Adult Scouting Awards

Compiled by

Dan Wills

El Dorado District

Golden Empire Council

INTRODUCTION

I have looked for years, and have not found a single book that gives the knots available for adults in Scouting. These knots are created to encourage growth for us as leaders, give youth better qualified leaders and help the adults set a good example for the youth. However, finding what is available is hard. For example, the Scoutmaster award was meant to be an interim award between the training knot and the key. But most people don’t even know it exists.

This compilation is made to remedy that. It is every knot available at this time to the best of my knowledge. Most of this is taken from one website that is made by many

volunteers. The site is: http://usscouts.org. The site is updated regularly, in fact one award was added while doing the research for this book. I would encourage all to use this website. After looking at many, I have found this to be the most complete.

What I have discovered is that there are 42 knots currently approved and available. Some of these can be earned in different types of units increasing the number of adult knots that can be earned to 94. The requirements for most of these are here except the adult religious knots. In that case, the addresses for the issuing body has been included. I have also included some unapproved knots for your enjoyment.

I hope this helps and gives you the information you need to take those couple extra steps needed for you to lead the way for others to follow.

Dan Wills

June 24, 2005

About BSA's Knots: Many Scouters have asked about how to properly display knots on their uniforms. You may wear as many different knots as you would like (the uniform insignia committee in the past has recommended that not more than 15 knots be worn). However, you may only wear one of each knot. If you have earned the same knot more than once - for example, the Scouter's Key and Commissioner's Key, you would wear a single knot with two devices to denote multiple awards. There is no order of precedence as to what knot is worn in what order. You can wear them in the order of importance to yourself, the order earned, etc. To keep your uniform sharp, however, you should group the knots properly. Mike Walton (Settummanque!) developed a handy chart to show the proper way to wear knots above the left uniform pocket flap.

The knots are worn centered on the left side of the uniform, above the left pocket and in rows of three with the bottom edge of the knot emblem(s) touching the top edge of the pocket flap. Subsequent rows of knots are placed above the initial set, in rows of three and again, at the discretion of the wearer.

As a general rule, the knots should not be worn when the medal, medallion or device is worn. The knots are designed for informal, everyday wear by Scouts and Scouters including Professional Scouters.

A few years ago Professional Scouters were discouraged from wearing training awards or other awards except for those related to achievement and training. During his years at the helm, Chief Scout Executive Ben Love, changed this policy and encouraged professional members of Scouting to wear all of the square knots that they were entitled to wear. He also lifted a longstanding restriction on allowing exceptional professionals to receive the Silver Beaver, District/Division Award of Merit Awards, and other service awards. Now, if a professional is nominated for a BSA service or tenure award, in addition to the approval of the local Council's Scout Executive, the award must also be approved by the Director of Operations at the National Office, BSA.

Devices

KNOT DEVICES

When an award is given to a Scout or Scouter that also has a related square knot, the knot may be worn by itself on the uniform or with one of the devices depicted above to indicate the program phase where the award was earned. For example, a Unit Commissioner that earns the Commissioner Key (same knot as the Scouter Key) would wear the Commissioner device. If a Scout or Scouter earns a subsequent award represented by the same knot, the Scout or Scouter should wear a device for each program phase where the knot was earned (you do not wear multiple issues of the same

knot). In particular, a Scout that earns a sequence of religious emblems would wear ONE universal religious emblem knot and up to four devices, as described below.

Wear the CUB SCOUT device for the first level emblem (God & Me, Maccabee, etc.) earned as a Tiger Cub or Cub Scout;

Wear the WEBELOS SCOUT device for the second level emblem (God & Family, Parvuli Dei, Aleph, etc.) earned as a Cub Scout or Webelos Scout;

Wear the BOY SCOUT device for the first level emblem (God & Church, Ad Altare Dei, Ner Tamid, etc.) earned as a Boy Scout;

Wear the VENTURING device for the second level emblem (God & Life, Pope Pius XII, Etz Chaim, etc.) earned as an older Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, Sea Scout, or Venturer.

Note that Webelos Scout and Venturer devices are used to designate the second level emblems described above, EVEN IF the boy isn't a Webelos Scout and/or Venturer when he earns the appropriate religious emblem.

AWARDS - KNOTS

ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Arrow of Light - Worn by adults who earned the Arrow of Light as a youth member.

Eagle Scout - Worn by adults who earned the rank of Eagle Scout as a youth member.

Explorer Gold Award - Also Explorer Achievement Award

Venturing Silver Award -

Quartermaster - Sea Scout/Explorer Award for Youth and Adults

BRAVERY AWARDS

Medal of Merit - Awarded by the National Council for heroism with little or no risk to life.

Heroism Award - Awarded by the National Council for heroism with less risk to life.

Honor Medal - Awarded by the National Council to those who risk their lives to save another.

LEADERSHIP & TRAINING AWARDS

Tiger Cub Den Leader Award- One year of tenure and other requirements.

Den Leader Award - One year of tenure and other requirements.

Webelos Den Leader - One year of tenure and other requirements.

Den Leader Coach Award - Two years of tenure and other requirements.

Cubmaster Award - Two years tenure and other requirements.

Cub Scouter Award - Two years tenure and other requirements.

Scouter's Training Award - Basic Training and other requirements.

Scouter's Key - Three years tenure and other requirements - Commissioners, Scoutmasters, Venturing Advisors, and others. See detailed description.

National President's Scoutmaster Award of Merit - Earned by Scoutmasters meeting the requirements on Form #58-413National President's Varsity Team Coach Award of Merit - Earned by Varsity Team Coaches meeting similar requirements.Venturing Advisor's Award of Merit - Earned by Venturing Advisors meeting similar requirements

Venturing Leadership Award - Earned by Venturers and adults who have made exceptional contributions to Venturing and who exemplify the Venturing Code.

Sea Badge - Sea Badge Leader Training and "Rutter" (Two Years)

Distinguished Commissioner Service Award - Five years tenure and other requirements.

Professional Scouter Training Award

HONOR AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE

George Meany Award - Presented to labor union members who have been unusually effective in giving leadership to youth.

Whitney Young Jr. Award - Presented for promoting Scouting in the poorest areas of the country.

Premio por Servicio ¡Scouting…Vale la Pena! Service Award - to recognize outstanding services by an adult individual or an organization for demonstrated involvement in the development and implementation of Scouting opportunities for Hispanic American/Latino youth.reconocer los servicios destacados de una persona u organización por el compromiso demostrado en el desarrollo y la implementación de oportunidades Scouting para la juventud hispanoamericana y latina.

Asian American Spirit of Scouting Service Award  -  to recognize outstanding services by an adult individual or an organization for demonstrated involvement in the development and implementation of

Scouting opportunities for Asian American youth.

Community Organization Awards - Presented by various chartered partner organizations for service to Scouting. - requirements vary by organization.

Order of the Arrow Distinguished Service Award - Presented to an Order of the Arrow member for unusual service on a National basis.

William T. Hornaday Award - Recognizes Scouts, Explorers and Scouters for conservation and ecology efforts in their communities.

William H. Spurgeon III Award - Presented to Scouters rendering distinguished service to Exploring

District Award of Merit - Presented to Scouters at the District level for unusual dedication and service.

Silver Beaver - Presented to Scouters at the Council level for unusual dedication and service.

Silver Antelope - Presented to Scouters at the Regional level for unusual dedication and service.

Silver Buffalo - Presented to Scouters at the National level for unusual dedication and service.

Silver World - Presented to Scouters who have supported Scouting on a worldwide basis.

International Scouter - Recognizes Scouters for their contributions to world Scouting. -Awarded by the International Division of BSA

RELIGIOUS AWARDS

Youth Religious Emblem - Worn by youth and adult members who received a religious emblem as a youth member.

Adult Religious Award - Worn by adults who received religious awards as an adult.

SUPPORT OF SCOUTING

James West Fellowship Award

William D. Boyce New-Unit Organizer Award

Achievement Awards

Arrow of Light

Worn by adults who earned the Arrow of Light as a youth member.

Note that the current "Arrow of Light" patch worn by youth members (shown below), was called the "Webelos award" from 1941 to 1967.  When the current Webelos rank was created in 1967 (replacing the Lion rank, the former Webelos rank was renamed the "Arrow of Light".  Scouters who earned the patch under the old system are also eligible to wear the knot shown above.  It's basically the same award with a different name.

For current requirements see Webelos - Arrow of Light Badge

Historical Note:

The Arrow of Light Square Knot is an adult only item. It was first issued in the days of the older khaki-green shirts with the green rope forming the standing loop and the red rope ends to the left. When BSA switched to the new khaki-tan an error was made in ordering and for several months two versions of the knot were being sold. One was the original configuration with the green standing loop and the other was a complete reversal of the color scheme with a red standing loop. (I was one of those Scouters that ended up with some uniforms having the older version and some uniforms with the newer version - both with the new khaki-tan background. - MFB) Apparently more than 20,000 knots were produced with the new color scheme before BSA reached a decision on what to do. In the end, BSA elected to use the new color scheme and to pull remaining stocks of the old version. Rumors persist that BSA may use the old design for a new award to recognize recipients of the Youth Leadership in America Award and the Congressional Award. However, this remains speculation at this point.

Eagle Scout

Worn by adults who earned the rank of Eagle Scout as a youth member. The Eagle Scout is the highest youth rank in the Boy Scouting program.

For current requirements see, Eagle Scout Requirements

Eagle Rank with Palms: After earning the Rank of Eagle Scout, a Scout can continue to advance by earning palms. A palm may be earned by meeting a three month tenure requirement, a leadership requirement, and earning five additional merit badges. A bronze palm is awarded for the first five merit badges after Eagle. A gold palm for the next five and silver for an additional five. If a Scout continues to advance, combinations of palms may be earned with bronze and silver representing 20 merit badges beyond Eagle (and 12 months tenure). These palms may be worn on the Eagle Scout knot as illustrated below:

Credits: Our thanks to Mike Walton for the original scans of the palms and their placement.

Explorer Gold Award

This recognition knot was was most recently used for the Explorer Gold Award and earlier for the Explorer Achievement Award

The Exploring Growth Opportunity in Leadership Development (G.O.L.D.) Award was earned by male and female members of any Explorer Post or Ship after a period of service, leadership and tenure. Each Explorer created his/her own set of of "requirements" for the award. At the end of the period of service and leadership, candidates appeared before the Post or District Exploring Committee to review the path taken to complete the requirements for the award.

Requirements for Exploring Gold Award:

A. The candidate must have been an active, registered Explorer for at least 12 months tenure before final qualification.

B. The candidate must have been an active member of the Explorer post, and served in one or a combination of leadership roles within the past 12 months (roles may be concurrent as follows: (paraphrased) Post officer, EPA member, post activities chairman; church or school elected youth officer, elected or appointed team leader.

C. The candidate must have participated in a district/Exploring division, council, area, region, or national Explorer event.

D. The candidate must, in consultation with the post Advisor or a member of the post committee, set one personal growth goal related to each of the six experience areas of Exploring, in which the Explorer certifies completion of the goals. (See previous EAA examples)

E. The candidate must plan, prepare for, and lead to completion two or more post activity projects that relate to at least two of the six experience areas; suggested post activity projects are listed separately below. The action should involve at least five Explorers, and it should require a minimum of 4 to 6 months from inception to completion; the project should be approved and the goals of the project set by the post Advisor and/or a member of the post committee and the Explorer candidate. Both parties should certify the completion of the project(s). Activities should be arranged to fit into normal post programming. Qualifying activities . . . (see previous EAA examples).

F. The candidate must be able to recite the Explorer Code. G. The candidate must submit three letters of recommendation to the post Advisor

that confirms he or she lives in accordance with the principles of the Explorer Code. The letters should come from adults outside the post, such as school or church leaders, employers, or community leaders.

H. After completing all other requirements, the candidate should prepare evidence of completion of the work and submit it to the post Advisor. The post president, in conjunction with the post Advisor, should then appoint a review committee of four to six people including Explorers and adults. The committee should interview the candidate to determine whether that person grew as a result of the pursuit of the Gold Award.

