Lion Bobcat Tiger Wolf Bear Webelos AoL
Scout Tenderfoot 2nd Class 1st Class Star Life Eagle

Square Knots - Meaning and Placement

The square knot device is displayed on the uniform to denote that the wearer has received the corresponding award. The award is usually in the form of a certificate and many awards also include a medallion or other memento.

A knot emblem does have left and right sides. The rope loop over the rope ends always is to the wearer's right. The diagram here shows how the knots would look to someone looking at the shirt. The knot images on the rest of this page all show the correct knot direction.

The square knots are to be worn centered directly above the left shirt pocket. The first knot should be placed with its bottom edge touching the top seam of the pocket flap. The next two knots are placed on both sides of the first knot in a straight row of three knots. Additional knots are placed directly above the first row with bottom edge touching top edge of the existing knots.

From the diagram, you can see that as additional knots are earned, single and double knots on a row need to be resewn. For this reason, some people prefer to place knots right-justified with the pocket edge.

Personal Achievement:
Recognition:
Service:
Training:
Professional:
- Professional Training Award
Retired or Discontinued:
- Heroism Award
- Cubmaster Award
- Cub Scouter Award
- Den Leader Award - Webelos
- Den Leader Award - Tigers
- Explorer G.O.L.D award, Silver award, and Achievement award
- Pack Trainer Award
- Scouter Award of Merit
- Speaker Bank Award
- Sea Badge

Arrow of Light Award

Description: Red on green knot on tan background with yellow border.

Award Requirements:

A Webelos scout earns the Arrow of Light award by completing requirements from the Webelos handbook. The Arrow of Light award is the hightest Cub Scout award available. The award patch is worn as a Webelos scout and as a Boy Scout - adults wear the square knot symbol.

Eagle Scout Award

Description: Red/white/blue on red/white/blue knot on tan background with tan border.

Award Requirements:

A Boy Scout earns the Eagle Scout award by completing requirements from the Scout handbook. The Eagle Scout award is the highest youth rank in scouting. The award patch is worn as a Boy Scout - adults wear the square knot symbol.

Venturing Silver Award

Description: Silver knot on dark green and white background with silver border.

Award Requirements:
The award will take at least 12 months to earn and all work must be completed before the Venturer's 21st birthday.

Earn one Venturing Bronze Award.
Earn the Venturing Gold Award, which includes knowing and living the Venturing Oath, service, personal development, and 12 months' tenure.
Be proficient in emergency preparedness, including earning Standard First Aid and CPR certification, and knowing and using BSA Safe Swim Defense.
Demonstrate leadership, including successfully completing the Venturing Leadership Skills Course.
Participate in the Ethics in Action program, including Ethical Controversies activities and an Ethics Forum.
Show a crew review committee you have met the requirements for the Venturing Silver Award.

Download the Application Form.

Sea Scouts Quartermaster Award

Description: Dark blue knot on white background with white border.

Award Requirements:

Ideals. Must lead a discussion on 'participating citizenship' and submit a paper on the 'World Brotherhood of Scouting.'
Membership. Attend at least 75 percent of ship meetings and activities for 18 months. Present a talk on Sea Scouting and complete a service project.
Special Skills. Complete the 11 special skills required for Quartermaster, which include:
1. Boats
2. Marlinspike Seamanship
3. Ground Tackle
4. Piloting
5. Signaling
6. Swimming
7. Cruising
8. Safety
9. First Aid
10. Rules of the Road
11. Weather
Electives. Complete four of the following electives: sailing, engine, radio, boat maintenance, electricity, navigation, drill, piloting, rigging, yacht racing crew.

Download the Application Form.

Medal of Merit Award

Description: Gold on Blue knot on tan background with tan border.

Award Requirements:

The Merit Medal honors Scouts, Venturers and Scouters that have performed some act of meritorious service above and beyond what is normally expected of a youth or adult member of the Boy Scouts of America. Key in the difference between this award and the Heroism awards is that the action need not involve saving life, but must employ some aspect of Scouting learning or skills in the execution.

Submit a recommendation with this Nomination Form.

Honor Medal Award

Description: Red on red knot on tan background with tan border.

Award Requirements:

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.

Submit a recommendation with this Nomination Form.

William T. Hornaday Award

Description: Green/blue/white on green/blue/white knot on tan background with tan border.

Award Requirements:

The William T. Hornaday Award recognizes Scouts and Scouters for their service to conservation and ecology efforts in their communities. There are six different Hornaday awards with an ever-increasing scale of challenge. The youth individual awards are based on earning certain merit badges and completing one or more significant conservation projects.
The Silver Medal award is the highest possible attainment in conservation for a Boy Scout
The Gold Medal is the highest possible attainment in conservation for a Scouter. The gold medal may be considered when a qualified Scouter is recommended by his or her council, by an established conservation organization, or by any recognized conservationist. The nominee must have demonstrated leadership and a commitment to the education of youth on a national or international level, reflecting the natural resource conservation/environmental awareness mission of the Boy Scouts of America. Nominations must be approved by the BSA's national conservation committee.
A Unit Certificate can be awared to a den, patrol, or group of five or more Scouts for a unique, substantial, conservational project, but the square knot is reserved for those earning one of the medals.

Download application and nomination forms from BSA Hornaday Forms page.

Youth Religious Emblem Award

Description: silver on silver knot on purple background with purple border.

Award Requirements:

Religious emblems are for all members of the BSA that wish to pursue them. The Youth Awards are earned through work with the individual religious unit and the requirements for each are set by the church and not by BSA. Once earned, the award is generally presented by the church or religious group but may also be recognized by the Scout unit at an event such as a Court of Honor or Troop meeting or Pack meeting. This award may be earned as a youth, or presented to an adult that is nominated. Once earned as a youth, the knot may be displayed on the uniform from that time forward. If a Scout earns the youth award and as an adult later is presented the adult award as well, both knots may be worn. For each faith, a specific set of requirements is published and is established by the religious faith and not by BSA. For a listing of resources for each of the religious faiths that participate in this program, see the P.R.A.Y. web site

James E. West Fellowship Award

Description: Gold on green knot on tan background with red border.

Award Requirements:

James E. West served as the first Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America for over 30 years. The West Fellowship award is available for gifts of $1,000 or more to a council endowment fund. The gift must be in addition to -and not replace or diminish - the donor's annual Friends of Scouting support.
The James E. West Fellowship Award is an 8-by-10-inch certificate, personalized with the donor's name, date of gift, and council name. In addition, there will be a distinctive lapel pin/charm and an embroidered square knot for uniform wear. While it is a national recognition, the James E. West Fellowship award is authorized and presented by the local council.

Adult Religious Service Award

Description: purple on purple knot on silver background with silver border.

Award Requirements:

An adult religious recognition award is presented by nomination only. The recognition is presented to worthy adults for their outstanding service to youth both through their religious institution and one of the national youth agencies. Recipients of these awards are unaware that they are being nominated. They are nominated to receive an award by submitting the required application, letters of recommendation, and resume. Please check eligibility requirements for specific awards. For a listing of resources for each of the religious faiths that participate in this program, see the P.R.A.Y. web site

Community Organization Award

Description: gold on gold knot on purple background with gold border.

Award Requirements:

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.
For list of organizations and details, see this BSA web page

District Award of Merit

Description: silver overhand knot on deep blue background with silver border.

Award Requirements:

Candidates must be nominated, not self-nominated.
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.

Submit a nomination with this Nomination Form.

George Meany Award

Description: blue on blue knot on red and white background with red and white border.

Award Requirements:

The central labor council invites all local unions to submit their candidates for the award. Any person, group, affiliated council, or local union may nominate a Scouter/member for the George Meany Award. The nominee must have the local union's recommendation as well as BSA council certification.
The central labor council makes the final selection of its recipients from the candidates submitted. The selections and approvals are normally the responsibility of the Community Services Committee of the central labor council in conjunction with the Executive Board.
The central labor council forwards the recipient's completed application to the Labor Relationships of the Boy Scouts.

Download a Application Form.

Distinguished Commissioner Service Award

Description: silver on silver knot on red background with silver border.

Award Requirements:

Be a currently active council, assistant council, district, assistant district, or unit commissioner
Complete training as outlined by the local council, including earning the Commissioner's Key
Serve as an active commissioner for five consecutive years and be currently registered with the Boy Scouts of America
Recharter at least 90 percent of the units in your area of service for a minimum of the past two consecutive years
Assist units so that more than 60 percent of the units in your area of service achieve the National Quality Unit Award for a minimum of the past two consecutive years

Requirements for Roundtable/Huddle Commissioners:

Complete training as outlined by the local council, including earning the Commissioner's Key
Serve as an active commissioner for five consecutive years and be currently registered with the Boy Scouts of America
Conduct at least nine roundtables/huddles per year for the past two consecutive years

Commissioner Award of Excellence in Unit Service

Description: gold on gold knot on red background with gold border.

Award Requirements:

Technical Skills: Use UVTS 2.0 to log unit visits and generate reports
Participation:
1. Be a participant or staff member in ONE continuing education event for commissioner service.1 For example: district, council, area, regional, or national College of Commissioner Science, commissioner conference, Philmont, Sea Base, or Summit training.
2. Make at least six physical visits to each assigned unit per year and log with UVTS 2.0. Examples: unit meetings, unit activities, leader meetings, and summer camp visitations
3. Make at least six significant contacts (in addition to those made in item 2) for each unit served, by telephone, twoway electronic communication, or in person, and log in UVTS 2.0.
Training and Experience:
1. Complete Commissioner Basic Training
2. Provide rechartering service by holding membership inventories, training verification, and Journey to Excellence progress review meetings. Perform charter presentations for the chartered organizations of the units you serve.
Performance: Identify a specific goal in a specific unit that would result in higher quality unit performance. Create a written plan to achieve the goal. Track unit self-assessements and retention for two years.

Download a Application Form.

Order of the Arrow Distinguished Service Award

Description: white on white knot on red background with red border.

Award Requirements:

Download a Application Form.

As a movement whose leadership is overwhelmingly volunteer, the Boy Scouts of America recognizes the need to acknowledge the invaluable services that men and women render to youth. Of the hundreds of awards that the BSA presents each year to those on the local council, regional, and national levels, the Silver Buffalo, Silver Antelope, Silver Beaver, and Silver World awards are the most prestigious. Although the criteria are different for each of these awards, there is one common thread: The recognitions are granted by one's own peers in Scouting for distinguished service to youth. Other BSA awards, by comparison, are granted only to those who have completed a prescribed course of study or have participated in special training sessions.

Silver Buffalo Award

Description: white on red knot on tan background with tan border.

Award Requirements:

The Silver Buffalo Award, created in 1925, is bestowed upon those who give truly noteworthy and extraordinary service to youth. This award, Scouting's highest commendation, recognizes the invaluable contributions that outstanding American men and women render to youth. The service must be national in character and can be directly connected with the BSA or independent of the movement. Download a Application Form.

Silver Antelope Award

Description: white on orange knot on tan background with tan border.

Award Requirements:

The Silver Antelope Award, created in 1942, is granted for outstanding service to youth within the territory of a BSA region. There are 4 separate BSA regions. The criteria is similar to the Silver Buffalo except that a recipient must be a registered adult member of the Boy Scouts of America. Awards are bestowed on the basis of the number of registered volunteers in a region. Download a Application Form.

Silver Beaver Award

Description: white on blue knot on tan background with tan border.

Award Requirements:

Established in 1931, the Silver Beaver Award is presented for distinguished service to young people within a BSA local council. More than 50,000 recognitions have been conferred to date. As with the Silver Antelope, a recipient must be a registered adult member of the BSA. Silver Beaver Awards are presented on the basis of the number of units in a council. Download a Application Form.

William D. Boyce New Unit Organizer Award

Description: silver knot on gold/green/red background with tan border.
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 the BSA 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.

Award Requirements:

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

Download a Application Form and New Unit info.

Scouting Service Award

Description: white on khaki knot on black background with yellow and red border.

Award Requirements:

Asian American Spirit of Scouting Service Award*
¡Scouting... Vale la Pena! Service Award*
Whitney M. Young Jr. Service Award*
American Indian Scouting Association Grey Wolf Award
Special Needs Scouting Service Award

Special Needs Scouting Service Award

Description: white on khaki knot on black background with yellow and red border.

Award Requirements:

Complete the following two (2) requirements:
1. Be a registered adult or professional staff with the B.S.A. and maintain current Youth Protection Training.
2. Actively participate in activities concerning youth who have disabilities/special needs through either the unit (pack, troop or crew), or at either the District or Council or Area or Regional or National level for three (3) years.
Complete 6 of the following 12 requirements:
1. Attend a training seminar or conference on disabilities/special needs sponsored and conducted by the B.S.A or through an organization that serves youth and/or adults with disabilities/special needs, i.e. A.R.C., Blind Associations, Cerebral Palsy Agencies, Independent Living Resource Centers, Autism Societies, Special Olympics, etc.
2. Present one of the nationally approved disabilities/special needs classes (e.g., classes within the College of Commissioner Science curriculum or classes prepared by the National Disabilities Awareness Subcommittee) at any level.
3. Serve as a Staff member at either a District, Council, Area, Regional or National event which presents a theme of youth with disabilities/special needs in Scouting.
4. Create and organize a unit (pack, troop or crew) to primarily serve youth with disabilities/special needs and be open for membership by youth not possessing disabilities/special needs.
5. Serve as a Mentor for a Scout who has disabilities/special needs for six (6) months.
6. Serve as a Group Discussion leader on Scouting for youth with disabilities/special needs at either a Roundtable or District Commissioner meeting or similar gathering of volunteer Scouters and/or professional Scouters.
7. Promote and assist in organizing and conducting an outdoor event for youth with disabilities/special needs, or one that promotes disabilities awareness and acceptance among those who don't have a disability.
8. Recruit and register either two (2) adults to volunteer in providing Scouting opportunities to youth with disabilities/special needs or recruit two (2) youth with disabilities/special needs to join Scouting and remain a member for one (1) year.
9. Assist the District or Council in forming a Partnership with an organization that serves individuals with disabilities/special needs.
10. Actively serve on a District, Council, Area, Regional or National Committee on Scouting with disabilities/special needs for two years.
11. Assist the local council in efforts to raise funds for Scouts with disabilities/special needs concerning activities within the Scouting program.
12. Assist the local council in a public awareness campaign to heighten knowledge of Scouting with disabilities/special needs.

This Award is retroactive for purposes of satisfying the above requirements.
This Award may be earned by Volunteer Scouters and Professional Scouters.
Once an individual has completed the requirements to this award, he or she shall forward the completed application to the District for review and approval by the Council Scout Executive. When a person completes the requirements for this award through participation on an Area or Regional or National level in Scouting, the completed application will be forwarded to the designated Area or Regional or National staff person (Special Needs Scouting Specialist) for review and approval.
Download a Provisional Application Form.

Whitney Young Jr. Service Award

Description: white on black knot on tan background with red border.

Award Requirements:

Download a Application Form.

¡Scouting ... Vale La Pena! Award

Description: yellow on blue knot on red background with red border.
The 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.

Award Requirements:

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.)
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.
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.
The council president designates a committee to administer the award for the council. This may be a special ¡Scouting...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 serving Hispanic American/Latino families. The Scout executive or a designated staff member serves as adviser to the committee.
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.
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.
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.
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).

Download a Application and Info Form.

Asian American Award

Description: white on black knot on blue background with blue border.
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.

Award Requirements:

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.)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).

Download a Application and Info Form.

International Scouter Award

Description: white on purple knot on tan background with purple border.
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.

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

Giving leadership to international Scouting:
1. Serve as a council international representative for a minimum of two consecutive years.
2. Serve as a council international committee member or as a member of the BSA's International Committee for a minimum of three consecutive years.
3. Serve as a registered adult leader with a Direct Service, Far East Council, or Transatlantic Council Cub Scout pack, Boy Scout troop, or Venturing crew.
Giving leadership to international events held in the United States:
1. Host Scouts/Scouters (minimum of three visitors per group) from another country as part of an official national, council, district, or unit activity.
2. Serve on the international staff at a national Scout jamboree.
3. Assist 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.
Giving leadership to international events held in other countries:
1. Serve as an adult leader in a BSA contingent to a world Scout jamboree or Pan-American Scout jamboree.
2. 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.
3. Serve on the international service staff of a world Scout jamboree.
Educating self and others:
1. Attend an international Scout conference at the Philmont Training Center. Share what you have learned with others in your council.
2. Promote international Scouting at a district, council, regional, or national event.
3. 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.
Giving support to international Scouting:
1. Organize a collection for the World Friendship Fund at two district and/or council events.
2. Become or recruit a member of the Order of the Condor for the Interamerican Scout Foundation.
3. Become or recruit a Baden-Powell Fellow for the World Scout Foundation.

Download a Application Form.

Silver World Award

Description: Blue globe with three stars on red and white striped background with dark green border. Worn with two stars to wearer's right. Colors correspond to red and white striped ribbon on medal.
The award is a distinguished service award similar to the Silver Buffalo, Silver Antelope, and Silver Beaver.

Award Requirements:
The Boy Scouts of America may award the Silver World Award for distinguished service to youth on an international basis upon the following basis and procedure:

The award may be presented to citizens of any country whose Scout association is a member of the World Organization of the Scout Movement, in recognition of his or her service of exceptional character to the youth of his or her own country, or on an international basis.
The recipient does not have to be a member of a Scout association. United States citizens may receive the Silver World Award for international service to youth, provided they are not registered members of the Boy Scouts of America.
Approved awards may be presented by an authorized member of the Boy Scouts of America either by a personal visit with the recipient or at an official meeting of a National Scout Association, including the BSA.
Nominations will be reviewed by and selections made by a subcommittee of the National Court of Honor.
Nominations are made in writing by letter, containing all the pertinent facts about an individual in support of the nomination.
As evidence of the award, there will be presented a suitable certificate duly authorized by the Boy Scouts of America.

The award design will be a circular blue enamel silver medallion upon which will be superimposed meridian lines and stars signifying the global scope of the award. An applied silver universal badge of the Boy Scouts of America will be centered upon the front of the medallion.
The award will be suspended upon a red and white ribbon and will be worn about the neck of the recipient, when such practice does not conflict with approved uniforming policy.

Nominations should be submitted to the International Division for consideration of a special selection committee.
1325 West Walnut Hill Lane
P.O. Box 152079
Irving, TX 75015-2079
972-580-2401
intnldiv@netbsa.org

Venturing Leadership Award

Description: Silver knot on green/red/blue background with silver border.

Award Requirements:
The Venturing Leadership Award is presented by councils, regions, or National Council to venturers having made exceptional contributions to Venturing and who exemplify the Venturing code and oath.

Venturing Leadership Award candidates must be registered and involved as a Venturer for at least one year.
Candidate must be a youth member when nominated for the award.
Candidate 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).
Candidate must show exceptional dedication and give outstanding leadership and service to Venturing and to Venturers on the level appropriate for the award.

