under circumstances that
4. Nominations cannot be considered for posthumous awards. indicate heroism and risk to self. The court will give
5. Order Silver Beaver insignia on the regular supply order consideration to resourcefulness and to demonstrated skill
form from your Supply Group distribution center. in rescue methods. In no case shall recognition be given
where it appears that the risk involved was merely in
The Silver Beaver Award nomination form can be the performance of duty, or the meeting of an obligation
found at www.scouting.org. because of responsibility to supervise and give leadership
to the persons whose lives were saved.

It shall be wholly within the discretion of the National


Special Recognitions for Volunteers Court of Honor to determine from evidence presented
which, if any, lifesaving award shall be made. Awards are
Woods Services Award. This annual award was issued in the name of the Boy Scouts of America. The
established to recognize volunteers who have awards are as follows.
performed exceptional service and leadership in • The Honor Medal With Crossed Palms may be
the field of Scouts with disabilities. Nomination awarded in exceptional cases to a youth member or adult
forms are sent annually to councils every leader who has demonstrated both unusual heroism and
extraordinary skill or resourcefulness in saving or
September with a December 31 deadline. One
attempting to save human life at extreme risk to self.
person is selected each spring for national
• The Honor Medal may be awarded to a youth member
recognition. The Woods Services Award nomina- or adult leader who has demonstrated unusual heroism
tion form can be found at www.scouting.org. in saving or attempting to save human life at consider-
able risk to self.
Torch of Gold Certificate. This is for local
• The Heroism Award may be awarded to a youth
council use in recognizing adults for outstanding member or adult leader who has demonstrated heroism
service to youth with disabilities. and skill in saving or attempting to save human life at
minimum risk to self.

Procedures
Lifesaving Awards
1. The council youth development committee or subcom-
Recipients of these awards must have been registered mittee may be constituted as a committee in lifesaving
members of the Boy Scouts of America at the time the and meritorious action awards.
action was performed. It shall be within the discretion
of the National Court of Honor to determine which, if any, 2. Unless unusual circumstances account for the time lapse,
type of recognition shall be given. Awards are made in the no application may be considered after six months from
name of the Boy Scouts of America. National Court of the action without a written explanation from the Scout
Honor determinations are final and not reviewable. executive or from the adviser to the council committee.
3. Separate applications are required if more than one
member is being recommended for recognition. The
All applications, which can be found at www.scouting. council committee must investigate the case, interview
org, should be submitted to the National Court of the principals and witnesses, secure necessary signed
Honor/Youth Development office through the local statements, and make a recommendation based upon
council upon duly prescribed forms. a full knowledge of the facts. It is recommended that
this committee meet within 30 days of the receipt of
the recommendation.

43

33088.indd 43 1/5/10 1:25 PM


4. Only members of the committee present during the • The National Certificate of Merit may be awarded to
interviews and involved in the investigation should sign a youth member or adult leader who has performed a
the application. At least three signatures are required significant act of service that is deserving of special
from the council committee. The National Court of national recognition.
Honor reserves the right to contact individual members
of the investigation committee.
Local Council Certificate of Merit
The council committee bears the responsibility for:
A Local Council Certificate of Merit is available for
• Writing a summary of the event
recognizing acts that the council committee does not feel
• Completing the application in detail qualify for national recognition but should receive some
• Providing any attachments, newspaper clippings, etc., recognition. The council youth development committee
that pertain to the case should conduct the investigation and review carefully to
maintain the integrity of the certificates.
It is recommended that no case be forwarded to the National
Court of Honor without the endorsement or statement of an
eyewitness. All recognitions are reserved for registered
members. No such member should be encouraged to Spirit of the Eagle Award
submit an application on his or her own behalf. The Boy Scouts of America has created the Spirit of the
Caution is urged not to submit weak cases (in terms of Eagle Award as an honorary posthumous special recogni-
meaningful action or documentation) to the National Court tion for individual, registered youth and adult members who
of Honor. Deliberations are conducted by the court not only have lost their lives in a tragic accident or through illness.
to recognize deserving individuals, but also to preserve the This award is bestowed by the National Court of Honor as
historical integrity of the awards. part of the celebration of life of this individual. The award
recognizes the joy, happiness, and life-fulfilling experiences
Ensure that all names are spelled correctly. Names, that the Scouting program made in this person’s life.
as spelled on the application, will be used to record The intention is also to help heal and comfort the member’s
and inscribe appropriate certificates. family, loved ones, and friends with their loss. Because the
Scouting program was appreciated, loved, and enjoyed by
this individual, the award will serve as a reflection of the
Meritorious Action Awards person’s family and friends’ wishes as a final salute and
tribute to their departed loved one.
Recognition may be given to a youth member or adult
leader of the Boy Scouts of America where the evidence Guidelines
presented to the National Court of Honor, in accordance
with prescribed regulations, shows that a significant or 1. The recipient must be a registered member at the time
outstanding act of service of an exceptional character was of his or her death.
performed. The action taken need not involve attempts of 2. The unit committee must submit an application for the
rescue or risk to self but must put into practice Scouting award within six months of the member’s death.
skills and/or ideals. Recognition shall not be given where 3. The unit committee must request the approval of the
it appears that the action involved was merely in the local council.
performance of duty or the meeting of an obligation.
Here are the awards. The Spirit of the Eagle Award application, which can be
found at www.scouting.org, should be completed and
• The Medal of Merit may be awarded to a youth submitted to the local council service center for review and
member or adult leader who has performed an act of approval. The local council will then forward the approved
service of a rare or exceptional character that reflects application to the national Youth Development office,
an uncommon degree of concern for the well-being which will produce and return the Spirit of the Eagle
of other people. Award certificate for presentation.