I. Finally, the candidate must have qualified for the Gold Award before his or her 21st birthday.

Significant differences from the Explorer Achievement Award to the Gold Award: Tenure now 12 months, vice 18. Personal growth goals in all six experience areas, vice two. Must recite the Explorer Code. Review committee is youth and adult, can be from the post, vice district/council Exploring committee.

Exploring Leadership Award

Presented by councils, areas/regions, and national to Explorers and adults who have made exceptional contributions to Exploring and who exemplify the Explorer Code.

Qualifications:

a. Be registered and involved in Exploring as an Explorer or an adult for at least one year.

b. Hold a leadership position or office on the unit, district, council, area, regional or national level (as appropriate for the level of award presented).

c. Show exceptional dedication and give outstanding leadership and service to Exploring and to Explorers on the level appropriate for the award.

Quota: Two youth and two adults per year, up to fifty posts/ships, one additional each for each 25 additional units. Regions: 12/12. National: 6/6.

Older Exploring Awards - No Longer Current

Ace Award This was the highest award/rank in the form Air Exploring Program of

BSA. Explorers had demonstrate flying proficiency, leadership, and service over a period of time; and earn several rating awards. Ace Awards were conferred after a review board at the local Council level. The Air Exploring program ended in 1977 and present Aviation Exploring members are not eligible to earn this rare award.

The knot to the left is the old Silver Award Square Knot and the one to the right is the knot that was used for the Exploring Achievement Award. The Old Silver Award was designed as a replacement knot for the Ranger and Ace Exploring Awards. 533 of these were awarded before BSA revised the Exploring Program and replaced the Silver Award with the Exploring Achievement Award.

The Silver Award Knot may be worn by previous holders of any Exploring advancement award except the Quartermaster Award (separate knot for this) and holders of any national or local Council Young American Award. Both of these are very rare awards.

Credits: Knot scans courtesy of Mike Walton

Venturing

The Knot shown above is the knot which can be worn by those who have earned the Venturing Silver Award.

Venturing Program Awards o Venturing - Bronze Awards Fact Sheet

Venturing - ARTS & HOBBIES Bronze Award Venturing - OUTDOOR Bronze Award Venturing - SEA SCOUT Bronze Award Venturing - SPORTS Bronze Award Venturing - RELIGIOUS LIFE Bronze Award (Formerly "Youth

Ministries") Venturing - Gold Award Fact Sheet Venturing - Gold Award

o Venturing - Silver Award Fact Sheet o Venturing - Silver Award o Venturing - Ranger Award Fact Sheet o Venturing - Ranger Award Core Requirements

o Venturing - Quest Award Fact Sheet

Quartermaster

The Quartermaster Award is the highest award in the Sea Scouting Program. In order to earn Quartermaster Award, Sea Scouts must show nautical proficiency, leadership, and service over a period of time; earn several rating awards; and pass a Board of Review at the local Council level. This is a rare award.

For the requirements, see the Seascout.org   advancement pages .(Not a part of the US Scouting Service Project web site.)

The old Quartermaster Award knot (worn on the khaki-green uniform) looked like this:

Bravery Awards

Medal of Merit

The Medal of Merit is awarded to Scouts and Scouters who have performed some act of meritorious service above and beyond that normally expected of a youth or adult member of the Boy Scouts of America. This act may involve a lifesaving effort, but is not confined to lifesaving. It may also be awarded for any meritorious action using some aspect of Scouting skills or learning.

Mike Walton (Settummanque) has prepared a sample Script of  a presentation ceremony for awarding these Medals and/or Certificates.  Click Here to download a file containing the script, which can be opened in most word processing programs. (RTF file - 5 KB)

The above knot is the old version of the same knot issued for the earlier khaki-green uniform.

Credits: Knot scan courtesy of Mike Walton

Heroism Award

The Heroism Award is presented to Scouts and Scouters that have saved a life at little or no personal risk. In the past, those persons would receive a Certificate of Heroism from the local Council. Today, those previous holders of Certificates of Heroism as well as present Scouts, Explorers or Scouters are honored with the present Medal.

Mike Walton (Settummanque) has prepared a sample Script of  a presentation ceremony for awarding these Medals and/or Certificates.  Click Here to download a file containing the script, which can be opened in most word processing programs. (RTF file - 5 KB)

Honor Medal

The Honor Medal is presented to Scouts and Scouters shown courage in attempting to save a life with personal risk. This award has been presented posthumously to Scouts who have died while attempting to save the life of another. In very exceptional cases the award is presented with crossed gold palms to Scouts, and Scouters who have attempted to save a life at great personal risk demonstrating exceptional heroism.

Mike Walton (Settummanque) has prepared a sample Script of  a presentation ceremony for awarding these Medals and/or Certificates.  Click Here to download a file containing the script, which can be opened in most word processing programs. (RTF file - 5 KB)

The above knot is the old version of the same knot issued for the earlier khaki-green uniform.

Credits: Knot scans courtesy of Mike Walton

Leadership and Training

Awards

Tiger Cub Den Leader Award

Tenure

Complete one year as a registered Tiger Cub Den Leader.(Dates of service used to earn this award cannot be used to earn another key or award.)

Training

1. Complete "The New Tiger Cub Den Leader" Fast Start training. 2. Complete basic training for Tiger Cub Den Leaders. 3. Complete Youth Protection Training. 4. During your tenure for this award, participate in a Cub Scout leader pow wow or

University of Scouting, or attend at least four roundtables.

Performance

Do all of the following:

1. Conduct a Tiger Cub roundup for your pack with at least five new Tiger Cub boy/adult teams recruited.

2. Contact the host team each month and provide support as needed for one year. 3. Coordinate Tiger Cub den participation in three Cub Scout pack activities each

year. 4. Graduate a Tiger Cub den into Cub Scouting with at least 60 percent of the Tiger

Cubs becoming Cub Scouts.

This Award was formerly called the Tiger Cub Coach Award.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

Cub Scout Den Leader Award

Tenure

Complete one years as a registered Cub Scout den leader(Dates of service used to earn this award cannot be used to earn another key or award.)

Training

1. Complete "The New Den Leader" Fast Start training. 2. Complete basic training for Cub Scout den leaders. 3. Complete Youth Protection Training. 4. During your tenure for this award, participate in a Cub Scout leader pow wow or

University of Scouting, or attend at least four roundtables.

Performance

Do five of the following:

1. During at least one program year, have a minimum of 50 percent of the Cub Scouts in your den earn the rank for their grade or age (Wolf or Bear).

2. At least once, reregister a minimum of 75 percent of the eligible members of your den as a part of pack rechartering.

3. Graduate a minimum of 60 percent of the eligible members of your den into Webelos Scouting.

4. Have an assistant den leader who meets regularly with your den. 5. Have a den chief who meets regularly with your den. 6. Take leadership in planning and conducting a den service project. 7. Conduct at least three den meetings per month, 9 months per year or an optional

meeting plan approved by the pack. 8. Participate with your den in a Cub Scout day camp or Cub Scout resident camp

experience. 9. Explore three "Character Connection" activities with your den members in one year. 10. Hold regular den meetings and activity planning sessions with your assistant den

leader.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

Webelos Den Leader Award

Tenure

Complete 1 year as a registered Webelos den leader.(Dates of service used to earn this award cannot be used to earn another key or award.)

Training

1. Complete "The New Webelos Den Leader" Fast Start training. 2. Complete basic training for Webelos den leaders. 3. Complete Youth Protection Training. 4. Complete outdoor training for Webelos den leaders. 5. During your tenure for this award, participate in a Cub Scout leader pow wow or

University of Scouting, or attend at least four roundtables.

Performance

Do seven of the following:

1. During at least one program year, have a minimum of 50 percent of the Webelos Scouts in your den advance in rank (Webelos Badge or Arrow of Light Award).

2. At least once, reregister a minimum of 75 percent of the eligible members of your den as a part of pack rechartering.

3. Graduate a minimum of 60 percent of the eligible members of your Webelos den into Boy Scouting.

4. Have an assistant Webelos den leader who meets regularly with your Webelos den. 5. Have a Webelos den chief who meets regularly with your den. 6. Take leadership in planning and conducting two Webelos overnight campouts or other

outdoor den activities each year. 7. Assist in planning and conducting a Webelos den / Boy Scout troop joint activity. 8. Take leadership in planning and conducting a Webelos den service project. 9. Conduct at least three Webelos den meetings per month, 9 months per year or an

optional meeting plan approved by the pack. 10. Participate with your den in a Webelos day camp or resident camp experience. 11. Explore three "Character Connection" activities with your den members in one year. 12. Hold regular den meetings and activity planning sessions with your assistant den leader.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003(#34169f)

Den Leader Coach Award

This award is no longer used.

The older Den Leader Coach Knot had a gold and light blue rope on a blue background. This knot is now used for the Cub Scouter Award. However, there are some older Scouters that earned the award with the older version and still wear the older version.

Cubmaster Award

Tenure:

Serve as a registered assistant Cubmaster for one year and a Cubmaster for one year, or  two years as a registered Cubmaster.,(Dates of service used to earn this award cannot be used to earn another key or award.)

Training:

1. Complete "The New Cubmaster" Fast Start training. 2. Complete basic training for Cubmasters. 3. Complete Youth Protection Training. 4. During each year of tenure for this award, participate in a Cub Scout leader pow

wow or University of Scouting, or attend at least four roundtables.

Performance:

1. As a Cubmaster or assistant Cubmaster in a pack, earn the National Quality Unit Award at least twice.

2. At least once, earn the National Summertime Pack Award.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

Cub Scouter Award

Tenure:

Complete 2 years as a registered adult leader in Cub Scouting in a pack.(Dates of service used to earn this award cannot be used to earn another key or award.)

Training:

1. Complete Fast Start training for your position. 2. Complete basic training for any Cub Scouting position. 3. Complete Youth Protection Training. 4. During each year of tenure for this award, participate in a Cub Scout leader pow wow or

University of Scouting, or attend at least four roundtables.

Performance

Do five of the following:

1. Assist in planning a pack program that results in advancement in rank by a minimum of 50 percent of pack members each year.

2. Serve as an adult leader related to a pack that earns the National Quality Unit Award. 3. Serve as leader of a blue and gold banquet, pinewood derby, space derby, raingutter regatta,

field day, picnic, or other Cub Scout activity. 4. Give leadership to a promotional effort that results in at least 60 percent of pack families

subscribing to Boys' Life magazine. 5. Develop or update a Tiger Cub or Cub Scout den activity book listing places to go, things

to do, costs, distances, etc., locally for the five Tiger Cub areas or at least 12 Cub Scout themes.

6. Give leadership to planning and conducting a pack service project. 7. Organize participation of a pack in the Cub Scout Academics and Sports program. 8. Help conduct two annual unit Friends of Scouting campaigns. 9. Serve as a leader for members of your pack attending a Cub Scout day camp or resident

camp. 10. Serve one year as a pack trainer during which 75 percent of registered pack and den leaders

complete basic training for their positions.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

Scouter's Training Awards

The Scouter's Training Awards can be presently earned by the following groups of Scouters:

Boy Scouters:

Scoutmasters Assistant Scoutmasters Committee Members Chartered Organization Representative

Varsity Scouters:

Coaches Assistant Coaches Committee Members Chartered Organization Representative

Venturing Leaders:

Advisors Assistant/Associate Advisors Committee Members Consultants Chartered Organization Representative

Sea Scouting Leaders:

Skippers Committee Members Consultants Chartered Organization Representative

District/Council Scouters:

Cub Scout Roundtable staff members Boy Scout Roundtable staff members Varsity Scout Huddle staff members

Each award group has requirements covering basic training, performance, tenure, and certification. Scouters earning the Training Award in one program area MUST complete ALL requirements (including tenure) for a subsequent Training Awards in another program area. Scouters earning a Training Award cannot use the tenure for the Training Award toward earning the Scouters' Key Award in the same program area unless specifically stated otherwise (i.e. Scoutmaster's Key).

