Akela Arrow of Light | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | 3 arrows: green, red, yellow large Arrow of Light symbol on stand (optional): campfire, drums |
| Preparation: | Lay the 3 arrows on the ground by the campfire. |
| Script: | Cubmaster: Tonight we have the special privilege of witnessing the presentation of the highest award in Cub Scouting, the Arrow of Light. (Lights are turned out and spots are shown on stage. Can have a slow drumbeat and campfire centerstage) Cubmaster: I, Akela, have heard the drums speak. I now call to the council fire, the following scouts and their parents - [call names] (scouts and parents come forward) Cubmaster: Gather around this campfire so that the others may look upon you. I, Akela, have heard of your great achievements and have brought for you the reward of your deeds. Look upon the symbol that stands beside you. (Spotlight on the Arrow of Light symbol) Cubmaster: Before you lie symbols placed here by your leaders. I, Akela, say to you Scout [one name], pick up the green arrow. Bring it back to your fellow Arrow of Light scouts. All of you scouts as a single tribe, hold the green arrow with your left hand and give the Scout Sign. This green arrow represents perseverence and dedication to personal growth. Do you promise to continue to follow the trail of the Eagle, wherever it may lead you? If you do, say, "I Promise". Cubmaster: Scout [one name], retrieve the red arrow and have your fellow scouts hold it along with the green arrow. This red arrow represents the courage it takes to live the Scout Oath in your life. Give the Scout Sign. Do you promise to live the Scout Oath? Cubmaster: Now, Scout [one name], retrieve the yellow arrow. This yellow arrow represents the light and brightness that a true Scout brings to the world by obeying the Scout Law. Give the Scout Sign. Do you promise to be forever trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent? Cubmaster: This bundle of three arrows resembles the Scout sign. Like your three outstretched fingers, it stands for the three parts of the Scout Oath. Your hands holding the arrows together are like your thumb and little finger that, when brought together, stand for the bond that ties all Scouts together. Now you are ready to receive the highest award of Cub Scouting, the Arrow of Light. (Cubmaster retrieves bundle of arrows from scouts and sets it aside) Cubmaster: Before you stands the Arrow of Light. Within the tepee of many braves, this symbol has an honored place. Its shaft is straight and narrow - just as the path that you should follow throughout your life. Its tip points the way - the way to success in all that you do. It is pointing to the right - a symbol that nothing should be left undone; if it is within your power to do it, see that it is done. Cubmaster: And lastly, the symbol of the seven rays of the sun - one for each day of the week to remind you that every day is a new day, a day to do your best in everything. A day to honor your God and your country, to do your Good Turn, a new chance to follow the Scout Law and to remember these words: ON MY HONOR. Cubmaster: Now, your Den Leader [name] will hand to the parents the Arrow of Light so they can pin it on their scout. Now the scouts will pin upon their mom or dad the miniature Arrow of Light, and give them a big hug for all their help. Cubmaster: Now that you have received the Arrow of Light, let its light shine forth from you. Promise now to set an example for others to follow in your footsteps, set your eye on the Eagle and never waiver. Do you promise? AoL scouts: We promise. Cubmaster: I, Akela, declare that you are now full-fledged Arrow of Light holders. Pack, stand and join me in a roaring congratulations! |
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Akela's Arrows Advancement | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Preparation: | Two leaders - Akela and Baloo - probably Cubmaster and Advancement Chair. |
| Notes: | This ceremony is good for a pack meeting where you are trying to catch any advancements that were not completed with the rest of each den or were not available to be recognized. It recognizes one or more scouts at Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light ranks. |
| Script: | Baloo: Long ago, Akela had to pass a test to prove himself worthy of becoming a leader in the tribe. All the youth of the tribe were given five arrows each. These were special arrows, once they had been used they would shatter. Each of the youth were sent out on their own and they promised to only eat food they had caught themselves. When they ran out of arrows and food, they could return home. Akela: I walked all morning and stopped beside a stream. I saw a fish swimming by, so I shot it with my yellow arrow and cooked it. It provide me with food for the rest of the day. Baloo: This showed that Akela knew about finding things in nature. The rank of Lion indicates the Cub Scout has begun the first steps along the scouting trail. I would like the following scouts that have earned their Lion Badge to come up and join us by the campfire. Your parents will join you later. (announce names and wait until they have all arrived) Akela: I walked far from camp and stopped at the side of a clearing. I waited all night for a lion to come by. I took careful aim and shot it with my orange arrow. It provide me with food for many days. It's hide provided me with clothing. Baloo: This showed that Akela knew how to keep his body safe and nourished. It also showed the virtue of patience. The rank of Tiger indicates the Cub Scout has learned more basic scouting skills. I would like the following scouts that have earned their Tiger Badge to come up and join us by the campfire. Your parents will join you later. (announce names and wait until they have all arrived) Akela: I walked along the trail near the river. There, I came upon a friend laying in the trail. He had used up all his arrows and was starving. I saw a tiger in a nearby tree. I wanted to save my arrows since I was not yet hungry, but my friend was starving. So, I shot the tiger with my red arrow and cooked it for my friend. Baloo: This act of caring showed Akela had learned the value of friendship and that he was unselfish. The Wolf badge indicates the Cub Scout has learned new things traveling the trail of Scouting. These new Wolf scouts should be come up to the campfire. (read names and wait for them) Akela: As I followed the trail farther along, I came face to face with a huge wolf. It growled and started running toward me. I strung my bow, took careful aim and, when he was near, I shot and killed him with my blue arrow. He provided me with food for many more days. His warm coat provided me with shelter from the cold nights. Baloo: Staying calm and having steady aim showed that Akela is brave. This is also why the Pack honors the Cub Scouts at the next level of accomplishment with the Bear badge. I would like these new Bears to join us now. (read names) Akela: The meat from the wolf lasted for many days, but soon I had to continue on in search of more food. I came upon a bear that had just killed a deer. The bear saw me and ran off. I was hungry, but I had promised to only eat food I had killed, so I continued on. Baloo: By remembering his promise and being honest, Akela demonstrated that he is trustworthy. To earn the Webelos badge, the Cub Scout must follow the Scout Law which includes being Trustworthy. These Webelos should join us now. (read names) Akela: I was now many days from camp. I needed food to give me the strength to make it home or I would die. So, I tracked the bear I had seen before. I took my last arrow, the green one, took careful aim, shot, and missed. I was scared because I had no food or arrows. As I turned and started back to camp, I prayed to the great spirit for strength and guidance. Suddenly, I saw the arrow; it was still whole. I followed the bear's trail again. I took aim and shot him. I now had enough food to return home. Baloo: Akela learned that sometimes even the strongest, bravest, most skilled scouts need to ask for help. To earn the Arrow of Light badge, the scout must work with other scouts and help each other. These Arrow of Light scouts should join us now. (read names) We all need help sometimes, even these cub scouts that have just advanced. Their parents provide that help. So, will the parents please come up and stand behind their scouts. (wait for all to arrive) Baloo: Pack, please stand. Join me in congratulating these fine scouts! (Applause) |
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Akelas Life | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Required: | one lit candle six other candles |
| Preparation: | Dim lights and light the one candle. Akela is at the back of the room. |
| Notes: | If no scouts are at a specific rank, light the candle, but say there are none at that point on the trail. |
| Script: | (Akela walks to the front of the room) Narrator: Akela was the chief of the Webelos tribe; tall, stalwart, straight as an arrow, swift as an antelope, brave as a lion - he was fierce to an enemy but kind to a brother. Many trophies hung in his teepee. His father was the son of the great yellow sun in the sky. He was called the "Arrow Of Light". His mother, from whom he learned those wondrous things that mothers know, was called "Kind Eyes". When he was very young, he played in the safety of the village. His first animal friends were the Lion Cubs that visited the tribe. (Akela lights the Lion candle) Akela: From the signs along the Lion trail, I see the following scouts are ready for advancement in the Lion Clan of Akela's tribe. (Akela calls the names of the scouts receiving Lion adventures and rank badges. They come forward and stand before the campfire. Akela presents awards.) Narrator: As he grew, he began to understand the signs and calls of the Webelos tribe. Playing close to the village, he learned to tumble and have fun from Tiger Cubs that lived there. (Akela lights the Tiger candle) Akela: With this candle, representing the "Spirit of Akela" we light the trail of the Tiger. From the signs along the Tiger trail, I see the following scouts are ready for advancement in the Tiger Clan of Akela's tribe. (Akela calls the names of the scouts receiving Tiger adventures and rank badges. They come forward and stand before the campfire. Akela presents awards.) Narrator: Then Akela was taken on little trips to the forest among the great trees and streams. Here, from the Wolf, he learned the language of the ground; the tracks and the ways to food. (Akela lights the Wolf candle) Akela: From the signs along the Wolf trail, I see these scouts are ready for advancement in the Wolf Clan of Akela's tribe. (Akela calls the scouts receiving Wolf rank badges and adventure loops. They come forward and stand before the campfire. Akela presents awards.) Narrator: Then from the big, kindly bears, he learned the secret names of the trees, the calls of the birds, the language of the air. (Akela lights the Bear candle) Akela: From the signs along the Bear trail I see the following braves are ready for advancement in the Bear Clan of Akela's tribe. (Akela calls scouts receiving Bear rank badges and adventure loops) Narrator: But before he could become a Scouting Brave on his own, he had to prove himself by trying out new skills, performing certain tasks and passing tests of accomplishment. (Akela lights the Webelos candle) Akela: From the signs along the Webelos trail, I see that the following braves have shown their skills in many different ways. (He calls scouts receiving adventure pins.) (If any Webelos are earning their rank badge) Akela: By demonstrating skills and character, these scouts have earned their Webelos rank. (Call names of scouts and present Webelos rank.) Narrator: After a time, Akela was allowed to go on outings with the braves of his tribe. He saw how strong they were and how they worked together to hunt game and survive in the wilds. He decided that was the life for him and pushed himself harder to pass the highest test of all. (Akela lights the Arrow of Light candle) Akela: From the signs further down the Webelos trail, I see that the following scouts have proven themselves worthy to wear the "Arrow of Light", the highest award in Akela's tribe. (He calls forward the scouts who have earned the Arrow of Light Award.) Akela: From the four winds, Akela hears that you scouts are doing well along the trails that will lead you through Scouting and the highest trail of all, that of Eagle. Now will all Cub Scouts stand and repeat with me the Scout Promise. |
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American Symbols | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Required: | A slideshow may be used: statue of libery, american flag, declaration of independence, liberty bell, log cabin, Uncle Sam, eagle |
| Notes: | This ceremony can be used for all cub scout rank adventures. You could also pass out rank completions at the same time. |
| Script: | As Americans, we are fortunate to have many historic symbols that represent freedom. Tonight I would like to tell you a little about some of these symbols as we honor scouts advancing along the Cub Scout Trail. The Statue of Liberty towers 305 feet above Liberty Island in New York Harbor, welcoming people of other lands to become citizens of our country. The statue was given to the United States by France as a token of friendship. Each year, about 2 million people visit Miss Liberty. The inscription at the base of the statue was written by Emma Lazarus, and reads in part: Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore, Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me. I lift my lamp beside the golden door. There is a golden door to Scouting that is open to all youth. By walking through that door, a child has an opportunity to grow in many ways and learn about citizenship, character, and physical fitness. The youth gathered here have passed through that door and are on their way. Our American flag is much more than the red, white, and blue cloth of which it is made. It is the symbol of America. It stands for the past, the present, and the future of our country. When we show respect for the flag, we are showing respect for all that is America, our land, our people, our way of life. When the 13 original colonies set out to become a free country 250 years ago, their men and women needed a rallying point, a flag. "We will take the stars and blue union from heaven", George Washington is reported to have said, "red from our mother country, separating it by white stripes to emphasize our new independence. The white stripes shall represent liberty." Beginning to understand citizenship is one of the requirements for the Lion rank. Tonight we have some scouts who have completed Lion adventures. I would like the following scouts and a parent to please come forward. [list names, distribute patches, return to seats.) The Declaration of Independence is the document that called for a free America. It was on July 4, 1776, that the Continental Congress met in Philadelphia and announced the separation of the 13 colonies from England. In America, we have a government of the people, by the people, and for the people - not just for some of them, but for all people - the people to whom the Declaration of Independence refers when it says, "all men are created equal" not equally talented or equally rich, but equal under the law and under God. All Scouts have an equal opportunity to advance in rank and earn badges. The following scouts have completed adventures as Tiger Scouts. (list names, distribute adventure loops, return to seats.) One of the most beloved of our freedom symbols is the Liberty Bell. The Liberty Bell was rung in 1776 to announce the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. During the British occupation of Philadelphia, the bell was hidden beneath the floor of the Zion Reformed Church in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Sixty years later, as the bell was rung during the funeral of Chief Justice John Marshall, it cracked. Since that time, it has been on display in or close to Independence Hall, Philadelphia, for all Americans to see. The bell is old, but the crack is plain to see, along with this inscription: "Proclaim Liberty throughout all the land. .." The following scouts will receive Wolf adventure loops tonight. (list names, distribute patches, return to seats.) The log cabin is a freedom symbol, not only because it represents the many colonists who helped settle this country, but because it is associated with one of the most famous Americans of all time, Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln had less than 1 year of formal schooling. He taught himself by reading borrowed books. Many people do not know that Lincoln was a powerful wrestler, runner, and weight lifter. This tall, lanky man worked as a store clerk, a postmaster, a surveyor, and lawyer. Lincoln believed in freedom. His famous Gettysburg Address began: "Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal." We would like to honor now the scouts who have earned adventures as Bear Scouts. (list names, distribute loops, return to seats.) Uncle Sam originated as a cartoon character many years ago and has become one of the best-known symbols of the United States. Imagine how many thousands of children have portrayed the part of Uncle Sam in school plays. Think of how many millions of young adults have answered Uncle Sam's recruiting call, "I want you" and have helped defend the freedom of America in time of war. The following scouts have earned Webelos adventure pins. (list names, distribute pins, return to seats.) Another symbol of American freedom is the eagle, with wings outspread in protection of our birthright of freedom. The eagle has been the national bird since George Washington took the oath of office for the presidency in 1789. Many years ago, Indians climbed high mountains to reach the peaks where coveted eagle feathers could be found. Indians used these eagle feathers as badges of rank. Today Scouts work hard and long to reach the highest rank of Scouting, the Eagle. It is never easy to reach those high peaks. It takes time, and effort, and sacrifice. But when you finally reach the top, you'll find it was worth the effort. The following scouts have nearly reached the top in Cub Scouting by completing Arrow of Light adventures. (list names, distribute pins, return to seats.) We are proud of all our freedom symbols, and we are very proud of all the scouts who received awards tonight. They are on their way to becoming worthwhile citizens of tomorrow. As President John F. Kennedy said, "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." Do you scouts ever wonder what you can do for your country? Well, if you do, I'll tell you where to start. Whatever game you choose to play ... play fair! Whatever you hope to be... be true! Whatever road you choose to take... take care! Be proud you're an American ... and that's a great way to start doing something for your country. |