There are three levels of award:

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.
National: Medallion suspended from red and white ribbon and worn around the neck.

Download nomination form from BSA page.

Speaker Bank Award

Description: Gold knot on black background with black border.

Award Requirements:
This award has been discontinued - see this page.
The BSA Speaker Bank program is intended to spread the Scouting message through speakers at clubs and organizations. Every registered speaker will receive an official speaker pin and certificate. After giving 10 speeches, the speaker receives a patch. The award knot is given to speakers after delivering 20 speeches.

NESA Life Membership Award

Description: Red/white/blue on red/white/blue knot on tan background with silver border.

Award Requirements:
The National Eagle Scout Association has made this knot available to Life Members. Show your NESA Life Membership card at a local Scout Shop and purchase the knot.
Either the Eagle Scout knot or the NESA Life knot are worn, not both.

Philmont Training Center Master Track Award

Description: Red knot on yellow background with yellow border.

Award Requirements:
The Philmont Training Center, the National Volunteer Training Center for the Boy Scouts of America, has developed a PTC Masters Track Program that encourages Scouting leaders to receive training themselves, yet also to help provide training to other leaders in their units, district, council, and other councils. The purpose of this program is to offer continuing educational opportunities so that Scouters have incentives to return, over a number of years, to take advanced training at the Center, and to be able to take their knowledge back to units, district, councils, council clusters, national and international venues to benefit Scouts and Scouters. All actions for the PTC Masters Track Square Knot must be earned after June 1, 2008. Courses taken prior to this date will not be counted.
First Track:

Attend the PTC as a participant

Earn a PTC Conference patch.
Second Track:

Take an additional course at PTC
Recruit 3 people to attend a PTC course
Teach a BSA course in your district, council, area, or region

Earn a PTC square knot. Upon completion of Track 2, contact PTC and request the needed form for verification to purchase the square knot and for your certificate.
Third Track:

Do one of the following two items:
- Serve as a Faculty Member on a PTC Course
- Attend an additional training course at the PTC
Recruit at least 3 people to attend a PTC course
Do one of the following three items:
- Coordinate a Council, Area, or Regional Cluster approved training event and coordinate and staff a promotional booth for the PTC at a council event
- Conduct a Council "Philmont Family Meeting" to share PTC information and encourage family participation
- Teach a training course in a foreign country coordinated and approved by the BSA International Division

Earn a PTC Square Knot device.

Doctorate of Commissioner Science Award

Description: Grey knot on red background with gold border.

Award Requirements:
The Doctorate of Commissioner Science Award Knot is available to any currently active commissioner at any position by completing these requirements. Approval is administered by the local council through the council commissioner and the professional advisor to commissioner service. The knot once earned can be purchased through the Supply Group at your local Scout Shop or Council Distributor.

Alumni Award

Description: Blue/red/yellow on blue/red/yellow knot on silver background with gold border.

Award Requirements:

All requirements must have been completed after June 1, 2009.
Applicants must be currently registered adult Scouters of the Boy Scouts of America.
All applicants must receive the approval of their local council's alumni relations committee chairperson and their council Scout executive.

Complete requirements in each of four general categories:

Alumni Identification/Promotion - 3 of 5 possible requirements
Alumni Engagement - all 4 requirements
Personal Participation - all 4 requirements
Personal Education - any one of the three requirements

Complete the Application Form which details the requirements.

Den Leader Award

Description: gold on gold knot on blue field with blue border.

Award Requirements:
Tenure: Complete one year as a registered den leader in the position selected. Tiger Cub den leader's tenure can be the program year as long as it is greater than eight months.
Training:

Complete the basic training for the selected den leader position.
Complete This Is Scouting training.
Attend a pow wow or university of Scouting (or equivalent), or attend at least four roundtables (or equivalent) during the tenure used for this award.

Performance:
Do five of the following during the tenure used for this award:

Have an assistant den leader who meets regularly with your den.
Have a den chief who meets regularly with your den.
Graduate at least 70 percent of your den to the next level.
Take leadership in planning and conducting a den service project.
Have a published den meeting/activity schedule for the den's parents.
Participate with your den in a Cub Scout day camp or resident camp.
Complete Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO).
Complete Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders.
Participate with your den in at least one family camp; if your den is a Webelos den, participate with your den in at least two overnight camps.
Take leadership in planning two den outdoor activities.
Hold monthly den meeting and den activity planning sessions with your assistant den leaders.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Den Leader Award with this progress record document.

Unit Leader Award of Merit

Description: gold on gold knot on blue field with gold border.

Award Requirements:

Be a currently registered Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, Coach, or Advisor who has served in that position at least 18 continuous months.
Meet the training requirements for the registered position.
Distribute a printed or electronic annual unit program plan and calendar to each family in the unit.
Have a leader succession plan in place.
Effectively use the advancement method so that at least 60 percent of the unit's youth have advanced at least once during the last 12 months.
Cultivate a positive relationship with the chartered organization.
Project a positive image of Scouting in the community.

Use this Unit Leader Award of Merit nomination form.

Scouter Key Award

Description: white on green knot on tan field with tan border.

Cubmaster's Key Award Requirements:
Tenure:

Within a five-year period, complete at least three years of registered tenure as a Cubmaster or one year as a registered assistant Cubmaster plus two years as a registered Cubmaster. (This can include the tenure used to earn the Scouter's Training Award.)

Training:

Complete basic training for Cubmasters.
Complete This Is Scouting training.
Attend a pow wow or university of Scouting (or equivalent), or attend at least four roundtables (or equivalent) during each year of the tenure used for this award.

Performance: Do the following during the tenure used for this award:

Achieve at least the Silver level of Journey to Excellence for at least two years. The Quality Unit Award is acceptable if the tenure used is prior to 2011.
Earn the National Summertime Pack Award at least once.
Conduct an annual pack planning session and have a published pack meeting/activity schedule for the pack's parents in each year.
Participate in at least one additional supplemental or advanced training event at the council, area, region, or national level.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Cubmaster Key Award with this progress record document.

Scoutmaster's Key Award Requirements:
Tenure:

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

Training:

Complete basic training for Scoutmasters.
Complete This Is Scouting training.
Attend a university of Scouting (or equivalent), or attend at least four roundtables (or equivalent) during each year of the tenure used for this award.

Performance: Do the following during the tenure used for this award:

Achieve at least the Silver level of Journey to Excellence for at least two years. The Quality Unit Award is acceptable if the tenure used is prior to 2011.
Earn the National Outdoor Challenge Award at least once.
Conduct an annual troop planning session and have a published troop meeting/activity schedule for the troop's parents in each year.
Participate in at least one additional supplemental or advanced training event at the council, area, region, or national level.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Scoutmaster Key Award with this progress record document.

Venturing Advisor's Key Award Requirements:
Tenure:

Complete at least three years of registered tenure as a Venturing crew Advisor within a five-year period. (This can include the tenure used to earn the Venturing Training Award.)

Training:

Complete basic training for Advisors.
Complete This Is Scouting training.
Attend a university of Scouting (or equivalent), or attend at least four roundtables/teen leaders' councils/Venturing officers association meetings (or equivalent) during each year of the tenure used for this award.

Performance: Do the following during the tenure used for this award:

Achieve at least the Silver level of Journey to Excellence for at least two years. The Quality Unit Award is acceptable if the tenure used is prior to 2011.
Have an annual crew planning session and have a published crew meeting/activity schedule for the crew in each year.
Participate in at least one additional supplemental or advanced training event at the council, area, region, or national level.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Advisor Key Award with this progress record document.

Skipper's Key Award Requirements:
Tenure:

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

Training:

Complete This is Scouting and Venture Leader Youth Protection Guidelines.
Complete Sea Scout Adult Leader Basic Training.
Complete a boating safety course offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons, or similar organization.

Performance:

At least twice during the 3-year period serve as the Skipper of a ship earning the Journey to Excellence Award or Centennial Quality Unit Award.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Skipper's Key Award with this progress record document.

Varsity Coach's Key Award Requirements:
Tenure:

Complete at least three years of registered tenure as a Varsity team Coach within a five-year period. (This can include the tenure used to earn the Scouter's Training Award.)

Training:

Complete basic training for Coaches.
Complete This Is Scouting training.
Attend a university of Scouting (or equivalent), or attend at least four roundtables/huddles (or equivalent) during each year of the tenure used for this award.

Performance: Do the following during the tenure used for this award:

Achieve at least the Silver level of Journey to Excellence for at least two years. The Quality Unit Award is acceptable if the tenure used is prior to 2011.
Conduct an annual team planning session and have a published team meeting/activity schedule for the team's parents in each year.
Participate in at least one additional supplemental or advanced training event at the council, area, region, or national level.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Varsity Coach's Key Award with this progress record document.

District Committee Key Award Requirements: Keep track of your progress in earning the District Committee Key Award with this progress record document.

District Commissioner Key Award Requirements: Keep track of your progress in earning the District Commissioner Key Award with this progress record document.

Roundtable Commissioner Key Award Requirements: Keep track of your progress in earning the Roundtable Commissioner Key Award with this progress record document.

Unit Commissioner Key Award Requirements: Keep track of your progress in earning the Unit Commissioner Key Award with this progress record document.

Scout Leader's Training Award

Description: green on green knot on tan field with tan border.

Cub Scout Award Requirements:
Tenure:

Complete at least 2 years of tenure as a registered adult leader in a Cub Scout pack.

Training:

Complete basic training for any Cub Scout leader position.
Complete This Is Scouting training.
Attend a pow wow or university of Scouting (or equivalent), or attend at least four roundtables (or equivalent) during each year of the tenure used for this award.

Performance: Do the following during the tenure used for this award:

Participate in an annual pack planning meeting in each year.
Serve as an adult leader in a pack that achieves at least the Bronze level of Journey to Excellence in each year. The Quality Unit Award is acceptable if the tenure used is prior to 2011.
Give primary leadership in meeting at least one pack Journey to Excellence objective in each year.
Participate in at least one additional supplemental or advanced training event at the council, area, region, or national level during the two years.

Keep track of your progress in earning the award with this progress record document.

Boy Scout Award Requirements:
Tenure:

Complete at least two years of tenure as a registered adult leader in a Boy Scout troop.

Training:

Complete basic training for any Boy Scout leader position.
Complete This Is Scouting training.
Attend a university of Scouting (or equivalent), or attend at least four roundtables (or equivalent) during each year of the tenure used for this award.

Performance: Do the following during the tenure used for this award:

Participate in an annual troop planning meeting in each year.
Serve as an adult leader in a troop that achieves at least the Bronze level of Journey to Excellence in each year. The Quality Unit Award is acceptable if the tenure used is prior to 2011.
Give primary leadership in meeting at least one troop Journey to Excellence objective in each year.
Participate in at least one additional supplemental or advanced training event at the council, area, region, or national level during the two years.

Keep track of your progress in earning the award with this progress record document.

Venturing Award Requirements:
Tenure:

Complete at least two years of tenure as a registered adult leader in a Venturing crew.

Training:

Complete basic training for any Venturing leader position.
Complete This Is Scouting training.
Attend a university of Scouting (or equivalent), or attend at least four roundtables/teen leaders' council meetings/ Venturing officers association meetings (or equivalent) during each year of the tenure used for this award.

Performance: Do the following during the tenure used for this award:

Participate in an annual crew planning meeting in each year.
Serve as an adult leader in a crew that achieves at least the Bronze level of Journey to Excellence in each year. The Quality Unit Award is acceptable if the tenure used is prior to 2011.
Give primary leadership in meeting at least one crew Journey to Excellence objective in each year.
Participate in at least one additional supplemental or advanced training event at the council, area, region, or national level during the two years.

Keep track of your progress in earning the award with this progress record document.

Sea Scout Award Requirements:
Tenure:

Complete three years of registered tenure in any adult capacity in Sea Scouting

Training:

Complete New Leader Essentials and Venturing Position Specific Training
Complete the Sea Scout Officers Specialized Training
Complete a boating safety course offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron, or similar organization

Performance:

Perform to the satisfaction of the Skipper your assigned leadership duties

Keep track of your progress in earning the Sea Scout Award with this progress record document.

Varsity Award Requirements:
Tenure:

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

Training:

Complete Varsity Scout Leader Fast Start training
Complete New Leader Essentials
Complete Varsity Coach Leader Specific Training
Complete Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills

Performance: Do five of the following:

Participate in a team leader seminar.
Help with two annual uniut and/or district Friends of Scouting presentations.
Sere as a Varsity Scout program instructor or training course staff member.
Participate actively in three team parents' nights or courts of honor.
Coordinate at least one team money-earning project.
Serve for at least one year as team committee person assigned to one of the five program fields of emphasis.
Participate in size Varsity Scout leader huddles.
Server as an approved merit badge counselor for at least five Varsity Scouts.
Serve for at least one year as chairman of a Varsity Scout team committee.
Help organize or reorganize a Varsity Scout team.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Varsity Scout Award with this progress record document.

Sea Badge Conference Participation

Description: Blue trident on white background with silver border. (White on blue is also available for blue uniform.)
The Single Trident is the only official knot and is presented to conference attendees; double trident is for staff members; triple trident is for course directors.

Award Requirements:
This award has been discontinued.

Training:

Complete Sea Badge conference.

Professional Training Award

Description: black on black knot on white field with black border.

Award Requirements:
This 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.
Training:

Complete or participate in five of eight training or coaching programs (including Wood Badge, Exploring Advanced Seminar, and National Camping School)
Successfully attend all three sessions of the Professional Executive Institute (PEI).

Performance:

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

Heroism Award

Description: Red on red knot on white background with white border.

Award Requirements:
This award has been discontinued on December 31, 2012.

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.

Submit a recommendation with this Nomination Form.

Cubmaster Award

Description: Light blue over light blue knot on gold field with gold border.

Award Requirements:
This award has been discontinued. Scouters already working on it have until December 31, 2013 to finish.
Cubmasters can now earn the Scouter's Key award.
Tenure: Serve as a registered assistant Cubmaster for one year and a registered Cubmaster for one year, or serve as a registered Cubmaster for two years.
Training:

Complete Cubmaster Fast Start training.
Complete This Is Scouting and Cubmaster Specific Training.
Complete Youth Protection training.
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:

As a Cubmaster or assistant Cubmaster in a pack, earn the national Quality Unit Award at least twice.
Earn the National Summertime Pack Award at least once.
Plan and conduct pack meetings during each year registered as Cubmaster.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Cubmaster Award with this progress record document.

Cub Scouter Award

Description: Gold over light blue knot on blue field with blue border.

Award Requirements:
This award has been discontinued. Scouters already working on it have until December 31, 2013 to finish.
Pack leaders can now earn the Scout Leader's Training award.
Tenure: Complete two years as a registered adult leader in a Cub Scout pack.
Training:

Complete Fast Start training, if available for your position.
Complete This Is Scouting and specific training for any Cub Scouting position.
Complete Youth Protection training.
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:

Assist in planning a pack program that results in advancement in rank by a minimum of 50 percent of pack members each year.
Serve as an adult leader related to a pack that earns the national Quality Unit Award.
Serve as leader of a blue and gold dinner, pinewood derby, space derby, raingutter regatta, field day, picnic or other Cub Scout pack activity.
Give leadership to a promotional effort that results in at least 60 percent of pack families subscribing to Boys' Life magazine.
Develop or update a Tiger Cub or Cub Scout den activity book listing local places to go, things to do, costs, distances, etc., for the five Tiger Cub areas, or for at least 12 Cub Scout themes.
Give leadership to planning and conducting a pack service project.
Organize participation of a pack in the Cub Scout Academics and Sports program.
Help conduct two annual pack Friends of Scouting campaigns.
Serve as a leader for members of your pack attending a Cub Scout day camp or resident camp.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Cub Scouter Award with this progress record document.

Pack Trainer Award

Description: Blue and Gold knot on gold field with blue border.

Award Requirements:
This award has been discontinued. Scouters already working on it have until December 31, 2013 to finish.
Tenure: Complete two years as a registered pack trainer.
Training:

Complete Fast Start training for the pack committee.
Complete This Is Scouting and be familiar with and able to explain the key elements of Leader Specific Training for all volunteer positions in the pack.
Complete New Leader Essentials and be familiar with and able to explain the key elements of Leader Specific Training for all volunteer positions in the pack.
Complete Youth Protection Training.
Participate in a trainer development conference.

Performance:

Participate in a Cub Scout leader pow wow or university of Scouting (if your council conducts them) during each year of tenure for this award.
Have Cub Scout roundtable staff certify your attendance for at least 30 percent of the roundtables during each year of tenure for this award.
Attain 100 percent trained leadership within the pack for the committee chairman, Cubmaster, and all den leaders.
Have a working plan in place for delivering Fast Start training to new leaders within 48 hours of their joining your pack.
Have a working plan in place for helping leaders who have not taken basic training to attend This Is Scouting and Leader Specific training.
Keep and update training records of all leaders in your pack.
During the pack annual program planning meeting, be available to answer questions about training courses.
Review ongoing pack leadership training status and provide leaders with updates on any available supplemental training.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Pack Trainer Award with this progress record document.

Tiger Cub Den Leader Award

Description: Black over orange knot on gold field with orange border.

Award Requirements:
This award has been discontinued. Scouters already working on it have until December 31, 2012 to finish.
All den leaders can now earn the Den Leader's award.
Tenure: Complete one year as a registered Tiger Cub den leader (or coach)
Training:

Complete Tiger Cub Den Leader Fast Start training.
Complete This Is Scouting and Tiger Cub Den Leader Specific Training.
Complete Youth Protection training.
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:

Help conduct a Tiger Cub roundup for your pack with at least five new Tiger Cub boy/adult teams recruited.
Contact the host team each month and provide support as needed for one year.
Coordinate Tiger Cub den participation in three pack activities.
Graduate a Tiger Cub den into Cub Scouting with at least 60 percent of Tiger Cubs becoming Cub Scouts.
Report on the progress of Tiger Cub dens at 75 percent of pack leader meetings.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Tiger Den Leader Award with this progress record document.

WEBELOS Den Leader Award

Description: orange on orange knot on gold field with gold border.

Award Requirements:
This award has been discontinued. Scouters already working on it have until December 31, 2012 to finish.
All den leaders can now earn the Den Leader's award.
Tenure: Complete one year as a registered Webelos den leader.
Training:

Complete Webelos Den Leader Fast Start Training.
Complete This Is Scouting and Webelos Den Leader Specific Training.
Complete outdoor training for Webelos den leaders.
Complete Youth Protection training.
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:

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).
At least once, reregister a minimum of 75 percent of the eligible members of your den as part of a pack rechartering.
Graduate a minimum of 60 percent of the eligible members of your Webelos den into Boy Scouting.
Have an assistant den leader or second adult who regularly attends your den's meetings and activities.
Have a den chief who regularly meets with your den.
Take leadership in planning and conducting two Webelos overnight campouts or other outdoor den activities each year.
Assist in planning and conducting a Webelos den/Boy Scout troop joint activity.
Take leadership in planning and conducting a Webelos den service project.
Conduct at least three Webelos den meetings per month, nine months per year, or follow an optional meeting plan approved by the pack.
Participate with your den in a Webelos day camp or resident camp experience.
Hold regular den meeting and den activity planning sessions with your assistant den leader.