Boy Scout Leader's Training Award

Training

1. Conduct Boy Scout Fast Start training and Basic Leader Training for a parent or other leader

2. Participate in a supplemental training course..

Tenure

Complete a total of 2 years as a registered adult Boy Scout leader.

Performance

Do any seven of the following:

1. Participate in a support role for five overnight campouts. 2. Help with two annual unit and/or district Friends of Scouting enrollments. 3. Participate actively in three troop parents' nights or courts of honor. 4. Conduct a troop open house for new members 5. Help supervise or support a troop money-earning project. 6. Recruit at least five new youth who join a troop 7. Serve as a merit badge counselor for at least five Scouts. 8. Successfully complete Boy Scout Leader Wood Badge. 9. Successfully fulfill requirements of a troop committee function from the Troop

Committee Guidebook. 10. Assist actively with a Webelos den for 6 months. 11. Participate in six Boy Scout roundtables.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

Varsity Scout Leader's Training Award

Training

1. Complete Varsity Scout Leader Fast Start Training 2. Complete New Leader Essentials\ 3. Complete Varsity Scout Leader Specific Training

Tenure

Complete a total of 2 years as a registered adult Varsity Scout leader.

Performance

Do any five of the following:

1. Participate in a team leader seminar. 2. Help with two annual unit and/or district Friends of Scouting enrollments. 3. Serve as a Varsity Scout program instructor or training course staff member. 4. Participate actively in three team parents' nights or courts of honor 5. Coordinate at least one team money-earning project. 6. Serve for at least one year as team committee person assigned to one of the five

program fields of emphasis. 7. Participate in six Varsity Scout leader huddles. 8. Serve as an approved merit badge counselor for at least five Varsity Scouts. 9. Serve for at least one year as chairman of a Varsity Scout team committee. 10. Serve for at least one year on the Varsity Scout huddle staff. 11. Help organize or reorganize a Varsity Scout team.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (34169F)

Varsity Scout Leader's Letter(No Knot for this award)

Training

1. Complete Varsity Scout Leader Fast Start training. 2. Complete Varsity Scout Leader Fundamentals training.

Tenure

Complete a minimum of six months as a registered Varsity Scout leader.

Huddle Attendance

Attend a minimum of six Varsity Scout Leader Huddles.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2001 (34169E)

Venturing Leader's Training Award

Training:

1. Complete Venturing Leader Specific Training, No. 33491D.

Tenure:

Complete a total of two years as a registered adult Venturing leader(Dates of service used to earn this award cannot be used to earn another key or award.).

Performance:

Do seven of the following:

1. Participate in a support role for five crew weekend activities. 2. Serve on the staff of a district, council, area, region, or national Venturing

training event. 3. Help with two Friends of Scouting enrollments. 4. Assist with a Venturing Leadership Skills Course. 5. Serve as a Bronze, Gold, Silver, or Ranger consultant. 6. Participate in at least six Venturing roundtables or Teen Leaders' Councils. 7. Help organize or reorganize a Venturing crew. 8. Participate in two crew parents' nights. 9. Help support a crew money-earning project. 10. Participate in a crew open house. 11. Participate in a crew officers' seminar.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

Sea Scouting Leader Training Award

Mates and ship committee members earn this award by qualifying for the requirements listed below.

Training

1. Complete Venturing Leader Specific Training, No. 33491D. 2. Complete Sea Scouting leader's specialized training. 3. Complete a boating safety course offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary,

U.S. Power Squadron, or similar organization.

Tenure

Complete two years' tenure in any adult capacity in the Venturing program.

Performance

Perform your assigned leadership duties to the satisfaction of the Skipper.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

Roundtable/Huddle Staff Training Award

This award can be earned by:

Cub Scout roundtable staff Boy Scout roundtable staff, or Varsity Scout huddle staff

Training

Orientation:

1. Review with the roundtable commissioner orientation material in the current Cub Scout Roundtable Planning Guide, No. 34239D; or Boy Scout Roundtable Planning Guide, No. 34253A; or Varsity Scout Huddle Guide, No. 34829.

2. Review all material in the current Cub Scout Program Helps, Troop Program Features, or Varsity Scout Game Plan.

Basic Training

Complete basic training for Cub Scout or Boy Scout roundtable commissioners.

Tenure

Complete two years as a registered roundtable/huddle staff member. Tenure for one award cannot be used for other training awards.

Performance

Do the following:

1. Participate in six roundtable/huddle staff meetings. 2. Actively assist in six roundtables/huddles. 3. Conduct a successful roundtable/huddle attendance promotion project. 4. Develop and exhibit a display related to the theme at one roundtable or huddle. 5. Conduct an opening activity and an opening ceremony. 6. Conduct or be responsible for a major project, presentation, or demonstration at one

roundtable or huddle.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide, 2003 (34169F)

Commissioner's Training Award

This award is no longer used.

Commissioners may earn the Arrowhead Honor and the Commissioner's Key.

Scouter's Key Awards

The Scouter's Key Awards can be presently earned by the following groups of Scouters:

Boy Scouters:

Scoutmasters

Varsity Scouters:

Coaches

Venturing Leaders:

Advisors

Sea Scouting Leaders:

Skippers

District Committee:

Committee Members

Commissioners:

District and Assistant District Commissioners Roundtable Commissioners Unit Commissioners

Each award group has requirements covering basic training, performance, tenure, and certification. Scouters earning the Key Award in one program area MUST complete ALL requirements (including tenure) for a subsequent Key Awards in another program area. Scouters earning a Key Award cannot use the tenure for the Key Award toward earning the Scouters' Key Award in the same program area.

Note: Other leaders in each program area described above may earn an appropriate Training Award.

Scoutmaster's Key

Training

1. Complete Boy Scout Fast Start Training. 2. Complete New Leader Essentials 3. Complete Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster Specific Training. 4. Complete Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills. 5. Conduct troop junior leader training (three years). 6. Participate in two additional training course such as Wood Badge, Youth

Protection Training, Advanced Cmping Skills, Trainer Deveopement Conference, University of Scouting, etc.

Roundtable Attendance

Attend at least six Boy Scout Leader Roundtables during each year for three years.

Tenure

Complete at least 3 years of registered tenure as a Scoutmaster within a 5-year period(can include the tenure used to earn the Scouter's Award).

Performance

Earn the Boy Scout Troop National Quality Unit Award. (2 times)

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

Varsity Scout Coach's Key

Training

1. Complete Varsity Scout Fast Start Training. 2. Complete New Leader Essentals: 3. Complete Varsity Coach Leader Specific Training 4. Complete Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills 5. Conduct youth leader introduction to leadership training twice. 6. Participate twice in a team leader seminar. 7. Participate in one training course beyond Varsity Scout Leader Fundamentals

(local council or national level experience).

Huddle Attendance

Attend at least six Varsity Scout Leader Huddles during each year for three years.

Tenure

Complete at least three years of tenure registered as a Varsity Scout Coach within a 5 year period.

Performance

At least twice during the three-year period, serve as Coach of a Varsity Scout team that earns the National Quality Unit Award.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (34169F)

Venturing Advisor's Key

Training:

1. Complete Venturing Fast Start - video and literature 2. Complete New Leader Essentials 3. Complete Venturing Leader Specific Training 4. Conduct Crew officer's seminars in each of your three years as Advisor. 5. Conduct at least one Venturing Leadership Skills Course for your crew. 6. Earn the Venturing Leader Training Award.

Tenure

Complete three years of registered tenure as a Venturing crew advisor within a five year period.

Performance

1. Earn the Venturing Crew National Quality Unit award two times. 2. Have a parent's night each year.

Roundtable/Teen leaders' council Attendance

Attend at least 4 Venturing Roundtables or teen leaders' council meetings each year for three years.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

Skipper's Key

    

Training

1. Complete Venturing Leader Specific Training, No. 33491D. 2. Complete Sea Scouing Leader's specialized training.

3. Complete a boating safety course offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron, or similar organization.

Tenure

Complete three years of registered tenure as a Skipper within a five year period.

Performance

At least twice during the three-year period serve as the Skipper of a ship earning the National Quality Unit Award or its equivalent.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)and seascout.org

Roundtable/Huddle Commissioner's Key

This Award can be earned for service as either:

Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner, Boy Scout Roundtable Commissioner, or Varsity Scout Huddle Commissioner

Training

1. Complete basic training for Cub Scout or Boy Scout roundtable commissioners. 2. Complete the 3-session training program outlined in Commissioner Basic

Training Manual, No. 33613E. 3. Complete personal coaching assignments.

Tenure

Complete 3 years as a registered commissioner within a 5-year period. Tenure for one award cannot be used for other training awards.

Performance

Earn the Arrowhead Honor Award.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

District Committee Member's Key

Training

1. Review The District, No. 33070A, and the Highlight book for your position. Discuss the role of the district and your position with your committee chairman or district executive.

2. Complete the District Committee Training Workshop.

Tenure

Complete three years as a district committee member within a 5-year period. Tenure for one award cannot be used for other training awards.

Performance

1. Your district must earn the Quality District Award at least once within a 3-year period.

2. Take part actively in six district committee meetings. 3. Help give leadership to eight projects of your operating committee or other

projects as approved by your district executive (organizing a unit, running a training course, planning a camporee event, completing an FOS assignment, etc.).

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

District Commissioner's Key andAssistant District Commissioner's Key

 Training

1. Complete Commissioner Basic Training. 2. Review all material in the Commissioner Fieldbook for Unit Service, No.

33621D, and Commissioner Administration of Unit Service, No. 34128D. 3. Review all material in your notebook. 4. Review material in your Council Planning Calendar, No. 26-007.

Tenure

Complete 3 years as a registered commissioner within a 5-year period. Tenure for one award cannot be used for other training awards.

Performance

Earn the Arrowhead Honor Award.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

Unit Commissioner's Key

Training

1. Complete the three-session training program outlined in Commissioner Basic Training Manual, No. 33613E.

o "Why Commissioners?" o First visitation. o "Units: The Commissioner's Greatest Priority" o Second visitation o Third visitation o "How To Help a Unit"

2. Complete personal coaching orientation including orientation projects.

Tenure

Complete 3 years as a registered commissioner within a 5-year period. Tenure for one award cannot be used for other training awards.

Performance

Earn the Arrowhead Honor Award.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

ARROWHEAD HONOR

District Commissioner and Assistant District Commissioner

1. Work with your district executive to evaluate all commissioners you supervise. 2. Achieve a ratio of one unit commissioner for every three units in the district or

service area. 3. Develop and put into action a suitable recruiting plan. 4. Chair or take part actively in six district commissioner staff meetings. 5. Attend six district committee meetings (not required for assistants). 6. Attend a council commissioner conference or planning conference with a

majority of your staff. 7. Provide personal coaching for the commissioners you supervise.

Roundtable/Huddle Commissioner

This award can be earned for service as either:

Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner Boy Scout Roundtable Commissioner Varsity Scout Huddle Commissioner, or Venturing Roundtable Commissioner

1. Review all material in the current Venturing Roundtable Guide, No. 34342, current Boy Scout Roundtable Planning Guide, No. 34253A; or the current Cub Scout Roundtable Planning Guide, No. 34239D; or the current Varsity Scout Huddle Guide, No. 34829.

2. Review all material in the Troop Program Features, Cub Scout Program Helps, or Varsity Scout Game Plan.

3. Recruit a roundtable staff.

4. Lead staff in preparing a 1-year roundtable or huddle outline. 5. Supervise the staff in conducting these roundtables or huddles. 6. With the district commissioner and district executive, develop and use an

attendance promotion plan. 7. Attend a council commissioner conference or planning conference.

Unit Commissioner

Complete basic training and the following projects:

1. Fill in and follow up on Unit Commissioner Work Sheets (Pack, No. 34125A; Troop/Team, No. 34126A: Crew, No. 33660A; Post, No.33619A) for each assigned unit.

2. Conduct membership and leadership inventories in each assigned unit. 3. Attend six district commissioner staff meetings and provide the training topic for

one meeting. 4. Participate in a charter renewal meeting that results in on-time unit reregistration. 5. Participate in a charter presentation. 6. Attend a council commissioner conference or planning conference, or actively

participate in a major council event. 7. Help a unit resolve a specific problem or improve some aspect of their unit

operation.