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Arrow of Light | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | Ceremony Table with awards and pins, 1 each blue, yellow, green, and white candles standing on the table, one simple white candle. blue, yellow, green, white paint, large AoL cardboard sign, crossover bridge. |
| Preparation: | Participants: Cubmaster, Assistant Cubmaster, AoL Leader, Scoutmaster, AoL Den Chief, AoL recipients and their parents. |
| Script: | At the opening of the ceremony, the simple white candle is lit by the Cubmaster and Assistant Cubmaster at the front of the room. Parents are on one side of the room and Den Leader in the rear with the Arrow of Light scouts. The Den Leader should blindfold all scouts and have each put their right hand on the right shoulder of the scout in front of them. The Scoutmaster for the troop that Arrow of Light scouts are crossing to should wait on the far side of the bridge. The Den Leader leads the Arrow of Light scouts to the parents who each take the hand of their child and guide them to the ceremony table. Cubmaster: (while the scouts are being guided to the table) As a Cub Scout, you have been guided through the Cub Scout Trail with the help of many Akelas. Soon, when you become a Scouts BSA member, you will find that, while there are still many people willing to help, you take on more and more responsibility for blazing your own trail to Eagle. (Assistant Cubmaster removes blindfolds when in front of table) Cubmaster: (Call out each AoL recipient name) - you have been called before the Pack because you have satisfied the requirements for Cub Scouting's highest rank: The Arrow of Light. The first band of color is to remind you of the lessons you learned as a Cub Scout. (Asst. Cubmaster lights Blue Candle, as the Cubmaster reads) Blue represents the spirit of Cub Scouting : the spirit of giving goodwill and doing your best. Do you promise to fulfill the Scout Promise and the Cub Scout motto, Do Your Best, when you receive the Arrow of Light badge? (Arrow of Light scouts answer, 'We do'. Den Leader applies Blue Paint to each recipient's face). Cubmaster: These scouts have faithfully promised always to keep the spirit of Cub Scouting. As their parents, do you also promise to continue to help your scout through future Scouting adventures. (Parents answer, 'We do'). Cubmaster: (Asst. Cubmaster lights White Candle, as the Cubmaster reads) The second band of color, white, represents the Scout Law. Youth and adult leaders will cheerfully show you the skills you need, but it will be up to you to live up to the 12 points of the Scout Law. Daily you will be faced with decisions and, at times, the trail will seem most difficult to follow. Make your choices by always remembering the Scout Law. In all you do, do you promise to be forever Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean and Reverent? (Scouts answer, 'We do'. Den Leader applies white paint) Cubmaster: (as the Assistant Cubmaster lights the yellow candle) The third band of color, yellow, stands for the Arrow of Light. Its shaft is straight and narrow: just as is the path that you Scouts should follow throughout your life. Its tip points the way: the way to success in all that you do. It is pointing to the right: a symbol that nothing should be left undone; if it is within your power to do it, see that it is done. And lastly, this is the symbol of the seven rays of the sun, one for each day of the week; this is to remind you that every day is a new day: a day to Do Your Best in everything: A day to honor your God and Country, to do your Good Turn, a new chance to follow the Scout Law and to remember these words: On My Honor Cubmaster: Each scout has blazed their own trail toward the Arrow of Light award, and now the Arrow of Light will help them remember their promise to keep the Spirit of Cub Scouting alive. Do you promise to let its light shine forth from you, to set an example for others to follow in your footsteps, to set your eye on the Eagle and never waiver? (Scouts reply, 'We promise'. Den Leader applies yellow paint). Cubmaster: Then I, Akela, have the distinct honor to say to you: You are now full-fledged Arrow of Light holders! (Assistant Cubmaster hands the parents the Arrow of Light awards and asks them to pin them on the scouts' uniform, under the Webelos rank patch). Cubmaster: Next, we ask these scouts to pin upon their mom or dad a miniature Arrow of Light. Cubmaster: You may wear the awards on your Scout uniforms, centered below the left shirt pocket. It is a great honor for me to greet you as a recipient of the Arrow of Light award. (all leaders shake hands of recipients) Cubmaster: (while assistant Cubmaster lights green candle) The last candle, and the last band of color, is Green; it symbolizes the beginning of your path toward Eagle in Scouts BSA. Your Den Leader will now lead you to the bridge that connects Cub Scouting with Scouts BSA. As your name is called, cross over the bridge where some Scouts will be waiting to welcome you into their troop and present you with the handbooks and neckerchiefs you already have earned through your diligence as Arrow of Light scouts. (Den leader leads scouts to bridge. As a name is called, they can shake their hand and wish them well before they cross over.) |
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Arrow of Light 2 | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | Cubmaster 1 each of Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos Cub Scout Arrow of Light Award candidates and their parents Large copy of Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light badges Arrow of Light awards and certificates |
| Preparation: | Give script portions to Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos scout before meeting. |
| Script: | Have Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos representatives come on stage. Give each one their large badge. Cubmaster: The highest rank in Cub Scouting is the Arrow of Light award. There are many steps required to reach this goal. Let's hear from the scouts how it is achieved. First, a Lion. Lion: I am a Lion. I am learning about Cub Scouts. Cubmaster: Next, a Tiger. Tiger: I am a Tiger Scout. During first grade, I searched, discovered, and shared new things with my adult partner and my den. Cubmaster: Next, a Wolf. Wolf: I am a Wolf Scout. I have completed lots of adventures in the Wolf scout handbook. I had fun in my den and pack and with my whole family as I earned my Wolf badge during 2nd grade. Cubmaster: Next, a Bear. Bear: I am a Bear Scout. I've done dozens of adventures to earn my Bear badge in third grade. My activities were in the areas of God, Country, Family, and Self. Cubmaster: After Bear, is the Webelos scout. Webelos: As a Webelos scout, I have started to set my own path in scouting. I have earned adventure pins and I understand more about the ideals of Scouting. I know that Arrow of Light is the last step as a Cub Scout. Cubmaster: We have ____ Arrow of Light scouts that have earned their Arrow of Light award. Will the following scouts and parents please come forward. (If there is more than one Arrow of Light Award candidate, he reads other names and asks them to come forward.) To the parents of each of these scouts, I take great pride in presenting the Arrow of Light Award for you to present to your child, so it can be worn on their scout uniform. The Arrow of Light Award is worn centered below the left shirt pocket - and later on the Scouts BSA uniform. (Present patches and wait while parents pin them on.) Cubmaster: These certificates are evidence of the honor you have received. (Hand out certificates for badges.) Cubmaster: It has been a pleasure having you fine scouts in this pack. You will soon move on to a Scouts BSA troop and we will miss your leadership here, but we wish you the very best as you continue your scouting trail. You parents will find additional enjoyment and satisfaction as you go continue scouting with your scout and help with new adventures. Congratulations! Pack _____, please stand. Join me in congratulating these Arrow of Light recipients! |
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Arrow of Light 3 | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | Chief: Takachsin Medicine Man: Weuchsowagam Guide: Witschindin Guard: Kinhican candles |
| Notes: | Contact your local Order of the Arrow ceremonial team to perform this or another ceremony for your pack. |
| Script: | [The four principles (Chief, Medicine Man, Guide, and Guard) enter from the rear and take their positions: Chief behind the table, Medicine man to his right, the guide to the left of the chief, and the guard to the right of the medicine man.] (Chief should pause and scan the audience for a few seconds) Chief: Cub Scouts, leaders, parents and guests; my brothers, Weuchsowagam, the Medicine Man, Witschindin, the guide, Kinhican, the guard, and I Takachsin, the Chieftain, bring you greetings and salutations. We have come before you tonight to fulfill a prophecy spoken by the legends of our tribe. MedMan: The words on the prophesy say that in the springtime of each year, youth will be found who have met the challenges of Akela and are ready to become braves. My brothers and I have watched your pack and have found such braves among you. We have come to present them with the highest honor; the Arrow of Light. But before this can happen, they must take a journey through their memories. Guide: Many moons ago, you entered the Cub Pack. The first challenges you encountered were from the Lion clan. As you met them, you learned what it means to be a Cub, the Scout Law, and the three words that would inspire you to meet all other challenges: Do Your Best. [Light firepot or candle] Guard: Your next steps along the trail were spent with the Tiger clan. There, you experienced many challenges for a young scout. You became part of the clan, but continued to look for more. [Light firepot or candle] Guide: Having started on the trail, you next sought to join the Wolf clan. Here you were met with seven adventure challenges, harder than the Tiger tests, but with the cleverness of the wolf itself, you met them and continued on your journey. [Light firepot or candle] Guard: Now the trail becomes darker and fainter as you came to the Bear clan. Again seven challenges were presented before you. As you met them, your knowledge grew and your spirit strengthened. It was this strength of spirit, like the bear, that prompted you to move onward. [Light firepot or candle] Chief: As you neared the summit, you joined the Webelos clan. The time of your testing had begun. In the Webelos clan you learned more about Scouting. Just as you learned the ways of the tribe as a Lion, Tiger, Wolf, and Bear, as a member of the Webelos clan you would learn the ways of a brave. [Light firepot or candle] Chief: In time, you earned the Webelos badge, blazing the rest of the trail on your own. Now at last you have reached the summit and the highpoint of this part of your journey. [Light firepot or candle] Chief: Let the Arrow of Light be given to each of them. Guide: [To the chief] Wait, Brother Takachsin! Before receiving this most high honor, they must hear its legend so they may understand and appreciate what they are to receive. Chief: [To medicine man] Brother Weuchsowagam, let the legend of the Arrow of Light be known to all present. MedMan: In the ages past, when the Nations spread across the land, there was a young member of one tribe called Akela. Akela wished to be a true brave as the older men of his tribe were, but no one would consider him so. "Little Akela, he is too young to join the hunt," they would say. Too young to play with the Lion clan. Not fast enough to run with the Tiger clan. Not clever enough to hunt with the Wolf clan. Such a young one is not strong enough to join the Bear clan. No matter how hard Akela worked, all ways were barred. But the Aged Chieftain of the tribe saw Akela different than the rest. "The spirit of this young one burns brighter than the largest fire. Akela has served his brethren well for one of his age. The time will come when the tribe will need only that which Akela can give." One night in the fall during the harvest, a party of braves was canoeing back to their village after a hunt. On this night, the fog rolled thick across the river. The fog was so heavy the river path back to the village was hidden from view. The river split with one branch leading to the village and the other leading to a deadly waterfall. The braves did not know the safe path to take and were too afraid to continue down either path. Akela had been practicing his hunting skills in the hills above the river and had seen the danger to the canoe. He wrapped an arrow in a skin, set it aflame, and shot it into the sky toward the safer river path. The braves in the canoe saw the flaming arrow through the fog and followed it toward the safe river path and the village. The braves went to the Chieftain saying, "We were lost on the river and the High Father sent an Arrow of Light through the sky to guide us." The Chieftain smiled and said, "The sign which led you to safety came not from the heavens but from one who you thought was too young to do anything." He brought Akela forward to the surprise of the braves. "Akela has proved himself worthy to wear the name of brave. He has aided his brothers in their time of greatest need. Hereafter, all young members of our tribe shall become braves only after meeting the challenges of the Arrow of Light. Let them each be filled with the spirit of Akela and follow his example of unselfish service to our brethren." And it was made so and carried through the present day as you scouts stand before us now, ready to receive the Arrow of Light. MedMan: Will the following scouts and their parents please stand before us as your names are called. [As Medicine Man recites or reads names, the Guide and Guard should direct Arrow of Light scouts to make a line across the front of the stage. Parents should stand behind their child.] [Medicine Man remains behind table to light the 7 candles. The Chief, Guide, and Guard move down in front of the scouts.] Guide: Before you receive this honor, I must see your devotion to the high ideals of Scouting. Therefore, I ask you all now raise your right hand to the Scout sign and repeat with me, the Scout Oath and Law. [Raises hand in the Scout Sign (followed by the other principles) and recites the Scout Oath and Law with the other principles (Medicine Man, Guide, and Guard) along with the other scouts who will be awarded the Arrow of Light] Scout Oath: Scout Law: Chief: I shall now recite the virtues of the Arrow of Light Award which are represented by these seven candles.