Keep track of your progress in earning the Webelos Den Leader Award with this progress record document.

Scouter Award of Merit

Description: white on white knot on tan field with tan border.

Superceded by Unit Leader Award of Merit

Scoutmaster Award Requirements:
Tenure:

Serve as Scoutmaster for at least 18 months

Training:

Complete Boy Scout Leader Fast Start
Complete Scoutmastership Fundamentals

Performance:

Be a currently registered Scoutmaster
Achieve the Quality Unit Award at least once during period of service
Have a record of proper use of the Boy Scout advancement program, resulting in a majority of troop Boy Scouts attaining the First Class rank
Have a record of:
- Development of boy leadership through the patrol method
- Positive relations with the troop's chartered organization
- An extensive outdoor program including strong summer camp attendance
- A positive image of Scouting in the community
- A troop operation that attracts and retains Boy Scouts

Use this Scoutmaster Award of Merit nomination form.

Venturing Advisor Award Requirements:
Tenure:

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

Training:

Complete Venturing Fast Start and Venturing Leader Specific Training
Achieve the Quality Unit Award at least once while serving as crew Advisor
Demonstrate the use of the Venturing Silver Award program
Develop youth leadership by effective use of crew officers
Use the crew officer orientation and program planning process
Have a proven positive relationship with the chartered organization and associated Boy Scout troop and Cub Scout pack, if any
Project a positive image of Venturing in the community
Attract and hold Venturers with crew program and operation
Lead crew in completion of the Venturing Leadership Skills Course

Use this Advisor Award of Merit nomination form.

Varsity Scout Coach Award Requirements:
Tenure:

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

Training:

Complete Varsity Scout Leader Fast Start
Complete Varsity Scout Leader Fundamentals

Performance:

Achieve the Quality Unit Award at least once during period of service
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:
- Development of youth leadership through the squad method
- Positive relations with the team's chartered organization
- An extensive outdoor program including strong high adventure participation
- A positive image of Scouting in the community
- A team operation that attracts and retains Varsity Scouts

Comments:
Mar 08, 2012 - Richard M. Misanko

Mar 09, 2012 - Ed DePinter

Hi, I have 2 questions: 1: is there a limit as to how many knots a leader may wear on his uniform ? I have heard some say 9 others say 12. 2: which knot does a leader earn for being on RT staff?Some say its the Scouters Key award ,while others say its the Scout Leaders Training award. Thank You,YIS, Ed DePinter

Mar 09, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Ed - 1. no limit as to the number of knots that can be worn. 2. Scouters Training Award - see scouting.org/filestore/pdf/34169-60.pdf

May 25, 2012 - Marcy Owens

As per BSA Insignia Guide: "Wearing medals and embroidered knots Only five medals may be worn at a time pinned in a single row immediately above the seam of the left pocket. Knots are worn above the left pocket in rows of three. The order of wearing of medals and knots is at the discretion of the wearer. It is suggested that the medal or knot deemed most important by the wearer be worn on his or her own right. Embroidered knots are representative of pin-on medals or around-the-neck awards and are designed for the convenience of the wearer. In the case of the District Award of Merit and Professional Training Award, the knot is the only wearable insignia."

Jun 15, 2012 - Ric C.

If knot awards were earned as Cub Scout Adult Leader (Den Leader, Cub Scouter) and now I am a Boy Scout Adult Leader (Troop Committee) for a Troop in a different area, do I still wear the knots?

Jun 15, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Ric - Yes, recognition earned as an adult volunteer in any position can remain on your uniform as long as you are a registered BSA volunteer.

Jun 23, 2012 - David C. Hirtle

This is a great resource page. I have a question, however. My dad (late) was an Eagle in1933 in the Boston area, He would later earn his Palms. While a Missionary in the Canal Zone in the late 40's he was a Scouting Executive. I have his Eagle and Key Awards as well as a bronz colored, octagonal on a blue ribbon that I can't identify. Any suggestions?

Jun 23, 2012 - Yukon Jack

David, The bronze octagonal medal you describe sounds like the old BSA archery medal. It is a pre-1950 award in bronze, gold, and silver (see raremedal.com/boy-scout-archery-contest-medal for confirmation). There is no knot for this medal, as it is more akin to a modern cub scout pinewood derby medal. If not, there are many other similar medals from the first few decades of scouting that are now incredibly rare. Mitch Reis is an excellent refrence online as he is one of the nation's top BSA memorabilia collectors. Good luck in your search.

Jun 23, 2012 - Yukon Jack

David, Also, if not the archery medal, there are many many other 'contest medals' if the same era of the same design, each with different markings on the medallion itself, but all with blue ribbons. Nowadays, all BSA boy scout 'contest medals' use a generic design and are very common and can be found in any scout shop. A quick google search or email to Reis should get you a final answer.

Jun 28, 2012 - Nick Tavassoli

I have a question: I see the sea badge conference trident-knot is very easy to obtain. I know adults can earn this award, but I was wondering if a venturing scout could earn it. I would very much so like to wear such an odd knot on my uniform but I will not until I know for sure it is approved/legal. thanks -Nick

Jun 28, 2012 - Yukon Jack

Nick, Easy is in the eye of the beholder. Very, very few Seabadge conferences are held every year in the nation. I do not believe that youth can attend Seabadge, as you must be a registered adult to attend. Youth sea scouts CAN however, take/earn/wear the Sea Scout Advanced Leadership Training (SEAL) qualification pin (which resembles a silver US Navy submarine warfare qualification badge, the double dolphins). While youth cannot earn the Seabadge trident, the SEAL dolphins pin is likewise only earned by youth and does not transfer to the uniform of an adult sea scouter. Hope this helps. ~YJ

Jun 29, 2012 - Nick Tavassoli

Ok, thanks, I was clueless! Also, there is a scout in my troop wearing some knots that I did not recognize here. I looked up the colors and saw that they were unofficial. One was the BSA Lifeguard knot, one was a Friends of Scouting volunteer knot, and one was a Historic Trails award knot. Are any/all of these knots okay/legal to wear? Or should I tell him to take them off? I also saw that the historic trails one is a real patch, but it is meant for equipment decoration. The text was a little unclear, but it sounded like the BSA Lifeguard one was for your swimming trunks.

Jun 29, 2012 - Yukon Jack

There are between 20 and 30 "unofficial" knots floating around. Some knots are genuine (called 'locally authorized') and approved for wear by the National Council, but only for certain councils or districts to award. These councils went through the proper process to get them approved and may be worn if earned in the right council. However, most unofficial knots are not approved by National and therefore should be removed. The three you mentioned are all not approved (see www.scoutinsignia.com/fakeknot.htm for verification). George Crawl has compiled a complete list of all official, locally authorized, private issue, & spoof knots at: www.sageventure.com/history/knothist/

Jul 18, 2012 - Mike

I know the Cub Scout religious knots can be worn on an adult uniform if it was earned as a youth. However, it doesn't seem appropriate to wear them as a youth on a Boy Scout uniform for two reasons. It implies it was earned as a Boy Scout which would be untrue if there is no device with it. Second, it is stated that the Arrow of Light patch is the only award earned as a Cub Scout worn on the boy scout uniform. Does that sound right? If that is correct is it stated officially anywhere?

Jul 18, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Aug 06, 2012 - Yukon Jack

I think everyone would be interested to know that the BSA just announced this summer (scouting.org/Training/TrainingUpdates.aspx) that all 6 of the cub scout leader awards are going away, though one knot will remain. If you already started the old ones, finish them up, but the new awards for cub leaders use the Scouter's Key knot, the Scouter's Training Award knot, and the Den Leader knot. Sorda big news, as this reverts cub leader awards to pretty much what they were prior to 1989.

Aug 06, 2012 - Jared Stoddard

This is in response to a previous statement "I see the sea badge conference trident-knot is very easy to obtain... I would very much so like to wear such an odd knot on my uniform." Sadly, this is sometimes the case--that it is "easy to obtain" and is sometimes obtained because it is "odd" or "cool." Normally this is for Sea Scouters to/who promote Sea Scouting (as an analog to Wood Badge). Before you pursue such an award, I would suggest that you 1) become well versed in the Sea Scouting program, 2) Contact your region Commodore, and 3) ensure that any training you attend is authorized. Finally, although I realize that often badges are sought for the sake of the badge--this saddens me deeply as I remember a time when a rank/award was "pinned" on a man's character before it was ever pinned on his uniform. IMHO.

Aug 06, 2012 - Yukon Jack

One more cool knot thing: the Universal Exploring knot (silver on silver ropes with red/white/blue background) can still be earned. That knot has represented 7 different awards and the council-level Young American Award can still be earned. The other 6 and the national YAA are all discontinued, but the knot itself does still represent a current award.

Aug 06, 2012 - Yukon Jack

And one last thing... the 3 old cub scout awards with 2 year tenures (pack trainer, cub scouter, cubmaster) don't end until December 31, 2013 so people can still finish them. Similarly, the Speakers Bank knot can still be earned, but no new speakers can register as such. Ergo, if you're not a speaker, you cannot earn it, but the award itself is not discontinued as current speakers can still earn it. Just some fun facts (I love BSA history).

Aug 09, 2012 - EagleCliff 95

I was checking the status of some of my young leaders service advancements and noticed that the retirement of the cub scout knots later next year was posted, why is this taking place, I feel this has been a effective tool in recruiting parents to get trained along side of there young boy? Any ideas as to why?

Aug 10, 2012 - Scouter Paul

EagleCliff - See scouting.org/Training/TrainingUpdates.aspx for details on the changes. The national awards committee reviewed the awards last year and made recommendations. The recommendations were reviewed by the national training committee and a task force of unit leaders. So, WHY? - well, you'd have to ask the national committees to know for sure, but possibly: - reduce chest clutter - reduce expensive of manufacturing and stocking patches - simplifying the recognition structure for adults The parents you mention can still receive recognition, just different patches.

Aug 12, 2012 - Stephen White

My question concerns the PTC master track award. I see that all of the requirements have to be completed after June 1, 2008. Why is this? Many of us completed the requirements prior to this date and are not capable of getting back to PTC due to a number of reasons.. I feel there should be a Grandfather clause for those of us that meet the requirements prior to the established date.

Aug 13, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Stephen - in the description of the PTC award, it says a purpose is to promote return trips to Philmont. The award was created in 2010, so grandfathering training from many years ago wouldn't fulfill its purpose. That's what I think anyway, but you'd need to contact the award committee to find out their specific reasoning and I expect that would be challenging.

Aug 14, 2012 - Ron Murphy

Great site! Great info too! You need to add info about the devices that are worn on the knots to indicate multiple awards in different programs.

Aug 15, 2012 - Yukon Jack

Ron, I've found that the knot devices fall into one of three categories: a, multiple awards, b, program an award was earned in, c, a different award from the basic knot. I have a single-page powerpoint slide with every device for the 15 knots that are authorized devices if you want.

Aug 17, 2012 - Stanley Chang

I met all but one requirement for the Alumni Award. Serve on a local council alumni or National Eagle Scout Association committee for one year. I'm not an Eagle Scout, made it as far as Life Scout. Do you have to be an Eagle Scout in order to be on the NESA committee? There's no Local Alumni Council in the Greater New York Council. How can I complete this last requirement?

Aug 17, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Stanley - You need to be an Eagle Scout to be on a council NESA committee - see nesa.org/guidelines.html Without a local council alumni relations committee, you can't get approval for this award since it needs to be approved by both the council Scout Executive and alumni committee chair. You would need to contact the national headquarters to find out if there are any ways to get around that requirement. Maybe you could start the alumni relations committee in your council - scouting.org/filestore/alumni/pdf/Alumni_Committee_Structure.pdf

Aug 21, 2012 - Jason Parker

Aug 21, 2012 - Yukon Jack

I'll answer the last question first, yes you can backdate the cub scout leader awards. I did so as a pack trainer a few years ago in a pack with superb leaders with years of tenure and many got awards quickly. However, the PowWow/UoS/4 Roundtable requirement is not waiverable. Leaders have to attend SOMETHING beyond the pack to receive the award. Attending 4 roundtables is very easy and both OWL and BALOO training is part of the University of Scouting and only 1 will meet the requirement. The one requirement you discuss has indeed held up many cub scout leaders from their awards and I used that to push my leaders to expand their scouting careers beyond the pack to district and council committees. You get better longevity that way. Hope it helps.

Aug 21, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Jason - No, requirements are not "waiverable" for any awards. Some requirements have options from which to choose, but you can't just say "Aw, he did most of the requirements so that's good enough." Every den leader gets to wear a Den Leader patch - that's their basic recognition. Those that complete training for their position get to wear the Trained patch. Those that complete the minimal requirements for the Den Leader Award get to wear that knot patch. I blieve the UoS, PowWow, Roundtable requirement is to promote interaction with other scouters and is an important part of earning the award.

Aug 21, 2012 - Tim

I always come away with something fun and new to help my boys from our Pow Wow. I would recommend that you try it out before trying to waive the requirement. Scout U is more for Boy Scout Leaders, but still worth the effort. Like a watered down Pow Wow for Cub Leaders.

Aug 22, 2012 - Yukon Jack

If your district doesn't have cub scout leader Pow Wows, or they are too infrequent, consider volunteering yourself to the district committee (or one of your superb den leaders) and host them. I'm sure your district would love the support.

Aug 22, 2012 - MikeKNR

I wear my knots proudly and encourage others to do so as well, and the Cub knots provided excellant opportunities to keep active in the winters in Cleveland however my one beef would be with the 'devices' that seem to have been put forth as a replacement for legitimate knots. These devices are going to prove a pain I'm sure. They will increase 'chest clutter' (???!) and will prove to be more snaggy than snazzy, i.e. they're going to grab everything in sight from jacket liners to other people's flag patches to each other if you get enough of them, guaranteed. Cases in point, how many of your Chbs have lost the pin-backers to their CS pins? My boy made a symphony if pings every time he untucked his shirt after a Pack meeting. Really, knots invited questions from the boys, whereas one lonely knot with multiple, tiny, little gobs of easily lost fake gold will invite snags and lost pins and nary a glance or question from anyone. And bottom line for me, what was the purpose of the knots?

Aug 22, 2012 - MikeKNR

The remainder of my comment was...And what have we lost now that theiy're gone? To you folks that deplore knots for some reason I would say you should be silently proud to have served and let the knots speak for themselves to the Scouts that will inevitably ask 'What are those patches for Mr. Smith?' This the only inarguable reason to wear them, I believe. Just refer them to this excellent page for an explanation of what you did to earn them. Tells the youths that Eagle is far from the end of their trail if nothing else...

Aug 23, 2012 - Brian Shore

The dates at scouting.org/training shows that the old training knots must be completed by Dec 2012. You show Dec 2013. Can you explain? Love your site, and all the help over the years.

Aug 23, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Brian - The two den leader awards need to be completed in 2012, the cubmaster, trainer, and scouter awards in 2013.

Aug 27, 2012 - Marjorie Moore

Two words: Excellent!!! Outstanding!!!

Aug 28, 2012 - Dave O

Now that the Cubmaster Award has been retired, are active Cubmasters who have received the Cubmaster award able to receive the replacement "Scouter Key Award" as well?

Aug 28, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Dave - The idea of replacing the previous knots is to reduce the number of knots, make them more consistent across programs, and use metal device pins to show the program in which the knot was earned. Displaying two knots for the same recognition defeats that purpose, and seems silly to me. But, I don't see anything written that says a cubmaster can't earn the Cubmaster Award and the Scouter's Key award as cubmaster. If s/he completes the new requirements, s/he could replace the Cubmaster Award knot with the new Scouter's Key knot to move ahead with the evolving program.

Aug 30, 2012 - Nick DeMarco

And.... shouldn't you be listing the William H. Spurgeon III Award under the discontinued knots section? Also, I don't think the three sea badge conference knots are the BSA issues....they look like a "private issue"....

Aug 30, 2012 - Yukon Jack

No, the Professional Training Award hasn't been discontinued. Neither has the William H. Spurgeon III Award for that matter...but now that it only applies to the Learning for Life Explorer program (no BSA style uniform), it might as well be. A few that ARE discontinued are: Ace Award, Ranger Award, Silver I Award (all from the old Explorer program), the old Skipper's Key (from 1949), and the Den Leader Coach Award (ended in 2008). A new one that hasn't been released by BSA for purchase yet (though commissioners can start working on it) is the Commissioner Award for Excellence in Unit Service (due to release in May 2013). It looks just like the commissioner college knot, but with all yellow gold thread.

Aug 30, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Nick - The Professional Training Award is called the Professional Circle Training Award and I don't have it listed here because it is only for BSA employees.

Sep 01, 2012 - Stuart Lind

I have a question about the requirement on wearing the NESA square knot or the Eagle Scout square knot: Why is this requirement in existence? I think that it makes no sense at all. Why can't both square knots be worn? I became an Eagle Scout a while back, and I do want to be an NESA member, but I don't want to wear either my Eagle Scout or NESA Membership knots. I want to wear both, to prove to people that I am an Eagle Scout, and an NESA member.

Sep 01, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Stuart - you should contact NESA about "WHY" since they're the organization doing it. The only thing you need to do to get the NESA knot is pay $250 for a lifetime membership - does that warrant wearing yet another knot? Wearing the NESA lifetime member knot DOES say you are an Eagle and a NESA member - you wouldn't be wearing it unless you were both - so you don't need to wear both knots to prove it.

Sep 08, 2012 - Stanley Chang

I was a Jr. Webelos Leader in September 2011. I'm a Sr. Webelos Den Leader September 2012. Do I qualify to receive the yellow on yellow Webelos Knot? My boys will crossover to Boy Scouts and receive their Arrow of Light in March 2013. I'm not sure if I meet the deadline Dec. 2012. I assume the last webelos leaders to receive the yellow webelos knot would be the ones coming up.

Sep 08, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Stanley - If you complete the necessary requirements by Dec. 31, you qualify for the award. I can't tell you if you qualify because I don't know if you've done the requirements. That's what the tracking card is for - fill that in and turn it in. Plenty of den leaders have earned this award after the 4th grade year of Webelos. There is no distinction between Jr. and Sr. Webelos - they are just Webelos scouts.

Sep 09, 2012 - Stuart Lind

Thank you Scouter Paul. I just needed a little clarification on why.

Sep 11, 2012 - Joesf Patterson

@Stuart Lind The NESA knot is a lot different than the regular eagle knot. It is very distinguished with a silver border that stands out vs a tan border that blends in. There is no reason to wear both of them.

Sep 11, 2012 - Larry Green

So...as on who has his Scouter's Key as a Scoutmaster, and the blue on yellow Cubmaster knot, I can now remove the Cubmaster knot and get a Cub Scout device and a Boy Scout device and afix both to the Scouter's Key knot?