Source: Leadership Training Committee Guide - 2003 (#34169F)

Scoutmaster's Award of Merit

Requirements

The Scoutmaster Award of Merit may be earned by a Scouter who meets the following requirements. The nominee need not be an Eagle Scout but must:

Be a currently registered Scoutmaster who has served in that position for at least 18 months

Have achieved the Quality Unit Award at least once during his period of service Have completed Boy Scout Leader Fast Start and Scoutmastership Fundamentals

or equivalent Have a record of proper use of the Boy Scout advancement program, resulting in

a majority of his Boy Scouts attaining the First Class rank Have a record of:

o · Development of boy leadership through the patrol method o · Positive relations with the troop's chartered organization o · An extensive outdoor program including strong summer camp

attendance o · A positive image of Scouting in the community o · A troop operation that attracts and retains Boy Scouts

The following must be attached to the application form:

A list of Boy Scouts who became First Class Scouts during the nominee's tenure as a Scoutmaster

A statement by the senior patrol leader on behalf of the patrol leaders' council and the troop committee chairman attesting to the nominee's performance as Scoutmaster. (This statement is certified by the senior patrol leader and troop committee chairman.)

Background

Shortly after the National Eagle Scout Association was established in 1972, it began to make available a NESA Scoutmaster Award. The award was presented to one

Scoutmaster per BSA area each year. These Scoutmasters' records demonstrated proper use of Boy Scout advancement, and a significant number of their Boy Scouts attained the Eagle Scout rank. This award was discontinued on December 31, 1987.

The President of the Boy Scouts of America requested that NESA convert its award into a Scoutmaster Award of Merit which could be earned by all Scoutmasters. His rationale was that there is a need for recognizing a man relatively early in his work as a Scoutmaster, prior to his qualifying for the Scouter's Key.

Procedure

The chairman of the troop committee has the responsibility of nominating the Scoutmaster on behalf of the patrol leaders' council and the troop committee.

The nomination is certified by the unit commissioner and forwarded to the local council service center.

Approval authority lies with the Scout executive and either the council NESA chairman or the council commissioner.

The Scout executive will forward the nomination to the director of the National Eagle Scout Association at the national office. The nomination should be approved by the Scout executive and either the council NESA chairman or the council commissioner.

Award

A full-color certificate will be provided by NESA free of charge. A cost of $1.50 per certificate will be charged for a certificate with the recipient's name hand lettered. Payment should accompany the order. The National Eagle Scout Association will send the certificates to the Scout executive via pouch mail. A 3-week turnaround should be allowed if the names of recipients are to be hand lettered on the certificates. Those unlettered require a 2-week turnaround time.

A full-color, 6-inch, jacket patch, No. 5004, is available through the Supply Division.

A square Knot (white on tan) for the uniform, No. 5007, is available through the Supply Division.

Presentations

The award may be presented at an appropriate chartered organization or unit function with acknowledgment at a district or council event or at a district or council recognition event.

SOURCE: Application Form (No. 58-413)

Click Here to download a PDF of the application form.

Varsity Scout Coach Award of Merit

Requirements

The Varsity Scout Coach's Award of Merit may be earned by a Varsity Scout Coach who meets the following requirements. The nominee need not be an Eagle Scout but must:

Be a currently registered Varsity Scout Coach  who has served in that position for at least 18 months

Have achieved the Quality Unit Award at least once during his period of service Have completed Varsity Scout Leader Fast Start and Varsity Scout Leader

Fundamentals or equivalent Have a record of proper use of the Boy Scout advancement program, resulting in

a majority of Varsity Scouts in the team attaining the First Class rank Have a record of:

o · Development of youth leadership through the squad method o · Positive relations with the team's chartered organization o · An extensive outdoor program including strong high-adventure

participation o · A positive image of Scouting in the community o · A team operation that attracts and retains Varsity Scouts

Background

This award is the Varity Coach's equivalent of the Scoutmaster's Award of Merit.

SOURCE: Varsity Scout Guidebook (No. 34827)

Venturing Advisor's Award of Merit

One of the unique attributes of the Venturing program is the relationship between Venturers and the crew Advisor. The ability to work effectively with young adults as they themselves plan and run the program is a true test of leadership skills. The Venturing Advisor Award of Merit recognoizes crew Advisors for tenure, training, and quality crew program.

The Venturing Advisor's Award of Merit may be earned by a Scouter who has met the following requirements:

1. Be a currently registered Venturing Advisor who has served in that position for at least 18 months.

2. Complete Venturing Fast Start and Venturing Leader Specific Training. 3. Achieve the Quality Unit Award at least once while serving as crew Advisor. 4. Demonstrate the use of the Venturing Silver Award program. 5. Develop youth leadership by effective use of crew officers. 6. Use the crew officer orientation and program planning process. 7. Have a proven positive relationship with the chartered organization and

associated Boy Scout troop and Cub Scout pack, if any. 8. Project a positive image of Venturing in the community. 9. Attract and hold Venturers with crew program and operation. 10. Lead crew in completion of the Venturing Leadership Skills Course.

Nomination Procedure

The crew president in conjunction with the crew officers nominates the Advisor. The nomination is approved by the crew committee chairman. The nomination is then certified by the unit commissioner and submitted to the council service center. The nomination is then approved by the Scout executive and council commissioner.

The Square Knot patch is the same as the one worn by recipients of the Scoutmaster's Award of Merit, but with a Venturing device added.

SOURCE: Application Form (No. 28-013)

Click Here to download a PDF of the application form.

Venturing Leadership Award

Leadership Awards Fact Sheet

Background and Purpose

The Venturing Leadership Award is presented by councils, areas/regions, and the BSA National Council to Venturers and adults who have made exceptional contributions to Venturing and who exemplify the Venturing Code.

Requirements

Venturing Leadership Award candidates must be registered and involved in Venturing as a Venturer or an adult for at least one year.

They must hold a leadership position or office on the unit, district, council, area, region or national level (as appropriate for the level of award presented).

The candidate must show exceptional dedication and give outstanding leadership and service to Venturing and to Venturers on the level appropriate for the award.

Quota Restrictions

Councils may present two awards for youth and two for adults per year for up to fifty crews/ships and one additional youth and adult award per year for each fraction of twenty-five crews/ships above fifty.

Example: For fifty-one registered crews/ships, a total of three youth and three adult awards may be presented; for seventy-eight crews/ships, four youth and adult awards could be presented.

Regions may present twelve youth and twelve adult awards per year.

National may present six youth and six adult awards per year.

Procedures

Venturing youth and adults may be recommended at the council, area, region or national level by completing the Venturing Leadership Award candidate information form. An additional sheet with two hundred words or less explaining why the candidate should receive the award and letters of recommendation from school, church, clubs, etc., must be provided with the information form.

Recognitions

Council: Medallion suspended from blue and white ribbon and worn around the neck. (For unit-, district-, and council-level recognition.)

Area/Region: Medallion suspended from green and white ribbon and worn around the neck. (For area- and region-level recognition.)

National: Medallion suspended from red and white ribbon and worn around the neck. (For national-level recognition.)

Square Knot: The Square knot patch shown at the top of this page may be worn by a recipient of the Venturing Leadership Award at any level.

Sea Badge Award

These awards are given as recognition of completion of the Sea Badge Course, which is the advanced training course for Sea Scouting leaders at the Ship, District, Council or Regional level.

The single trident versions are awarded to attendees. (The different background colors are for different color uniforms.)  The version with two tridents is awarded to staff members, and the three trident version is awarded to course directors.

There is also a Sea badge pin, pictured, below, which is awarded after completion of the course.

Attendance at the Sea Badge course is nominative.

The recognition knot was derived from an earlier unofficial emblem (illustrated above)

Distinguished Commissioner Service Award

Purpose: To upgrade Commissioner Service and to recognize Commissioners and Exploring Service Team members who are providing quality service.

Requirements:

1. Complete training as outlined by the local council, including earning the Scouter's Key for Commissioners.

2. Serve as an active commissioner or an active Exploring service team member for 5 consecutive years and be currently registered with the Boy Scouts of America.

3. Recharter at least 90 percent of the units in your area of service for a minimum of the past 2 consecutive years. this applies to council commissioners, assistant council commissioners, district commissioners, assistant district commissioners, unit commissioners, council Exploring service team chairpersons, division/district/cluster Exploring service team chairpersons, and Exploring service team members.

4. Assist units so that more than 50 percent achieve National Quality Unit Award in your area of service for a minimum of the past 2 consecutive years.

5. Roundtable/huddle commissioner recognition is based on completing requirements No. 1 and No. 2 listed above, plus the following. In place of items No. 3 and No. 4, roundtable/huddle commissioners are to conduct at least nine roundtables/huddles per year for the past 2 consecutive years.

Recognitions:

1. The following recognition items are available from the Supply Division:

Distinguished Commissioner Service Award Plaque Distinguished Commissioner Service Bolo Tie

The title on both commissioner recognitions will read, "Distinguished Commissioner. The plaque is approximately 5 x 7 inches. The medallion is cast in three colors:

Council Commissioner -- silver District Commissioner, Assistant District Commissioner, and Roundtable

Commissioners -- gold Unit Commissioner -- bronze

The title on both Exploring recognitions will read "Distinguished Service Team.

Distinguished Explorer Service Team members -- silver

An embroidered square knot (silver knot on red background, may also be presented.

2. Local councils certify the eligibility of individuals, and present the recognition. (There is no national application.)

Professional Training Award

The Professional Training Award may be earned by:

Associate District Executives District Executives Senior District Executives Exploring Executives Senior Exploring Executives District Directors, and Field Directors with supervisory responsibilities for District or Exploring

Executives.

To earn the award, Scouters must:

Successfully attend all three sessions of the Professional Executive Institute (PEI)

Complete or participate in five of eight training or coaching programs (including Wood Badge, Exploring Advanced Seminar, and National Camping School)

Meet all critical achievements in his or her District/Division/Council for two of the three years.

PROFESSIONAL CIRCLE AWARD

This award may be earned by completing all eight coaching or training programs, meeting of all critical achievements within all three years, and the completion of a research paper to be forwarded to the National Executive Training Center for approval. Holders of this award may wear the small Universal/Troop device at the center of the knot.

This is a rare award.

Honor Awards for

Outstanding Service

George Meany Award

The George Meany Award is a national recognition approved by the AFL-CIO Executive Council. It may be presented to any adult union member who has made a significant contribution to the youth of their community through Scouting.

Each AFL-CIO city central labor council and each AFL-CIO state federation is permitted to give one award annually. The emphasis of this award is on the the importance of being selective. There is no rule that the quota must be used every year. No honorary recognitions should be made.

The purpose of the award is to recognize the recipient's outstanding service to youth through the programs of the Boy Scouts of America.

From 1974 to 1991 1,440 Scouters were recognized with this award. In recent years about 125 of these awards have been presented each year.

Applications may be obtained from your AFL-CIO central labor council, state federation, or your area's AFL-CIO Community Services liaison or from

Labor Relationships, S226Boy Scouts of America1325 West Walnut Hill LaneP.O. Box 152079Irving, Texas 75015-2079

The central labor council or state federation may develop its own standards for judging, but will consider such factors as the nominee's record in:

Promoting and expanding the use of the American Labor merit badge Recruiting youth to earn the American Labor merit badge

Forming Scout units, especially those to be operated by local unions or other labor groups

Recruiting union members to become Scout leaders, especially to become American Labor merit badge counselors and to be involved in units operated by union organizations.

Contributing to Scouting in the field of labor relationships, and bringing the Scouting and labor movements together to serve the community

Taking Scouter training and setting a good example to youth Promoting Scouting for all youth, regardless of race, creed, or handicapping

condition.

The application is form no. 86-011

Awardees receive a medal suspended from the neck, a cloth pocket insignia, a square note and a frame certificate. Distribution is restricted and orders may only be made via Labor Relations, BSA.