Guide: Having met all of its challenges, it is our duty and privilege to award you with the highest Cub Scout honor: the Arrow of Light. Parents because of the support and guidance you have given these braves, I give the Arrow of Light to you to present to them. [Moves to the front and gives the Arrow of Light card and/or patch to the parents who then present it to their scout.] (If the Pack gives a token to each Arrow of Light recipient) Guard: My brothers and I also present you with this token from your pack. Keep this in remembrance of this occasion. [Moves forward and presents each scout with a token. As he presents the tokens, the Chief, Medicine Man, and Guide congratulate each scout with the Scout Handshake] Chief: Let us now congratulate these young braves. [All principles return to their original positions on the stage while pack applauds.] Guide: [To all still standing] You may now be seated. Chief: Once again, I congratulate you on your achievements. Having finished the work for which we were called to do, we now depart this gathering of your pack. Before we go, I would remind you to keep Akela's spirit alive. Let it ignite a spark within each of you that will fan into a fire as you grow. MedMan: We challenge all the younger braves present to continue on your trail and strive to reach the summit and the Arrow of Light. May the Great Master of all Scouts be with you until we meet again. [Principles silently depart] |
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Arrow of Light Bridging | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | troop neckerchiefs green shoulder loops campfire lashed bridge candle for each AoL scout wooden target arrows Arrow of Light candleholder |
| Script: | This ceremony works well at a spring campout, with the Scouts supervising the construction of a bridge from poles and rope. Cub Scout flags are positioned at one end of the bridge and Scouts BSA flags, Scouts, and Scoutmaster at the other end. AoL Den Leader: Scout [AoL Scout name], please come forward and bring your parents. (Repeat for each scout) AoL Den Leader: These scouts have outgrown our Pack. They have earned their Arrow of Light rank and now need more challenge and more adventure than we can provide. They are ready to move forward into the Scouts BSA program. I would like to congratulate them on their achievements and wish them well on the other side of the bridge. (Cubmaster steps forward.) Cubmaster: Stop! These scouts may not yet leave our Pack. I, Akela, declare that they have achieved the greatest of all Cub Scout honors and must be recognized for their accomplishments. These scouts have honored Akela and their parents and families. The road to the Arrow of Light is not an easy one and this accomplishment is not to be taken lightly. These scouts have shown their courage to continue and see a task through to the end. In this end, there is a new beginning. The beginning of new leadership for tomorrow. We gather here tonight to honor these scouts and we are humbled by their accomplishment. They show us that by following the proper trail and facing the challenges it presents us, we can all reach our destination. AoL Den Leader: Great Akela, please tell us of the trail these scouts followed to achieve the Arrow Of Light. Akela: (Briefly lists Arrow of Light requirements, then presents each scout with a candle.) Scouts, please light your candles. (the scouts light candles and place them on the Arrow of Light sign placed between the Cub Scout flags.) Akela: Scouts, please face the campfire. Bearer of the Arrow, present arrows. (AoL Den Leader comes forward with arrows, one for each scout. These are wooden target arrows with a small piece of flash paper from local magic shop wrapped around tip) AoL Den Leader: These arrows symbolize the straight path one must follow. The light symbolizes the enlightenment of knowledge and for doing right for others. As proof that you have earned this recognition, pass the tip of your arrow through the flame you set out for the world to see. (Have scouts, one at a time, hold the feather end of their arrow and hold the tip in the flame of their candle they put on the Arrow of Light sign. It should flash brightly.) AoL Den Leader: Akela will now present the Arrow Of Light to the Scouts. Scouts, follow Akela to complete the ceremony. (Cubmaster leads scouts into the shadows, out of sight, where he explains that the Arrow of Light patch can be worn on the uniform centered below the left pocket. It can remain there, even when they join a Scouts BSA troop. He hands out the Arrow of Light patch and parent pin to each scout. They then return.) Akela: These scouts have completed their Arrow of Light ritual. Their last step is to thank their parents for the support given so they could reach this point. To demonstrate that thanks, each scout will fix the parent pin to his mother's or father's lapel. AoL Den Leader: Parents, please escort your child to the bridge, but wait on this side as your child crosses over alone into the world of Scouts BSA. (On the Scouts BSA side, the Scouts present each new scout with a troop neckerchief and shoulder loops. They then send the scout back to escort their parents across and introduce them to the Scoutmaster.) (after an appropriate length of time, continue) Akela: Pack [number], join me in congratulating these Scouts with a [pack cheer, roar, applause, ...]! |
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Arrow of Light Challenge | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Script: | Akela: Tonight we have Arrow of Light Scouts who have earned Cub Scouting's highest award. As I call your name, please come forward with your parents. (Call names earning the Arrow of Light badge) Akela: Long ago, Indian braves would collect eagle feathers. Eagle feathers could not be worn by just anyone. A brave needed to earn the right to wear such prized honors. He would stand before the tribal council and tell of a brave deed he had done to win the feather. If the council felt the deed was worthy, the brave was allowed to display the feather. This was called 'counting coup' and feathers might be worn in the hair, on clothes, on a banner, or on a coup stick. Akela: Cub Scouts 'count coup' by actively participating in the den and pack to earn the rank awards and adventure pins on their uniform. These badges are highly valued in our tribe, but other tribes have their own honors for braves that excel. When you are no longer a member of this pack, you may no longer wear the badges and honors you received here. But, you may keep them forever and share the stories of how you earned them with your children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Akela: You have reached the summit of the Cub Scout trail. You have earned the top Cub Scouting award - the Arrow of Light. It is my pleasure to give this Arrow of Light badge to your parents as they have been your Akela through your scouting journey this far. Parents, please present these badges to your scouts and congratulate them on a 'job well done.' (Den Leader presents the parents with the Arrow of Light badge and asks them to pin it on their scout.) Akela: You've come to the final fork in the Cub Scout trail. Your choices are to veer off the path or continue up the trail to the next summit in scouting. The Arrow of Light is a significant achievement. It is recognized as such by Scouting America. When you join a Scouts BSA troop, you continue to wear the Arrow of Light on your uniform - it is the only honor from Cub Scouts that is recognized by the troop you join. When you become an adult leader, you wear a square knot which represents the Arrow of Light on your uniform. In view of the significance of this award, I offer my sincere congratulations to each of you. (Cubmaster shakes the hand of each scout and parent) Akela: In Scouts BSA, when they have an Eagle Court of Honor, a challenge is made to the new Eagle Scout. Tonight, I want to offer such a challenge to each of you. You have achieved the highest rank in Cub Scouts. You have shown what you are capable of doing. I challenge each of you to continue to live by the ideals you have learned in Cub Scouts, especially the Cub Scout motto: 'DO YOUR BEST'. I challenge each of you to continue your high level of achievement in your future troop home. I challenge each of you to look at the Arrow of Light badge and think about what it represents:
I challenge each of you to soar to great heights and obtain the Eagle Scout Award. Akela: Parents, guests, and Cub Scouts of Pack ___, please join with me in giving these scouts a standing ovation for achieving the highest award in Cub Scouting. Congratulations and good luck! |
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Arrow of Light Cutout | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | Lighted Arrow of Light box awards and certificates |
| Script: | The Arrow of Light cutout draws attention to center stage. It is made by cutting out the Arrow of Light symbol from the side of a large cardboard box and pasting yellow tissue paper behind the cutout section. A light bulb is placed in the box. (Be careful that the bulb does not come in contact with the sides of the box.) The box can be painted black. Cubmaster: I would like scout [name] and parents to please come forward. (when they are onstage, the house lights are dimmed or turned off and the Arrow of Light box is turned on) AoL Den Leader: Tonight, we honor a scout who has completed the requirements for Cub Scouting's highest award, the Arrow of Light. [scout name], you have been a faithful member of our Arrow of Light den. Soon you will complete your Cub Scouting career. You have learned the Scout joining requirements, visited the Scouts BSA troop of your choice, and secured a Scouts BSA application. Tonight you receive the Arrow of Light Award. Within a short time you will be eligible to enter the Scouts BSA program. You were guided in your progress through Cub Scouting's ranks by the Arrow of Light (points to it), which is this emblem. Let this Arrow of Light continue to light your way as you move onward and upward along the Scouting trail. It is now our pleasure to present to you the Arrow of Light Award, which you may wear on your current uniform. Later, you may wear it on your Scouts BSA uniform. Because your father and mother came up through the ranks of Cub Scouting with you, I will hand the award to them and ask them, in turn, to present it to you. (Pause while this is carried out) Cubmaster: I congratulate you for the fine work you have done in Cub Scouting and extend the best wishes of the entire pack to you and your parents as you continue up the Scouting trail in your new troop. Let's have a big cheer for this Scout! |
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Arrow of Light Simple | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | Cubmaster, AoL Den Leader, AoL Den Chief |
| Script: | Cubmaster: Tonight we are assembled to honor those scouts who have earned the Arrow of Light Award. The Arrow of Light is the highest rank a Cub Scout can reach. So, it is an honor tonight to present the Arrow of Light Award to these scouts. We are striving to make it possible for every Cub Scout to attain this rank before leaving the Pack to go into a troop. These scouts have brought honor to our Pack. They have diligently climbed the Cub Scouting trail. They are now ready to go on to a bigger adventure in the great brotherhood of Scouting. Den Chief [name], please bring [names of Arrow of Light candidates] and their parents to the front. The parents will please stand behind their scouts. Den Leader [name], you have had much to do with the progress of these scouts. Do you think them worthy of the Webelos tribe? Webelos Den Leader: Yes, I consider them worthy. Cubmaster: Den Chief, are they worthy? Den Chief: They are. Cubmaster: Parents, you have played the most important part in developing the character of these candidates. One of the greatest purposes of Cub Scouting is to develop comradeship between parents and their children. As you have worked together, your scouts have learned to do things, to be useful, and to appreciate you. To you should go the honor of presenting your scouts their awards. Our Arrow of Light den leader will give the awards and certificates to you for presentation to your children. Scouts, please face your parents. (AoL den leader presents certificates, awards, and safety pins to parents. The parents then pin the awards on their children and congratulate them.) (Parent pins may also be passed out to the Scouts so they can affix them to their parent's lapel.) |
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Basic Flag Closing | |
| Intended for: | All Scouts |
| Script: | (leader assembles color guard in back of room or offstage so they are ready. You may only have flag bearers, 2 or 3 scouts following, 2 in front and 2 behind, or any crisp formation depending on number of scouts in color guard.) Leader: "Color Guard, Attention! " Leader: "Audience, Please Rise! " Leader: "Color Guard, Forward March! " (wait for color guard to reach the front) Leader: "Color Guard, Halt! " Leader: "Scout Salute! Please put your right hand over your heart if you are not in uniform." Leader: "Color Guard, Retrieve the Colors! " (wait for flag bearers to pick up their flags) Leader: "Color Guard, Return to Ranks! " (Scouts not carrying flags turn around so they are facing the audience. Wait for flag bearers to return to formation) (US Flag is on the far right facing the audience, then state flag, then troop flag on far left.) Leader: "Color Guard, Forward March! " (wait until color guard reaches back of room) Leader: "Color Guard, Halt! " Leader: "TWO! " (everyone drops salute.) Leader: "Audience, Thank you for joining us. " Leader: "Color Guard, Dismissed! " (flag bearers should immediately put the flags away before starting to play with the other scouts. ) |
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Basic Flag Opening | |
| Intended for: | All Scouts |
| Script: | Have the color guard in the back of the room, ready holding the flags. The US Flag is on the right, then State flag, then Troop flag on the left as the color guard is facing towards the front of the room - or, US Flag in front, followed by State, then Troop flag. Leader: "Color Guard, Attention!" Leader: "Audience, Please Rise!" Leader: "Scout Salute! Those not in uniform, please place your right hand over your heart." Leader: "Color Guard, Forward March!" Wait for color guard to reach the front. Leader: "Color Guard, Halt!" Leader: "Color Guard, Cross the Colors!" State and Troop flags stop. US Flag crosses in front of other flags to left-most flag stand (as viewed from the audience), then State flag advances, then Troop flag. Wait for flag bearers to move to the flag pole stands. Leader: "Please recite the Pledge of Allegiance!" Leader: "TWO!" Everyone drops salute. Leader: "Scout Sign!" Everyone raises right hand making the Scout sign. Leader: "Please join us in reciting the [Scout Law, Scout Oath, Outdoor Code, ...]!" This is where the ceremony can be customized by the scout in charge. Choose what to recite. Could sing a song such as 'America the Beautiful'... Leader: "TWO!" Everyone drops Scout sign. Leader: "Color Guard, Post the Flag of the United States of America! " Leader: "Color Guard, Post the Flag of the Great State of [your state name]! " Leader: "Color Guard, Post the Flag of [Pack/Troop] 123! " Leader: "Color Guard, Honor your Colors!" Flag bearers salute the US flag. Leader: "Color Guard, return to ranks!" Wait for flag bearers return to formation. Leader: "Audience, Please be seated!" |
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Bear Rank - Cherokee Legend | |
| Intended for: | Bear Scouts |
| Script: | The Cherokee tell a legend of a boy who lived in one of their villages. The boy used to leave home and spend his days wandering in the mountains. At first, it would be for only a few hours at a time, but as the boy grew older he would be gone longer and longer. Eventually he was leaving before dawn and would not return until after dark. His parents were concerned with this behavior. He would not even eat at home. They noticed that long, brown hair was beginning to grow all over his body. They finally asked him why he preferred to be in the woods. "I find plenty to eat there, and it is better than what we have to eat in the village," he replied. "One day soon, I will leave and not return. If you like, you are welcome to come with me." His parents decided to discover what he was doing in the forest. The next day, they went with him as he trekked up the mountain. He took them the places where he found shelter. He taught them the ways he had learned to hunt. He showed them his water holes. The parents were impressed with all their son had learned and how self-sufficient he had become. As they stayed with him, they began to notice that the same long hair began to cover them as well. You, too, have become a Bear. Over the year you have learned many skills, and you have begun to become more independent. You have begun to change. You rely more on yourself or your den mates. But your parents are still welcome to share your adventure, and as you change, they change and grow as well. You have mastered many skills and achievements to reach this level, and tonight we commend you on your accomplishments. [Present Bear rank patch to parent to pin on his/her child's uniform.] Congratulations! Let's all give a great bear growl! |