44

33088.indd 44 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Distinguished Eagle Scout Award Note these important points.

The Distinguished Eagle Scout Award is the highest award • Indicate the category of the project—energy conservation,
presented by the National Eagle Scout Association to those soil and water conservation, fish and wildlife management,
who have been Eagle Scouts for at least 25 years, who have forestry and range management, air and water pollution
distinguished themselves in their work, and who have shared control, resource recovery, hazardous material disposal
their talents with their communities on a voluntary basis. and management, or invasive species control.
• Give the specific title of the project and a detailed
Service to Scouting is not necessarily an important description of what was done, who did it, when it was
criterion in the determination of worthiness or degree done, and how it was done.
of distinction of a potential recipient. Only nominations
of truly distinguished individuals—those receiving • Include any other pertinent information.
extraordinary recognition, fame, or eminence—should • Applicants must be currently registered in the program
be submitted. No posthumous nominations are accepted. in which they are applying for the award (i.e., Boy
Scout, Varsity Scout, Venturer) when the application
Selection of recipients is made by the Distinguished Eagle is signed.
Scout Award Committee of the board of directors of the
National Eagle Scout Association, all of whom are recipients
of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. The presentation
Hornaday Badge
of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award should be made, The Hornaday badge is awarded, upon approval of the
if appropriate, at a career or community centered event. It local council, to a Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturer
may take place at a Scouting function, although this is not for outstanding service to conservation and environmental
recommended, but should not overshadow the presentation improvement. Applicants meeting all requirements received
of other awards, such as the Silver Beaver. a certificate and the William T. Hornaday badge.

The award may be presented as part of a fund-raising The application, which can be found at www.scouting.org,
activity. Presentation of the Distinguished Eagle Scout should be completed and approved by the unit leader.
Award should be made within the council submitting the The unit leader should then forward the application to the
nomination, and whenever possible by a previous recipient local council service center for review and approval by
of the award. Applications for nomination are available the council conservation committee and Scout executive.
only through the local council. The local council will then forward the application to the
director of Outdoor Programs, Boy Scouts of America.

Note these important points.


William T. Hornaday Awards
• Give a detailed description of the project, as outlined
The William T. Hornaday Award is presented for for the unit award above.
distinguished service in conservation. The Hornaday
• Be sure the applicant, conservation adviser, and unit
Award may be given in one of five forms.
leader sign the application before it is sent to the
national office.
Hornaday Unit Award • Check and date all merit badges completed.
A Hornaday unit certificate is awarded to a pack, troop,
• Boy Scout and Varsity Scout applicants must complete
team, or crew of five or more Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts,
these requirements before their 18th birthday. Venturer
or Venturers for a unique, substantial conservation project.
applicants must complete requirements before their
At least 60 percent of registered unit members must
21st birthday.
participate. These units may be nominated, or they may
apply to their BSA local council for recognition.