By the way, each of the professionals at your Council Office should have a three ring binder entitled, "Foundations for Growth: A Resource for Unit Development." The application form is in that binder.

Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.

NOTE: There were several thousand George Meany Award knots made incorrectly. The knot is right side up but the background colors are reversed. The Red portion of the background should be on the wearer's right.  Here is what the "right" and "wrong" version look like:

Correct Incorrect

Whitney Young, Jr. Award

Several years ago BSA was concerned that certain rural and inner-city urban areas were not being reached by the Scouting program. As part of its push to offer the Scouting program, the Whitney Young, Jr. Award was developed to recognize outstanding support and service at both the local and national level in reaching under-served areas. The knot may only be worn by holders of individual awards.

Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.

El Premio por Servicio ¡Scouting ... Vale La Pena!

Service Award

PURPOSEThe purpose of the ¡Scouting…Vale la Pena! Service Award is to recognize outstanding services by an adult individual or an organization for demonstrated involvement in the development and implementation of Scouting opportunities for Hispanic American/Latino youth.

PROPÓSITO El propósito del premio por servicio ¡Scouting … Vale la Pena! es reconocer los servicios destacados de una persona u organización por el compromiso demostrado en el desarrollo y la implementación de oportunidades Scouting para la juventud hispanoamericana y latina.

COUNCIL PROCEDURES PROCEDIMIENTOS DEL CONCILIO

1. Recipients are approved nationally through nomination by a local council. (Councils should use ¡Scouting…Vale la Pena! Service Award Nomination Form, No. 11-193. Copies may be obtained from the National Distribution Center, 2109 Westinghouse Boulevard, P.O. Box 7143, Charlotte, NC 28241-7143.)

1. Los merecedores al premio son aprobados nacionalmente a través de la nominación por parte de un concilio local. (Los concilios deben usar el formulario de nominación al premio por servicio ¡Scouting … Vale la Pena! No. 11-193. Las copias se pueden obtener en el Centro de Distribución Nacional, 2109 Westinghouse Boulevard, P.O. Box 7143, Charlotte, NC 28241-7143.)

2. The award is presented to people at all levels of the organization (executive board, district Scouters, unit personnel) and to people of all races and income levels.

2. El premio se presenta a personas de todos los niveles de la organización (consejo ejecutivo, Scouters de distrito, personal de la unidad) y a gente de todas las razas y niveles de ingresos.

3. The council’s annual quota of awards shall not exceed the number of districts in the council. Emphasis is on being selective, with no intention that the full quota must be used every year. The quota is noncumulative.

3. La cantidad anual de premios del concilio no debe exceder el número de distritos del concilio. Se debe hacer énfasis en ser selectivos, sin la intención de usar toda la cantidad cada año. La cantidad no es acumulativa.

4. The council president designates a committee to administer the award for the council. This may be a special ¡Scouting…

4. El presidente del concilio designa un comité para administrar el premio para el concilio. Éste puede ser un comité especial para el

Vale la Pena! Award committee or the council’s advancement and recognition committee, Silver Beaver committee, or council Scoutreach committee. The committee should include at least one person who is familiar with the serving Hispanic American/Latino families. The Scout executive or a designated staff member serves as adviser to the committee.

premio ¡Scouting … Vale la Pena! o el comité de desarrollo y reconocimiento del concilio, el comité Silver Beaver o el comité Scoutreach del concilio. El comité debe incluir al menos una persona que esté familiarizada con la prestación de servicios a las familias hispanoamericanas y latinas. El ejecutivo Scout o un miembro designado del personal sirve como consejero del comité.

5. The committee screens, prioritizes, and selects worthy nominees. Nominations may be submitted to the committee by committee members, professional staff, or any other registered Scouter.

5. El comité examina, asigna prioridades y selecciona a los nominados que sean merecedores. Las nominaciones pueden ser presentados al comité por los miembros del mismo, el personal profesional o cualquier otro Scouter registrado.

6. Nominations are then submitted by the local council to the Scoutreach Division at the national office. Please allow 60 days for review and consideration of approval by a national volunteer committee and delivery of the award. Approval should be received before the award is announced or presented.

6. Las nominaciones se presentan luego por el concilio local a la División Scoutreach en la oficina nacional. Por favor, espere 60 días para la revisión y consideración de la aprobación por parte de un comité voluntario nacional y la entrega del premio. La aprobación se debe recibir antes de que el premio sea anunciado o presentado.

7. Select a highly visible event with an appropriate ceremony to present the award. Council and district appreciation dinners, annual business meetings, testimonial dinners, or a major function that the recipient is associated with provide excellent settings for the award presentation.

7. Elija un evento altamente notorio con una ceremonia adecuada para presentar el premio. Las cenas de agradecimiento del concilio y del distrito, las juntas anuales de negocios, las cenas testimoniales o una ceremonia importante con la que el premiado esté relacionado proporcionanexcelentes escenarios para la presentación del premio.

8. The presentation might also involve other community agencies that are actively involved with serving the Hispanic American/Latino community (such as LULAC, National Council of La Raza, or U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce).

8. La presentación podría también involucrar a otras agencias de la comunidad que estén involucradas activamente en la prestación de servicios a la comunidad hispanoamericana y latina (tal como la Liga de Ciudadanos Latinoamericanos Unidos [League of United Latin American Citizens, LULAC], el Consejo Nacional de La Raza y la Cámara de Comercio Hispana de Estados Unidos).

For a brochure, including the nomination form, Click Here.

Asian American Spirit of Scouting Service Award

PURPOSE

The purpose of the Asian American Spirit of Scouting Service Award is to recognize outstanding services by an adult individual or an organization for demonstrated involvement in the development and implementation of Scouting opportunities for Asian American youth.

COUNCIL PROCEDURES

1. Recipients are approved nationally through nomination by a local council. (Councils should use Asian American Spirit of Scouting Service Award Nomination Form, No. 11-194. Copies may be obtained from the National Distribution Center, 2109 Westinghouse Boulevard, P.O. Box 7143, Charlotte, NC 28241-7143.)

2. The award is presented to people at all levels of the organization (executive board, district Scouters, unit personnel) and to people of all races and income levels.

3. The council’s annual quota of awards shall not exceed the number of districts in the council. Emphasis is on being selective, with no intention that the full quota must be used every year. The quota is noncumulative.

4. The council president designates a committee to administer the award for the council. This may be a special Asian American Spirit of Scouting Award committee or the council’s advancement and recognition committee, Silver Beaver committee, or council Scoutreach committee. The committee should include at least one person who is familiar with the Asian American community. The Scout executive or a designated staff member serves as adviser to the committee.

5. The committee screens, prioritizes, and selects worthy nominees. Nominations may be submitted to the committee by committee members, professional staff, or any other registered Scouter.

6. Nominations are then submitted by the local council to the Scoutreach Division at the national office. Please allow 60 days for review and consideration of approval by a national volunteer committee and delivery of the award. Approval should be received before the award is announced or presented.

7. Select a highly visible event with an appropriate ceremony to present the award. Council and district appreciation dinners, annual business meetings, testimonial dinners, or a major function that the recipient is associated with provide excellent settings for the award presentation.

8. The presentation might also involve other community agencies that are actively involved with serving the Asian American community (such as the United States Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce).

NOTE: Allow two months for national volunteer committee consideration, approval, and delivery of award.

For a brochure, including the nomination form, Click Here.

Boy Scout Community Organization Award

Boy Scout Community Organization Awards can be used by any community organization to honor its volunteers for Scouting. A community organization is permitted to create its own neck medallion and to award a gold on purple square knot badge with a gold border.

See the following page on BSA's web site for additional information:

http://www.scouting.org/factsheets/02-582.html

The following organizations have developed awards under this program:

Alpha Phi Omega: Herbert G. Horton Alpha Phi Omega Youth Service Award American Legion: American Legion and Scouting Square Knot Award BPOE (Elks): Marvin M. Lewis Award Department of Defense: United States Military Outstanding Volunteer Service

Medal Freemasons:  Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award Veterans of Foreign Wars: Scouter's Achievement Award

The George Meany Award of the American Federation of Labor & Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) is also part of this category, but retains the use of the original square knot designed for the that award.

Community Organization Award

Background

In recent years representatives of several national chartered organizations have inquired about the development of a recognition which could be given to registered adult leaders in units chartered to community organizations; similar to the adult religious awards presented by the various denominations and faith groups. After study and evaluation, the

BSA National Court of Honor approved the concept of a Community Organization Award square knot. This square knot would be available to be worn by uniformed Scouters who have been recognized for their service to Scouting youth in the community.

The Community Organization Award

The concept of the Community Organization Award is similar to the adult religious recognition program in that the award itself and the criteria for granting the award are under the ownership and auspices of the particular national chartered organization which presents the award. The intent of the national Uniform and Insignia Committee is to provide a square knot for Scouters who have received a BSA-accepted and -authorized award from a national community organization.

The Boy Scouts of America's Community Organization Award square knot consists of an embroidered gold square knot on a purple background with a gold border and is the means by which the BSA recognizes Scouters who have received an approved community organization service recognition. As with all other square knots, it is worn on the Scouter uniform shirt above the left pocket.

Development of the Award

Community Organization Award is a generic term used by the BSA to identify a category of awards used by secular, national, community organizations to recognize their members for voluntary service and achievement. The organization must also be a BSA national chartered organization. The recognition piece, the concept of the award, and the criteria for awarding and presenting it are developed and owned by the national community organization which is also a chartered organization with the Boy Scouts of America.

To ensure compatibility with the objectives and mission of the Boy Scouts of America, the concept, requirements, and criteria for presenting the award must be approved by the BSA national Relationships Committee.

The Awarding Process

Nominations for an award would be submitted to the national community organization. A selection committee would be assembled by the organization to review the nomination forms. Each organization would develop its own selection process and criteria along generally established and accepted guidelines. Once the award recipients have been selected, the national community organization would arrange for presentation of the awards at an appropriate time and location. Upon approval, the Community Organization Award square knot would be available for uniform wear by the recipient.

Current Awards

As of January 1, 2004, there are seven awards which fall into this classification: The Marvin M. Lewis Award of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE), Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award, Veterans of Foreign Wars Scouter's Achievement Award, American Legion Scouting Square Knot Award, Department of Defense—United States Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, and Herbert G. Horton Alpha Phi Omega Youth Service Award of the Alpha Phi Omega national service fraternity.

The George Meany Award of the American Federation of Labor & Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) is also part of this category, but retains the use of the original square knot designed for the Meany Award.

Fact Sheets

The Boy Scouts of America

http://www.scouting.org

Alpha Phi Omega Herbert G. Horton

Service to Youth Award

Significance:

In recognition of a Brother of Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity who has made contributions to America’s future as participating citizens through the principles of Scouting and the Scout Oath and Laws. Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity has established the Alpha Phi Omega (Herbert G Horton - Service to Youth Award. It recognizes Brothers of Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity, who are in good standing that have made significant contribution to the youth of their communities by volunteering in the programs of the Boy Scouts of America.

honors Herbert G. Horton’s memory, and the dedicated service he and other Brothers have given to Scouting by naming this award after him.

Procedure for selecting recipients:

The National Scouting and Youth Services Committee of Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity, invites chapters, recognized geographical or Chapter alumni association, alumni volunteers or elected officers to submit candidates for this award. The cost of the award will be borne by the recommender.  (The official nomination form must be used.)

1. The recommender must complete the application and submit an attached page explaining the candidate’s qualifications for the award.

2. The recommender must have the application approved and verified by the local Council, indicating that the candidate is currently registered as an active Scout leader.

3. The recommender should then have the application sent to the National Office of Alpha Phi Omega, along with $40 for the award, for submission to the National Scouting & Youth Services Committee. The Committee Chair or a select subcommittee of that committee will then determine if the candidate is qualified. If so, they will authorize the National Office of Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity, to send to the recommender the award/regalia for presentation to the recipient.

4. The National Office of Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity will be instructed to forward the information on the recipient to the Boy Scouts of America, Relationships Division, for the official record of recipients.