Sep 12, 2012 - Yukon Jack

While you can remove the Cubmaster Award knot and wear two devices on the Scouter's Key knot, they are not really the same award. People are advising others to do what you're suggesting Larry, but they're doing so to 'reduce clutter' as many have expoused. The Cubmaster Award is not the same thing as the Cubmaster's Key...which you can now earn seperately of the Cubmaster Award and continue to wear both knots. Frankly, I agree with MikeKNR. This decision is silly and not a 'new program' at all, but returning to the pre-1989 cub scout leader recognitions. If they didn't like the 7 different cub scout leader knots, they shouldn't have introduced them. Wear both and wear both with pride!

Sep 12, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Larry - The Cubmaster's Key has a bit different requirements than the old Cubmaster award, so you may not have completed the requirements yet. There is a 3 year tenure rather than two, and you need to participate in extra council or higher training.

Sep 17, 2012 - Eagle Mike

This is in response to a previous comment about the Sea Badge Trident knot. The knots displayed respectively are similar to Woodbadge participant/staff recognition. The single trident is = participant, double = staff, triple = course director. However 2012 is the last year a participant can earn the knot as they have been phased out as well.

Sep 17, 2012 - Stuart Lind

I'm just throwing this question out there. Since the National Medal for Outdoor Achievement is a fairly new award, is there talk about making a square knot for it, or will it be just another award without a square knot?

Sep 17, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@Stuart. There should not be a knot for the National Medal for Outdoor Achievement as the BSA policy is to make a knot only for the top rank of each program and little else. That is why the new Venturing Ranger medal does not have a knot but the old Explorer Ranger did. @Eagle Mike. You are the second person I've heard that rumor from but it's always on internet sites. I've seen the BSA press release on the cub leader knots and its been discussed for a year. Where did you hear about the Seabadge knot ending? Be careful about rumors if www.scouting.org hasn't made any official statement.

Sep 17, 2012 - Yukon Jack

Also, the only BSA approved Seabadge knot is the single trident. The double and triple for staff and course directors are 100% private production and not used by the BSA.

Sep 19, 2012 - michael

Sep 19, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ Michael. The knots are the only acceptable way, you'll never wear your AoL or Eagle badges again (though the Eagle medal can still be worn for ceremonies). Eagle palms are worn on the knot if you wish. Wear the proper combo for how many palms you earned. If you earned a bronze, gold, and silver palm as a kid and have all 3 pins, you only wear the silver to represent 15 extra merit badges...not all 3 pins, which would improperly represent 30 (5 bronze, 10 gold, 15 silver). I say improperly, as 30 extra merit badges are represented by 2 silver palms, not 1 of each. I too am sorry you'll miss out on all the cub leader knots. This is a foolish change.

Sep 20, 2012 - Eagle Mike

Yukon Jack. I am not one to develop rumors or subscribe to them. I have direct information, which is why posted the information to be beneficial to those who utilize this site. I have served on numerous SeaBadge courses throughout my BSA career.

Sep 20, 2012 - Yukon Jack

Mike. Sorry, I didn't mean for you to get upset. I still ask though where the BSA official release of that data is? If 2012 is the last year this patch can be earned, why hasn't there been a notice on Training Times, given that there is only about 3 months left in the year? When they cancelled the cub leader knots, first notice was in Fall 2011, with the knots not fully expiring until the end of 2013...fully 2 years later. I find it hard to believe that they would announce the cancellation of this trident knot with an end date of less than 3 months.

Sep 20, 2012 - Joesf Patterson

So a question for the community. I'm right in the middle of my tenure for earning the Cub Scouter knot and will earn it before the cut off date, would that tenure also go toward Scout leader training award? Or would two more years be required? I'm sure in the spirit of the award two additional years would be required, but I'm just wondering everyone opinion

Sep 20, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ Josef. Under the old system of awards, there is a little clause under the tenure block that reads "tenure for this award cannot be used for another key or award." The new awards have no such clause (with the minor exception of one on the new Den Leader Training Award that disallows using tenure multiple times to receive multiple DLTAs at the same time...say if you are the wolf and webelos DL at the same time). Ergo, you cannot use tenure that was already used for your current Cub Scouter Award for the new Cub Scouter Training Award... but you can use the same tenure within the new awards (the easy example is how cubmasters can use the same 2 years tenure from their new CSTA towards the 3 required for the CM Key).

Sep 21, 2012 - Old Tiger Cub Leader

I looked over the requirements for the Den Leader Knot (and the old Tiger Den Leader Knot) and I qualify for both awards (whichever one I want, since the Tiger Leader knot is being abolished). So what should I do to get it? Do I need cubmaster approval (or someone's approval) or can I just buy it myself on my honor?

Sep 23, 2012 - Overseas Pack Chair

Thank you for the invaluable information! 3 questions: 1. AoL Knot - ONLY worn by Adults or is the square knot presented at the same time as the AoL patch and both can be worn on the Boy Scout uniform? 2. Den Leader Award - how do Overseas Packs participate in the Pow-Wow/University or 4 Roundtable meetings? We have monthly Committee Roundtable meetings, but we are the only BSA registered Pack in the country. Would Pack Committe Roundtables apply? It would appear not - and therefore I can't see how best to recognize the outstanding service or some of our dedicated Den Leaders, at least for this year. IS THIS AWARD BEING DISCONTINUED? 3. Cub Scout Training Award seems to be replacing the Cub Scouter award previously given to leaders. Same question really, in addition to the Pow Wow or Roundtable Requirement, there is an additional MUST which is to do one additional training at council, area, regional or national level. Overseas travel to attend doesn't seem likely. Thoughts?

Sep 24, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@OTCL. My advice is to get the Tiger Den Leader Award now and get the new Den Leader Training Award next. Use the old progress record form (plenty available online) and have it signed by your pack's cubmaster/committee chair. Final approval is your district. You should not just buy it yourself until the certificate is signed. Then buy many knots as supply will eventually run out. @OPC. 1: Knot only. Adults never wear the eagle or AoL badges. 2&3: Good questions! If you are the only pack in your foreign country, contact your higher district and ask their policy. Most councils count BALOO or OWL cub leader training as part of the University of Scouting, so you chould use those trainings to qualify if you've done them. Good luck with this, an unusual situation.

Sep 24, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@OTCL. Sorry, I may have misunderstood your question. The AoL knot is only for adult scouters. Youth boy scouts wear the AoL badge carryover from the cub scout uniform. The AoL knot is never presented. It is merely bought by an adult scouter who has the AoL certificate.

Sep 24, 2012 - Eagle Mike

Additional information pertaining to Venturing Leadership Award. National and Regional Awards have been eliminated and only awarded on the Council level. There are three levels of award: 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. National: Medallion suspended from red and white ribbon and worn around the neck.

Sep 25, 2012 - Overseas Pack Chair

Thanks for the clarification on the AoL Knot. I will be in touch with my Council regarding the other requirements for Den Leader Awards, etc...

Oct 01, 2012 - Randall Huber

Is there a knot patch for Distinguished Eagle recipient?I can't locate one on the internet. Thanks.

Oct 01, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@Randall. There is a privately manufactured DESA knot that is unofficial and highly discouraged (looks like an eagle knot with red border). The NESA provides a gold eagle pin device to wear on the knot to indicade that the individual is a DESA recipient. Again, officially from BSA there is no special knot for DESA or NOESA recipients; just devices.

Oct 02, 2012 - Scouter Chris

My boys have been involved with Scouting since thy were Tiger Cubs, but I did not get involved with the Pack as a Cub Scout Leader until my oldest was a Webelo Scout (earning the Den Leader Award - Webelo Knot). As they each crossed over into the Troop, I remained very active as a Boy Scout Leader, eventually becoming Assistant Scoutmaster (earning the Scout Leaders Training Award Knot). Due to a lack of adult leaders in the Pack, I was asked to assist as a cub leader, & currently serve as the Assistant CubMaster, as well. This position wiill qualify me for the CubScouter Award Knot for my 2012 & 2013 tenure (prior to it it being discontinued in 2013). My question is, can tenure as the Tiger Leader during 2012 also allow me to earn the Tiger Cub Den Leader Award Knot (prior to it being discontinued in 2012). The leadership positions qualify for both awards, but the time frames overlap. Can service as a Tiger Leader & an Assistant CubMaster be used during the same calendar year?

Oct 02, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@SC. Short answer, no. Now, if you did more than 1 year as a Webelos DL (or any other position for that matter), then you can apply that 1 year, plus the 2013 year to the Cub Scouter Award, and apply 2012 to the Tiger DL Award. Bottom line, to get the Webelos DL knot, Tiger DL knot, and Cub Scouter knot, you have to have 4 years in cub scouts.

Oct 02, 2012 - Scouter Chris

@YJ - Thanks, yes, I served as both Jr & Sr Webelo's Leader from 09/07 - 04/09, when my big guy crossed over, & when I became an active Leader in the Troop. (The Webelo's knot was earned during that timeframe). I then became Asst Scoutmaster in 2010 - present. (The Scout Leaders knot was then earned). I simultaneously remained as a "Cub Leader" with no real title, assisting the person that had been my little guys Tiger, Wolf, & Bear Leader, when she moved into the Webelo Leaders Position from 09//09 through 02/11. (This was when his group then crossed over into the Troop). I returned to assist the Pack in 2012 as Asst Cubmaster due to a lack of adult leadership all the time retaining my position as Asst Soutmaster. I wasn't sure if my time as a cub leader (with no real title), during my little guy's Webelo years qualified me for the CubScouter Award, but if so, then by your explanation, I can backdate one & use 2012 toward the Tiger Leaders Award. Am I making sense? Thanks Again.

Oct 02, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Chris - To earn the Tiger Den Leader award, you need to be registered as a TDL for a year. Being the Asst CM in 2012 does not count towards a TDL award. You can't be registered as both ACM and TDL in the same Pack during the same time - that's against BSA policy. From your explanation, you received the Webelos Den Leader award for being a WDL and that makes sense. Your time from 09 through 12, if you were officially registered with the Pack during that time, could be applied towards the Cub Scouter award or the Scout Leader's Training award. If that is at least 4 years, then you've accumulated enough time for both those awards. Of course, there are a bunch of other requirements to be met during the tenure used for those awards.

Oct 02, 2012 - Scouter Chris

Got it thanks. Technically I am the Assistant Cubmaster, but I was taking care of the Tigers out of necessity since there was no other adult stepping up. Time well spent, but thanks to your explanation, qualifying for the CubScouter Award only & not the Tiger Den Leader Award as well. Thank you for clarifying.

Oct 03, 2012 - Stanley Chang

The NOVA AWARD Knot, how does that look? Is there a site that has a picture of it?

Oct 03, 2012 - Yukon Jack

The N.O.V.A. awards for cub and boy scouts, as well as the Supernova Award do not have square knots.

Oct 04, 2012 - Lee Rubel

Is there an order of precedence for wear of knots like military awards? If I have the Arrow or Light, Eagle, Tiger Cub Den Leader Award and Den Leader Award which is worn on the bottom row and from the wearer's left to right?

Oct 05, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Lee - Nope. You can wear them in any order you prefer. Most folks just wear them in the order earned, but it's up to you.

Oct 21, 2012 - Nicole S

If you earned your religious award as a youth, what knot goes on your adult uniform? Silver background with purple knot or purple background with silver knot? And.... Can former Girl Scouts now BSA leaders able to do this? Thanks!!

Oct 21, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ Nichole. Youth religious knot is silver knot on purple. As for the girl scouts question, it depends. If they earned a religious emblem from a church recognized by the BSA, then yes. Use the P.R.A.Y. website to see what all the BSA recognizes. Remember, the BSA youth religious knot is not an award, but represents a non-BSA award given by a religious group. The more apt question, is did the girl scout earn a religious award that a boy scout can also earn. Lastly, if a girl was in Explorer Scouts (pre-1998) or Venture Scouts (1999-present) and earned a youth religious award, then she can wear the youth religious knot, as the award was earned while in the BSA.

Oct 22, 2012 - Don E

There are a series of discontinued knots for den leader, tiger leader, cub master etc. are they totally unattainable now? Why were they discontinued / retired and when?

Oct 22, 2012 - Yukon Jack

Oct 23, 2012 - Mr Greg

Re: Ed DePinter's Q about how many knots can be worn and the following two answers. True there is no actual specified limit. Marcy's quote from the book skipped a sentence though. "It is recommended that the number of knots be limited to three rows of three knots (a total of nine knots)." - quoted from both 2009 and 2012 printings of the insignia guide - the two copies I have siting here to look at. Food for thought. Love this site, what a wonderful resource to have.

Oct 24, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ Mr. Greg. While I too have heard the recommendation of 9 knots, I find it funny that I was once chewed out for wearing my 10 knots (3 rows plus 1) by a guy with 6 full rows on his uniform. When I pointed this out, he defended himself by saying that someone told him he had to wear all of his. Silly rationale aside, his uniform looked quite good and professional with 6 rows, but I think much beyond that would have been extravagant, as they would start hiding behind the collar corner. Just some thoughts.

Oct 24, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Oct 25, 2012 - Julia

I appreciate your fine, detailed work! Thank you for your service in simplifying this complex area of recognition for me! Paperwork for the Cubmaster Award and the Cub Scouter Award both say "Dates of service used to earn this award cannot be used to earn another key or award." The paperwork for the Unit Leader Award of Merit does not have this same limitation listed. My question is whether with 4 years of service as Cubmaster, we can award all three to our Cubmaster, or just two of them. She will be moving on in December and we would like to recognize her with some knots before she goes. Are these the best ones to consider? She never attended advanced training, so Cubmaster's Key has a missing requirement, but she has done all for Cubmaster, Cub Scouter, and Unit Leader Award of Merit.

Oct 25, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Julia - The Unit Leader Award of Merit fits with the Scout Leader's Training award and Scouter's Key award. The Cubmaster and Cub Scouter awards do not fit into that award scheme. Based on the explicit limitation stated in those two awards about not using the tenure time for other awards, your Cubmaster can receive the two awards, not three, assuming she has completed all the requirements for the awards.

Oct 25, 2012 - Yukon Jack

Actually Julia, because your cubmaster has 4 years tenure, she can get all three awards, because the Unit Leader Award of Merit explicitly states that its 18 months tenure can overlap with the training awards. The UL AoM is an award like the District AoM, or the Council AoM (properly called the Silver Beaver), etc and not a training award of any type. I've been in four councils and they all award the UL AoM concurrently with any training awards.

Oct 25, 2012 - Yukon Jack

I took a look at the picture you listed of the guy with 22 knots. At least 2 are unauthorized knots, 2 have incorrect devices on them, and 1 is an aftermarket of a real knot. If you're going to be that extravagant, at least be correct about it. (The unauthorized knots are the two in the upper left, the silver wreath on red is a council-specific knot for the commissioner's college and the red/black/green knot is for service in starting up a scouting program in Baghdad, Iraq back in the 2004-2008 time frame.)

Nov 05, 2012 - Scouter HB

I started as a new bear den leader this August. The Den Leader Award requires 1 year tenure at that position. Since my den will become Webelos in the spring/summer, does that mean that I will not be able to earn the den leader award until I have completed a full year as a Webelos den leader?

Nov 05, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@HB. Most community packs that I've heard of conduct their summer program after the school year, not before. If you den is no different, then your bear den will not cross into a webelos den until after the summer program in 2013, which would end in August. Therefore, you should get your Den Leader Award (there is a new medal now to go with the knot and certificate) with cub scout device in July 2013(your 12th month) and immediately start earning it again with the webelos device, in July 2014. Seperately, look into earning your Cub Scout Training Award (2 years tenure) in the same time (Aug 2012-Jul 2014). These new awards DO NOT have the tenure restrictions that the old cub leader training awards had (excepting that overlapping tenure cannot earn multiple Den Leader Awards) so you can earn the CSTA concurrently with the DLA or the CMK.

Nov 12, 2012 - Andrew

There is no recognized knot for Denali. If you look at the progression there is one for Arrow of Light, Eagle Scout, and Venture Silver. When you include the religious knot every level of Scouting participation is represented via knots with the exception of Varsity Scouting. Why is this gap allowed to continue? Is Varsity Scouting the proverbial red headed step child of the BSA?

Nov 12, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ Andrew. The Denali Award is not considered the top rank in Varsity Scouts, Eagle scout is. Additionally, the Quartermaster Award knot is the top rank for Sea Scouting. Same for Arrow of Light and Venture Silver. The Youth Religious knot is a catch-all for all religions and levels of scouting and does not play into this question. There will never be a knot for the Denali Award for this reason--it is not a rank of any type. This same rationale is why the Venture Ranger award does not have a knot, it is a separate award and not a rank.

Nov 13, 2012 - Jay Kuivinen

The things tend to say "Nine square knots," So that's ten, my nine square knots and my District award of Merit, which is not a square knot. Question: My Webelos Den leader, my Den Leader, and my Tiger den leader awards. Can they be replaced by three Cub Scout devices, worn on my Boy Scout Leader's Training Award knot? on the Medal ribbon?

Nov 13, 2012 - Jay Kuivinen

Oh, my thinking now is, put two devices on the Den Leader award, one for Tiger and one for WEBELOS...The Den Leader award is not discontnued (?)

Nov 13, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ Jay. First, while the District Award of Merit is not a square knot (the award itself is a plaque), the silver overhand patch is considered of the 'square knot' style. It is one of three (Seabadge and Silver World) 'square knot' patches that are not square knots. As for your second question, you may wear three devices on the Den Leader Award knot (not the Scout Leader Training Award knot) if you desire: webelos, cub scout, and the yet-to-be-designed Tiger devices. Or you can continue to wear the three seperate knots from the old system. Remember, the knot is not the award, just the uniform patch for it. The old den leader award was discontinued with the rest, but the patch still exists for the new Den Leader Training Award for all DLs. Finally, a new medal is being designed for the new DLTA, so you may purchase and wear it with three devices if you so choose. I advice continuing to wear the old knots, as they were earned under the old system and will soon be rare.

Nov 13, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ Jay. Cub scout leaders who earned the old PAck Trainer or Cub Scouter Awards may trade in for the green/green knot, or keep the old. You can also earn the new awards seperately from the old if you so desire.

Nov 15, 2012 - Brian Hughes

I stumbled across this page recently, and was fascinated with the information. I am a Class of 89 Eagle Scout with about 20 years of activity in scouting. I recently gor re-involved due to my youngest son wanting to join cub scouts, so as an "old timer" I am sorry to see these awards discontinued. Thanks all for the information, I found it very interesting.

Nov 26, 2012 - Gerald McNew

Nov 26, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ Gerald. You only ever wear one of a particular knot (with a single exception in BSA history...this isn't it). To distinguish between two different keys, you wear the tiny gold device (a pin with a clutch back) for each on the knot just like oak leaf clusters or service stars on military ribbons. You can also wear your two devices on the suspension ribbon of the key medal too. In your case, the commissioner device is a circle with the tenderfoot badge wreathed in laurel leaves (commissioner logo) and the district committee device is the same, but without the wreath. Congrats on your two key awards, most impressive!