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Bear Rank - Chipmunk's Stripes | |
| Intended for: | Bear Scouts |
| Script: | Akela: Long ago, the animals had tribes just like the people. One night, Porcupine sent out a message requesting all the animals to come together for a great council of the tribes. At the Council meeting, Porcupine stood up. His quills quivered and gleamed in the firelight. 'We must decide,' he said, 'whether we shall have night or daylight all the time.' Baloo: All the animals began giving their ideas all at once. It was deafening. Bear rocked to and fro on his hind legs, trying to drown out the others by rumbling in a big deep voice, 'Always night! Always night! Always night!' Akela: A little chipmunk who had been sitting on the outskirts of the Council meeting became annoyed. (Chipmunks hate to sit still for any time.) 'You can talk all you like,' he shrilled out in his tiny, squeaky voice, 'but the light will come whether you want it or not. The light will come.' Akela: The other animals did not pay any attention to him, but went on roaring and growling until they were hoarse. Finally, they agreed that night all the time would be better. And, so it was decided. Chipmunk danced with excitement on the outskirts of the Council meeting shrieking, 'The Light Will Come! The Light Will Come!' Baloo: But, Bear, who was close to him, growled, 'Quiet, little one! It is decided.' Akela: But, as the council was ending, a faint flush had crept up in the sky, and the golden disc of the sun rose above the tree-tops. Could it be possible that it was daylight whether they wished it or not? A shrill voice suddenly piped up from the edge of the assembly. 'What did I tell you?...' Baloo: 'Roooooar!' Bear slashed at the bothersome Chipmunk with his huge paw. Luckily, Chipmunk was very fast and Bear's claws barely scratched his little back. He was gone like a flash through the trees and into a hole in a tree before Bear could catch him. But, the black stripes that run down the chipmunk's sides today show where Bear's claws hit him long ago at that Council meeting when the animals tried to decide whether they should have darkness or daylight all the time. Akela: Just as Bear left his mark on Chipmunk, we are here to honor Cub Scouts who have left their mark on this pack. On their way to learning about their self, their family, their country, and God, they have taken part in many activities in the pack. Akela: Call these new Bear Scouts and their parents forward so I may honor them. Baloo: Will the following Cub Scouts come forward with their parents? (Baloo names the scouts who are to receive the Bear badge.) (Akela hands the badge to the parents.) Akela: Parents, present the Bear badge to your child. As is our custom, please attach the badge to his uniform upside down, with the tape. Once he performs a good deed, the badge may be permanently attached right side up. The pin is worn by the parents as an indication that Cub Scouting continues to be a family activity. Baloo: These scouts deserve a cheer for their hard work. What could be more appropriate than a Bear growl? |
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Bear Rank - Origin of the Bear Clan | |
| Intended for: | Bear Scouts |
| Notes: | This story can be acted out. Characters are the father, mother, son, two bears, and several hunters. |
| Script: | Our ancestors, the natives who walked these lands before men came from across the seas, tell the story of a young family. As they did every year, a man, his wife, and their boy were travelling with their clan to the hunting grounds. They paddled as far as they could with their canoe, but they came to a point where a great portage was necessary. A portage is where one must carry the canoe from one lake or river to another. This particular portage was the greatest along the route, a 20-mile walk. The man hefted the canoe on his back while his wife carried as many of their belongings as she could. The rest were left lashed in the canoe, making the man's burden a heavy one. As they both struggled along their walk, the little boy laughed as he followed by their sides, playing and running circles around them without a care. With the canoe on his shoulders, the man did not notice when his wife stopped briefly to rearrange her load. She and the boy fell behind, but they kept along the same path. The next time she stopped, her son ran along ahead to meet up with his father. She assumed that they were together, but her husband was far enough ahead that the boy had become lost, as she learned only when they reached the next camp. The clan searched, but found no trace of her boy. As the months passed, the hunters reported that from time to time they had found sharpened sticks by nearby streams. They began to wonder if the boy was alive in the woods. As they began to find the footprints of a boy mixed with those of bears, they guess that he might even have been adopted by a bear family. The men of the village determined to search the area where the prints had been found. However, after they had gone, the boy's mother spotted one man who had not joined the search but instead was catching fish in the stream. "Will you not help find my son?" she asked. "He is my only child." "Very well," the man replied. He gathered the fish he had caught and carried them off into the forest. Finding a bear cave, he used the fish to lure the bears away. Once they were gone, he entered their lair and found the young boy curled up in the corner, scared and alone. The man returned the boy to his family, and the boy's mother wept with joy to be reunited with him. The rescuer was lavished with many generous gifts for his efforts. Looking him over, the boy's mother found that he was no worse off for his time living with the bears. However, his arms, legs, chest, and back had grown hair as if he was becoming a bear himself. His limbs were becoming thicker, and he stooped forward a bit. In fact, the rest of his life he continued to show these characteristics, and he and his descendants were forever known as the Bears. Wherever they camped, they would draw the symbol of the Bear with charcoal and declare, "I am a member of the Bear clan". Today you too become a full member of the Bear clan. You have met the requirements to become a Bear, learning many new skills along the way. Although your back may not be very hairy, you have been forever changed by your experience. I now give your parents the mark of the Bear (the bear rank patch). Wear it, and you may also say that you are a proud member of the Bear clan. Parents, please pin it on your scout's left pocket. [parents pin on badge] Let's all congratulate our new Bears with a great Bear growl! |
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Bobcat - Cub Scout Promise | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Required: | Four older scouts (preferably Webelos) Four cards showing the parts of the Promise that each Scout will read |
| Script: | Cubmaster: I would like these new Bobcats to please come forward with their parents - [read names] You recently joined the Cub Scouts and our Pack, searching for fun and adventure. Along the way, you will also learn the ways of the Cub Scouts. I understand you have all learned the Scout Law, the Cub Scout Motto, and more. Perhaps most importantly you have learned the Scout Promise. Scout #1: On my honor I will do my best - Saying 'On my honor' is like saying 'I promise.' It means that you will do your best to do what the Scout Oath says A Scout is trustworthy and follows through. Scout #2: To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law - A duty is something you are expected to do. You do your duty to God by following the teachings of your family and religious leaders. You do your duty to your country by being a good citizen and obeying the law. Scout #3: To help other people at all times - Many people need help. A friendly smile and a helping hand make life easier for others. By helping other people, you are making our world a better place. Scout #4: To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight - You stay physically strong when you eat the right foods and get exercise. You stay mentally awake when you work hard in school, learn all you can, and ask questions. You stay morally straight when you do the right thing and live your life with honesty. Cubmaster: Do you all agree to follow this Promise? If so, answer "I do". Scouts: "I do." Cubmaster: I congratulate you on earning your Bobcat awards. Parents, you may pin your child's Bobcat patch on the left shirt pocket. Congratulations on the first rank on the Cub Scout trail! May you earn many more! (Give Cub Scout handshake.) |
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Bobcat Badge | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Required: | campfire prop - optional badges and pins or tape for affixing to uniform |
| Script: | Akela: The spirit of Cub Scouting burns here as it does in the hearts of Cub Scouts everywhere. The Cub Scout spirit is like a campfire. We must add wood to the fire or it will go out. In the same manner, we must add new scouts to our pack, or the Cub Scout spirit will go out. Baloo: We have (number) scouts who have earned the right to join our Pack. Akela: Are they ready to join in the Cub Scout spirit? Baloo: Yes, and they have learned the ways of our tribe. They have learned the Scout Promise, the Scout Law, and the Cub Scout Motto and their meanings. They have also learned the meaning and proper use of the Cub Scout Sign, Salute, and Handshake. These are the scouts ready to join our Pack. When I call your name, come forward with your parents ... (Baloo calls the scouts who are to receive the Bobcat badge.) (Both Akela and Baloo hand the badge to parents and congratulate the Cubs with the Cub Scout handshake) Akela: Parents, present the Bobcat badge to your child. The parent pin reminds you that Scouting is a family program. Akela: Will the new Bobcats join Baloo and me in saying the Scout Promise? All: On my honor, I will do my best To do my duty to God and my Country and to obey the Scout Law; To help other people at all times; To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. |
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Bobcat Howl | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Script: | Parents of new Bobcats are called to the front while their children are sent outside with their Den Leader or an Assistant Cubmaster. When ready, the scouts give the howl of the Bobcat - Hear It Here Akela: I hear a calling from the wilderness outside our Pack. It sounds like a Bobcat! Shall we answer with the call of the Wolf? (Pack howls like wolves - Hear It Here. This is the cue to bring in the Bobcats.) Akela: Who comes here? Den Leader: Scouts, hunting for the fun and adventure of Cub Scouting. Akela: But, whom do you seek? Den Leader: We seek Akela, the great Spirit of the Cub Scout. Akela: Are these children wise in the ways of the Bobcat? Den Leader: They are, Akela. Akela: Show me. Den Leader: Show Akela what you have already learned. Raise your arm in the Cub Scout Sign and say the Scout Promise. (They do.) Den Leader: Say the Scout Law. (They do.) Akela: I can now call you Cub Scouts because you have completed the requirements necessary for your participation in this great Brotherhood we call Cub Scouting. Tonight you have repeated before me the Scout Promise and the Scout Law. You have assumed a very important responsibility. You have agreed to "Do Your Best" when doing your duties, helping others, and obeying the scout law. These are things which are not always easy, but I think you will enjoy them. All that we ask is that you really do your best. Do you agreed to do your best? (Wait for answers) Good! Please let your parents pin your bobcat badge on your uniform. |
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Bow and Arrow Cross-over | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | An arrow A bow (optional) Akela, Baloo, and AoL Den leader Scoutmaster and/or SPL of troops receiving new scouts |
| Notes: | Can be used after Arrows of Light were awarded to some scouts. If scouts are not advancing to Scouts BSA, they would get their AoL and then not participate in this ceremony. |
| Script: | Akela: The highest award to be earned in Cub Scouting is the Arrow of Light. Some of the scouts in our Pack have already received that award today. Take a look at this arrow I have here. Akela: Notice it is made of strong wood to withstand the stress of doing its work. A good scout also needs to be made of strong character to overcome challenges and hardships. Baloo: It is also sharp. A good scout is sharp in a different way - using your brain to figure things out. AoL Den Leader: The arrow is also straight so it can follow a true path in flight. A good scout uses faith and conscience to maintain a true path through life. Baloo: An Arrow of Light scout is a lot like this arrow. What can I do with this arrow? Is it useful as it is? No, something's missing, isn't it? In order to use this arrow, I need a bow - the energy to make it fly to its target. Without a bow, the arrow is a wasted tool. Akela: Everything an Arrow of Light scout has learned in Cub Scouts is like this arrow. Your knowledge and skills are good and useful, but without a way to put it to use, it's kind of wasted. It's like having a nice arrow and just hanging it on the wall instead of using it with a bow as it should be used. Akela: By advancing on to a Scouts BSA troop, you are designing and crafting your own bow - you are giving yourself a way to use your scouting skills. As you continue in scouting, you will constantly refine your bow, making it stronger and more accurate. You will learn more skills, filling your quiver with many strong arrows. By the time you become an Eagle Scout, you will be well prepared for anything the world throws at you. Just as the Indian braves of old were expert with bow and arrow, you will be expert at scouting skills, leadership, and citizenship. Akela: Troops [number, number, number, ...] are ready to accept you as a member and help you begin to create your bow. You have learned all we can offer you in the Pack and it is time for you to set your sights on even higher goals. As your name is called, your den leader will remove your neckerchief and blue shoulder loops. You may then present yourself to the leaders of your chosen troop to receive the marks of Scouts BSA and continue your adventure. (Baloo reads names and chosen troop number of each scout) |
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Bridge to Scouts BSA | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | A rustic bridge two campfires (artificial ones for indoors) camp candle lantern to be carried by the torchbearer Scouts BSA troop neckerchief, slide, and shoulder loops |