Qualification Guidelines

The award will be presented to active, alumni, advisory, or honorary Brothers of Alpha Phi Omega. Who are currently a registered Scouter and are active in a Scout unit, Local Council, or on the Area, Regional or National Levels of the Boy Scouts of America, and who have displayed outstanding dedication to the Scouting program. Their activities in scouting should include:

Exemplifying the principles and values of Scouting and our Fraternity Developing scouting units and recruiting Scouting volunteers Strengthening the relationship between Alpha Phi Omega and Scouting, which might

include: o helping Chapters or Alumni Associations charter Cub Scout Packs or Boy Scout

Troops or Venturing Crews o serving as a leader to units chartered to Chapters or Alumni Associations o helping Chapters charter themselves as Venturing Crews o serving as a Chapter’s Scouting and Youth Services Advisor o assisting Chapters or Alumni Associations in developing a Scouting & Youth

Services program and working with local Scouting units & councils, which might include events such as Merit Badge Universities.

o promote Alpha Phi Omega within the Scouting community, including organizing or manning APO Info Booths at Scouting events

o promote Scouting within Alpha Phi Omega

Work accomplishment and dedication, rather than a specific number of years in Scouting, will be the criteria for this award. Promoting and strengthening the relationship between and Scouting is an important part of this award. Thus, a Scouter who has little or no current involvement with will most likely not be considered for this award.

Presentation

Alpha Phi Omega (Herbert G. Horton - Service to Award will be presented annually at a Regional Conferences or at the National Convention by a member of the National Scouting and Youth Services Committee. Recognition of previous and recent recipients of this award should be made at subsequent Section Conferences, Regional Conferences, and National Conventions.

In addition, a presentation may be made at a BSA local council or district function, such as an awards dinner or an annual meeting.

The Alpha Phi Omega (Herbert G Horton - Service to Youth Award is a BSA Community Organization Award, used by community organization to honor their volunteers for Scouting. Recipients are presented a medallion on a neck ribbon in the Fraternity colors, a certificate and lapel pin, and if a BSA member, may wear the generic Boy Scout Community Organization Award Square Knot.

American Legion and Scouting Square Knot Award

This award is designed to recognize American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, or Sons of The American Legion members who are actively involved in the Scouting program. This award is not meant to be a selective or limited award, but one that is available to any American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, or Sons of The American Legion member who completes the requirements for the award. The award is meant to recognize dedication and work required by an American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, or Sons of The American Legion member to assist in furthering the Scouting program in The American Legion.

 The award consists of the gold on purple square knot badge with a gold border and a suitable certificate.

It is expected that American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary or Sons of The American Legion members will work to provide the maximum impact of The American Legion’s support of the Scouting program and to achieve maximum visibility.

A. Service 1. Be a current member of The American Legion, American Legion

Auxiliary or Sons of The American Legion. 2. Be registered in a Scouting leadership position at the Unit, District or

Council level; or as a Chartered Organizational Representative (COR); or as a District/Council Member-at-Large; or as a Unit Commissioner.

B. Training

If serving as a Unit Leader complete five of the following:

1. Complete the Cub Scout Leader Basic Training course. 2. Complete the Boy Scout or Sea Scout Leader Basic Training course. 3. Complete the Venture Leader Basic Training course. 4. Complete the Commissioner Basic Training course. 5. Be current in “Youth Protection” training. 6. Be current in American Red Cross “First Aid and CPR”. 7. Earn the Scouter’s “Training Award”. 8. Attend and complete a Woodbadge or Seabadge training program. 9. Attend a Philmont training course.

If serving as a Chartered Organizational Representative (COR), or as a District/Council Member-at-Large, or as a Unit Commissioner complete three of the following:

10. 1. Attend a National Community Relationships Scouting training seminar. 11. 2. Participate in a Chartered Organizational Representative (COR) training

course 12. 3. Complete a BSA District staff -training course. 13. 4. Attend a Woodbadge or Seabadge training program. 14. 5. Attend a Philmont training course.

C. Tenure 1. Serve a total of three consecutive years in a Scouting leadership position at

the Unit, District or Council level; or as a Chartered Organizational Representative (COR); or as a District/Council Member-at-Large; or as a Unit Commissioner.

D. Performance

While serving in a Scouting leadership position at the Unit, District or Council level; or as a Chartered Organizational Representative (COR); or as a District/Council Member-at-Large; or a Unit Commissioner complete a minimum of five of the following:

1. Serve a minimum of two years as a Post Chartered Organizational Representative for Scouting and demonstrate success with your units in terms of growth in program.

2. Assist your Post, District or Department to raise funds to support Scouting. Participate with a local BSA District or Council Friends of Scouting fundraising effort.

3. Participate as member of a BSA District or Council Membership/Relationships committee and represent The American Legion.

4. Assist in organizing or reorganizing a Cub Pack, Scout Troop, Sea Scout Ship, or Venturing Crew chartered by an American Legion Post.

5. Participate in the Eagle Scout of the Year program at the Post, District or Department level.

6. Make contact with Scout Troops and Venturing Crews in your area through visits, roundtables or other means and solicit their participation in the National High School Oratorical Contest, Junior Shooting Sports Program, Boys State, American Legion Baseball and other Americanism programs and document the results of your efforts.

7. Recruit manpower from your Post or District to support a Scout activity such as a camporee, bicycle rodeo, merit badge day or other related event to help further American Legion recognition in support of the Scouting program.

8. Develop and carry out or participate in an American Legion program to recognize the leaders of Scouting programs in your Post, District or Department.

9. Promote and coordinate the development of a network of Department American Legion Scouting Team members to assist in the development of Scouting within The American Legion.

10. Earn the Cubmaster Award, Cub Scouter Award, Den Leader Award, Den Leader Coach Award or Tiger Cub Coach Award.

11. Earn the Scoutmaster Award of Merit. 12. Earn the Crew Advisor Award of Merit. 13. Earn the Scouter’s Key, Scouter’s Training Award, or Distinguished

Commissioner Service Award. E. Approval

1. Submit appropriate documentation (membership card, photocopies of course completion certificates, narrative of accomplishments, etc.) in order to fully document the attainment of the requirements as outlined in sections A, B, C, and D above.

2. Obtain the written endorsements of your American Legion Post Commander, American Legion Auxiliary Unit President or Sons of The American Legion Squadron Commander and the Department Scouting Chairman, Department Adjutant and Department Commander that you have satisfactorily completed the requirements for this award.

3. Submit the appropriate documentation and written endorsements to

National Americanism CommissionThe American LegionP.O. Box 1055Indianapolis, IN 46206.

4. Note: Application packets that lack the appropriate documentation or written endorsements will be returned.

F. Awarding Process

The Department would arrange for presentation of The American Legion Square Knot, certificate and congratulatory letter at an appropriate place and time.

A list of Department Headquarters addresses can be found on the last page of the brochure at the following URL,  to assist in obtaining the written endorsements of the Department Scouting Chairman, Department Adjutant and Department Commander.

http://www.legion.org/pdf/squareknot_update.pdf

Marvin M. Lewis Award of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks

The Boy Scouts of America established the Marvin M. Lewis Award in 1998 in recognition of the Elks’ significant contributions to Scouting and the development of America’s youth.

The Grand Lodge invites all local Lodges to nominate ONE candidate for the award. Candidates must have the recommendation of their local Lodge and their local Scouting Council to be eligible. Each year eight Elks will receive Marvin M. Lewis Awards, which consists of a medal and ribbon, a framed certificate, a lapel pin and a square knot.

When selecting their candidate, Lodges were asked to consider Elks who:

A. Have brought Scouting to more youth. B. Have assisted local Elks lodges in forming Scouting units. C. Are fully trained in the skills of Scouting and are outstanding role models. D. Have contributed significantly to Elks and Scouting by bringing the two

movements together to serve the community. E. Have offered Scouting to all youth regardless of race, creed, or income level, and

has been instrumental in organizing Scouting units, especially in inner-city or other low--income communities.

The awards will be presented at the Grand Lodge Convention. Application forms may be obtained from Grand Lodge Committeeman, James C. Beckley, Jr., or from any state Youth Activity Chairman.

Department of Defense Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal

The Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal is an honor awarded to members of the armed forces who perform outstanding volunteer community service of a sustained, direct and consequential nature

The Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal is a Boy Scout Community Organization Award, used by community organizations to honor their volunteers for Scouting.  Recipients are presented a medallion on a ribbon (shown below), and may wear the generic Boy Scout Community Organization Award Square Knot shown above.

Description:

A Bronze medal, 1 3/8 inches in diameter bearing on the obverse, five annulets interlaced enfiled by a star and environed by a wreath of laurel. On the reverse is a sprig of oak between the inscription "OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE" at the top and "UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES" at the bottom. (Shown below)

Criteria:

Awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, subsequent to 31 December 1992, performed outstanding volunteer community service of a sustained, direct and consequential nature. To be eligible, an individual’s service must

1. be to the civilian community, to include the military family community; 2. be significant in nature and produce tangible results;

3. reflect favorably on the Military Service and the Department of Defense; and

4. be of a sustained and direct nature.

While there is no specific time threshold to qualify for the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM), approval authorities shall ensure the service to be honored merits the special recognition afforded by this medal. The MOVSM is intended to recognize exceptional community support over time and not a single act or achievement. Further, it is intended to honor direct support of community activities.

 

Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award

The Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award is an honor due to members of the Masonic Lodge who act as role models and provide dedicated service to the young men in the BSA.   The Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Award not only supports the Masonic relationship through the man who brought Scouting to America, but proclaims the integrity of the recipient who is honored by receiving the award.

The Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award is a Boy Scout Community Organization Award, used by community organizations to honor their volunteers for Scouting.  Recipients are presented a medallion on a neck ribbon (shown below), and may wear the generic Boy Scout Community Organization Award Square Knot shown above.

Eligibility

The award will be presented to a Master Mason who is currently a registered Scouter and active in a Scout unit, district, council, or national affiliate, and has displayed outstanding dedication to the Scouting program through:

developing of Scouting units; assisting lodges in forming units; exemplifying the Scout Law and Masonic virtues; recruiting Scouting volunteers; strengthening the relationship between Freemasonry and Scouting.

Work accomplishment and dedication, rather than a specific number of years in Scouting, will be the criteria for this award.

Nominations

The nominee must be recommended by a Master Mason in good standing. 

The Official Nomination form (Petition) must be used.

Step 1: The recommender must complete the petition and submit an attached page explaining the candidate's qualification for the award.

Step 2: The recommender should also have the petition approved and verified by the  local Council, indicating  that the candidate is currently registered as an active Scout leader.

Step 3: The recommender should then have the petition reviewed by the Worshipful Master of the candidate's lodge.   If found to be qualified, the petition will be authorized and forwarded to the lodge's district deputy or other Masonic authority designated to handle the award in his home jurisdiction. That person will then submit the petition, as instructed by his Grand Lodge, for action.

Step 4: The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania will then forward the information on awardees to the Boy Scouts of America, Relationships Division, Irving, TX for the official record of recipients.

Presentation of the Award

The Daniel Carter Beard Scouter Award will be presented at the discretion of the Grand Master.  It may be presented at a Grand Communication or other similar meeting where a representative of the Grand Lodge makes the presentation.   Arrangements also can be made to make the presentation at a Lodge or Scouting-related function.   In all cases, a representative of the Grand Lodge  should present the award.

Veterans of Foreign WarsVFW Scouters Achievement Award

This award is designed to recognize VFW Scouters who serve on the VFW State and National Scouting teams for a three-year period and who accomplish the required tasks during this period. This award is not meant to be a selective or limited award, but one that is available to any VFW Scouter on the Scouting team who completes the requirements. It is our personal VFW award to recognize dedication and work required by a VFW team member to assist in furthering the Scouting program in the VFW.

The award consists of a gold and purple square knot which may be worn on the Scout uniform and a certificate.

Requirements

It is expected that the VFW team members will work to provide the maximum impact of VFW support to the Scouting program and to achieve maximum visibility for VFW efforts.

Service. Be registered in a Scouting position at the District or Council level: Chartered Organizational Representative (COR), District/ Council Member-at-Large, Unit Commissioner.