Nov 26, 2012 - Yukon Jack

Nov 29, 2012 - Eric Hagglund

question. If a scout leader joins the Boy scouts of America and has honor and awards knots from another scouting organization. Can he ware the knots on the BSA uniform?

Nov 30, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ Eric. Short answer, no. I assume you mean the knots from other countries' scouting programs (Scouts Canada uses figure-eight knot patches the way BSA uses square knots as an example). The only other national scouting programs in the USA are the Girl Scouts, American Heritage Girls, Campfire USA, and Indian Guides. Officially, the BSA only has a partnership with AHG and none of the other American programs have square knots as far as I'm aware. There are some UNOFFICIAL square knots made to BSA dimensions to symbolize the Girl Scouts Gold Award and the AHG Stars & Stripes Award (and others), but none of them are recognized by the BSA National COH. You are safest to only ever wear the knots approved by BSA nationally or the VERY few approved by National for specific councils. Venturing down that path is a sticky and inadvisable choice. The BSA has made 53 knots in its history, stick with them (43 of them are shown on this webpage).

Dec 02, 2012 - Yukon Jack

Today my research led me to find the name of one boy scout, J. Fred Roming of Maryland, who received two Bronze Honor Medals in 1912 and 1913. However, this youth predates today's Honor Medal (1923) and the square knot (1946) by 33 years and would not affect the 'two of the same knot' question. Its still cool to know though.

Dec 03, 2012 - Yukon Jack

Further research shows Scout Paul Victor Magee received a Silver Honor Medal in 1916 and a Letter of Commendation (the LoC became the Certificate of Heroism in 1923 and the Heroism Medal in 1977) in 1917. Also, Scout William Baird received two Medals of Merit in 1976 and 1977. While fantastic feats, not to mention lost nuggets of BSA history, there remains no record of a recipient of the modern HM and the modern HMCP to raise the wear-two-of-the-same-knot question. Cool history though. Sorry if I'm boring anyone.

Dec 07, 2012 - Rick

How many cub scout dens actually award their leaders any of these awards? I have been involved for two years and have never seen my Pack give any awards out to it's leaders. I think it's because the emphasis is on the kids achievments and not the adults. I am interested in this as we have several leaders that have been involved for quite a while and should/could be recognized. Thoughts?

Dec 07, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Rick - Much of the giving of awards has to do with the culture of the individual Pack. If no adults are aware of the awards and they've not been earned, tracked, and presented in the past, they will tend to not be awarded now or in the future. When an adult steps forward to volunteer, I explain that recognition is available and important, give him the tracking card for the awards for that position, and then hope he tracks the requirements. After that, it's up to him to complete the requirements. Some folks enjoy collecting trinkets, patches, and certificates - others couldn't care less.

Dec 14, 2012 - Joe

Does anyone know if the national office is going to be putting out new cub scout devices? There are two right now, a Webelos device and a Cub Scout device. Since they are combining the Den Leader awards are there going to be separate devices for each den?

Dec 14, 2012 - Scouter Paul

Joe - Yes, a Tiger Cub device is being developed. The Cub Scout device will be used for Wolf and Bear den leaders. I've heard nothing of a Lion device.

Dec 19, 2012 - Yukon Jack

FYI, the new Den Leader Award medal and Tiger Cub device are now in scout stores everywhere.

Dec 24, 2012 - kbsig106

I started as a Tiger Den leader in August 2012 and the Tiger knot says work must be finished by 12/31/12. I'm half way in at this point, can my Council or pack decide to allow for the knot to be earned at the end of this year in June '13?

Dec 24, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ kbsig106. Sorry, but no. Knots are nationally designed and controlled (with few exceptions that are not listed on this webpage) and the TDLA knot ends in a few days by NCOH edict. Beyond that, the new den leader awards system was fully introduced in July 2012 and any new leaders after that point MUST use the new system. Ergo, you may begin work on the new Den Leader Training Award with a Tiger Device and complete it in July 2013.

Dec 26, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ kbsig106. The closest I've heard about anyone doing what you describe, is den leaders who began service after Jan 1, 2012 but paid a full year's registration fee for 2012 (thus being officially registered for a full year tenure prior to Jan 1, 2013). However, this was done very early in 2012 (Jan or Feb) and well before the new award forms were introduced in July which precludes any new volunteers from beginning the old training awards. Just letting you know that is the only workaround I've heard about in my council.

Dec 29, 2012 - kbsig106

@Yukon Jack - thank you for the insight and comments. Bummer... I signed up with my son at the August round up and paid my fee for the year and through 2013. I have such a great Den, 11 Tigers strong with over 90% retention and only one black bead away from their badge. Was hoping to mark the success with the nice looking tiger knot, looking nice next to my AL knot. My issue with the devices is I already have two in my Religious knot and now I could have as many as 4 more pushing in to my chest on a hike.. hah Thanks again, this is a great site.

Dec 30, 2012 - Yukon Jack

@ kbsig106. I agree with you completely about the devices being a comparatively horrible idea when the 6 cub leader knots already exist. Also, you'd only every get 3 devices int he DL knot. BSA seems to have overlooked that there is only a single cub scout device that covers wolf and bear DLs when used on this knot (I say overlooked because they designed a brand new tiger device with this adult award change, but forgot a bear device). The good news is you'll still get a new knot to go with your AoL and youth religious one next year. Also, look into your faith's adult religious award program. Shoot me any knot-related questions (jacksbusinessemail@yahoo.com) and good luck.

Jan 02, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ kbsig106. Also, if you dislike the devices like me, just don't wear them. The knots alone are enough. If I wore all my devices, I'd have 9 pins poking in my chest during hikes...which hurts. Frankly, the gold devices make a scouter look more cluttered than knots ever could. I don't wear my service stars for the same reason (or any pins at all on my field uniform). It helps make the shirts last longer and looks better to not wear pins. Not a big deal for a cub scout (maybe 3 years in the same shirt) but for we old scouters, years matter.

Jan 18, 2013 - Ron

For many years I was a Committee Chair and Member, and earned a Leader Training Award. Well more recently, I have been serving as an Assistant Scoutmaster and thought I would be eligible for another award (I think you are calling them devices) for that position shortly. However, with the new requirements it appears that is no longer possible. Is that correct?

Jan 18, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Ron. Assuming you were on a Troop Committee and are now an ASM, then you are correct, the Boy Scout Leader Training Award is all you would receive. You may receive another training award in the cub program, varsity program, venture program, sea scout program, or district committee, but you can only earn each one once. Sounds like you've got it for the boy scout program. Sorry.

Jan 19, 2013 - Erica N

For some leader awards, it says "be a registered leader"...we have double-duty leaders. If they are OFFICALLY registered as say a Committee Chair or other BUT they are also a Den Leader, can they still get a den leader award?

Jan 19, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Erica N. Short answer, no. Base unit leader training awards on what they are registered as. Granted, sometimes it takes paperwork a while to catch up, so if a person changes positions, I go ahead and start their new award form (if applicable) the day they begin their new position even if the registration doesn't clear for a few weeks. Again, only one registered position per unit (you can be, say a scoutmaster in a troop and a den leader in a pack at the same time) and unofficial double duty doesn't count.

Jan 22, 2013 - ASM

Personally, I think the knots awards program is just wrong. The failure to recogonize Asst. Scoutmasters for all the hard work they do is unacceptable. I can't be a Scoutmaster because the one we have won't leave (and he shouldn't, he's very good). But I likely will never have the opportunity to be the SM. Yet I work very hard and am very active as I used to be a Scout myself. I fulfill many of the requirements for other knots, but because I'm an ASSISTANT, I can't be awarded the knots. In fact our SM just received the Unit Leader Award of Merit, and I did most of the work. Not right. Assistant Scoutmasters should qualify for every knot the Scoutmaster can earn because we all work together to lead the program. If the knots are not going to be distributed fairly, then they shouldn't be distributed at all.

Jan 22, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ ASM. You are eligible for the Boy Scout Leader Training Award medal and the corresponding knot. The only ones the SM gan get that the ASM cannot are the Scoutmaster's Key and the UL AoM you mentioned. Nearly every religion has a medal (and corresponding adult religious square knot) that can be awarded regardless of registered position. And those are just the training awards and the UL AoM. There are literally dozens of other knot awards you can earn. Volunteer a couple of years at the district level and be eligible for the DAoM. Also think of this, if there weren't any awards for only the scoutmaster/cubmaster/etc, then there is no mark of recognition beyond any other leader, and that's not fair to that key leader in the unit either. I have never been a SM (ASM twice), yet I earned my Scouter's Key as a commissioner for three years. You can do it, find a way.

Jan 28, 2013 - Marc McFall

I would like to see you also list and show some of the old discontinued knots, such as the Silver Award from Exploring. I earned it as an Explorer, and proudly wear it. I'm sure there are other old knots from the 50's and 60's that can still be worn, but not earned.

Jan 28, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Marc. There are. The 'Universal Explorer Knot' was authorized in 1978 to be retroactive for several then-discontinued Explorer ranks and knots. The old awards are: Explorer Ace Award (1942-54), Explorer Ranger Award (1944-49), and the Explorer Silver I Award (1949-55). The knot discontinued knot shown on this page was originally the Explorer Silver II Award (1954-66) knot (it is now the universal knot and represents many Explorer awards after the Silver II). Additionally, the original Sea Explorer Quartermaster knot is also now obsolete but was directly replaced by the current Venturing Sea Scouts knot. The last two I'll mention are the Skipper's Key knot (1949 only) that now uses the generic Scouter's Key knot and the old Den Leader Coach knot that was all blue (1989-2008).

Jan 30, 2013 - Dan Deaver

It's too bad that so much emphasis is put solely on the Scoutmaster for recognition. In the Troops I know, the ASMs do just as much work. It's a team effort where they back each other and share the workload. I would recommend allowing the ASMs to achieve the Scouter Key. Unit Leader Award would be reserved for SM/CM.

Jan 31, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Dan. While I understand your point, you have to realize that the Scouter's Key and the ULAoM are different categories of awards. The former is a training award, the latter a meritorious service award for distinction. There are toher training awards available to ALL unit volunteers. Some are restricted FROM the unit's key leader. There is something for everyone here. If you want ALL the knots, try volunteering for many different positions over a lifetime of service. It'll work, I guarantee it (especially if you progress from den leader with your son thru his scouting career).

Feb 07, 2013 - Mark

I am currently SM in the troop and our past SM is now ASM. Can he be nominated for SM AoM? He stepped down about 1yr ago but fulfilled all requirements. The process to nominate him started prior to him stepping down but never was finished.

Feb 07, 2013 - Scouter Paul

Mark - Too bad someone didn't just finish the paperwork a year ago. That's often the reason someone is not recognized, scouts and scouters both, because the applications aren't done. I'd fill out the form and turn it in. The SPL needs to create a statement supporting the nomination but the current SPL wasn't SPL a year ago. So, I'd have both the past and present SPLs add a statement.

Feb 07, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Mark. To add my 2 cents, there is no BSA rule restricting awards from being back-processed at council level (some, like Eagle Scout, the Hornaday awards at National, and lifesaving medals have time limits to finish the paperwork). I recently processed a UL AoM for a past cubmaster (your situation minus the SPL requirement) and it was approved by council without question. I've even seen training awards approved years after service was concluded when all documentation was easily found (recipient was ex-military and kept meticulous records). I say do it, and the former SPL's letter is the most important in your situation. Good luck!

Feb 10, 2013 - Todd Cerny

Where can I purchase the rope patches I have completed?

Feb 11, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Todd. Any scout store, or scoutstuff.org. This goes or all patches. Some square knots require proof of receiving the award (lifesaving awards, eagle scout, silver beaver, etc), others are on your honor (all training award knots, religious award knots).

Feb 11, 2013 - Tiger Don

Recently I encountered a Female Scout leader wearing an arrow of light sash and patch. Is this an appropriate honor? I was under the impression that the arrow of light is only earned by WEBLOS.

Feb 11, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Tiger Don. There is no such thing as an Arrow of Light sash. There is an Order of the Arrow sash. If the sash you saw was a red arrow on a white sash (~2" wide), that is the OA, which adult female scouters can indeed be voted in by the youth members who know her under certain circumstances (the same circumstances for electing adult male scout leaders). Most adult male scouters in the OA were elected as youth and maintain their memberships. A AoL patch or knot would be inappropriate (if that's what it is and not an OA patch) for a female scouter.

Feb 21, 2013 - Marty

Would they ever consider having a knot for the basic "Order of the Arrow" and "Wood Badge"? It would be an incentive for youth and adults which might give them at least one knot on their uniform.

Feb 21, 2013 - Scouter Paul

Marty - There is already recognition for OA (a sash and pocket flap) and WB (woggle and neckerchief). There are also gifts and other trinkets that can be used as incentives - coins, knives, stuffed animals, patchs, ... There are lots of ways to get a knot on a uniform if that is what someone is looking for. You can buy one for a $1000 contribution. Youth have Religious Emblems, Arrow of Light, and Eagle - all with knot patches, but the Eagle knot is not worn until and adult.

Feb 23, 2013 - Sqyire21

Interesting question/point: Why are the Community Organization Award and the Unit Leader Award of Merit so similar. Both are Gold on Gold! BSA works hard to ensure none of these awards look the same, and it was pointed out to me today...there is almost no difference between these two knots. (I happen to wear one)

Feb 24, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Sqyrie21. Actually, they're not. The Community Organization knot is actually yellow/yellow ropes on a dark purple background with yellow border. There is no metallic thread anywhere on it. The UL AoM is gold/gold ropes on black background with gold border. Sadly, this page, as well as most square knot pages on the internet, have very poor quality images for this particular knot. Similarly, the William Spurgeon Award knot (not shown on this site) looks like the two you mentioned, but is on an olive green background that is often erroneously called black due to poor internet images as well. If you saw all three in person next to each other, you'd have no problem differentiating between them.

Feb 26, 2013 - MichaelM

If the hornaday is earned as a boyscout, can you where it as an venturer? Also, if you are involved in boy scouts and venturing concurrently, can you wear venturing awards on your boy scout class a? Then, can sea scouts earn venturing awards? And finnally, is this all of the knots out there, because i see a lot from time to time, and if so what are some examples? Great Site.

Feb 26, 2013 - Yukon Jack

Feb 28, 2013 - Dale

For the District Committee Key award,what knot is presented/worn upon completion?

Feb 28, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Dale. The District Committee Key used the knot for the Scouter's Key award (white/green ropes on khaki background with khaki border) with the committee device--a round gold pin with the tenderfoot insignia on it. Be careful, it is NOT the gold tenderfoot insignia device (for the boy scout program) nor is it the round device with the tenderfoot insignia encircled by a laurel wreath (for commissioner awards).

Mar 10, 2013 - Vic

Has the requirement of "being registered at time of incident" ever been waived when an adult scouter has been recommended for any of the Honor awards? If not, is there an appeal process with the National Court of Honor like exists for Eagle Scout Boards of Review?

Mar 11, 2013 - Justin

Does anyone know of a Scouting event that covers the requirement for the Cub Scout Leader's Key? As in, what activity is the equivalent of a pow wow or University of Scouting? I have a Cub leader in a pack I'm commissioner for and he has completed everything for the Cub Leader Key, except for the Pow Wow/University of Scouting or Attend Roundtables, because of other committments. I am just trying my best to help, as he put in 3 1/2 years as Cubmaster and has completed the requirements, except this one. Thank you!

Mar 11, 2013 - Scouter Paul

Vic - The recognitions are for BSA members, not for the general population. If a recommendation for an award was submitted and rejected, the submitter could certainly contact the local or national BSA council with questions s/he might have.

Mar 11, 2013 - Justin

One more question! Is there a time limit on the Scouter's Key and Scouter's Training Award? Also, is there a time limit on the ULAoM? My old SM started a troop in 1992, and was SM for 10 or 12 years. He completed WB and a ton of other training. He was eligible for all of this, but the committee chair never turned any of the paperwork in like she was supposed to. I was a youth at the time, but just found this out. He is now serving as the Charter Rep for the same troop. Just wanted to see if it was too late to recognize him. I can get letters from at least 10 of his Eagles if that helps.

Mar 11, 2013 - Scouter Paul

Justin - The (or equivalent) part allows other scouter training and interaction events that might not be called University of Scouting or Roundtables. If your district has roundtables, or your council holds University of Scouting each year, then that is where the Cubmaster should participate. The idea is for the unit leader to put in effort to meet, interact with, and learn from other scouters from other units in the community, every year while serving in his role. If he's not attended any of these events over the years as Cubmaster, then he's not completed the requirements for the recognition.

Mar 11, 2013 - Michelle

Question about the NESA Life members' knot patch. Are Boy Scouts allowed to wear this new knot on their uniform, or is it strictly for adult members? I have two current Eagle Scouts. Also, we paid for the lifetime membership when our oldest son earned Eagle in December 2011. He did not receive a lapel pin, just the certificate and card. My middle son earned Eagle December 2012. We paid for his lifetime membership, and his certificate, card and lapel pin arrived today. Was my oldest supposed to receive a pin, too? Who do I need to contact about that? Thanks!

Mar 12, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Michelle. All rank knots (AoL, Eagle, NESA life Eagle, Venture Silver, Quartermaster) are for adult uniform wear only. Adult is defined as 18+ in cubs, boy scouts, and varsity and 21+ in venturing, sea scouts, and explorers.

Mar 16, 2013 - Christine

I just have a comment on those devices. First of all they are too tiny for some of us to even read what they say! Second of all, I don't like them at all since you have to remove them every time to wash the uniforms whereas the knots and emblems/patches can just go right in the laundry no problem! And there is always the danger of losing the backers while wearing them as well. I can't tell you how many meetings where we waste time looking for those things (I also noticed that scoutstuff.org just came out with a pkg of backs to sell). I enjoy giving these awards, but if people find them inconvenient they will not wear them. Just my opinion.

Mar 16, 2013 - Christine

By the way, are you allowed to back date forms and apply for these things for past years? My husband and I restarted a defunct Cub Pack and are now in Boy Scouts and we'd never even heard of this stuff and there was no one to guide us. This is a great site that I wish I had discovered long ago.

Mar 16, 2013 - Scouter Paul

Christine - Typically people complete the recognition requirements, receive the recognition, then move on to other things. Completing paperwork now for a role done years ago, so a patch can be worn, seems like extra work to me, but there is no time limit of which I am aware. You could complete the forms, turn them in, and see what happens. Or, contact your district training chair or district executive and find out what the local feeling is on this, since they're the ones that would push it through or let it wait.

Mar 22, 2013 - Droz

Any info on when the Commissioner and PTC knots are being retired? Thanks!

Mar 23, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Droz. At present, that is still largely a rumor, but one that will likely come true. Given that the cub leader awards were announced for cancellation in Fall 2011 and a few are still active until the end of 2013, once the announcement comes, they will still stay in the inventory for a while at least. Most rumors right now are saying 2014 but nothing on any official BSA site or bulletin board or memo has even hinted at it.