The application, which can be found at www.scouting.org,


should be completed and submitted to the local council
service center for review and approval by the council
conservation committee and Scout executive. The local
council will then forward the application to the national
office of the Boy Scouts of America.

45

33088.indd 45 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Hornaday Bronze or Silver Medal • Ensure that the application and supporting materials are
neat in appearance and reflect the high quality of the
These individual awards are granted by the National
applicant’s work.
Council of the Boy Scouts of America to a Boy Scout,
Varsity Scout, or Venturer for exceptional and distinguished • The conservation adviser and Scout executive should
service to conservation and environmental improvement. ensure that all parts of the application are filled out
thoroughly, accurately, and in detail. Determination
The silver medal, the most distinguished in Scouting for by the Hornaday Awards Committee of the applicant’s
exceptional conservation service, will be awarded for qualifications is made solely from the information
clearly outstanding efforts in planning, leadership, execution included in the application and supporting materials.
of plans, involvement of others, and opportunities taken
• Applicants must be currently registered in the program
to help others learn about natural resource conservation
in which they are applying for the award (i.e., Boy
and environmental improvement. The distinction between
Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturer) when the application
the bronze and silver medals is based primarily on the
is signed.
number and quality of the projects and their impact on
the local community. • Venturer applicants must fulfill additional requirements
as specified. (See “How Applications Are Judged” at
The William T. Hornaday Awards Committee may award a www.scouting.org for details of required documentation.)
bronze medal if the application does not meet the standard
of exceptional service required for the silver medal. There Hornaday Gold Badge
is no limit on the number of bronze medals that may be
The gold badge is by nomination only and is awarded by
awarded each year. Both awards include a medal (bronze
the local council to an adult Scouter. The nominee should
or silver), a certificate, and an embroidered square knot.
have demonstrated leadership and a commitment to the
Complete the application, which can be found at education of youth on a council or district level for signifi-
www.scouting.org, for approval by the unit leader. cant conservation efforts for a period of at least three years.
The unit leader should then forward the application and Nominations are made to the local council. The award
supporting materials to the local council office for review includes the gold badge.
and endorsement by the council conservation committee
Complete the nomination form, which can be found at
and the Scout executive. Following council approval,
www.scouting.org. Submit the completed application,
the local council forwards the application to the director
supporting materials—including letter(s) of endorsement—
of Outdoor Programs, Boy Scouts of America. If appro-
to the local council service center for review and approval
priate, it is submitted to the Hornaday Awards Committee
by the council conservation committee and the Scout
for action.
executive. If approved, the council forwards the application
Note these important points. to the director of Outdoor Programs, Boy Scouts of America.

• Be sure the applicant, conservation adviser, and unit


leader sign the application. Hornaday Gold Medal
The gold medal is by nomination only and is awarded to an
• Check and date all merit badges completed.
adult Scouter who has rendered distinguished and unusual
• Prepare a separate “Project Description” for each project service to natural resource conservation and environmental
(each from a different project category). Describe each improvement at the regional, national, or international level
project in detail, including illustrations and/or photo- over a sustained period (at least 20 years). The award
graphs of the work done. Indicate how you provided includes the gold medal, a certificate, and an embroidered
leadership for the project and how you used the square knot. Six gold medals may be awarded annually.
project to involve and influence others. (See “How
Applications Are Judged” at www.scouting.org for Nominations must be approved by the Hornaday Awards
details of required documentation.) Committee and by the Conservation Committee of the
National Council, Boy Scouts of America. Nominations are
• Include any newspaper articles, letters of thanks or
accepted from any recognized conservation/environmental
commendation, and other supporting materials in a
protection organization. The application can be found at
well-organized binder.
www.scouting.org.