Objective: To go beyond the Post and be able to understand and influence Scouting in the VFW District and Department as well as at the local Council level.

Training. While a member of the State or National team:

1. Attend a VFW Scouter’s training course at State or National Level. 2. Participate in a Chartered Organizational Representative (COR) training course. 3. Complete a BSA District staff training course or 4. Attend a Woodbadge training program.

Tenure. (Tenure starts when you join the team.)

Complete a total of three years as a member on the National or State Team of VFW Scouters.

Performance. While a member of the State or National team do five of the following:

1. Serve a minimum of two years as a Post Chartered Organizational Representative for Scouting and demonstrate success with your units in terms of growth in program.

2. Help with your VFW Department or District or Post to raise funds to support Scouting in your Department.

3. Participate with a local BSA District or Council Friends of Scouting fundraising effort.

4. Serve on the staff of a Department or National training team to train VFW Scouters.

5. Participate as member of a BSA District or Council Membership/Relationships Committee and represent the VFW.

6. Assist in organizing or reorganizing a Scout Troop, Cub Pack or Venture Crew in a VFW unit.

7. Participate in the Eagle Scout of the Year program at Post, District or Department level.

8. Make contact with Scout Troops and Venture Crews in your area through visits, roundtables or other means and solicit their participation in the Youth Essay and VOD programs and document the results of your efforts.

9. Recruit manpower from your Post or VFW District to support a Scout activity such as a camporee, bicycle rodeo, merit badge day or other related event to help further VFW recognition in support of the Scouting program.

10. Develop and carry out or participate in a VFW program to recognize the leaders of Scouting programs in your Post, District or Department.

11. Promote and coordinate the development of a network of State VFW Scouting Team members to assist in the development of Scouting within the VFW.

Approval.

Obtain the approval of the Department Commander and Department National Team Scouter that you have satisfactorily completed the requirements for this award. Documentation will be sent to VFW National Headquarters for review and final approval.

Order of the Arrow Distinguished Service Award

The National Order of the Arrow committee presents the Distinguished Service Award to those Arrowmen who have rendered outstanding service to the Order on a sectional, area, regional, or national basis. It is given primarily for dedicated service to the Order and Scouting over a period of years. Only a limited number of awards can be presented. Arrowmen whose service records are the most outstanding and extend the farthest beyond the local lodge level are usually selected. Young men under 21 and adults (volunteer and professional) are eligible for nomination. Nominations will not be accepted or considered for posthumous awards.

The Distinguished Service Award was created in 1940 to honor those who rendered service to the Order of the Arrow beyond the lodge level. Since the time of the first awards given in 1940, approximately 500 Distinguished Service Awards have been presented.

Nominations are open to both youth and adult, and must be made on form No. 24-201. Nominations must be approved by the Lodge Chief, Lodge Advisor, Council Scout Executive, who then forwards the application to the Region OA Chairman or staff Advisor.  If the region concurs, the nomination is sent to the National Office. Nominations must be received by the OA Director prior to February 1 of each national conference year. 

The actual award is a sterling silver arrowhead, bearing an arrow pointing upward and to the wearer's right, suspended from a white neck-ribbon upon which are embroidered red arrows. A picture of the award is below.  Presentation of the award is limited. The white on red square knot badge shown above is worn on the uniform to identify recipients.

Source: OA Website

Hornaday Award

The William T. Hornaday Award recognizes Scouts and Scouters for ecology efforts and service to conservation in their communities. To earn the Hornaday Award as an individual, youth members must earn a series of merit badges followed by a concentrated series of conservation and/or environmental education projects to be conducted in the member's community or nearby, under the advise of a trained conservation, naturalist, or environmental engineering expert.

There are seven levels to this award -- the Unit Certificate for Scouting groups, the Badge (shown above), Bronze Award and Silver Award for youth, the Gold Badge and Gold Medal for Adults, and the Gold Certificate for outside organizations and corporations. Holders of the Bronze and Silver Awards and the Gold Medal may wear the square knot shown above.

The Unit certificate is awarded by the local council to a den, pack, patrol, team, crew, or group of five or more Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, or Venturers for a unique, substantial conservation project.

The Hornaday Badge is awarded by the local council to an individual Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturer for outstanding service in conservation.

The Bronze medal is awarded to an individual for exceptional service in natural resource conservation or environmental improvement. A national committee judges the applications.

The Silver medal is awarded to an individual for unusual and distinguished service in natural resource conservation or environmental improvement. Applications are reviewed three times a year by a national committee.

The Gold Badge is nominative in nature and is awarded by the local council to an adult Scouter to recognize leadership to conservation at council or district level for at least three years

The Gold Medal is nominative in nature and recognizes adult Scouter for outstanding

service in natural resource conservation and youth education on a multistate or national basis. Nominations are made by a national or regional conservation organization or agency. (A maximum of six per year can be awarded)

The Gold Certificate is nominative in nature and recognizes a corporation or organization for outstanding contribution to youth conservation education for at least three years  (A maximum of six per year can be awarded)

See the BSA Hornaday Award Page  and our Hornaday Award page for additional information.

For a history of the Hornaday Award program, click here.

William H. Spurgeon III Award

This award is presented to adults and organizations for outstanding service to youth.

Only holders of individual awards may wear the knot (not members of an organization that received the award).

Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.

District Award of Merit

The District/Division Award of Merit is awarded by a District or Exploring Division to volunteer and professional adults for service to youth in the District or Division. Normally, the award is presented for service to youth in excess of five years. A person may receive more than one District/Division Award of Merit, although there are no provisions for the wearing of a device or emblem officially to denote the second or subsequent awards. Unofficially, those Award holders that have received more than one may wear a small Universal device centered on the knot. The BSA has no records of any volunteer or professional earning the Award of Merit in more than two separate Districts or Divisions. Career members of the Boy Scouts of America may receive this award upon concurrence of the Council Scout Executive and the Director of Operations at the National office, BSA.

Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.

Requirements:

A nominee must be a registered Scouter.

A nominee must have rendered noteworthy service to youth in Scouting, outside of Scouting, or both.

Note: The nature and value of "noteworthy service to youth" may consist of a single plan or decisions that contributed vitally to the lives of large numbers of youth or it may have been given to a small group over an extended period of time.

Consideration must be given to the nominee's Scouting position and the corresponding opportunity to render outstanding service beyond the expectations of that Scouting position.

The nominee's attitude toward and cooperation with the district, division, and/or council is to be taken into consideration.

Silver Beaver Award

The Silver Beaver Award is presented upon action of a Council Executive Board of one of the BSA's local Councils or the Direct Service Council for outstanding service to youth within the Council or for outstanding longtime service to youth by a registered Scouter residing within that Council. The average tenure for Silver Beaver candidates is ten years or longer. Career members of the Boy Scouts of America may receive this award upon concurrence of the Council Scout Executive and the Director of Operations at the National office, BSA.

Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.

This is the old Silver Beaver knot designed for the older khaki-green uniform.

Credits: Knot scan from Mike Walton

Silver Antelope Award

The Silver Antelope Award is presented upon action of the Regional Executive Board of one of the BSA's four Regions for service to youth within the Region or for outstanding longtime service to youth by a registered Scouter residing within that Region.

Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.

Click Here for a copy of the application form.

This is the old Silver Antelope knot designed for the older khaki-green uniform.

Credits: Knot scan and text from Mike Walton

Silver Buffalo Award

The Silver Buffalo Award is awarded upon action of the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America to volunteers Scouters and other individuals for outstanding service to youth on a national basis or over a significant period of national service to a youth agency or in actions affecting youth. The Silver Buffalo Award is the traditional award presented to the Honorary President of the Boy Scouts of America sometime during his term of office.

Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.

Credits: Text from Mike Walton

Silver World Award

Until 1994 this award was presented by the Chief Scout Executive, National President, International Commissioner BSA, or other designated person to adults for international service to the BSA's Scouting programs, but were not registered members of the BSA. The Chief Scout Executive, National President and the BSA's International Commissioner had the group authority to authorize the award to anyone that they chose. This created several situations whereby the Silver World Award was awarded to BSA Scouters. The awards were suspended in 1994 by action of the National Executive Board until narrower requirements for the awarding of the medal could be made. Of the 40 or so Scouters that were presented the award for international service to the BSA's Scouting programs, approximately half were presented to Scouters belonging to the Direct Service Council, the Transatlantic Council, the Canal Zone Council, or to a stateside local Council.

The Silver World Award, conceived in 1971, is presented by the BSA to world citizens who give outstanding service to their nation's youth, to young people in other countries, or to the Scouting program of their nation through their participation or support. Recipients of the Silver World must be citizens of countries whose Scout associations are members of the World Organization of Scouting Movements (WOSM), to include registered adult BSA members. Nominations are accepted from anyone with knowledge of an individual's service to Scouting or to youth on an international or worldwide basis, to include individuals served by the BSA's Direct Service. Awards are presented through the BSA's National Court of Honor by the Chief Scout Executive, National President, International Commissioner, or National Commissioner or by BSA volunteers or professionals on behalf of the BSA's National officers. A limited number of Silver World Awards are presented based upon one award for every 50, 000 registered BSA youth members at the end of the preceding calendar year. Awards not presented may be held over for presentation in subsequent years. The Award consists of a red and white striped ribbon holding a light blue sphere with the BSA's emblem in the center, surrounded by three stars - two on the right and one on the left; a certificate; a lapel pin; and a cloth emblem for the BSA and other nation's field uniforms.

Award by nomination only.

International Scouter Award

The International Scouter's Award encourages Scouters to broaden their involvement in Scouting through participation in world Scouting activities and recognizes Scouters for their contributions to world Scouting.

Applicants must be currently registered adult Scouters of the Boy Scouts of America.

All applicants must receive the approval of their local council's international committee chairperson or international representative and their council Scout executive.

Requirements

Complete any six of the following, from at least three of the following categories:

I. Giving leadership to international Scouting: a. Serve as council international representative, council international

committee member, or BSA International Committee member for a minimum of three consecutive years.

b. Serve as a registered adult leader with a Direct Service Cub Scout pack, Boy Scout troop, or Venturing crew.

c. Serve at least one year in any international Scouting position approved by the BSA International Division.

II. Giving leadership to international events held in the United States: a. Host Scouts/Scouters (minimum of three visitors per group) from another

country as part of an official national, council, district, or unit activity. b. Serve on the international staff at a national Scout jamboree. c. Assist in the organization of your council's participation in the

International Camp Staff program. Be responsible for bringing a foreign Scout on staff to the council's summer camp program for two summer camp seasons.

III. Giving leadership to international events held in other countries: a. Serve as an adult leader in a BSA contingent to a world Scout jamboree or

Pan-American Scout jamboree. b. Serve as an adult leader for a group of BSA Scouts participating in an

event held by a foreign Scout association recognized by the World Organization of the Scout Movement. The activity may be an exchange program, camp experience, tour activity, or home hospitality function.

c. Serve on the international service staff of a world Scout jamboree.

IV. Educating self and others: a. Attend an international Scout conference at the Philmont Training Center.

Share what you have learned with others in your council. b. Promote international Scouting at a district, council, regional, or national

event. c. Participate in organizing or providing leadership for a BSA Scout activity

in another country that involves interaction with Scouts from that country, such as an exchange program, camping experience, or tour activity.

V. Giving support to international Scouting: a. Organize a collection for the World Friendship Fund at two district and/or

council events. b. Become or recruit a member of the Order of the Condor for the

Interamerican Scout Foundation. c. Become or recruit a Baden-Powell Fellow for the World Scout

Foundation.

Click Here to download an application form for the International Scouter's Award from BSA's web site.

Religious Awards

Universal Youth Religious Emblem

For more a summary of requirements for individual religious emblems, please visit http://usscouts.org/scoutduty/index.html. Requirements are listed by religion.

You may also want to look at either our Religious Emblems for Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts page, or our Religious Emblems for Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, Venturers, and Explorers page, for a list of the faiths which issue the awards, and which awards are available.