Mar 24, 2013 - Tim

If it is the Distinguished Commissioner knot, what would be the replacement? The other retired knots were not eliminated they were consolidated with knot devices. The Commissioner - Unit Service Award was introduced summer 11 and takes two years to earn and is soon to be retired? It seems kind of disingenuous to introduce an award then retire it very shortly after the first few were able to earn it. That does not make me very confident in our direction. Sure, this is just a knot issue, but under it all this shows a lack of cohesion. Either way there are much more important things that they should be concerning themselves with.

Mar 25, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Tim. You are absolutely correct. The problem is that many committees at BSA National wanted to make square knots, and no one crosstalked or verified anything with the insignia department. The result is about 10-12 new knots in the last 10 years. In Fall 2011, scouters complained that uniforms looked 'cluttered' with too many square knots (never anyone mind that several had already been retired, many were very rare, and so few people earned more than a dozen that the 'clutter' was rare indeed and normally showed a lifelong scouter). The result was the nixing of the cub leader specific knots and the resultant rumor/plan/theory of several more getting cancelled. Both commissioner-specific knots may get cut, or the newest one get consolidated into the old. The PTC knot may also get cut, but remember, all of this is still rumor. Don't believe internet posters unless thet can show a link to a reliable source (i.e. a BSA National press statement on Scouting.org). Good luck.

Mar 27, 2013 - jon mathrole

Is it okay to still wear my arrow award, since it is no longer given. Thanks from an old timer

Mar 28, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Jon. Which arrow award? The Commissioner's Arrowhead is still awarded (not a knot), the Arrow of Light is still awarded (adults wear the knot, not the rank patch), and the Order of the Arrow still wears its sashes (also not knots). Any OA pocket devices (also not knots) can be worn though all but two of them (Founder's Award and standard OA membership) are no longer awarded. Lastly, the OA Distinguished Service award medal has an arrowhead and is still awarded (knot as well) and can be worn. Any particular knot patch you are thinking of that could be considered an 'arrow award'? I'm at a loss for what award you are talking about specifically.

Mar 30, 2013 - Yukon Jack

ALL As I stated before, I do not subscribe to rumors and always want an official statement/notification from BSA National before I accept rumor as fact. Here it is. According to Scouting.org (www.scouting.org/About/FactSheets/Lifesaving_Action.aspx) the Medal for Heroism was DISCONTINUED on Dec. 31st, 2012 after 6,077 awards from 1923-2012. I found this as I always download the BSA Fact Sheet on the lifesaving and meritorious action awards when it is published each year (Feb/Mar or so) for my research project on Honor Medal recipients. I have not confirmed this from any other OFFICIAL source, but this is from the proper BSA website. I hope this is not true, but it seems reliably to be A piece of BSA valor is no more.

Mar 30, 2013 - Yukon Jack

I just noticed, and while this doesn't change the implications of a discontinued Medal for Heroism, the 2012 fact sheet has two mistakes. When compared to the 2011 fact sheet, the MH total awards should read 3,506, an increase of 155 from the 3,351 in 2011. Where 6,077 came from I have no idea. www.scouting.org/Media/MediaKit/Awards.aspx shows the right numbers, but fails to mention the discontinuance. Also, the 2012 Hornaday Award totals should be more akin to 6,800 with an increase from the 6,600 last year. Where 4,433 came from is also a mystery. The other tallys are correct as I cross-refrenced them.

Mar 30, 2013 - Yukon Jack

Another official source on the recent topic: blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2013/01/23/holding-out-for-a-hero-how-the-bsa-honors-lifesavers/ Yes, its a blog, but the editor's blog for Scouting Magazine, which is more official than most things out there in internetland. ;)

Apr 04, 2013 - AUScout

It looks like the requirements for the Boy Scout Leader's Training Award changed sometime. I was working on this and I'm coming up on my 2 year tenure as an ASM so I was trying to complete the last requirements. Can I still complete this using the old requirements?

Apr 04, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ AUScout. Yes. The Scouter's Training Award (STA) requirements for most of its variants changed the same time (June 2012) as the sweeping change in the cub leader awards. The Scouter's Key (SK) award requirements for most variants also changed. A couple did not, but the boy scout and venture scout ones definately did. As with any phaseout/requirement change, you can finish the old award you were working on provided you (a) started before the change was announced (again, June 2012) and will finish before a set deadline (for example, Dec 31, 2012 for the old Webelos DL Award). I am not aware of any such deadline for the STA or SK as their insignia and awars did not change, only the requirements. Fortuniately for you, the STA medal, device, and knot did not change so you will lose nothing by way of insignia like the cub leaders lost with these changes.

Apr 04, 2013 - Yukon Jack

...of course AUScout, don't forget the rules of tenure. Even if you did have to use the new form, your tenure from the past two years will still count, as did anything you completed for the new requirements in that time, because you didn;'t use that tenure for 'another key or award'. Either way and either form, congrats on your upcoming award. Well earned.

Apr 09, 2013 - ND Scouter

So with the old system, you got a knot for Cub Scouter , and one for Boy Scout Leader. Now it's the Scouters Key Training award, once you get the cub Scout, you don't get recognition for serving in Boy Scouts, or you get a second identical knot?

Apr 10, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ ND Scouter. You do not get/wear a second knot. You wear two gold device pins on the knot...one for the cub program and one for the boy scout program. Also, the Scouter's Key is different (white/green ropes) from the Scouter's Training Award (green/green ropes). Only a cubmaster, scoutmaster, varsity coach, crew advisor, or skipper can earn the key in a unit. ALL adult leaders can earn the STA.

Apr 10, 2013 - DRL

In previous years, I earned four knots, all of which have ben discontinued and replaced by other knots. I currently wear the Tiger Den Leader Award and Webelos Den Leader Award (Both consolidated with the Den Leader Award), the Cubmaster Award (replaced by the Scouters Key Award) and the Cub Scouter Award (replaced by the Scout Leader's Training Award). Should I remove the four old, discontinued knots and replace them with the three new knots?

Apr 10, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ DRL. This is the confucion. You can choose. However, bear this in mind before you do (and yes, a lot of my opinion comes through). The CM Key is NOT the same award as the CMTA. The Cub Scouter Award is NOT the same as the STA. The WDLA and TDLA are the next generation of the DLTA. With that in mind, you still can replace your old 4 knots with the new 3. I would advise against it for two reasons. (1) BSA says you can earn the new awards in addition to the old. This implies wearing both once you do. (2) The requirements are very different (3 vs 2 years for the cumbaster awards). Of course, in the same breath, the BSA says you can swap them out if you want and use devices (you'd wear 4 pins on 3 knots if you did). It's very confusing and poorly done. I too have 6 of the 7 old cub leader knots (all but Cubmaster Award). I bought about 4 of each before they're out of stock and will wear what I earned...not the training awards I didn't earn. That's how I feel about it.

Apr 11, 2013 - Hunz

Help me out here please. Where you say "the BSA says you can swap them out if you want..." I respect your opinion above but I actually do want to swap out knots. Trouble is, I have other Scouters in my area telling me I can't do this. Can you direct me to the source so I can defend my decision? Thanks.

Apr 11, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Hunz. Check the Spring 2012 commissioner announcements page on Scouting.org. This site updates each quarter with training information and other data. The initial announcement that the cub knots were being consolidated was Fall 2011 with the decision coming in Summer 2012. It explains the 'consolidate your old awards as new knots and don't earn the new awards' option or the 'wear the old knots and earn the new ones' option.

Apr 12, 2013 - Hunz

Okay, I would like to try to clear this up based on what I just read. You should read the newsletters and form your own opinion. I can't find the initial announcement in Fall 2012, but I do find theses references in the Spring 2012 edition "The Training Times" on scouting.org: "Scouters who have earned the awards previously will still be able to wear the OLD KNOTS as long as they are available." "Scouters who have begun work on the awards using the previous requirements will be able to finish with the old requirements, or can choose to use the new ones." However, the second quote refers to the the awards that have NOT been discontinued, but rather the ones where the requirements have changed. Nowhere can I find any verbiage that indicates that you are allowed to consolidate your old knots into the new ones. I'm forced to the conclusion that if you have completed the requirements for the OLD Cub Scout Awards, you are only allowed to wear the OLD knots if you can get them.

Apr 12, 2013 - Yukon Jack

Cool. I like your interpretation better. My council interpreted the announcement to mean either way was acceptable though many of us old timers advocated against it. I like the concise way you put it. Thanks.

Apr 22, 2013 - monty

Why is there no knot for the National Certificate of Merit? My son received one for performing the Heimlich on his brother; pretty significant I would say! Yet there is not one thing that he can put on his uniform to indicate his award. I understand there might not be enough recipients to make such a knot, but there are not a lot of recipients for a reason; it is a hard award to get. Thoughts? Opinions?

Apr 22, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Monty. You are right to a degree, it is a hard award to get. But look at the big picture, there's also not a knot for the Council Certificate of Merit. When it comes to heroism and/or meritorious action, there are knots/medals for the HMCP, HM, and Heroism Medal, and MoM. There has to be a cutoff somewhere. Most likely, it is here as the BSA, back to 1911, used certificates and not insignia to recognize lesser acts of heroism. Similarly, look at the Hornaday awards (there are 7 different ones). In 2012, only 216 Hornaday awards were presented (all three medals, two badges, and two certificates). Substantial and rare too, right? Yet the badge recipients get no knot and the certificate reipient groups get no insignia either. Not all awards have insignia, no matter how rare. If they did, why have certificates at all if everyone gets a patch? There'd be no cutoff between acts (heroism/merit/conservation/etc) of different degrees of significance. Hope it helps.

Apr 27, 2013 - John Mount

It is considered "in bad taste" to load your left pocket with knots clear up to your shoulder seam. Still, there are those who do it. If you work in any official capacity (i.e. Scout Summer Camp Merit Badge Instructor) the Council may dictate how many you can wear. UNPC suggests no more than 6. I have 12 and have earned bore but refused to wear them so I don't look too ostentatious. Remember, this program is FOR THE BOYS, not for us.

Apr 29, 2013 - Aaron O.

@John Mount I couldn't possibly agree with you more. I remember my first summer camp as an adult a couple of years ago and standing in line at the dining hall behind a gentleman with General's equivilant of knots/awards on his uniform. I asked him what they were all for and I heard over and over, "I did this..." and "I did that..." All I could think about was, "What about the boys?!? Are they inspired or demoralized by your bravado?" Glad I'm not alone.

Apr 30, 2013 - Yukon Jack

I respect y'all's opinion on this, but please remember a few things. That gentlemen wasn't showing 'bravado'. He never said a word until you asked. Two, I've worked with thousands of boys and many never notice, and the few that do are inspired, as you would say. Many have said to me they want to be adult scouters now that they know the appreciation doesn't stop. Three, while I agree that too many can look strange, remember that a scouter's knots are his resume (just like a soldier's ribbons). I can't count all the times a quick glance at a scouter's knots let me know their experience and who to go to for advice. Four, 6 is way to low a 'limit'. I knew a scouter (6 years or so) a few years back who had no knots but qualified for 7. When he got them, everyone (youth and adult) were proud of him and his son even exclaimed that he didn't know his dad was such an avid scout (same son who saw him in scouts for 6 years). All were inspired and he's since earned more knots...

Apr 30, 2013 - Yukon Jack

... Five, how many of those sentences that began with "I did this) ended with "for the boys" or "with the boys"? Most knots are designed so you don't earn them if you're not a good scouter and don't do good for the kids. Six, every scouter I've ever known with "too many" knots normally has his time in service measured in decades, not years. If you see a "general's equivalent of knots" then he's probably done a general's equivalent of service and led a general's equivalent of youth. You shouldn't judge. And before anyone asks, I wear a maximum of 15 on my 'court of honor' uniform, 9 on my field uniforms (different for cubs, boy scout, council), 1 on my camping 'dirt' uniform, and have earned 19. The most I've ever known someone to have is 26; he wore 18 and it didn't look to be in poor taste at all (the guy was built like a gorilla) and had more years in scouting then most of us have alive. Good luck in our scouting venture, and I'm sure you too will have many knots before long.

May 01, 2013 - LDH

I recieved the Silver Wreath award from NESA in 1978; is it still awarded? Thanks.

May 03, 2013 - Yukon Jack

Interesting question. I've found records of it still being awarded as recently as 1992, but the NESA website makes no mention of the Silver Wreath Award being still awarded. There is no unique knot or device I can find to represent it, but still congratulations on such a rare achievement!

May 10, 2013 - Phoenix

Does anyone know why and when the knot for Heroism was retired? Does a recipient of the medal for heroism wear the Honor Medal square knot? I'm baffled that BSA would retire a knot for saving someone else's life using skills developed as a Scout.

May 10, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Phoenix. Read the above posts, they detail very clearly when it was retired. No, you do not start wearing the Honor Medal knot. BSA uniforms and insignia never 'expire' so you can buy and wear the Heroism Knot forever...as long as they're available. Once you have none, there is no longer a patch to show that award. Simple as that. Especially in this case, where the knot and medal and overall award were all retired at once, so its not like there will be future award recipients that get no knot...the whole shebang is gone now.

May 15, 2013 - Robert

May 27, 2013 - Jack Atteberry

Being memorial Day I have a question . Is there a knot for Veteran's of Foreign Wars to acknowledge those leaders on there uniforms that they were Veteran of Foreign Wars. If not where would a person go to see about adding this knot to our leaders who served?

May 27, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Jack A. Sort of. There is not a knot to acknowledge military service (any more than there is a knot to recognize doctors, or cops, or firemen, or lawyers...). Nor will there be, BSA knots are to recognize BSA service or ranks, not outside professions. However, there is a knot-the Community Organization Award knot-that can be earned by VFW scouters who earn the "VFW Scouter's Achievement Award". This is the same knot earned by any of 18 awards given by non-BSA organizations for service to the BSA and is a BSA knot for a non-BSA award. A bit confusing, but it works. I do not know if the VFW awards this to all eligible VFW scouters, or has a limited annual quota (I am not a VFW member), but your local post should be able to help you out. Good luck.

May 30, 2013 - FinalStu

Question on the new knots. I've earned my Cubmaster Award an by the time I leave the pack will have met the requirements for the new Cubmaster's Key. Can I earn both knots and if I do, can I wear both at the same time?

May 31, 2013 - Scouter Paul

@FinalStu - You can wear any knot for which you've completed all the requirements and received the patch. If it's important to you to wear both knots, then you may. In my opinion, in this case, it would signify that you've been a Cubmaster or Asst. Cubmaster for 5 years since counting the same tenure for both awards doesn't seem correct.

Jul 08, 2013 - Medic Ken

There are several knots that I have earned in the past, but didn't know about until recently. Can I still get those knots or is there a time limit? Thank you

Jul 08, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Ken. Short answer, yes, you can still get them. It may be tricky, if you can't prove all the requirements were done-especially for knot awards that are now cancelled. I myself have processed cub scout leader awards 7-8 years after the fact with ample proof (this was before they cancelled most of them). I even had someone look out for me and process my Den Leader Coach Award nearly 10 years after I earned it (had no idea about it at the time) and 5 years after it was cancelled. It was tricky getting the knot patches, but he did it for me. The key is that the requirements were completed before the knot was discontinued. Good luck.

Jul 21, 2013 - Scouter D

I heard there was a knot for former GSA Gold/First Class recipients is that true and can it be worn on the BSA adult uniform?

Jul 21, 2013 - Yukon Jack

Oct 01, 2013 - Marc McFall

I earned the Exploring Silver Award in 1974 with Post 29 in Seymour, Indiana. I have my National Office letter, medal, and the records at the Bloomington, Indiana Council office in the Post file. I even have a letter from the National Office Exploring Executive when they finally sent my medal to me, (The supply division was temporarily out at the time I earned it). The confusion comes when I wear the knott. Some say the award was discontinued before 1974. If so, how was I awarded the rank? I got my Eagle in 1972, and transfered to Post 29 and started working on the award then. Was I the last to earn it?

Oct 01, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Marc McFall. The old Explorer awards program can be tricky as it is filled with variety and history. Your confusion is warranted, as the Explorer Silver I award was only available from 1949-55, and it's replacement, the Explorer Silver II, from 1954-66. There was no official Explorer Silver program from 1967-1980...however, all programs were allowed to continue until stock was gone. No master records exist, so no one will ever be able to say for a fact that you were the last person to receive the medal and knot, but you seem to have ample proof that it was awarded. You certainly are the only person I've ever heard of earning that award in the 1970s.

Oct 04, 2013 - Jim

Commissioner Award for Excellence in Unit Service. Does anyone know if there is a certificate for this award available? I was able to find the knot.

Oct 04, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Jim. Your local council can make a certificate for this award if they please. Like the distinguished commissioner award, it is controlled at the council level. My council couldn't afford the plaque for my first DCA, so they made a certificate to go with the knot...I believe this would be similar as I have seen nothing on ScoutStuff listing any product but the knot for sale.

Oct 09, 2013 - Neil Selmer

Are Assistant Den and Webelo Leaders eligible to ear the Leader's knots?

Oct 10, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Neil. Yes. All DLs can earn the new DL knot and the Cub Scouter Training Award and knot.

Oct 29, 2013 - Wes

I've recently agreed to become the District Chairman after being out of scouting for a decade. Having raised three boys, I've been in every position from Tiger Cub Coach to Scoutmaster (times 3!!), and have a dozen square knots, many of which are discontinued. With the recent revisions to the square knots, is it all right to wear the Unit Leader Award of Merit knot, with the appropriate devices, instead of the older knots? I understand the new requirements are different than the older ones. But if the intention is to remove clutter rom the uniforms, this would work. I just haven't been able to find a definitive answer. It's as if no one wants to address such a question for us old-timers coming back around. I have to admit that my shirt is quite colorful with all the older knots attached, and frequently invokes questions from parents, boys, and other Scouters - especially since so many of the knots have been discontinued.

Oct 29, 2013 - Yukon Jack

@ Wes. No. The ULAoM is a different award from the Scoutmaster AoM. Also, given that the ULAoM and the SAoM would be 1 knot in either case, switching them out would do zilch at 'reducing chest clutter'. And assuming you have a bundle of training awards as well (different category from an AoM), see the above discussion about just swapping them out. To paraphrase, some councils "advise" it, but they are distinctly different awards (i.e. the Cubmaster's Key is not the same as the retired Cubmaster's Training Award) and should not be swapped out. Of course, you have discovered what most of us old timers know. The older knots invoke questions and curiosity which can lead to great discussions and inspiration. I'd say stick with what you've got, and the recently retired ones aren't that old that they're not still available in some scout stores if you need to fix up a new uniform. Good luck.

Jan 02, 2014 - Jodi

With the Cub knots, if a Den is sponsored by a school and only does activities during the school year, would the 9-ish months of the school year be considered a year of tenure? I was a den leader for an entire school year, but moved in the summer after that so was not technically there for an entire calendar year, more like 10-11 months, yet the cubmaster later mailed me a knot and I did meet all other requirements. Is this inappropriate & should I not be wearing it (I'm now involved, where I moved, as a MB counselor, not in Cubs)?