| Script: | AoL den leader (Akela), den chief as torchbearer, Scoutmaster, senior patrol leader, Scouts from troop, AoL Scout and parents. The bridge is at center stage. A campfire with seating around it is built well past each end of the bridge. The AoL Scout and parents join the AoL den leader around the campfire stage left. The Troop representatives are seated around the other campfire. If this ceremony is held indoors, the lights should be turned down. AoL Den Leader: [AoL name], please stand. To show that you are an experienced scout, please repeat the Scout Promise. AoL Den Leader: Hello, Scouts of Troop [troop number]. Scoutmaster: Hello, Scouts of Pack [pack number], what do you desire? AoL Den Leader: We have an Arrow of Light Scout in our Pack who has prepared for entrance into the council ring of your troop. Scoutmaster: Bring the scout forward to the bridge that joins our two council rings so we may decide if they are worthy. (The AoL den leader, accompanied by the torchbearer, leads AoL Scout followed by parents to bridge. Scoutmaster and senior patrol leader cross over bridge and are introduced to the parents and the AoL Scout.) AoL Den Leader: [Name of AoL] has contributed much to den and pack, and we shall miss this scout. This scout's accomplishments include ... [review awards and ranks the scout has earned]. Will this satisfy what you look for in a new Scout? Senior Patrol Leader: Yes, this scout is welcome to join our troop and learn our ways. AoL Den Leader: (to AoL scout) Now you are leaving us to enter the troop of your choice. There you will continue to grow in Scouting skills and friendships. Now that you have outgrown our pack and Cub Scouting, I ask your parents to remove your blue shoulder loops since they will serve you no purpose in the world on the other side of the bridge. (The parent removes loops and keeps them) (The Scoutmaster turns and heads back over the bridge. This is the cue for the senior patrol leader.) Senior Patrol Leader: (to AoL scout) Follow me, young scout. (the Scoutmaster is waiting for them by the Troop's campfire) Scoutmaster: As Scoutmaster of Troop [number], I welcome you and your parents. There are many traditions in Troop [number] that will interest you. (The Scoutmaster may explain one or two traditions and tell of important troop activities planned for the near future.) I am only a guide for these scouts. They are the ones that will help you experience the larger world of Scouting. Welcome to our troop! Senior Patrol Leader: Here is the neckerchief of our troop. It shows the world that you are one of us now. (Put on neckerchief) Wear it with pride as many have done before you. (The senior patrol leader leads the troop in a cheer for the new Scout.) |
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Cross-Over | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | Akela Sr. Patrol Leader or Scoutmaster of the troop receiving new scouts Simple cross-over bridge. |
| Script: | Akela: The moon is full, just as it was long ago on that night in the jungle when Mowgli first joined the wolf pack. It has been many years since Mowgli returned from living with the wolves. After he returned, he taught us many of the lessons he learned while in the jungle. The most important was that the strength of the wolf is the pack, and the strength of the pack is the wolf. That is why we are here tonight in this council ring. But just as Mowgli had to leave the pack, tonight we also have some cubs among us who have grown strong and tall. The time has now come when they too must leave the pack to find their place in the world. They have learned many lessons as they have walked the trails of the lion, tiger, wolf, and bear. Tonight, these cubs are ready to begin their next adventure on their way to adulthood. We will not hold them back, though we will miss them when they are gone. Instead, we will wish them well and send them into the wild where they will continue on their path. Akela: So let us begin. Parents, bring forward these cubs. (Akela calls out the names of the Arrow of Light scouts who will be advancing to Scouts BSA. Parents and Cubs come forward and face the rest of the pack.) Akela: Akela of Scouts, do you hear me? Sr. Patrol Leader: I hear you, Akela of the cubs. What is it that you want? Akela: We have among us several cubs who have grown tall in body and strong in character. They have learned well the ways of the pack, but now they yearn to run with older scouts in the wild places. They have been with the pack for many moons, and have been a source of pride for us all. But now it is time that they must leave us and search out greater adventure. Sr. Patrol Leader: I understand you and I will accept them into my tribe and guide them in those wild places. (Akela now leads the cubs, one at a time, to the bridge between Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA. He removes their blue shoulder loops. The scout crosses the bridge to a Scouts BSA member waiting with Scouts BSA handbook, troop neckerchief, and green shoulder loops.) Akela: These scouts are no longer with our pack, yet we still call on the Great Akela of all Cub Scouts to always guide their way. We ask that the Great Akela watch over them as they learn to soar with Eagles in the wild places. And, in the fullness of time, we pray that these scouts will return, tall and proud and strong, and present their own cubs to be accepted into the pack. But until then, let us send them on their way with a mighty wolf howl. |
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Cross-Over Milestone | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | Troop neckerchief green shoulder loops |
| Script: | Cubmaster: (Addressing audience) Cub Scouting is part of the great Scouting movement. In the final months of the Cub Scouting experience, a scout learns the requirements for the Scout badge in the Scouts BSA program. The scout also decides what troop to join. Tonight, our Pack has the privilege of bringing another scout to this significant milestone of Scouting. (Addressing den chief) Den Chief [name], please escort scout [name] and parents forward. (The Cubmaster greets them.) [AoL Scout's name] has chosen Troop [number] to join. The Scoutmaster of Troop [number], [name], is here. I ask the Scoutmaster now to come forward. (The Cubmaster introduces the Scoutmaster to the AoL Scout, parents, and the audience.) [AoL Scout's name], I remember the night you became a Cub Scout. You and your parents stood in this same spot. That night was the first milestone in Scouting, a whole new world of opportunity was opened to you through Cub Scouting. During the past years you have experienced that good feeling that comes in giving goodwill to others. Now you have the privilege of becoming a Scout in a troop. This ceremony is the milestone that marks the completion of your Cub Scouting, just as it marks the beginning of a whole new experience in the Scouts BSA program. [Addressing Scoutmaster] Scoutmaster [name], Pack [number] is proud to present scout [name], holder of the Arrow of Light rank. It is our hope and belief that you and your Scouts will provide the finest opportunity to move this scout farther along the Scouting trail. Scoutmaster: [AoL Scout's name], it is a real privilege to welcome you into Troop [number]. As a Scout with us, you will hike and camp. You will learn many useful things. You will have an opportunity to continue to grow into a strong citizen because you will participate in civic activities and learn the thrill of helping other people by practicing the habit of doing a Good Turn every day. And now, Scouts [name] and [name] will give you our troop neckerchief, a symbol of moving on into Scouts BSA. (Aides put on the troop neckerchief and replace blue shoulder loops with green, give the Scout handshake, and step back. The AoL den chief leads the Pack in a yell for the Scout. The Cubmaster dismisses the Scout with a warn handshake, and aides escort the Scout, the Scoutmaster, and the family off the stage.) |
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Cub Scout Flag Collection | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Script: | Whatever ceremony you attempt, these guidelines will help make it go smoothly:
Remember these points of U.S. Flag etiquette:
Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com (stage is set with a large kettle and campfire. Inside the kettle and against one side is a folded flag out of sight of the audience.) (you may use a different scout for each line or two scouts taking turns.) Scout: Tonight we're going to fix for you a treat that's really grand and make for you a recipe : the Grandest in the Land. Scout: In first we'll put a heaping cup of red for courage true. (pours in container of red paper cut in small pieces) Scout: And then we'll add for loyalty a dash of heavenly blue. (Pours in container of blue paper cut in small pieces) Scout: For purity we'll now sift in a layer of snowy white (pours in container of white paper cut in small pieces) Scout: We'll sprinkle a pinch of stars to make it come out right. (pours in a small container of silver stars) Scout: We'll stir and stir and you will see that what we've made is Old Glory. (pulls out flag, unfurls it with partner, and posts it on standard.) Scout: Our flag is the most beautiful flag in the world. Let's always be loyal to it. Everyone please stand and give the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com Equipment:
Speaker: Since countries were first formed, man has used symbols to express hope, ideals, and love of his own nation. Our flag symbolizes the sacrifices made by men and women for the future of America. It stands for your home and everything and everyone you hold dear. Speaker: 'I light the red candle for the red stripes in our flag, standing for hardiness and valor and symbolizing the lifeblood of brave men and women.' Speaker: 'I light the white candle for the white stripes, symbolizing purity and perfection.' Speaker: 'I light the blue candle for the field of blue which is the symbol of perseverance and justice, and the eternal blue of the heavens.' Speaker: 'Please stand and join me in the Pledge of Allegiance.' Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com Equipment: have scouts make cardboard swords and shields in den meetings prior to pack meeting. Announcer: Hear ye! Hear ye! The Kingdom of Cub Scouting requests your presence before the Royalty of the Land! (Royal trumpet sounds) Announcer: Prepare for the entrance of the Chivalrous Knights. (Scout procession enters carrying shields and swords and den flags.) Announcer: Knights! Hold your swords at attention while the flag of the United States is advanced. Audience, please stand and salute the flag. (Honor guard brings flag forward to post) Announcer: The flags, shields, and banners of kings were symbols of the monarchy. Fleur-de-lis, lions, trees, and castles symbolized purity, courage, and strength. Our banner has three colors and stars as symbols. Our colors show red for bravery, white for purity, and blue for loyalty. The stripes stand for the original thirteen colonies and the stars stand for all the states. Knights and friends of the kingdom, please join in the Pledge of Allegiance. |
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Eagle Feather | |
| Intended for: | All Scouts |
| Required: | Faux eagle feathers, one for each Scout |
| Script: | (scout names), please come forward with your parents. You see that I hold here a feather. This is not just any feather, but represents that of an Eagle, the most respected of all creatures. The eagle is most beloved by the Great Spirit because it represents life and how all things are divided into two parts. The eagle, you see, has only two eggs at a time. Likewise, there is man and woman. People have two hands, two feet, and two eyes. We each have a body and a soul. There is also day and night, light and dark, summer and winter, war and peace, life and death. We smell good scents and foul odors, and we see beautiful and distasteful sights. We hear pleasant sounds and dreadful news. We use our hands for good deeds, or bad. We have before us two paths. Scouting encourages us to follow the way of good - of bravery, service, honor, and brotherhood. We also may choose selfishness, laziness, mean spirit, and deceit. That choice belongs to each of us. On your journey, you have chosen the Scouting way, and through your work you have earned the _____ rank. Wear the patch you receive proudly. I also present to each of you a feather of your own. When you see it, remember what it represents, that we face choices every day which path we will follow. Stay true, and continue on your trail of the Eagle. |
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Eagle Palm | |
| Intended for: | Eagle Scouts |
| Required: | Eagle palm card and pin. Bronze, Gold, or Silver unlit candle in holder. 3 white lit candles in holders. |
| Notes: | Led by Scoutmaster |
| Script: | Eagle Scout, __________, please come to the front with your parents if they are present. Some people think that after becoming an Eagle Scout, a scout has reached the end of the trail. As ______ knows, they are mistaken. This scout has continued to lead, serve, and grow as an Eagle, expanding scouting knowledge and sharing expertise with new scouts joining the troop. [Use appropriate words for Silver, Gold, or Bronze palms as needed] Silver: This SILVER Eagle palm represents the completion of at least 36 merit badges. 21 to reach Eagle, 5 for a bronze palm, 5 more for a gold palm, and 5 more for this silver palm. This emblem of recognition for advancement is the last one to be earned. If an Eagle Scout completes more merit badges, more bronze, gold, and silver palms can be earned. Gold: This GOLD Eagle palm represents the completion of at least 31 merit badges. 21 to reach Eagle, 5 for a bronze palm, and 5 more for this gold palm. If an Eagle Scout completes more merit badges, a silver palm can be earned after this. Bronze: This BRONZE Eagle palm represents the completion of at least 26 merit badges. 21 to reach Eagle, and 5 more for this bronze palm. If an Eagle Scout completes more merit badges, a gold palm and then a silver palm can be earned. In addition to completion of merit badges, to earn an Eagle palm, a scout must be active in the troop for at least 3 months, demonstrate the Scout Oath and Law, and continue to develop leadership skills. ______ has successfully done all these things. All through scouting, the number 3 keeps coming up. There are 3 parts to the Scout Oath (God, others, self), three levels of scouting (Cubs, Scouts BSA, Venturing), and even three fingers in the salute. For a scout to reach the levels that ______ has attained, it takes a team of 3 - the individual, the family, and the troop. To represent this joining of efforts, would the SPL, parents, and Eagle scout each pick up one of the lit candles. Using these candles light the [bronze, gold, silver] eagle candle together. On behalf of Scouting America, ________ Council, _______ District, Troop ____ - I am pleased to present this eagle palm to _________. Please have your parent pin the emblem to your Eagle ribbon. Troop, attention! Congratulations to this outstanding Eagle Scout! |
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Eagle Scout | |
| Intended for: | Eagle Scouts |
| Script: | [Color guard and troop are in position at the rear of room: American flag, troop flag] SPL: [Step to microphone.] Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the opening ceremonies. [Wait until the audience is standing and quiet.] SPL: Color guard, present the colors. [Color guard enters, _____ and _____ carry flags, ______ (from the back of the room) plays "to the colors". Troop follows color guard] [color guard proceeds to flag stand, troop occupies the front rows. Reserve seats for color guard] [When color guard is in position] SPL: Please Stand. Scout salute. Everyone please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance I pledge Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. SPL: Color guard, post the colors. [Wait until posted] SPL: TWO. Color guard retreat. SPL: Scout Sign. Please join me in reciting the Scout Oath On my honor I will do my best To do my duty to God and my country And to obey the Scout Law; To help other people at all times; To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. SPL: Two. Please be seated. Good afternoon, my name is _________________. As Senior Patrol Leader for Troop _____, it is my pleasure to call this Eagle Court of Honor to order. I would like to introduce today's master of ceremonies, __________. MC: Thank you. As _________ said, my name is ____________ and I have the pleasure of being Master of Ceremonies for this Eagle Court of Honor to recognize the accomplishments of _________________. To earn the highest rank in Scouting, a Scout must spend a great deal of time and effort fulfilling the requirements of rank advancement. ________'s efforts, as well as those of these Scout leaders and ____'s family, culminate today in the presentation of the Eagle Scout Badge. This is an occasion for pride and joy, as well as a time for reflection. At this point I would like to call upon the Troop Chaplain's Aide to ask God's blessing on this ceremony. Troop Chaplain: Lord, you bring us together this afternoon to honor an Eagle Scout. We acknowledge your guidance in helping youth and adults work together to build strong character, physical fitness, ethical leadership and an appreciation of the outdoors. Lord, continue to watch over these scouts as they grow into adults, and give the adults the patience and wisdom to guide them. Amen MC: Thank you. Scoutmaster ____________, would you please come forward. SM: Good afternoon Ladies and gentlemen, I am _________________, Scoutmaster of Troop ______. Today I present Eagle Candidate _______________ for Rank of Eagle Scout. SM: As we begin this Eagle Court of Honor and examine the Trail to Eagle, it is fitting that we began today with a Pledge, and an Oath. The Scout Oath that we recited is the guiding principle of Scouting. The Scout Oath sets our internal direction. We declare our duty to God, Country, Others and Self. Also within the Oath are the rules we must follow to provide guidelines to our duties. The rules of Scouting are found in the twelve points of the Scout Law. Let us pay careful attention to the words and re-dedicate ourselves to the principles contained in those words. Scouts, join me in slowly reciting the Scout law. Scout Attention. Scout Sign. [slowly] A scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent. SM: TWO, Thank you, you may take your seats. (As MC lights the unity candle) SM: When a youth joins Scouts, there is within the child something that we call Scout Spirit. The youth may not know that it exists, or know its meaning, but by following the trail to Eagle the scout is enlightened. This single candle, lit before you, represents that spirit. The spirit of Scouting embodies the principles of the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. It becomes a shining beacon of inspiration. Alone, this light may seem feeble, but when multiplied by the millions of youth in Scouting around the world, it is powerful indeed. The pathway to Eagle can be described as a steep trail leading up to three peaks, the highest being that of Eagle Scout. [MC lights the first three rank candles.] The trail starts with the Scout rank and continues through Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class ranks. During this phase the scouts are given instruction and guidance. They are learning important outdoor skills, including camping, cooking, physical fitness, and developing teamwork and leadership skills. They are also being examined. The adult leaders are watching to see if the flicker of light representing duty, service and law is growing within. Reaching First Class is an important step in a Scout's life. The scout has demonstrated that the requirements at each rank have been met, and the scout is showing SCOUT SPIRIT. Then, the mountain climbing begins. To begin the climb, the scout is first asked, "Are you ready for the next challenge?" Secondly, "Can you and will you teach others what you have learned?" [MC lights Star and Life candles] The path going forward is marked with Service, Leadership, Exploration and a stronger presence of Scout Spirit. The first peak to be reached is the Star Scout. The scout has provided leadership to the troop, has provided service to fellow scouts and to the community, and is completing merit badges of personal interest as well as required to reach Eagle. At this point the scout is a Star. The scouting family expects the light to be shining more brightly. The second peak is the Life Scout. Again the scout must complete several hours of service to the community. The scout must demonstrate additional leadership within the troop. The scout must complete several merit badges. And finally the scout must have embodied Scout Spirit in daily life. The badge for Life Scout contains a heart. This is the only rank position that shows what Scouts is all about and what is inside the scout. This rank badge answers these questions: Does the scout understand duty? Does the scout understand the 12 points of the Scout Law? What is in this young person's heart? What could be more important than this rank? The third peak is the Eagle Scout. The scout has embodied the Scout Spirit in Life. Now the scout must be tested on one final climb to see if it is truly part of the scout's character. The requirements are much the same as Star and Life, however the scout must now go into the community, plan, organize, coordinate, and deliver a service project; a demonstration of leadership and character. And one final time the scout must go before a group of adults who focus on character, leadership and spirit. Does the scout reach the peak? Can the scout leap from the top peak and fly like an Eagle? ______, are you an Eagle? [The Challenge Ceremony] MC: Sir, I have the honor to present Life Scout ____________ for the award of Eagle Scout. [Eagle Candidate goes to the front of the room] MC: Awarding the Eagle Badge of rank is an important and serious matter. It is the goal toward which this Scout has been working for several years. It is the culmination of effort by the scout's parents and Scout Leaders. It is an occasion for pride and for joy, but it is also a time for serious contemplation. The Eagle rank is the highest and most coveted award in all of Scouting, and it is the last major step in the advancement program. If, at this point, Scouting has not achieved its purpose of building character then it probably never shall. These thoughts, which are the basic code of Scouting, are well summed up in the pledge that is taken by every Scout in the council upon advancement to Eagle rank. ______, I will read the pledge so that you will know that which you are about to promise, and then I will ask you to repeat it after me. MC: (reads entire pledge) I ________, On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty to God. On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty to my country I reaffirm my allegiance to the three promises of the Scout Oath I thoughtfully recognize and take upon myself the obligations and responsibilities of the rank of Eagle Scout. On my honor, I will do my best to make my training an example, and make my rank and influence strongly count for better scouting and for better citizenship, in my troop, in my community, and in my contact with other people, regardless of race, color, or creed. To this, I pledge my sacred honor. MC: Having heard the Eagle pledge, are you willing to adopt it? Eagle Candidate: I am. MC: Raise your hand in the Scout sign and repeat after me. (A Life Scout in the audience stands and interrupts.) LIFE SCOUT: Stop! I challenge the right of this Scout to be awarded the rank of Eagle. MC: Who are you and by what right do you challenge? LIFE SCOUT: I am a Life Scout, and my esteem for the Eagle rank gives me the right to so challenge. MC: On what grounds do you challenge? LIFE SCOUT: Has this Scout achieved the requirements in Scoutcraft and Life Interest? MC: This scout's application was verified, and indicates that the scout has satisfactorily completed the required 21 merit badges in the various fields of endeavor. Are you satisfied Life Scout? LIFE SCOUT: I am. (A Tenderfoot Scout in the audience stands and interrupts.) TENDERFOOT: I, too, challenge the right of this Scout to be awarded the rank of Eagle MC: Who are you and by what right do you challenge? TENDERFOOT: I am a Tenderfoot Scout, and the respect that I have for the uniform that I wear gives me the right to so challenge. MC: On what grounds do you challenge? TENDERFOOT: Does the Scoutmaster certify that this Scout has actively participated in Scouting in the troop, demonstrated leadership, and helped in his home, school, church, and community? SM: As Scoutmaster of Troop ____, I certify that for more than 6 months since attaining the Life rank, this Scout has held leadership positions in the troop. Also, _____ has been active in school, church, and community activities. MC: Are you now satisfied? TENDERFOOT: I am. (An Eagle Scout in the audience stands and interrupts.) EAGLE SCOUT #1: I too challenge the right of this Scout to be awarded the rank of Eagle. MC: Who are you and by what right do you challenge? EAGLE SCOUT #1: I am an Eagle Scout, and the pride that I have in this badge that I wear over my heart gives me the right to so challenge. MC: On what grounds do you challenge? EAGLE SCOUT #1: Has this Scout, nearing the end of the Eagle trail, demonstrated Scouting Spirit? Has the ability to live and act in accordance with the ideals of Scouting, as exemplified by the Scout Oath, Law, motto, and slogan been noted? The Scout motto is Be Prepared and the Scout slogan is Do a Good Turn Daily. ADVANCEMENT CHAIR: As Advancement Chair I have reviewed this Scout's record. I certify that, after investigation, interview, and examination, the Eagle board of Review is of the opinion that this Scout has demonstrated the spirit of Scouting in his daily living. The board recommends advancement to Eagle. MC: Are you now satisfied? EAGLE SCOUT #1: I am still not satisfied. I believe that this candidate should understand that the Eagle Rank is a big responsibility, as well as an honor. I respectfully ask that this candidate be informed of the responsibilities of an Eagle Scout before continuing further. MC: Thank you, Eagle Scout. I agree with your feelings and suggest that none are more qualified to impart this than those who wear the Eagle Badge. I invite you and your fellow Eagle Scouts, Mr. ______, Mr. ______ and Mr. ______ to the platform. EAGLE SCOUT #1: The first responsibility of an Eagle Scout is to live with honor, which to an Eagle is sacred. Honor is the foundation of character: it is what a person really is, down inside, not what someone may think they are. An Eagle will live so as to reflect credit upon their home, church, school, friends, upon Scouting, and upon theirself. May the white of your Eagle badge always remind you to live with honor. EAGLE SCOUT #2: The second responsibility of an Eagle Scout is loyalty, for without loyalty, character lacks direction. An Eagle is loyal to their ideals. May the blue of your Eagle badge always remind you to be loyal. EAGLE SCOUT #3: The third responsibility of an Eagle Scout is courage. Courage gives character force and strength. Trusting in God and with faith in their fellowman, the Eagle faces each day unafraid, and seeks their share of the world's work. May the red of your Eagle badge always remind you of courage. EAGLE SCOUT #4: The final responsibility of an Eagle Scout is service. Eagle scouts extend a helping hand to those who toil up the Scouting trail they have completed, just as others helped them in their achievement of the Eagle rank. The habit of the daily Good Turn must take on new meaning and blossom forth into a life of service. Eagles protect and defend the weak and the helpless. They aid and comfort the oppressed and the unfortunate. They uphold the rights of others while defending their own. Their code of honor is based upon the belief that leadership is founded upon real service. EAGLE SCOUT #1: Mr. Chairman, if this candidate is willing and eager to accept the mantle of responsibility, as well as the honor of the badge, then I will be satisfied and request that you proceed to administer the Eagle pledge. MC: (To Eagle candidate) Are you ready and willing to accept these responsibilities and to adopt the Eagle pledge which I have previously read to you? Eagle Candidate: I am. MC: The Eagle Scout candidate will now take the Eagle Scout pledge. As the candidate takes this pledge for the first time, will those Eagle Scouts who are present in the audience please stand and reaffirm their pledge? Would those in attendance also introduce yourself and when you received your rank of Eagle? (All Eagles stand and introduce themselves) MC: Thank you. And now, Attention. Scout Sign. Eagle Scouts, please repeat after me in unison: On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty to God. On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty to my country I reaffirm my allegiance to the three promises of the Scout Oath I thoughtfully recognize and take upon myself the obligations and responsibilities of the rank of Eagle Scout. On my honor, I will do my best to make my training an example, and make my rank and influence strongly count for better scouting and for better citizenship, in my troop, in my community, and in my contact with other people, regardless of race, color, or creed. To this, I pledge my sacred honor. MC: The Eagle Scouts in the audience may now be seated. Mr. Scoutmaster, will you do the honor of awarding the rank of Eagle to ______? Since the parents and siblings of this Scout have been so instrumental in attaining the Eagle rank, I will ask that they come to the platform. (pause while they come forward) Mr. _____ will you please assist? (Presentation of Eagle Award) SM: The symbol of your success is the Eagle badge which is now presented to your mother. Your mother will, in turn, pin the badge over your heart. (presentation of badge) SM: In recognition of the wisdom and guidance given to you by your father, will you present to him this Eagle pin, which he will be proud to wear in your honor. (presentation of fathers pin) SM: And now, also in recognition of the many hours of patient guidance given by her in your efforts, will you pin the Eagle mother's pin on your mother. (presentation of mother's pin) SM: (siblings of Eagle Candidate)___________, will you remove ______'s Troop Neckerchief and dress him in the Eagle Neckerchief. SM: _____, will you present the Eagle Advisor Mentor pin? Eagle Candidate: Mr. _______, thank you for your interest, dedication and patience in assisting me in earning the rank of Eagle Scout. SM: Now, would the audience please rise. By virtue of the authority vested in me by the National Council of Scouting America, I hereby present to you our newest Eagle Scout. Let's give a round of applause. (Pause) At this time I would like to invite ______ to say a few words about the Scouting experience. Eagle Candidate: (give Eagle response. Then invites each adult up that the scout wants to acknowledge, presents him/her with a gift and asks him/her to say a few words, stay standing on stage. Typically, his Eagle mentor, past scoutmasters, current scoutmaster, other influential adults. If doing the Scoutmaster, then save him/her for last.) SM: says a few words after receiving acknowledgement from Eagle Candidate. SM: _____, the process of earning one's Eagle Scout award does not end with this ceremony. I have confidence that you will honor Scouting with your life and service as today Scouting has honored you. The Eagle soars high and seeks to rest only upon the lofty peaks. As an Eagle Scout, you, too, must soar high. You must not swerve from the path of duty. You must strive to obtain that which is the highest and noblest in life. Eagle Candidate: Thank you, Mr. __________. I will do my best. MC: By the authority vested in me as a representative of Troop ____, I declare that this court of honor is now complete. SPL, will you close this meeting? SPL: Everyone please rise. Color guard advance. Color guard retire the colors. (color guard exits while bugler plays taps) SPL: This meeting is now adjourned. There will be refreshments served in the back, please stay and enjoy, thank you. |
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Eagle Scout 2 | |
| Intended for: | Eagle Scouts |