This knot may be worn by any Scout or Scouter that completed a religious emblem program as a youth member. (Similar programs are administered by the religious organizations for Girl Scouting USA, 4-H, and Campfire) The actual administration of religious emblem programs is conducted by the Scout's religious organization. The religious organization usually presents the religious emblem upon completion of the religious emblem program. Units frequently honor the recipient with a presentation of the Universal Religious Emblem Square Knot. Only one youth award square knot is worn, no matter how many times the holder earns a second or subsequent religious award as a youth member. For subsequent awards, the Scout wears the appropriate devices on his square knot to indicate multiple awards.

The above knot is the old version of the same knot. The difference is that the background purple was not fully embroidered and appears to be a slightly different shade of purple.

Credits: Knot scan courtesy of Mike Walton

Adult Religious Award

For more a summary of requirements for individual Adult Religious Awards, please visit http://usscouts.org/scoutduty/index.html. Requirements are listed by religion.

This square knot is worn by those whom have received a religious award as an adult member of the BSA. The awards are not BSA awards and are presented by religious organizations for long tenure of service to Scouting, the religion, and the community. With one exception all of these awards require a nomination. Self-nomination is not allowed.

Only one Adult Religious Award square knot is worn regardless of how many awards have been received. It is possible, for example, to receive two or three levels of awards in some faiths or to receive awards from more than one faith.

The following faiths or denominations have religious awards for adults:

African Methodist Episcopal Church African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church Association of Unity Churches Baha'i Baptist Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Christian Methodist Episcopal Church Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Churches of Christ Community of Christ

(formerly the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Eastern Catholic Eastern Orthodox Episcopal General Church of the New Jerusalem (The New Church) Hindu Islamic Jewish Lutheran

Meher Baba Moravian Polish National Catholic Church Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Protestant and Independent Christian Churches

(Available to any Christian denomination) Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) Roman Catholic The Salvation Army United Church of Christ United Methodist

African Methodist Episcopal ChurchGOD AND SERVICE

Local council service center, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

African Methodist Episcopal Zion ChurchGOD AND SERVICE

Local council service center, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

Association of Unity ChurchesDISTINGUISHED YOUTH SERVICE

The Association of Unity ChurchesP.O. Box 610Lee's Summit, MO 64063816-524-7414

Baha'iUNITY OF MANKIND

Baha'i Committee on ScoutingBaha'i National CenterEducation and Schools Office1233 Central StreetEvanston, IL 60201-1611847-733-3495

BaptistGOOD SHEPHERD

Local council service center, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)GOD AND SERVICE

Local council service center, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

Christian Methodist Episcopal ChurchGOD AND SERVICE

Local council service center, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day SaintsON MY HONOR

LDS Relationships36 South State Street, Suite 1175Salt Lake City, UT 84111-1401801-530-0004

Churches of ChristFAITHFUL SERVANT

Members of the Churches of Christ for ScoutingATTN: Kent BarnettACU StationBox 27938Abilene, Texas 79699-7938915-674-3739

Community of Christ(formerly the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints)INTERNATIONAL YOUTH SERVICE AWARD

Scouting LiasonForefront Ministries1001 West WalnutIndependence, MO 64050816-833-1000 or 800-825-2806, ext. 1374

Eastern CatholicSAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC

Local council service center,diocesan Scout office, orNational Catholic Committee on Scouting1325 West Walnut Hill LaneP.O. Box 152079Irving, TX 75015-2079972-580-2114

Eastern OrthodoxPROPHET ELIAS

Local council service center, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

EpiscopalSAINT GEORGE EPISCOPAL

Local council service center, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

General Church of the New Jerusalem (The New Church)OPEN WORD AWARD

ChairmanBoy Scouts Relations CommitteeGeneral Church of the New JerusalemP.O. Box 277Bryn Athyn PA 19009215-938-2542

HinduDHARMA SAATHI

North American Hindu Association847 E. Angela StPleasanton, CA 94566925-846-3811

IslamicALLAHO AKBER

Mr. Aunali KhalfanP.O. Box 731516Elmhurst, NY 11371718-779-6505

JewishSHOFAR

Local council service center, National Jewish Committee on Scouting, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

LutheranLAMB andSERVANT OF YOUTH

Local council service center, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

Meher BabaTHE ANCIENT ONE

Committee for Meher Baba and Scouting912 Ninth Avenue SouthNorth Myrtle Beach, SC 29582843-272-3498

MoravianTHE ORDER OF DAVID ZEISBERGER

The Moravian ChurchDrawer YWinston-Salem, NC 27108336-722-8126

Polish National CatholicBISHOP THADDEUS F. ZIELINSKI

Mr. Arthur Wyglon115 Heather Hill DriveBuffalo, NY 14224716-674-2394

Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)GOD AND SERVICE

Local council service centerNational Association of Presbyterian Scouters, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

Protestant (Available to any Christian denomination)GOD AND SERVICE

Local council service center, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)FRIENDS

Local council service centerReligious Society of Friends, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

Roman CatholicSAINT GEORGE ROMAN CATHOLIC

Local council service center,diocesan Scout office, orNational Catholic Committee on Scouting1325 West Walnut Hill LaneP.O. Box 152079Irving, TX 75015-2079972-580-2114

The Salvation ArmySCOUTER'S AWARD

The Salvation ArmyP.O. Box 269Alexandria, VA 22313Eastern Territory: 914-620-7427Central Territory: 847-294-2112Southern Territory: 404-728-1363Western Territory: 310-544-6434

United Church of ChristGOD AND SERVICE

Local council service center, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3

St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

United MethodistGOD AND SERVICE

Local council service center, orPRAY8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3St. Louis, MO 63123-3413800-933-7729

Support of Scouting

James West Fellowship Award

The James West Fellowship Award is probably the one award that sparks the most misunderstanding when spotted on a uniform. Some folks immediately assume that the award was simply purchased, which is not accurate. This award is presented to individuals based on a contribution of $1000 or more to the local Council's West Fellowship Fund. Only registered Scouters or youth members receive and wear the square knot.

The money may be given by a group of Scouters or individual Scouter to honor a fellow Scouter, as a memorial on the death of a Scouter, or to recognize an achievement. For example, a group of Scouters could put the money together to recognize the outstanding efforts of an individual who spent years doing publicity work for a local Council through newsletters, press releases, web pages, etc., for which there is no official recognition. The award can also be given to an individual who makes a contribution on his/her own behalf. Regardless of the source of funding, the award is used by BSA to generate badly needed funds to support critical local Council and national programs which have suffered major losses due to diversion of funding for national-level resolutions of risk-management issues.

All contributors receive special invitations to local Council and National West Fellowship Dinners, special publications, and a certificate in addition to some local Council plaques and other items.

William D. Boyce New-Unit Organizer Award

Description

The William D. Boyce New-Unit Organizer Award is presented to recognize volunteers who organize one or more traditional Scouting units. The award may be worn on the adult uniform. The award is a square knot placed over the three colors representing the three phases of our program—Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, and Venturing. A volunteer can earn the knot by organizing one traditional unit, and a program device can be earned for up to three additional units organized.The award recognizes volunteers for organizing traditional units after March 1, 2005.

The award is administered by the Relationships Division and will be presented by the local council.

Requirements:

1. With the approval of the district committee chair, the volunteer serves as the organizer and completes the successful organization of one new traditional unit (Cub Scout pack, Boy Scout troop, Varsity team or Venturing crew).

2. The volunteer organizes the unit by following all procedures as published in the “New Unit Organization Process” (No. 34196), particularly ensuring that new unit leadership is trained, a program for the new unit is organized and in operation, the new unit committee is functioning, a unit commissioner is assigned, all paperwork for the new unit is completed and processed, and the unit charter is presented to the chartered organization.

3. The Boy Scouts of America realizes that quite often several individuals help to organize a new unit. However, for this award, only one volunteer can be recognized as the organizer for a new unit.

4. To further recognize the volunteer’s effort for organizing additional new units, a program device can be earned and worn on the new-unit organizer knot. The program device represents the type of unit organized (a Cub Scout pack, Boy Scout troop, Varsity team, or Venturing crew.) The knot and up to three program

devices may be worn in recognition for organizing up to four new traditional units. Multiple program devices for organizing units in the same program may be earned and worn.

5. The new-unit organization award recognizes volunteers for organizing traditional units after March 1, 2005.

Recognition Items

New-Unit Organizer Award Certificate New-Unit Organizer Award Uniform Insignia Square Knot Program devices to recognize additional new units organized

“Organizer” lapel pin for civilian wear

Unofficial Knots

About Unofficial Knots

These unofficial knots and awards were created or used by local Councils to recognize their membership in areas consistent with National programs. Scouters should avoid wearing unofficial knots unless after consultation with the local Council Scout Executive, permission has been obtained for wearing the knot. Otherwise such knots are to be regarded as suitable for a patch blanket or collection, but not uniform wear. Your Council Scout Executive does have authority (See the Insignia Guide) to authorize local insignia that advance the programs of Boy Scouts of America, provided that such insignia is consistent with the programs of BSA.

Wood Badge

Unofficial Wood Badge

The official Wood Badge training recognition regalia include the neckerchief, woggle, and beads (necklace). Onboard a nautical vessel, any necklace type device can be hazardous. Because of this several Sea Scouting leaders created the Wood badge emblem to be worn informally with Sea Scouting whites, blues and khaki. There are three versions of the knot shown above, corresponding to the two-bead, three-bead and four-bead necklaces worn by Wood Badge trained Scouters. However, the National Uniform and Insignia Committee has denied requests by the Sea Scouting community to authorize this knot. The universal insignia of Wood Badge are established by the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM). Other Scouters developed the knot shown below, which is also unofficial and unauthorized for wear on the uniform..

Credits: Scan of top knot provided by Mike Walton.  The other was scanned by Paul Wolf

Silver Alligator

Unofficial Silver Alligator Award

The Silver Alligator Award is the highest award given by Troop 339 of Tampa, FL to adults for outstanding service to the Troop. The knot is a triple sheetbend in white on a lime green background. The formal decoration is a silver medal suspended from a green neck ribbon. The medal has a picture of the troop mascot imposed on it.

Credits: Scan of the knot provided by Mike Walton.

Silver Scouter

Unofficial Silver Scouter Award

Used at three colleges to recognize individuals for Scouting-service. Taken from the Scoutmaster Award of Merit knot, the knot is silver instead of white.

Credits: Text and scan of the knot provided by Mike Walton. (Note the original scan included only the left portion of the knot. We've computer enhanced the image to make it as close to the original knot as we could.)

Tippey Award

Unofficial Tippey Award

The knot is for adult leaders.... (Tippey didn't have any set requirements for the award; from the description, it appears that it's just a gag thing to give to new Scouters in her District)

The knot is a black square knot on an orange background and border.

Credits: Text and scan of the knot provided by Mike Walton.

Why Knot

Unofficial Why Knot

The "Why Knot" ("Why not?") was a "joke patch" which eventually became the prototype for the Scoutmaster Award of Merit. It was said that during a visit to a local Council in the Northeast Region early during his new tenure as Chief Scout Executive, Ben Love talked with several uniformed Scouters. All of the Scouters were wearing this strange-looking square knot and when Love asked "what's the knot for?", his staff members nor the Council Executive could answer. So, Love asked the Scouters. The Scouters explained that new Scouters were sometimes "put off" by older, more senior Scouters that seem to have "rows of those things" on their shirts. So, in their District, they decided to include those new Scouters that have "stuck around" for 18 months after being trained with a "why knot". When asked about the name, a Scouter responded "why not? We have knots for everything else, why don't we recognize the relatively new Scouter?" Love took this back to National, and later when discussions were being made about the NESA Scoutmaster Award, he related the visit to that Council and asked "Why don't we recognize EVERY Scoutmaster that have achieved a certain level early in their tenure? It seems that they had the right idea, even if it was 'just a joke.'"

The difference between the "Why Knot" and the Scoutmaster Award of Merit is the color of the background and border color (this is a off-white background, and the Scoutmaster Award of Merit is on a tan background and border, the standard background and border of most Scout knots.

Credits: Text and scan of the knot provided by Mike Walton.