Jan 02, 2014 - Yukon Jack

@ Jodi. The requirement says be REGISTERED for a year, not active. The rest of the requirements for the old cub scout leader knots hint at a 9 month program (requirements like 'host den meetings for your den for 9 months). If you were active for 10-11 months but registered for 12, you're fine. This really doesn't matter much anymore, as it's 2014 now and the last hints of the old cub leader knot system are gone as of two days ago. Now, only one knot is one year, the rest are two or more, so a bit more longevity is required. Good luck.

Jan 19, 2014 - Bill

What a great reference site! Thank you so much for making this available to everyone. I think it's sad that the BSA has retired or consolidated a great many square knots that the average den leader or scouter can earn while so many of the council level service awards remain intact. I would love to individually recognize my Tiger Den Leader with a different knot than my Webelos Den Leader. It's just a nice token of appreciation for all the time and effort they contribute to the pack. Is that too much to ask of the BSA? Oh, well, maybe they will all go on to earn their William T. Hornaday or Doctorate of Commissioner Science or Distinguished Commissioner Service Award ribbons some day. Thanks for letting me vent...

Feb 01, 2014 - Nick T.

I only have 1 more year till I earn the Commissioner Key, with all the rest of the requirements finished. I already have the Arrowhead Award and the Trained. My district commissioner states soon it be the green and green knot to hand out. I like the green n white knot. Is there any truth to this.

Feb 02, 2014 - Yukon Jack

@ Nick T. Your district commissioner is incorrect. ALL key awards are the green/white ropes. The green/green ropes is the Scouter's Training Award (which roundtable commissioners may indeed earn...separately from the commissioner's key). If you put in 3 years and did the key requirements, you will get the green/white knot. There are A LOT of knot changes happening, some real, most rumored. What you were told most likely stemmed from a misunderstanding of these changes. If what you described ever did occur, as you were already 2/3 done with your key, you would be grandfathered in under the old (current) system. Another RUMORED commissioner knot change is that the Distinguished Commissioner Award and the Commissioner Award of Excellence in Unit Service will be either both retired, merged, or some other change. At present, 100% rumor. If it came true, this still would not effect your Commissioner's Key. Out of curiosity, which Commissioner's Key are you doing...unit, roundtable, etc?

Feb 03, 2014 - Fil Hudson

I have sent a request to the head council. But it would be nice to have a knot for life guard and wood badge. Does anyone know how to persue this to get done or at least talked about.

Feb 03, 2014 - Yukon Jack

@ Fil. Requests for new square knots go through the National Council. However, if you follow this thread for the last couple of years, the current trend is for National to GET RID of knots, not add more. From 2000-2012 they added something like 12-14 new knots and the 2011 push to 'reduce chest clutter' has already started cutting knots....starting with 5 cub leader knots, the Heroism Award, the Scoutmaster Award of Merit...who knows what's next. Lifeguard is already a qualification patch, and Wood Badge has the beads originating from B-Ps first 1919 course. With Wood Badge especially, don't expect to see any insignia that is not internationally used, and the BSA's square knots are not international. With the two examples oyu named, there is already ample recognition.

Feb 08, 2014 - Alan Slusser

In 1998,I earned my Doctorate if Commissioner Science Degree,do I have to meet the new requirements for the new knot that was phased out in January of 2014,since I believe I met the requirements for the knot under the Grandfather clause. This site is excellentand thanks from a veteran of 44+ years of consecutive service. Your's in Scouting,Alan Slusser

Feb 08, 2014 - Yukon Jack

@ Alan. No, old Doctorate holders are grandfathered in. And what is your source that the knot was phased out? I've heard this rumor before, but only once and no one can point to anything concrete issued by National.

Feb 14, 2014 - Ray VanBuren

I am disappointed that there aren't more(read only one) Square Knot Awards for Assistant Scoutmasters.

Feb 14, 2014 - joe wilson

question if you have more then one religious award can you wear more then one knot

Feb 14, 2014 - Scouter Paul

@joe - You should wear just one of a particular knot, even if you've earned it multiple times.

Feb 15, 2014 - Yukon Jack

@ joe wilson. If you look at my post back on Nov. 26th, 2012, the issue of wearing two of the same knot is addressed as there is ONE time in BSA history it can be done. The excerpt is as follows: "The one time that two of the same knot can be worn is the current (***update, this knot is now discontinued***) blue/gold knot that represents the Cub Scouter Award (CSA). This knot used to be the Den Leader Coach Award (DLCA) from 1975-88. In 1989, a new knot (blue on blue ropes, blue background, blue border...as blue as the Webelos DL Award is yellow and not pictured on this website) was made for the DLCA and the old knot accidentally became the CSA. BSA acknowledged their mistake, and scouters who earned the DLCA from '75-'88 and the CSA from '89-2013 can wear the same knot twice (or could exchange the first one for the 'newer' all blue knot)."

Feb 18, 2014 - Tim Beecher

I am curious as to what qualifies as a "additional supplemental or advanced training event at the council, area, region or national level" when applying for the Scouter's Training Award??

Feb 18, 2014 - Yukon Jack

@ Tim. Attending a University of Scouting event, a day of training, BALOO (cub leaders), OWL (cub leaders), IOLS (boy/varsity leaders), Wood Badge, Powderhorn (venture leaders), Seabadge (sea scout leaders), College of Commissioner Science, National Camping School, Philmont...I've even known some councils to accept taking an NRA instructor class (NRA instructors are co-recognized by the BSA as rifle/shotgun instructors) or a CPR class hosted by the council for this requirement. There's really no limit...if its an in-person training offered by your council it probably counts.

Feb 19, 2014 - JIm Costello

I've been honored with various Scouter awards over some 55 years of service to youth represented in part by the 21 square knots that are on my uniforms. I find that one can carefully trim away the excess material of the knots and then sew the knots together into a patchwork quilt first. Then sew the entire "quilt" to your shirt. The result looks very professional and neat. It does not look at all "cluttered." YIS, Jim Costello, Council Past President & Assistant Council Commissioner, Southern Shores FSC, Ann Arbor/Kalamazoo, MI

Apr 28, 2014 - Joe

I had a question about the Venturing Silver Award. I know that the Eagle scout knot cannot be worn until they become an adult, is this the same for the Venturing Silver? I know Venturing kind of an enigma because awards come in different forms. Just looking to get everyones opinion on this because nothing can really be found online. Thanks!

Apr 29, 2014 - Scouter Paul

@Joe - The Venturing Silver Award knot patch is worn by youth and adults.

May 09, 2014 - Maggie Watkins

Has the BSA ever considered creating a knot for Venture scouts that have completed and received their Girl Scout Gold award?

May 09, 2014 - Scouter Paul

@Maggie - Since it's not a BSA accomplishment, I don't expect the BSA to have a recognition for it. Square knots are typically worn by adults rather than youth, with only a few exceptions such as Venturing Silver and Arrow of Light.

May 12, 2014 - Joe

@Maggie @Scouter Paul National Suppy does sell a Exploring bar at ScoutStuff.org sells an Explorer recognition award for young adults who have earned the BSA Eagle or GSUSA Gold award. It can be seen here: www.scoutstuff.org/rib-es-gold-awd-bar.html. I read this as a form of acknowledgement that BSA is glad to recognize young ladies for their accomplishment. There are also unoffical knots made that are a light green with the knot and boarder made of gold mylar.

May 14, 2014 - Yukon Jack

@ Maggie & Joe. All true, but I caution anyone about wearing non-BSA knots. There are 2 kinds of approved knots for wear: BSA nationally authorized and locally authorized. The latter must be approved by BSA national. The Girl Scout Gold Award (green and gold described above) is not authorized. There was a brief time when the American Heritage Girls' top award was considered for a knot, but since the BSA/AHG broke ties in May 2013, that will never happen. Bottom line: don't wear non-authorized knots.

May 14, 2014 - Joe

So just go with the red, white and blue bar to represent the GS Gold award since it is already being producted by the NDC.

Jun 08, 2014 - Tom

I have been a den leader for the past three years and have received the Den Leader Training Award and am working on the Scout Leader's Training Award. I have agreed to take over as Committee Chair and I'm not clear if I can continue working on it. Is the Committee Chair considered an adult "Leader"? And the form requires the signature of the Committee Chair.

Jun 09, 2014 - Joe

@Tom You still would be working for the Scouting Training for Cub Scouts. It's a general Award for Cub Scouts and is not position specific so the progress you've already done would count toward it. You would also still be considered an adult leader even though you don't directly work with youth. Because you are the committee chair you could either get a signature from the Cub Master or your district trainer or commissioner.

Jun 11, 2014 - chris

my husband achieved life in scouting in 1983. what patch is he allowed to wear on his ass't scout master uniform?

Jun 11, 2014 - Scouter Paul

@chris - Adults do not wear youth rank patches.

Jun 11, 2014 - Joe

@Chris Scouter Paul is right, unfortunately for your husband there is nothing for Life scout as the BSA only makes patches for the highest; and even then some are not represented. The only awards that you earn as a youth that are worn as an adult are: Arrow of Light, Youth Religious Awards, Eagle Scout, and Venturing Silver. There are also some awards that both youth and adults can earn like the Hornaday. One of Scouters biggest regrets is not earning the rank of Eagle, they may have done a lot of work in scouts as a youth but if they didn't earn Eagle there's nothing to show for it.

Jun 20, 2014 - Dan Talpas

I have been an assistant scoutmaster for two years and I have been struggling to get my scouter's training award. I know I did some requirements and the progress record sheet, but I am not sure if my leader knows about them. What should I do? Should I fill out the progress sheet or not? How do you convince other adults at any level to nominate you do get other awards you know you completed requirements for anything? What should I do?

Jun 20, 2014 - Joe

@Dan Talpas You should be keeping record of your progess for awards like the Scouter's Training Award yourself. You collect signatures from the appropriate people; they will not be doing it for you. If you passed something off and they don't know about it, go talk to them and they can sign it off for you; the BSA mostly goes with the honor system but I'd still quiz them to see what they have done. On nomination only awards, you don't ask or try to convince anyone to nominate you. They are gifts and not really awards; given for hard work and dedication to the level of the award.

Jun 22, 2014 - Dan Talpas

I became scoutmaster somewhere between January and February of 2012. When did the new requirements for the scouter's award changed ?Do I have to follow the old or new requirements for the scouter's training award?

Jun 24, 2014 - Joe

@Dan Talpas They got updated Summer of 2012. Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, and Venturing awards, knots, and devices were not been changed. Only the requirements have been updated. Leaders who have started to earn these awards may use either set of requirements, but Scouters who have not started to work on an award may only use the new requirements. The training awards and keys are designed to recognize unit Scouters for tenure, basic and continuing training, and successful performance in their leadership role. Progress record forms with the new requirements for these awards can be found at www.Scouting.org/training

Jul 16, 2014 - Paul Nichols

My son received the President's Volunteer Service award for spending over 500 hours volunteering in the community. He also received recognition from Federal, State, and County leaders. This was all tied into the Prudential Spirit of Community Award. I have been told that he can wear the President Volunteer Service pin on his uniform but I can't find any regulation that says he can. After going through this website, I get the feeling that he can't wear it but probably there is specific BSA recognition for his volunteer work. Either the Medal of Merit or Community Organization Award. You can find info on his achievement here: spirit.prudential.com/view/page/soc/307?lp=306&reqid=3984 The two questions are; Can he wear the Presidential pin or should receive BSA specific recognition? Or should his volunteer work be thought of as separate from the Boy Scouts?

Jul 18, 2014 - Scouter Paul

@Paul - Since it is a non-BSA award, it should not be worn on the BSA uniform. You could seek additional recognition through the Medal of Merit path. The Community Organization award is for adult volunteers.

Jul 18, 2014 - Paul Nichols

Thank you for your help.

Aug 13, 2014 - Dan Talpas

I to got the presidential volunteers award for volunteering for 100 hours under my old high school's SITES program where we learn about the community itself and why society is important in the classroom and go out to do community service. I received it two yeas ago, but I thought that it wouldn't count for the community organization award. I received it when I graduated from the high school at the age of 18 as an adult leader. I still have the congratulatory letter. Will the presidential volunteers award count for the community organization award?

Aug 14, 2014 - Joe

@ Dan Talpas Hello Dan, unfortunately it would not. The Community Organization Award/Knot is worn to represent an award given through community groups such as the Masons or Elks. You can find a list of recognized awards at scouting.org here: www.scouting.org/scoutsource/Membership/ Recognitions/CommunityOrganizationAward.aspx You would receive the award, along with the knot and a device repesenting the award for the knot. Hope that clears things up for you.

Aug 16, 2014 - Dan Talpas

When you apply for the James e west fellowship and pay $1000 is there more that goes with it? Do you need to join the 1910 circle, heritage society, or any other organization to seal your fellowship? For payment I know it has to be in cash, but can you pay in marketing securities like checks, debit cards, etc? Can you make the contribution anytime or in a certain payment period?

Aug 18, 2014 - Joe

@ Dan Talpas It would imagine that it would vary from Council to Council. In the Council that I am in once a year they hold a James E West banquet dinner. You receive a plaque/certificate, your name on the wall of the council and of course the knot (which only represents the award and is not the actual award). There are different levels of the James E West dependant upon how much to donate to your Council's fund. 1910 society for example is $25,000 or more. You can find more information here: www.scouting.org/filestore/financeimpact/pdf/ MajorGiftRecognitionPrograms.pdf In our Council I know you don't even need to make your donation all up front and can pay it over 4 years. All payment types are accepted. Hope that helps you out!

Aug 19, 2014 - Jeff

I had a question about the Religious knots. I just mentored my son for 5 weeks, and we both completed our God & Me workbooks together. He completed the Student one, and I completed the Mentor one. Our Pastor each week reviewed our work, and has approved our completions of our workbooks. I understand that my son qualifies for the Religous knot (sliver knot on purple), do I qualify for an adult knot, is there such an award? I am a little confused, as I was told by my Pack that I did, but cannot find one. Thanks for your help

Aug 20, 2014 - Joe

@Jeff The God and Me program encompasses a couple different religions. All have the youth awards but all have different adult religious awards if they have one at all. So the question is what religion are you going through?

Aug 20, 2014 - Jeff

@ Joe - Methodist (Protestant). I know which medals and stuff to order, and the BSA Knot for my son. Because I did the Mentor workbook and mentored my son, do I qualify for the same BSA Knot? I guess that is my confusion. Everything has been approved by the Pastor. BTW, it was an awesome workbook to do with my son, and I am looking forward to doing the rest of them with him and my youngest son. Thanks for your time.

Aug 21, 2014 - Joe

@Jeff There are two different versions of the award depending on if you get it through (either the United Methodist or Protestant). The bottomline though is that you simply do not earn the award from completing tbe Mentor book, there are requirments for eligiblity such as: 1. Have a minimum of 5 years of service to the church. 2. Have a minimum of 5 years of service (be fully trained and exhibit past and present leadership) in the youth agency (BSA, GSUSA, CFUSA, AHG). This is also a nomination award on the level of District Award of Merit, where you must be nominated by someone other than yourself or spouse. You can find more information about it at: praypub.org/old/awards/assets/service.html & circleten.org/sites/circle10.org/files/godandservice2007.pdf

Aug 21, 2014 - Joe

Another thing that I also would point out is that adults cannot earn youth awards, including youth religious awards. I don't mean to rain on your parade and do hope this information helps!! Best of luck in your Scouting!

Aug 22, 2014 - Jeff

@ Joe - lol, no, you didn't rain on my parade. I was getting conflicting from people that I did or did not qualify for the award. I will not wear an award unless I am properly nominated for it, and I have met or exceeded all the requirements. Yes, thank you for the correct information. I was just happy to go through the journey with my son, and that he will receive an award.

Sep 28, 2014 - Ty

I did not see this anywhere in the discussion, but I have seen silver and gold pins placed on some of the knots. I need to look closer as to which knots they are being placed on, but I can't seem to find any information online about this practice or how they are getting these pins.

Sep 29, 2014 - Joe

@Ty, the pins you are seeing are called devices. They represent families of scouting that the awards was earned in or multipule awards earned. The Scouter's Training award is a great example of this sense it is one of the most commonly earned, I wear a Cub Scout, Boy Scout and Commissioner device to represent that I've earn the award three times in different families. Keep in mind though that you can only wear three at a time on one knot. Eagle Palms are a bit different, you wear the combination that was earned.

Oct 08, 2014 - Bruno

Quick question. Can a person asked to reorganize a previously defunct unit (more than 3 years), qualify for the William D. Boyce award?

Oct 08, 2014 - Scouter Paul

@Bruno - No, it is supposed to be a new unit. Rather than resurrecting an inactive unit, you could create a new one.

Oct 20, 2014 - Matt

Is there still an American Legion and scouting SQUARE KNOT AWARD ? Offered years ago Purple gold knot

Oct 21, 2014 - Joe

@Matt I'm not sure about the seperate knot for it, but The American Legion Scouting Award is incorporated in the Community Organization Award. This award is an umbrella at represents many different awards. See the link above for more information.

Oct 22, 2014 - Chris

@Bruno: YES, that does count. The unit has officially dropped from the rolls and has been that way through one recharter cycle, so it qualifies if you restart it from scratch. @Scouter Paul: The unit he describes isn't inactive, it's Dropped. That means, if it comes back, it's New.

Nov 01, 2014 - Andre Garneau

It is surprising how little recognition is available for committee members, who often work tirelessly behind the scenes, with little exposure to the scouts, and yet making a large impact on their experience. The same could be said for MB counsellors, who can make a real difference in the impact a MB May have.

Nov 01, 2014 - Scouter Paul

@Andre - The Scouter's Key and Unit Leader Award of Merit are position-specific, but most adult recognitions listed here are not. The Scout Leader Training Award, District-level Award of Merit, and Council-level Silver Beaver are nice recognitions that any adult volunteer can receive. Also, your district may have home-grown recognition for volunteers, such as the Committee Member of the Year, or Spark Plug awards.

Dec 05, 2014 - Mark Mulligan

If the Unit Leader Award of Merit has replaced the Scout Master Award of Merit, and one of the goals is to consolidate and reduce the number of knots, can someone who was awarded the Scoutmaster Award of Merit now wear the Unit Leader Award of Merit instead.

Dec 06, 2014 - Mike Bruno

@Mark Mulligan - The two awards are not equivalent. The requirements for the Unit Leader Award of Merit are different and require the recipient to achieve at least one of the requirements within the last 12 months. However, it should be relatively easy for someone who has earned the former to be able to earn the latter rather quickly, and you can wear both since they are different awards.

Dec 12, 2014 - Michael

If you earn the cubscouter award . and then later earn the scouters training award for cub scouting ( which replaced the cubscouter award) can you wear both?

Dec 12, 2014 - John

@Michael Technically they represent the same thing obviously but some still wear both. I personally wear both but I also have earned the Scouter Training three times (Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Commissioner). I like wearing the Cub Scouter knot because now a days it's rare and very hard to find. Just remember that there is a limit to how many you can wear and should not clutter your uniform.