46

33088.indd 46 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Hornaday Gold Certificate Procedures
This conservation award is granted to organizations or 1. Using the nomination form, the unit committee
individuals by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of chair nominates the unit leader on behalf of the unit
America. Nominations are accepted from any recognized committee. For Boy Scout troops, Varsity Scout teams,
conservation or environmental protection organization. and Venturer crews, the nomination must include
The organization or individual should have demonstrated endorsement by the senior patrol leader, team captain,
leadership and a commitment to the education of youth and crew president, respectively.
on a regional, national, or international level reflecting the
2. The nomination form must be certified by the unit or
natural resource conservation and environmental improve-
district commissioner as complete.
ment mission of William T. Hornaday Awards program.
3. The nomination form is submitted to the council
The nomination form, which can be found at www.scouting.org, for approval by the Scout executive and council
should be completed and forwarded, together with support- commissioner or council president.
ing materials, to the director of Outdoor Programs, Boy
Scouts of America. Include contact names and phone Upon the completion of the approved nomination form, the
numbers so the Hornaday Awards Committee can obtain council may present the Unit Leader Award of Merit, which
additional information if necessary. includes a certificate, square knot, and special unit leader
emblem at an appropriate unit or chartered organization
function. Following this presentation, recognition of this
Unit Leader Award of Merit achievement may be announced at appropriate district/
council events such as district/council leader recognition
This award is available for Cubmasters, Scoutmasters, dinners, training events, and board meetings.
Varsity Scout Coaches, Advisors, and Skippers. The
National Court of Honor recognizes unit leaders who The award may be presented for each program (Cub Scouting,
serve with enthusiasm, wisdom, and understanding of Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, Venturing) if the individual
the Scouting program. The chair of the unit committee meets the requirements in the program. Only one knot is
nominates the unit leader on behalf of the youth and the worn with the devices of each program in which the award
unit committee. Nomination forms are available from was earned.
the local council and on www.scouting.org.

Requirements Council Achievement Awards


1. Be a currently registered Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, A council may approve special awards for Cub Scouts,
Coach, or Advisor who has served in that position Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, and Venturers for outstanding
at least 18 continuous months. achievements that are not directly related to advancement.
2. Be officially trained (BSA required training for the These achievements must be in keeping with the spirit and
registered position). purpose of the Boy Scouts of America. These recommenda-
tions must be submitted to the council youth development
3. Have a printed or electronic unit annual program plan
committee only by the unit committee chair or the unit
and calendar that the unit leader has distributed to each
leader and within six months of the outstanding achievement.
family in the unit.
Recommendations should be approved by the district chair.
4. Have a ready replacement recruited for the unit leader The council youth development committee must determine
position (a unit leader succession plan). the recognition and the merits of each action.
5. Effectively use the advancement plan so that at least
60 percent of youth members in the unit have advanced
at least once during the last 12 months. Religious Emblems
6. Have a positive relationship with the Youth members may earn a religious emblem in their faith.
chartered organization. Such an emblem is not a Scouting award. It is conferred on
7. Project a positive image of Scouting in the community. youth members by their religious leaders. Each faith has
its own requirements for earning its emblem. A list of the
emblems and where to find out about them can be found
at www.scouting.org and in the Insignia Guide.

47

33088.indd 47 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Special Opportunities

There are a number of additional special members for their participation. Some of the
opportunities that may be earned by either awards and their requirements can be found
a unit, adult members, or by youth members. at www.scouting.org. See your local council
These awards are used by unit leaders to enrich service center for more information about the
their program and to provide recognition to unit following special opportunities.

• Boardsailing BSA • Leave No Trace Awards


• BSA Lifeguard • Mile Swim BSA
• Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award • Paul Bunyan Woodsman
• Den Chief Service Award • Scuba BSA
• Fifty-Miler Award • Snorkeling BSA
• Firem’n Chit • Totin’ Chip
• Historic Trails Award • Whittling Chip (for Cub Scouts)
• Interpreter Strip • World Conservation Award
• Kayaking BSA

48

33088.indd 48 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Advancement and
Recognition Resources

Title No. Title No.


General Pocket certificates:
Advancement Report 34403B Tiger Cub pocket certificate 34714
Analysis of Unit Progress—Charts That Talk 34818A Bobcat pocket certificate 34218
Annual Health and Medical Record form* 34605 Wolf pocket certificate 34220A
The District Committee Training Workshop 34160 Bear pocket certificate 34221A
Insignia Guide 33066 Webelos Scout pocket certificate 34222A
Lone Scout Friend and Counselor Guidebook 14-420A Webelos Activity Badge 33423A
Merit Badge Tabulation Record 34402B pocket certificate
Scouting for Youth With Disabilities 34059 Arrow of Light pocket certificate 34219A
Arrow Point pocket certificate 34392
Cub Scouting Tiger Cub Advancement wall chart 34715A
Bear Handbook 33451 Tiger Cub Handbook 34713
Cub Scout Advancement wall chart 34192A Webelos Den Record 33850
Cub Scout Ceremonies for Dens and Packs 33212C Webelos Handbook 33452
Cub Scout Leader Book 33221C Webelos Leader Guide 33853C
Cub Scouting and Your Family 34362A Webelos Scout Advancement wall chart 34187C
(Parent and Family Talent Survey) Wolf Handbook 33450
Den Advancement Report 33847
Individual Cub Scout Record 33827

Note: All items with an asterisk (*) are available at www.scouting.org.