| Script: | This ceremony requires an MC, Scoutmaster, Color Guard of at least 2 scouts, 2 scouts for opening, 6 scouts for ceremony, 1 Eagle Scout, Chaplain or Pastor, member of Eagle Board, Unit or District Commissioner. The commissioner is optional and some roles can be fulfilled by the same person. SPL: Ladies and Gentlemen, may I please have your attention. Please stand for the Presentation of the Colors. Color Guard, advance the Colors. (Color Guard brings in the Flags - US flag on the right and Troop flag on the left. Troop follows in double ranks. When the Color Guard reaches the front, the SPL continues.) SPL: Color Guard, halt. Scouts, to your seats, remain standing. (Wait while the scouts file into their seats and remain standing.) SPL: Color Guard, continue. (Color Guard crosses the US flag ahead of the Troop flag and position the flags above their stands.) SPL: Will the audience please join in the Pledge of Allegiance. Scouts, Salute! (S.P.L. leads the Pledge of Allegiance) (After the Pledge, while everyone is standing, three Scouts come forward and complete the opening ceremony. SPL asks each scout by name to come forward.) SCOUT #1 _________: The Red of our Flag represents the life blood of Brave Americans ready to die or worthily live for this our Country. SCOUT #2 __________: The white of our Flag is for Purity, Cleanliness of purpose, thought, word and deed. SCOUT #3 __________: The Blue of our Flag is for Faith and Loyalty, the eternal blue of the Star-filled heavens. (Three Scouts return to their seats.) SPL: Color Guard, post the Colors. (Color Guard posts the colors, returns to the aisle, salutes the US Flag, and goes to their seats.) SPL: Please remain standing while ______________ of ______________ Church, delivers the invocation. (delivers the invocation) SPL: Thank you ______________. Would everyone please be seated. I would like to introduce ______________, of Troop #_____ and our Master of Ceremonies for this Eagle Court of Honor. MC: Thank you, ______________, Good afternoon honored guests, ladies, gentlemen, scouts and scouters. My name is ______________, ______________ of Troop #______. It is my pleasure to be the Master of Ceremonies for this Eagle Court of Honor, honoring ______________. Today we have the honor and pleasure of recognizing _______ for the award of Eagle Scout. His parents and Scout Leaders have labored long and faithfully to develop him towards responsible citizenship through the Scouts BSA Program. Their efforts now culminate in the presentation of the Eagle Award. The success of these efforts, however, will only be manifested in the way this new Eagle sets a social pattern for the lives of those he touches. Honor Guard, please escort before this Court of Honor, Eagle Candidate ________________. (Honor Guard escorts candidate to the front of the room and returns to seats.) MC: I will now call upon ______________, a member of the ______________ District Commissioners staff to open this Court of Honor. DISTRICT COMMISSIONER: By the authority vested in me by the National Council of Scouting America, I hereby declare this Court of Honor opened. MC: Achieving Eagle is a long and arduous task. Scoutmaster ______________ will outline ________'s long trail to the Rank of Eagle. (Six preselected, rehearsed scouts with rank award signs prepare to assist in this ceremony.) SM: Scouting is no doubt one of the greatest organizations in the world to foster the ideals of citizenship. It is little wonder then that so many of our nation's greatest leaders had some of their earliest leadership experiences in scouting. The total development from childhood to adulthood depends on physical, mental and moral growth expressed in the Scout Law and Oath. The skills are so demanding and the challenges so great that it is not surprising that only a small percentage of scouts achieve the rank of Eagle. Let us now reflect on the trail to Eagle which a young man must undertake. If you refer to your program, you can see the long trail this Eagle Candidate traveled. Scout: (Holds up Scout Emblem) I am the Scout. My badge represents the international brotherhood of Scouting which I have joined. SM: To become a Scout a youth must understand and promise to live by the Scout Oath and Law. Tenderfoot: (Holds up the Tenderfoot Emblem) I am the Tenderfoot. My three points stand for the three parts of the Scout Oath. You find me on the Mariner's Compass, forever pointing the way to the North Star and a safe journey in life. On my face are two stars representing truth and knowledge, a shield which is the emblem of a nation molded together in justice, and an Eagle to guard the freedom of my land. SM: A Scout must demonstrate basic skills in camping, first aid, rope work, and safety to become a Tenderfoot. He begins to demonstrate patrol spirit, improves his physical fitness, and citizenship. 2nd Class: (Holds up the Second Class Emblem) I am the Second Class. The ends of my scroll are turned up in the willing smile of the scout. On my face is the motto "BE PREPARED", and suspended from me is the knot, tied there to remind you of the slogan of Scouting America, "DO A GOOD TURN DAILY". SM: To become a Second Class Scout a Tenderfoot works together with his patrol to cook meals and run a good campsite. He develops more advanced first aid skills, plus map and compass, swimming, and fire skills. He is introduced to the concepts of service to others and leadership, as well as self-sufficiency. 1st Class: (Holds up the First Class Emblem) I am a First Class Scout. I was Second Class and I laid a course by the stars of truth and knowledge and I girded myself with the righteousness of justice and freedom. I added a smile that I might be a friend to all and bound myself together with the knot of duty to others. SM: A First Class scout has reached the level of skills so that he is ready to take care of himself in the wilds. He can handle tough situations, such as finding direction with no compass and helping others that need first aid. He has led his patrol and is ready to perform more leadership at the troop level. Star: (Holds up the Star Emblem) I am the Star. Now that I can stand alone, I have earned the right to improve on my own. To me goes the honor of choosing my field. Before me lies a horizon of endless opportunity. SM: To become a Star Scout a scout works on his character by leading and serving others. He practices living by the Scout Oath in his everyday life and earns a total of six merit badges, four of which must be from the required Eagle List. Life: (Holds up the Life Emblem) I am the Life. I have shown the world that Scouting is in my heart. I have mastered knowledge of subjects that will benefit not only myself but my country and my fellowman. I am ready to reach for my wings to fly. SM: A Life Scout has been actively participating in his patrol and troop for at least 10 months, providing leadership and service to other scouts and people in his community. He has demonstrated citizenship and Scout Spirit. His activities and behavior show that his character is growing towards the expectations of an Eagle. To become a Life Scout, he earned a total of eleven Merit Badges, including seven from the required Eagle list. MC: The Eagle Award is the culmination of the efforts of ________ and his leaders. A scout must earn 21 Merit Badges, in various crafts and skills. Eleven of these badges are required by Scouting America. You scouts who sit here with the Troop are a part of the Eagle Award that ________ is about to receive. As _________ has helped you learn your scouting skills, he was exhibiting Troop leadership, that is necessary to develop to become an Eagle Scout. Hopefully, all of you will follow his example and complete your Eagle Rank. Each Eagle Candidate must plan and supervise an Eagle Service Project. This Service Project demonstrates a Scout's capacity and willingness to exert his leadership ability in activities that are constructive and worthwhile in his community. (Briefly describe the Eagle Service Project completed by the Candidate.) After a Scout has completed the requirements for the rank of Eagle, he must be reviewed by an Eagle Board of Review. This Board of Review meets to assure that the ideals of Scouting and the esteem of the Eagle Rank are upheld. I would like to introduce _________________ who sat on the Eagle Board and will report on the Boards findings. Board Member: As a member of the Board that reviewed ___________________, I certify that after investigation, interview and examination, the Board is of the opinion that this Scout has demonstrated that he has held to the spirit of Scouting in his daily living. The Board recommends his advancement to Eagle. MC: Thank you ________________. I will now call upon __________________, an Eagle Scout, to help convey the responsibilities of the Eagle Rank to our new candidate. Eagle Scout: I speak for all Eagle Scouts. I have the honor to give you the Eagle Scout Charge on the occasion of your elevation to the highest rank in Scouting. The Scouts of all nations constitute one of the most wholesome and significant influences in the world's history. You have been counted worthy of this high rank. All who know you rejoice in your achievement. As you live up to your obligations, you bring honor to yourself and your brother Scouts. Your responsibility extends to your country and your God. America has many good things to give you and your children after you, but these good things depend for the most part on the ability of her citizens. Our country has a great past, you can make the future still greater. I charge you to undertake your citizenship with solemn dedication. Be a leader, but lead only towards the best. Lift up every task you do and every office you hold to the high level of service to God and your fellow man. So live and serve, that those who know you will be inspired to the finest living. We have too many who use their strength and their brains to exploit others and to gain selfish ends. I charge you to be among those who dedicate their hearts and hands to common good. Build America on the solid foundation of clean living, honest work, unselfish citizenship, and reverence for God. Then, whatever others may do, you will leave behind you a record of which you may be justly proud. Eagle Scout Candidate ________________, I charge you to enter the Eagle Scout Brotherhood, holding without reservation ever before you, the ideals of honor and service. By repetition of the Eagle Scout Promise before your fellow Scouts, you will become an Eagle Scout. Though the words you use may be similar to those by which you joined Scouting, today they will mean more than they could have meant at any time in the past. When you pledge yourself on your sacred honor, you will be sealing your eternal loyalty to the code of the Eagle Scout, with the words which closed the Declaration of Independence". (Speaker turns to the audience and says) Will all the Eagle Scouts present today join ________ and me here at the front, as I administer the Eagle Scout Promise. (Speaker waits for the Eagle Scouts to reach the front and line up.) Eagle Scouts, please give the Scout Sign and repeat after me. I______________ (name) reaffirm my allegiance to the three promises of the Scout Oath. (pause) I thoughtfully recognize and take upon myself (pause) the obligations and responsibilities of the rank of Eagle Scout. (pause) On my honor, I will do my best (pause) to make my training an example of my rank (pause) and my influence count strongly and for better citizenship, (pause) in my home, in my community and in my contacts with other people. (pause) To this I pledge my sacred honor. Thank you. Eagle Scouts please return to your seats. (All Eagle Scouts except candidate, return to seats.) MC: Will Scoutmaster ______________ please come forward and present the Eagle Award. SM: Will _______'s parents please come forward. By the virtue of the authority vested in me by the National Council of Scouting America, I hereby award the rank of Eagle Scout to _________________. (Scoutmaster gives Eagle Medal to the Scout's mother to pin on her son.) Will you please pin the Eagle Medal on your son. (Scoutmaster gives Eagle pin for mother to Scout) No one will ever know the unnumbered acts of self-sacrifice and helpfulness from the mother of this Eagle Scout which has led to this afternoon. As the symbol of what this mother has made possible, this Court now asks ___________ to present his mother a miniature Eagle pin. (Eagle Scout pins pin on mother) Eagle Scout, it is customary that you also give your mother an Eagle kiss. Eagle Scout, would you also present your Dad with the lapel pin. (Scoutmaster gives lapel pin to Eagle Scout to present to his father.) (MC asks parents to return to their seats.) MC: I would like to introduce Eagle Scout ______________, with a presentation from the National Eagle Scout Association. The Troop Committee has enrolled you, our new Eagle Scout in the National Eagle Scout Association. May I present you with your certificate and membership card. MC: __________, there are a few dignitaries here today that would like to congratulate you and say a few words. (MC invites each individual forward, one at a time.) 1. __________________________________ 2. __________________________________ 3. __________________________________ 4. __________________________________ 5. __________________________________ 6. __________________________________ 7. ___________________________________ MC: Are there any others present who wish to make a presentation at this time. ___________ has received many letters and certificates from dignitaries and friends who could not be here this afternoon. I would like to read a few of them. (Reads letter from President and a few others) MC: __________, it is now time to hear from you. (New Eagle Scout gives a few remarks) MC: I declare this National Court of Honor Closed. Senior Patrol Leader take charge. SPL: Scouts, please rise and repeat the Scout Law. Scout Sign. A Scout is ... SPL: _____________, will you please deliver the Benediction. (Gives the Benediction) SPL: Everyone please rise. Troop, as the Colors are retired, please file out following the Colors. Color Guard, retire the colors. (Color Guard retires the colors.) (Troop files out as the flags pass them.) I would like to invite everyone to enjoy themselves with refreshments. Thank you. |
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Eagle Scout 3 | |
| Intended for: | Eagle Scouts |
| Required: | Scoutmaster, Minister, Scout as Master of Ceremonies, 2 or more scouts as color/honor guard, 1 or 3 scouts to light candles for Scout Oath, 1, 3, 4, 6, or 12 scouts to recite parts of the Scout Law (depends on how many scouts you want involved), committee member to present letters. |
| Script: | SM: I would like to welcome you all to this special meeting of Troop _____ as we recognize the accomplishments of __________[scout name]. Before you leave today, please sign the guest book which is in the back of the room. I would now like to introduce ________________[Minister name] who will provide us with the invocation of the day. Minister: [Invocation] MC: Color guard, please advance the colors. [color guard performs their ceremony with one scout coming forward to issue commands] [Recitation of Pledge of Allegiance] MC: Everyone please remain standing for the playing of the Star-Spangled Banner. [Music is played on organ or piano] MC: Thank you, please be seated. SM: As Scoutmaster for Troop ____, it is my pleasure to declare this Eagle court of honor for [ Scout's name ] now officially open. MC: Troop _____, please stand and give the Scout Sign. Scouts, join me in the Scout Oath. [Recite oath] Scouts, be seated. MC: Honor guard, please escort [ Eagle candidate name ] forward. [Pause for honor guard to escort scout to front.] As we begin this Eagle Court of Honor and examine the "Trail to Eagle," it is fitting that we start with the fundamental principles of Scouting: the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. We have just joined together in reciting the oath. Let us begin our ceremony by lighting candles symbolic of the three parts of the Scout Oath: Duty to God and country [pause for a scout to light candle] Duty to others [pause for a scout to light candle] Duty to self [pause for a scout to light candle] MC: In Scouting, as in most activities of life, there are rules. The rules of Scouting are found in the twelve points of the Scout Law. As a candle is lit for each point of the Scout Law, let us pay careful attention to the words and re-dedicate ourselves to the principles contained in those words. MC: A SCOUT IS TRUSTWORTHY Scout: A Scout tells the truth. He keeps his promises. Honesty is a part of his code of conduct. MC: A SCOUT IS LOYAL Scout: A Scout is true to his family, friends, Scout leaders, school, nation, and world community. MC: A SCOUT IS HELPFUL Scout: A Scout is concerned about other people. He willingly volunteers to help others without expecting payment or reward. MC: A SCOUT IS FRIENDLY Scout: A Scout is a friend to all. He is a brother to other Scouts. He seeks to understand others. He respects those with ideas and customs that are different from his own. MC: A SCOUT IS COURTEOUS Scout: A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of age or position. He knows that good manners make it easier for people to get along together. MC: A SCOUT IS KIND Scout: A Scout understands there is strength in being gentle. He treats others as he wants to be treated. He does not harm or kill anything without reason. MC: A SCOUT IS OBEDIENT Scout: A Scout follows the rules of his family, school, and troop. He obeys the laws of his community and country. If he thinks these rules and laws are unfair, he tries to have them changed in an orderly manner rather than disobey them. MC: A SCOUT IS CHEERFUL Scout: A Scout looks for the bright side of life. He cheerfully does tasks that come his way. He tries to make others happy. MC: A SCOUT IS THRIFTY Scout: A Scout works to pay his way and to help others. He saves for the future. He protects and conserves natural resources. He carefully uses time and property. MC: A SCOUT IS BRAVE Scout: A Scout can face danger even if he is afraid. He has the courage to stand for what he thinks is right even if others laugh at him or threaten him. MC: A SCOUT IS CLEAN Scout: A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and clean. He goes around with those who believe in living by these same ideals. He helps keep his home and community clean. MC: A SCOUT IS REVERENT Scout: A Scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties. He respects the beliefs of others. MC: The pathway to Eagle can be described as a steep trail leading up to three peaks, the highest being that of Eagle Scout. Officially, the trail starts with the Tenderfoot rank and continues through Second and First Class ranks. Then, the mountain climbing begins. The path is marked with merit badges, leadership responsibilities, service projects, and the practice of Scouting skills and ideals. The first peak reached is that of Star Scout, the second is Life Scout, and, finally, Eagle Scout. Now we shall hear the story of [ Scout's name]'s "Trail to Eagle." Each part will be told by a scout holding the respective rank. Tenderfoot: To earn the rank of Tenderfoot Scout, [ Scout's name] did the following: He memorized the Scout Oath and Law. He explained the meaning of each point of the Scout Law. He practiced these ideals in his everyday life. He camped with his patrol in a tent which he helped pitch. He showed improvement in physical tests. He demonstrated basic first aid skills. He completed a scoutmaster conference and a board of review. 