Dec 12, 2014 - Scouter Dennis

Is there a order on which the knots are place on a uniform?

Dec 13, 2014 - Scouter Paul

@Dennis - Just as the diagram at the top shows. You can decide which knot you want in each position. Most people just place them in position as earned.

Dec 13, 2014 - Joe

@Dennis Typically the award or knot that you deem most important to you is worn on or right. So for me it's my Eagle.

Dec 18, 2014 - Gregory Manov

How can one go about ordering replacement or additional knots for uniforms?

Dec 19, 2014 - John

You can pick them up at any National Scout Shop, or Council TP. Depending upon the Knot you need and the Shop you can just pick them up. Sometimes you do need to provide documentation. If you are not near a Shop you can order them online at scoutstuff.org . You can't order them directly on the site but you can call to order what you need.

Dec 19, 2014 - John

Should also mention that not all Knots are available. Just as an example, the Cub Scouter knot is only available through collectors at this point as the NDC ran out in January this year.

Feb 11, 2015 - Tom marse

Does the Eagle Scout square knot and other leader awards Come in different backgrounds for venture and Boy Scout uniforms?

Feb 12, 2015 - Scouter Paul

@Tom - No.

Feb 12, 2015 - Joe

@Scouter Paul & Tom Marse At least not officially. Though there are some who produce them like the Sage Venture: www.sageventure.com/store/knots.html

Feb 22, 2015 - Scouter Tom

Per John on Dec 12, 2014, There is actually NOT a "limit" of how many knots one can wear on a uniform. It is RECOMMENDED that only 9 knots be worn at a time; however it is not a "hard and fast" rule. It IS up to the discretion of the wearer. I've been to Philmont and have seen 15 and even 18 knots on one shirt. Was it overbearing? No. I thought it looked sharp. Just like military personnel that have 20+ "ribbons". It looks sharp! Regardless - if you earn more than 9 knots and don't want to wear more than 9 at a time, then I recommend just putting the extras on a different scout shirt. So wear knots 1-9 on one shirt and then wear 10-18 on a 2nd shirt, etc. Bottom line - have FUN with it and remember the REAL reason you are receiving these knots. It's about the accomplishments, story, and SERVICE behind each knot. It's not about the knot itself of course. Just like the Eagle Rank tells a story and is worn in pride. But the badge itself is a trinket. Go forth and serve!

Feb 25, 2015 - Dave

I'm not sure, but it looks like at some point they added to the requirements for the William D. Boyce award. Previously, once the unit was chartered, you could submit the nomination for the award. Now, you have to recharter and unit has to earn at least Bronze on JTE. Maybe too many organizers left the unit once it was up and running?

Mar 06, 2015 - Tim

Has the Boy Scouts thought about doing an award knot for any Scout that earns the Congressional Award from Congress? I earned it as an Eagle Scout and saw other Scouts earn it too. Don't you think that Boy Scouts should look at the honor Scouting gets from this award by making an knot for this award.

Mar 07, 2015 - Scouter Paul

@Tim - The Congressional Award has nothing to do with Boy Scouts so I doubt there would ever be a square knot to be worn on a scout uniform to recognize that award. Receiving a square knot for the President's Environmental Youth Award, National Medal of Science, Pulitzer Prize, or Nobel Prize would be similar and the list would go on forever.

Mar 24, 2015 - Gabe

I am currently a Cub Scout den leader and was in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts as a kid. I was honored and proud to receive the Heroism Award during my time in Scouts. Is it ok to wear the Knot on my leader uniform?

Mar 24, 2015 - Scouter Paul

@Gabe - Yes.

Apr 08, 2015 - Roy Escott Pike

I am now registered as a Scouter as the Chartered Organization Representative in Troop 185, Eagle District, Indian Nation Council in Tulsa, OK. I attempting to create the knots for my uniform. As a Scoutmaster in 1956 & 1957 I received 2 Certificates of Commendation from the Far East Council while serving Troop #102 in Okinawa. One was from the Army Council President and the other from U. S Air Force Council President. They both say they are for Faithful Service Performed on behalf of our Youth. Is there Knot for anything like this? I began scouting as a Cub in 1945.Love this site.

Apr 08, 2015 - David Hess

Is there an award for serving in the active duty military?

Apr 09, 2015 - Yukon Jack

@ Roy. There are no knots for either of those awards. The military award, the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal is the only knot one can earn for scout service while a military member. Those certificates do not have a knot. @David Hess. No, there are no knots to recognize professions in the BSA, and never will be. Check the May 27, 2013 posts above for more information.

Apr 15, 2015 - Mary

I have been very involved in scouting for almost 40 years, starting when my sons were small. of course, it's now my grandchildren who are enjoying it. I still have all the badges and knots I have earned,, and am now involved in cub scouting, as well as the Boy Scout troop that they graduate into. Can I move all the knots unto my new uniform, even the ones that are being discontinued? Plus, I am adding my discontent with the "pins replacing the knot-patches" also.

Apr 21, 2015 - Scouter Joe

@Mary yes you can. If you have the earn the award and have the knot, you can of course move it you your new uniform.

Apr 23, 2015 - Tim

FYI, The pro-scouter training knot information is very out of date. There is no longer such things as PEI or Critical Achievements.

May 18, 2015 - Jarrett

I got into scouting when my oldest son became a tiger. Being of military background I like awards myself. That being said I earned the tiger leader and den leader awards. When my oldest started webelos my youngest started tigers so I started over again. He lost interest before he reached webelos so I didn't get that leader award. When they both got out of scouting I did too. But I've been missing it so I'm now getting back in as a unit commsioner. I think that has inspired my youngest to get back in also. But being interested again I've been reading up on everything to catch up. It wasn't till this site that I've learned that they discontinued some of the den leader awards. I was just curious if anyone new why they did that. I think that the more awards a leader can put on his or her uniform the more it could inspire a youth to earn awards.

May 19, 2015 - Scouter Joe

@Jarrett They consolidated all the Den Leader knots into one, with the use of devices separate knots was redundant. See the full list above. You still could wear the knots if you earned them in that time frame. Though if you do not already have the knot you would need to find it from a collector as the BSA stopped producing them. I agree that adults should earn and proudly wear awards for service rendered to youth.

May 19, 2015 - Jarrett

Great thanks! I have those knots already. I was just thinking about new leaders coming in that may would want to earn them. The way it was you knew what level the leader earned the award but now if he earns the den leader award you would have to ask. But that's fine I'm just thinking out loud :) great info though thanks! On a separate note. I was in the scout shop the other day and noticed that they have new books for all the levels of cubs so I bought all of them to catch up and see what all may have thanged. I noticed that the tigers don't have the "go see it" anymore. But I do like the new books so far. I don't mind change at all. I'm just curious to see what all has changed in just the last 4 years. I'm excited to get back involved!!

May 21, 2015 - Scott

In 1967 the Arrow of Light became the highest rank in Cubbing. Prior to that Lion was the highest Cub rank. A knot is issued for the Arrow of Light as it is the highest Cub rank. Are former Lion holders then permitted to wear the Arrow of Light square knot?

May 21, 2015 - Scouter Paul

@Scott - They are separate recognitions with separate requirements. The AoL patch is only for AoL recipients.

Jun 09, 2015 - Fred

I earned both a Scouter's Key and a Skipper's Key award in both Venturing and in Sea Scouting. Though the knot is the same (green & white, (though I have seen at least one site that show's the Skipper's Key knot as a blue & white one, with the blue rope only slightly darker than the Silver Beaver blue) the medals themselves are different. The Scouter's Key medal is typically worn with a device to designate which family of Scouting it came from, but the Skipper's Key medal is unique to Sea Scouting.

So on those very few occasions when the actual medals themselves are worn, would it be appropriate to wear both the Scouter's Key AND the Skipper's Key medals?

Jun 09, 2015 - Fred

In Sea Scouting, through The Ship's Store, we have access to a great many of the knots presented above with tan, white, or black backgrounds, to go with our uniforms of the appropriate color. Let's face it, a green training knot with a white background looks much better on a white uniform than the same knot with a tan one. I have also seen many adult Venturers use the black backgrounded ones (intended for Sea Scout dress blues) worn on their green Venturing shirts too.

The now discontinued Heroism medal is the only "official" knot with a white background. Question; In the event that one of our members were to recieve the Honor Medal, which knot would be appropriate for wear on their white uniform? The heroism knot would look the "most right", but wouldn't BE the Honor Medal knot. I suppose the real answer is; when it happens for real, ask again, or, let the recipient themselves decide which they will wear.

Aug 10, 2015 - Yukon Jack

@ Fred. The skipper's key knot you described (dark blue and white) is the rarest official knot in BSA history. It existed for only a few months in 1946-7 before merging with the green/white key knot. As for the medals, it is appropriate to wear both keys if you want, or just the standard key medal with a sea scouting device if you choose.

Aug 16, 2015 - David D.

Den Leader Award,
Earned as Bear Den Leader, Submitted again as a Webelos Den Leader. Are the device pins used on the knot to signify what awarded ? Cubscout device pin for Bear leader and Webelos device pin for Webelos leader ?

Same question for the Scouter's Training Award.
Are the device pins used for when awarded ? Cubscouts,Boyscouts,Venture ?

Aug 16, 2015 - Scouter Paul

@David - That is correct. The idea being that the tiny pins on the patch will show volunteer involvement in multiple programs without having quite so many patches on the uniform.

Aug 27, 2015 - Dave Colonna

Why is the William D. Boyce new-unit organization award recognizes volunteers for organizing traditional units after March 1, 2005. Prior to that date we received a pin for our effort so why the restriction on the award?

Thanks

Aug 31, 2015 - Scouter Joe

@Dave Colonna Scouters who earn one of the previous awards could also be eligible for the William D. Boyce New-Unit Organizer Award.

I would check with your Council.

Oct 16, 2015 - Sea Scouter Mom

I have heard that a Sea Scout youth 13-17 years can wear Arrow of Light, Youth Religious, and Eagle/lifetime NESSA Eagle knot (silver edge) on their SS uniform because Venturing is a different program. True or not True. I have had Area 6 Venturing President and VLST teacher tell me it is approved by Venturing National leaders. I like seeing it in writing though. Any ideas? I was told the AoL knot is fine because the youth AoL patch can not go under the pocket on SS and Venture youth uniforms. I was told the Eagle (either) is fine because the SS and Venture rank patch goes on pocket instead.

Oct 16, 2015 - Scouter Joe

@Sea Scouter Mom - Not true, Venturing YOUTH are YOUTH members of the BSA and they have to wear the *cloth emblems* representing the Arrow of Light and Eagle on their uniforms. The fact that Venturing is a different program from Cub Scouting and Boy Scouting does not mean that the rules about youth wearing youth insignia and adults wearing adult insignia is changed.

This ONLY APPLIES to the Arrow of Light and Eagle/NESA Lifetime Member insignia. Other "knot emblems" representing national awards or recognitions (including youth religious emblems) may be worn by Venturers just like they are worn by Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts... Heroism awards, the Hornaday medal, and several other awards can also be worn on the Venturing field uniform; therefore the cloth representations (the square knot emblem) for those awards can also be worn on the Venturing field uniform.

Feb 24, 2016 - Topgator13

I have just transitioned to Pack Trainer after my webelos den just crossed over and I was asked by a current bear den leader who earned cub scout den leader award for his time as wolf leader if he can earn it as a bear den leader. I am not sure since the device for the knot is the same. Any guidance would be appreciated.

Feb 24, 2016 - Scouter Paul

@Topgator - Sure, he can earn it, but he already has the knot and device so he'd get no additional bling to display. He "could" get another CS device pin to put on the knot, but that's not supposed to be done.

Feb 27, 2016 - Jon Norris

I found in the notes on this page ( www.meritbadge.org/wiki/index.php/Denali_Award )that as of 2007 there is no longer a knot for the Varsity Denali Award. Was there ever an official knot? I can find no record of it, even discontinued. Thanks. Jon

Feb 27, 2016 - Scouter Paul

@Jon - There are two recognition items for the Denali - a medal and a certificate. It's only been around since 2001 and has not had a square knot emblem.

Mar 04, 2016 - Scouter Joe

@Jon - biggest reason why the Denali award does not have a knot recognition is the Varsity program doesn't have its own advancement system. The Varsity program uses the Boy Scout program for it's advancement, therefore making Eagle as the highest rank. Traditionally knot recognitions are reserved for the highest rank of each family (AOL, Eagle, Summit).

Also, Denali awarded yearly is too low. Varsity is almost exclusively run in LDS units and outside of Utah, Idaho, and Texas there are very few running Varsity units. The BSA has a minimum requirement of how many are awarded per year to warrant producing an award.

Mar 08, 2016 - David Roberts

As a cubmaster I was given a square knot for the arrow of light I earned. It seems to be different than all other arrow of light square knots I have seen. The green part of the knot is on top of the red part of the knot. Why ? And does it have any particular value , meaning or interest? thank you. Scouter David

Mar 15, 2016 - Anonymous

@David Roberts there was a mistake in production. You can wear that knot if you like, or you can wear the one shown on this page. I don't know if the "error knot" is worth more (i.e. on eBay).

May 27, 2016 - Scouter Scott

Can you earn the Scout Leader's Training Award Twice, once as a Cub Scout Leader and again as a Boy Scout Leader? Or is it once and done?

May 28, 2016 - Scouter Paul

@Scott - Yes, it can be earned multiple times. One knot is worn with metal pin devices attached for each program in which it was earned.

Jun 08, 2016 - Jodi

Please update Venturing to Summit.

Jun 21, 2016 - Steven Van De Wal, AACC

Please update requirements and link:

www.scouting.org/filestore/commissioner/pdf/ Awards_and_Recognition/ Commissioner_Award_of_Excellence_in_Unit_Service_Progress_Record.pdf

My thanks.

Aug 10, 2016 - Jason Chen

I was never a Cub nor Boy Scouts; however, my son started as Tiger and he is a Scout (6h grader) now. I have been the Treasure of Cub Scout for 4 years and continue to volunteer as Secretary in our Troop. Could I wear "Arrow of Light" square knot since we went through Scouting together all these years (and years to come)?

Aug 10, 2016 - Scouter Paul

@Jason - No, the Arrow of Light is only earned by a Webelos scout, not by adult volunteers. But, I would expect you have fulfilled nearly all the requirements for the Scout Leader's Training Award by now.

Sep 04, 2016 - Brian Brackins

I am in my third year of being a DEN leader with CUB scouts.....can 2 of those years apply towards Scouter's Training Award p.55 in new Guide to awards and insignia book...do I qualify for Scouters training award knot?

Sep 04, 2016 - Scouter Paul

@Brian - Yes, 2 of your years can be counted. To see if you qualify for the award, please read the requirements - it's more than just being registered as a den leader.

Sep 10, 2016 - Nick Theisen

I am not a vigil honor yet with Order of the Arrow, but why is there just a spoof knot for this recognition. If I got the award other then a triangle pin, I know I be happy to have the award with my other achievements like Eagle Scout.

Sep 10, 2016 - Scouter Paul

@Nick - You could contact the national OA committee for your "why" question, but I expect you'll be told that there is already a special sash, pin, and dangle for vigil recognition and a patch is not necessary.

Sep 19, 2016 - Gen O'Connell

If a scout earns the Hornaday badge, not the medals, can he wear that square knot?

Sep 19, 2016 - Scouter Paul

@Gen - No.

Oct 11, 2016 - George

To all OA Founders Award recipients; I always try to be in official uniform, and look my best even when out with the troop camping. The youth of my lodge recognized me with the Founders Award a few years back, and it is my most prized award. Unfortunately the pocket ribbon easily snags on backpack straps, etc. Do I not wear this award or do I try to convince national to award a square knot for our "field" uniform? Any thoughts on this?

Oct 11, 2016 - Hendrickms24

I would just take off the award when doing backpacking, hiking or any activity outside. If I'm in uniform (most camping trips I don't wear my uniform) I strip all the pins and awards off that are not sewn on.

Oct 11, 2016 - Anonymous

George, several volunteers over the years have tried to get National to produce a knot for that achievement. They won't do it, and probably never will, since Founder's awards recipients (myself included) have the hanging emblem. If it didn't come with the "dangle," then it might happen.

Also, if you need more Founder's ribbons, send $5 per award to Stephanie Jordan at National.

Oct 12, 2016 - George

Hendrickms24, I started taking mine off too, though it pains me. Thanks for the info Anonymous! I do appreciate that! I hear what you are saying, but I might pester National anyway. The Silver Beaver etc. has a medal and knot so why "knot" the Founders? :-)

Oct 28, 2016 - Ron

Question: A bunch of years ago, I earned the Scoutmasters award of merit, white knot on tan background. I just read that it was discontinued in 1987. I go it around 1999. Am I wearing something I shouldn't, or couldn't really have? I know the new one is Gold on Blue

On the founders award, only wear it when I am wearing my OA sash. Those little ribbons get lost to easily, and that one is most important.

Oct 31, 2016 - Yukon Jack

@ Ron. The Scoutmaster Award of Merit was originally presented by NESA beginning in the 1970s and was incredibly exclusive. It was only awarded to a limited quota of a couple of scoutmasters nationwide each year. That award was "discontinued" in 1987 only in the sense that the quota was lifted to recognize all scoutmasters who performed at a certain level. The old quota SAoM and the 1988-2010 SAoM both use the white knot on tan. You are wearing the right knot and you can earn the new ULAoM if you're still the scoutmaster and wear both knots.

Nov 05, 2016 - Mike

Back in 1967, I received a Certificate of Heroism for swimming out beyond the surf, and rescuing a young girl swept out by the undertow. I was just looking this site for something else and noticed that the Heroism Award portion of this site indicates that the Heroism Award was discontinued, and further that... "Today, those previous holders of Certificates of Heroism as well as present Scouts, Explorers or Scouters are honored with the present Medal." What medal is spoken of here? I don't wish to receive anything I'm not entitled to, but what it this "present Medal"?

Nov 06, 2016 - Scouter Paul

@Mike - That text refers to the Heroism Medal (which is discontinued). If someone was previously presented with a BSA Certificate of Heroism, he could receive the medal.

Mar 10, 2017 - JOHN R CARRILLO

I LIKE THIS PAGE VERY MUCH BECAUSE OF ALL THE INFORMATION ABOUT THE KNOT AWARDS I WANTED TO KNOW AND HOW TO EARN THEM.WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THERE IS A BOOKLET ON THESE KNOT AWARDS?
THIS IS GREAT TO KNOW ABOUT ALL OF THEM I BEEN IN THIS COUNCIL FOR SEVEN YEARS AND ONLY RECEIVED TWO KNOTS SINCE I BEEN HERE. BUT AGAIN THANKS FOR THE INFORMATION.

YOURS IN SCOUTING & SERVICES,

JOHN CARRILLO
PIKES PEAK COUNCIL 060
FOUNTAIN, CO

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