49

33088.indd 49 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Title No. Title No.
Boy Scouting/Varsity Scouting Venturing
Application for Alternate Eagle 58-730 Quest Handbook 33151
Scout Rank Merit Badges TRUST Handbook 33154
Application for Merit Badge 34124A Venturer/Ranger Handbook 33494B
Boy Scout Advancement AV-02V001 Venturing Leader Manual 34655
(video and syllabus)
Boy Scout Handbook 34554 Sea Scouting
Boy Scout Requirements book 34765 Sea Scout Manual 609262
Eagle Scout Rank Application* 512-728
Eagle Palm Application 58-709 Recognition Materials
Eagle Scout Leadership Service 512-927 Application for BSA Lifeguard Certification 34435B
Project Workbook* 50-Miler Award Application 34408
A Guide for Merit Badge Counseling 34532 Historic Trails Award Application 34408
Individual Scout Record 34518B Local Council Certificate of Merit 33732
Merit Badge Certificate (pocket) 33414B Nomination for the District Award of Merit 33720C
Merit Badge Counselor Orientation 34542 Nomination for the Distinguished 58-300
My Scout Advancement Trail 33499 Eagle Scout Award
My Trail to Eagle Scout insignia stickers 33419 Recommendation for Lifesaving or 92-104C
Pocket certificates: Meritorious Action Award*
Boy Scout pocket certificate 33410A Silver Beaver Award Kit 15
Tenderfoot pocket certificate 33411A Silver Beaver Award Nomination* 512-103
Second Class pocket certificate 33412A Torch of Gold certificate 33733
First Class pocket certificate 33413A Unit Leader Award of Merit
Star pocket certificate 33426A Certificate 30767
Life pocket certificate 33425A Knot 610091
Bronze Palm pocket certificate 33401A Cubmaster 610094
Gold Palm pocket certificate 33402A Scoutmaster 610093
Silver Palm pocket certificate 33403A Coach 610092
Scoutmaster Handbook 33009C Advisor 610095
Troop Committee Guidebook 34505B Certificate presentation folder 33743
Troop Resource Survey* 18-116 Unit Leader Award of Merit 512-003
(This resource is only available online.) Nomination Form*
Troop/Team/Crew advancement chart 34506C William T. Hornaday Awards Application 430-107
Troop/Team Record Book 34508C
Varsity Scout Leader Guidebook 34827A
Worksheet for Building a Merit Badge 33991
Counselor List

Note: All items with an asterisk (*) are available at www.scouting.org.

50

33088.indd 50 1/5/10 1:25 PM


33088.indd 51
Cub Scouting Requirements
TENURE
GRADE (active activity
RANK PREREQUISITE ACHIEVEMENTS TRANSITION OTHERS
OR AGE participation) badges

Bobcat Earn prior to None None None None Not applicable Learn and say the Cub Scout Promise and
Wolf, Bear, complete the Honesty Character Connection.
or Webelos Say the Law of the Pack and tell what it means.
badge for Make the Cub Scout sign and tell what it means.
boys joining Show the Cub Scout handshake and tell what it
after first means. Say the Cub Scout motto. Give the Cub
grade. Scout salute and tell what it means. With your
parent or guardian, complete the exercises in
How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse:
A Parent’s Guide.
Tiger Cub First grade None None Bobcat 5 Not applicable
(or 7)

Wolf Second None None Bobcat 12 Not applicable


grade (or 8)

Bear Third grade None None Bobcat 12 of 24 from Not applicable


(or 9) 4 groups

Webelos Fourth and 3 months Fitness, Citizen, and one Bobcat None Show that you know and understand the requirements to be Plan and lead a flag ceremony in your den that

51
fifth grades other a Boy Scout: includes the U.S. flag.
(or 10) Demonstrate the Scout salute, Scout sign, and Scout handshake. Earn the religious emblem of your faith or do
Explain when you would use them. two optional (specified) requirements.
Explain the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout motto, and Scout slogan. Point out the three special parts of a Webelos
Explain and agree to follow the Outdoor Code. Scout uniform. Tell when to wear the uniform
and when not to wear it.
Complete Character Connection on Faith and one other
religious requirement. Know and explain the meaning of the
Webelos badge.
Have an adult member of the family read the
Webelos Scout Parent Guide.

Arrow Fifth grade 6 months since Five more (8 in all) Webelos None Repeat from memory and explain in your own words the Scout Participate in a Webelos overnighter or
of Light completing the including Fitness, Oath or Promise and the 12 points of the Scout Law. Tell how you day hike.
fourth grade Readyman, Citizen, have practiced these in your everyday life.
(or becoming 10) Outdoorsman, one Give and explain the Scout motto, slogan, sign, salute, and handshake.
from the Mental Skills
Understand the significance of the First Class Scout badge.
group, and one from the
Describe its parts and tell what each stands for.
Technology Group.
Tell how a Boy Scout uniform is different from a Webelos Scout uniform.
Tie the joining knot (square knot).
With your Webelos den, visit at least one Boy Scout troop meeting
and one Boy Scout–oriented outdoor activity.
After you have completed all five of the above requirements, and
after a talk with your Webelos den leader, arrange to visit, with
your parent or guardian, a meeting of a Boy Scout troop you think
you might like to join. Have a conference with the Scoutmaster.
Complete the Honesty Character Connection.

1/5/10 1:25 PM
33088.indd 52
Boy Scouting Requirements
POSITIONS OF
RANK TENURE SCOUT SPIRIT MERIT BADGES SERVICE BOARD OF REVIEW
RESPONSIBILITY
Boy Scout Have completed fifth grade and be Understand and intend to live by the Scout None None Not applicable
(joining) at least 10 years old, or be 11, or Oath or Promise and Scout Law; Scout motto;
have earned the Arrow of Light Award Scout slogan; and Outdoor Code. Know the
and be at least 10 years old, but be Scout salute and handclasp and when to
younger than 18. use them. Under­stand the significance of
the Scout badge.

Tenderfoot None Repeat from memory the Scout Oath or None None Not applicable Troop or team committee
Promise and the Scout Law. Explain the
meaning of each point of the Law in your own
words. Demonstrate that you have practiced
these ideals in your everyday life.

Second None Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout None Participate in an approved service Not applicable Troop or team committee
Class Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your project (minimum of 1 hour).
everyday life.

First Class None Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout None None Not applicable Troop or team committee
Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your
everyday life.

Star 4 months as a First Class Scout Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Six, including any 4 from the Projects totaling at least 6 hours of Serve actively for 4 months Troop, team, or crew committee
Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your required list for Eagle. work approved by the Scoutmaster. in an approved position after

52
everyday life. earning First Class rank.

Life 6 months as a Star Scout Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Five more (11 in all), Projects totaling at least 6 hours of Serve actively for 6 months Troop, team, or crew committee
Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your including any 3 more (7 in all) work approved by the Scoutmaster. in an approved position after
everyday life. from the required list earning Star rank.
for Eagle.

Eagle 6 months as a Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Ten more (21 in all), including Plan, develop and give leadership Serve actively for 6 months Troop, team, or crew committee,
Life Scout Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your 5 more from the required list to a significant project. The idea in an approved position after district or council advancement
everyday life. for Eagle (12 in all), with at must get proper approvals before earning Life rank. committee (council decides
least 1 in each category. work starts. method)

Eagle Palms 3 months after earning Eagle Award Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Five more beyond those None Satisfactory effort at Troop, team, or crew committee
or after earning last Palm Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your required for Eagle or last demonstrating leadership
everyday life. Palm. (Merit badges earned
any time since becoming a
Boy Scout may be used for
this requirement.)

Note: A Scoutmaster conference must be conducted by the Scoutmaster prior to the board of review.

1/5/10 1:25 PM
33088.indd 53
Venturing Requirements
AWARD TENURE REQUIREMENTS PREREQUISITE REVIEW POSITION OF RESOURCES
RESPONSIBILITY
Bronze Earn this award immediately after For the Sports, Youth Ministries, or Arts None None None Venturer/Ranger Handbook 33494
joining. No tenure required. and Hobbies award, complete nine Sea Scout Manual 609262
requirements. For Outdoor Bronze, do
Venturing Leader Manual 34655D
half of Ranger, and for Sea Scouting Bronze,
do half of Quartermaster.

Gold 12 months Have earned at least one Bronze. Additional Earn one Bronze Award. Yes Required Venturer/Ranger Handbook 33494
requirements related to personal development, Venturing Leader Manual 34655D
service, and leadership. Know and live by
Venturing Oath.

Silver None Be proficient in emergency preparedness, Earn the Gold Award. Yes Required Venturer/Ranger Handbook 33494
including standard first aid, CPR, and Safe Venturing Leader Manual 34655D
Swim Defense. Complete Venturing Leadership
Venturing Leadership
Skills Course. Participate in Ethics in Action.
   Skills Course 34340

Ranger None. Half of Ranger counts as Complete all eight core requirements and None None None Venturer/Ranger Handbook 33494
Outdoor Bronze. at least four of 18 electives. Three facets to Venturing Leader Manual 34655D
all requirements: experiencing, learning,
and sharing.

Quest None Complete all five core requirements and at None None None Quest Handbook  33151
least one of the five electives. Requirements

53
based on fitness and sports.

TRUST None Complete all five requirements. Requirements None None None TRUST Handbook 33154
based on religion and service.

1/5/10 1:25 PM
33088.indd 54
Sea Scouting Requirements
AWARD TENURE REQUIREMENTS PREREQUISITE REVIEW POSITION OF RESOURCES
RESPONSIBILITY
Apprentice None Complete eight requirements for Ideals, Active None Ship bridge of review None Sea Scout Manual 609262
Membership, Leadership, Swimming, Safety,
Marlinspike Seamanship, Boat Handling,
and Service.
Ordinary 75 percent of ship meetings and Complete 16 requirements for Ideals, Active Apprentice Ship bridge of review Yes; complete quarterdeck Sea Scout Manual 609262
activities for six months Membership, Leadership, Swimming, Safety, training, either as an officer
Marlinspike Seamanship, Boat Handling, or as a prospective officer;
Anchoring, Navigation Rules, Piloting and and serve as an activity
Navigation, Practical Deck Seamanship, chair for a major ship event.
Environment, Cruising, Boating Safety Course,
Service, and Electives.
Able 75 percent of ship meetings and Complete 14 requirements for Ideals, Active Ordinary Ship bridge of review Yes; either serve and fulfill Sea Scout Manual 609262
activities for 12 months Membership, Leadership, Swimming, Safety, the responsibilities of a crew
Marlinspike Seamanship, Boat Handling, leader or an elected officer
Anchoring, Navigation Rules, Piloting and of your ship, or serve as an
Navigation, Practical Deck Seamanship, activity chair for two major
Environment, Cruising, and Electives. ship events (in addition to
the Ordinary requirement).

54
Quartermaster 75 percent of ship meetings and Complete 13 requirements for Ideals, Active Able Ship bride of review Yes; officer for at least six Sea Scout Manual 609262
special activities for 18 months Membership, Leadership, Swimming, Safety, with council/district months or serve as an
Marlinspike Seamanship, Boat Handling, representation activity chair for three major
Anchoring, Navigation Rules, Piloting and events (in addition to the
Navigation, Weather, Environment, Able requirement).
and Electives.
Small-Boat None Completion of course requirements in both None Instructor recommendation None Sea Scout Manual 609262
Handler Course sections of the course. to ship Skipper
Qualified None Completion of course requirements in all eight None Instructor recommendation None Sea Scout Manual 609262
Seamanship sections of the course. to ship Skipper
Course
SEAL 75 percent of ship meetings and Successful completion of this one-week Ordinary rank Course completion None Sea Scout Manual 609262
(Sea Scout activities for six months course and passing of an exam. achieved; must certification by SEAL
Advanced possess thorough director for their course
Leadership) knowledge of contents
Training of seamanship and
boating safety section
of Sea Scout Manual,
and must not have
reached their 18th
birthday by the date
of the course; must
have the ship Skipper’s
recommendation.

1/5/10 1:25 PM
Notes

33088.indd 55 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Notes

33088.indd 56 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Notes

33088.indd 57 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Notes

33088.indd 58 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Notes

33088.indd 59 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Notes

33088.indd 60 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Notes

33088.indd 61 1/5/10 1:25 PM


Notes

33088.indd 62 1/5/10 1:25 PM

You might also like