2nd Class: In earning the rank of Second Class Scout, [ Scout's name] did the following: He used a map and compass to navigate. He participated in at least 5 troop and patrol activities. He safely used knife, axe, saw, fire, and rope to demonstrate his scouting skills. He demonstrated his swimming abilities, first aid skills, and knowledge of nature. He showed Scout Spirit by participating in service projects. He completed a scoutmaster conference and a board of review. 1st Class: To earn the rank of First Class Scout, [ Scout's name] did the following: He demonstrated basic orienteering skills and found his way without a compass. He participated in ten troop or patrol activities. He served as head cook for his patrol. He discussed the rights and obligations of a citizen. He expanded his understanding of nature, his first aid skills, and his safety knowledge. He built structures using knots and lashings. He passed the Scout swim test. He showed Scout Spirit. He completed a scoutmaster conference and a board of review. Star: In earning the rank of Star Scout, [ Scout's name] did the following: He was active in the troop for at least four months after earning First Class. He showed Scout spirit. He earned __________ and __________ elective merit badges. From the list of required merit badges for Eagle, he earned __________, __________, __________, and __________. He did at least six hours of service projects. He served at least four months in troop leadership positions. He completed a scoutmaster conference and a board of review. Life: In order to earn the rank of Life Scout, [ Scout's name] did the following: He was active in the troop for at least six months after earning Star. He showed Scout spirit. He earned __________, __________, and __________ elective merit badges. From the list of required merit badges for Eagle, he earned __________ and __________. He did at least six hours of service projects. He served at least six months in troop leadership positions. He completed a scoutmaster conference and a board of review. Eagle: To complete the rank of Eagle Scout, __________ did the following: He was active in the troop for at least six months after earning Life. He showed Scout spirit. He earned __________, __________, __________, and __________ merit badges. From the list of required merit badges for Eagle, he earned __________, __________, __________, __________, __________, and __________. He served at least six months in troop leadership positions. He completed a scoutmaster conference. He was reviewed by a board which included representatives from __________ District as well as members of the committee of Troop _____. He planned, developed, and gave leadership to others in a service project. His project was ________________________________. [Describe the project to some level of detail.] MC: Would all Eagle Scouts present please stand and introduce yourself, including the troop and date when you received your Eagle. [wait while the Eagles speak] Please remain standing to witness ___________'s dedication of himself to the principles of Scouting by repeating the Scout Oath. Eagle Candidate: [Recitation of Scout Oath] MC: Thank you. Eagles, please be seated. I would like to introduce ______________, who will deliver the Eagle charge. [Give as much introduction as is appropriate.] Speaker: [Challenge and Charge to Eagle Scout] MC: Honor guard, please escort [ Scout's name]'s parents forward. [Pause for honor guard to escort parents to front.] It is my pleasure to introduce __________ and __________. SM: The symbol of your success is the Eagle badge which I now present to your mother. Your mother will, in turn, pin the badge over your heart [Presentation of Eagle badge] Eagle Scout [ Scout's name ], in recognition of the wisdom and guidance given to you by your father, will you present to him this Eagle tie tack, which he will be proud to wear in your honor. [Presentation of Eagle tie tack] And now, also in recognition of the many hours of patient guidance given by her in your efforts, will you pin the Eagle mother's pin on your mother. [Presentation of Eagle mother's pin] [Parents can return to their seats or have special seats available onstage for them so they don't need to stand so long.] MC: Committee Member __________ will present letters and certificates which have been sent by people who could not attend this afternoon's ceremony and will introduce others who will make presentations in person. Committee Member: [Presentation of letters and certificates sent by people not present and introduction of others who are present] MC: At this point in the court of honor, the new Eagle Scout, [ Scout's name ], would like to make a few remarks. [Remarks by new Eagle Scout] SM: As Scoutmaster of Troop _____, I would like to offer my congratulations to [Scout's name ] for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. I now declare this Eagle court of honor closed. ________ [ Minister name] will close with a benediction. Minister: [Benediction] MC: We invite everyone present to congratulate the new Eagle Scout and his parents and to join us for refreshments. [ Scout's name ]'s project workbook and letters and certificates of congratulations will also be available for viewing at this time. I would also remind everyone to sign the guest book for this occasion. Thank you for joining us today. |
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Elements of Scouting | |
| Intended for: | Eagle Scouts |
| Required: | candelabra of 5 candles, representing earth, water, fire, wind, eagle single white 'spirit of scouting' candle candelabra with 3 candles, red, white, and blue for Eagle colors |
| Preparation: | Participants: Candidate Master of Ceremonies Scoutmaster Eagle Advisor Scout to read poem Four scouts - fire, water, earth, wind Eagle Scout for Voice of the Eagle reading |
| Script: | MC lights the Spirit of Scouting candle before the ceremony begins. PRESENTATION OF THE COLORS (MC) Please stand for the presentation of the colors. Color Guard! Present the colors! (Color Guard comes forward with USA and Troop flags and moves to their positions by the podium) (The entire troop comes forward following the flags and stands in the front rows facing the flags.) Please stand and join me in the Pledge of Allegiance! Scout Salute! (Color Guard dips the troop flag, MC leads the pledge of allegiance.) "I pledge allegiance ..." Post the colors! Scouts, please remain standing. Audience, you may be seated. Scouts, please face the audience and make the Scout Sign. Scouts, recite the Scout Motto with me. (All scouts recite the scout motto - Be Prepared ) Scouts, recite the Scout Oath with me. (All scouts recite the scout oath - On my honor, ...) Scouts, recite the Scout Law with me. (All scouts recite the Scout Law - A Scout is Trustworthy, ...) Scouts, recite the Outdoor Code with me. (All scouts recite the outdoor code - As an American, ...) Color Guard dismissed. (Color Guard joins the rest of the troop in the front rows) Scouts, you may be seated. (Pause while scouts take their seats) WELCOME (MC) Good afternoon. Welcome to Troop _____'s Eagle Scout Ceremony for __________ __________. The theme for today's ceremony is "The Elements of Scouting." You just heard the scouts recite four important elements of Scouting: the Scout Oath, the Scout Law, the Outdoor Code and the Scout Motto. Scouts routinely affirm these commitments because these are the foundation, the very elements, of Scouting. But there is another interpretation of "The Elements of Scouting". The elements of nature are also the elements of Scouting. Fire, water, earth, and wind are core parts of the Scout experience. From small backpacking stoves to large bonfires, fire has been part of ________'s Scout journey. He has swum in lakes and rivers, canoed and rafted, and used water to clean his gear. Through Scouts, ________ has hiked over hundreds of miles of packed earth, from weekend hikes to long-distance treks. Like the Eagle that he is, the winds of Scouting have taken him far and near. Today, we celebrate ________'s flight through Scouting that has led to the summit of Eagle Scout. To reflect that theme, it is my pleasure to introduce ________ __________, Life Scout, who will read a modified version of the poem, From the Shore, by Carl Sandburg. (MC takes his seat while Scout #1 comes to the podium) POEM (Scout #1) From the Shore By Carl Sandburg A lone Eagle, Dim-dipping, far-flying, Alone in the shadows and grandeurs and tumults Of night and the sea And the stars and storms. Out over the darkness it wavers and hovers, Out into the gloom it swings and batters, Out into the wind and the rain and the vast, Out into the pit of a great black world, Where fogs are at battle, sky-driven, sea-blown, Love of mist and rapture of flight, Glories of chance and hazards of death On its Eagle wings. Out into the deep of the great dark world, Beyond the long borders where foam and drift Of the sundering waves are lost and gone On the tides that plunge and rear and crumble. (Scout #1 sits down and MC returns to podium) RECOGNITION OF EAGLE SCOUTS (MC) I would like to invite all Eagle Scouts and King Scouts, including adults, to stand at this time and introduce yourselves. Please give your name, troop-number and the year that you received your Eagle or King Scout Rank. (MC indicates each Eagle Scout to take the floor) Thank you. You may be seated. Before you stands a single lighted candle. It represents the Spirit of Scouting. The law of this Troop is the Scout Law. Scouts also live by another code, which is the Scout Oath or Promise. The Scout Oath describes three duties that every Scout must accept; duty to God and country; duty to others, and duty to self. In this spirit, we celebrate the values of Scouting and recognize the many worthwhile lessons of life that are learned on the Trail to Eagle. Today we honor ________ __________ on his accomplishment of the Eagle Scout Award. At this time I would like to introduce ________ __________, our Troop's Scoutmaster. (Scoutmaster comes to the podium, while MC sits) ELEMENTS OF SCOUTING (Scoutmaster) I'd like to invite the following Scouts to step forward: ________ __________, Troop _____, Life Scout; ________ __________, Troop _____, Life Scout; ________ __________, Troop _____, Life Scout; ________ __________, Troop _____, Life Scout; I would like the Eagle candidate to please join us as we review the Elements of Scouting. (Four Scouts and candidate stand behind table bearing 5-candle candelabra, facing audience) Scoutmaster: The path to Eagle is a steep trail leading to the high summit of Eagle Scout. Look back for a moment, ________. Look at the path you've flown. Look at the experiences you have encountered on your journey. You have canoed and hiked and camped with your Troop. You have learned from those who came before you on this trail and you are teaching those who are following you on the same trail. These experiences will not be forgotten because they are now part of you. Each step on the trail, every experience that you've had, all the badges you've earned, all the service you've given, has culminated in this distinct honor today. The elements of fire, water, earth, and wind have been part of the trail to Eagle. These Scouts will review the way those elements have influenced your trail. Fire Scout: The trail to Eagle requires that you follow the Outdoor Code. The Outdoor Code says that you will be careful with fire. Fire, as we all know, is part of every Scout outing. As a Tenderfoot Scout, you learned that fire can be helpful but it can also be dangerous. You also learned that three things (oxygen, fuel, and heat) are needed to start a fire and keep it burning. You used that knowledge as a Tenderfoot Scout when you cooked your first meal over an open fire. Then, as a Second Class Scout, you prepared tinder, kindling, and fuel for a fire and again cooked a meal over an open fire. As you advanced through the ranks of Scouting, you used your knowledge of fire to teach younger Scouts in the Troop. Fire represents one of the best parts of any Scout outing - on Scout campouts, there are always campfires. Cooking meals, using dutch ovens, telling stories, watching sparks fly - these are all part of the way that fire has been part of the trail to Eagle. (lights the red candle to represent fire) Water Scout: Like fire, water has been an important part of your Scouting experience. As a Second Class Scout you demonstrated the ability to swim and performed simple water rescues. As a First Class Scout you passed the Scout swimming test and learned more advanced rescues. You earned the Swimming Merit Badge and the Canoeing Merit Badge. Time in, and around, water has defined many Scout outings. With your Troop, you have swum and sailed at summer camp; you have canoed the wild lakes and rivers; you have gone white water rafting; you have visited both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. (lights the blue candle to represent water) Earth Scout: You have coasted on waterways across the country, and you have also travelled many trails on foot. Conserving the earth's resources is the essence of the Scout's Outdoor Code. This important part of Scouting is reflected in the fact that you earned the Environmental Science, Nature, Fish and Wildlife, Mammal Study, Insect Study, and Camping merit badges. All of these Merit Badges require knowledge of how the earth sustains the biodiversity of life. To become a Second Class Scout, you went on your first five-mile hike. To reach First Class Scout, you completed an orienteering course and learned how to find your directions during the day or night without using a compass. You have also been witness to the incredible beauty of the land. You hiked many miles across the country with your fellow scouts on high adventure treks. Your Philmont experience took you from forest floor to above timberline. Other high adventures included trips to Wyoming, Minnesota, Oregon, and Washington. As you followed the trail to Eagle, you have found your footing with every step you've taken. (lights the brown candle to represent earth) Wind Scout: As you soar as an Eagle Scout, it is the wind that carries you forward. You have felt the power of the wind as you stood at the summit of Mt. Baldy at Philmont. Cooling breezes at summer camp and frigid gusts during winter have surrounded you on those outings. You've camped in spring rains and you've seen trees shake with autumn bluster. The wind has carried you to the four corners of our country, experiencing scouting far and wide. As an Eagle Scout, you'll continue to fly to new adventures and new places. (lights the white candle to represent wind) Scoutmsater: ________, your trail to Eagle has included a commitment to the elements of fire, water, earth, and wind. As a Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and, now, Eagle Scout, you have continued to show Scout Spirit. You earned additional merit badges bringing your total to ____. As a troop leader you developed, planned and led others in an eagle service project for the community that totaled more than ____ hours of service. Your project was to _________________ This is your trail to Eagle. You may light the final candle, which represents the rank of Eagle Scout. (Eagle candidate lights the highest candle) VOICE OF THE EAGLE MC: I would now like to introduce ________ __________, an Eagle Scout. Eagle Scout: This is the voice of the Eagle. We represent those who, like yourself, have set high goals and labored successfully to improve ourselves and to give service to others. The Eagle Scouts of our council challenge you to accept the responsibility, as well as the honor, of the Eagle Scout rank. The poem, In the Company of Eagles, by Howard Simon is a tribute to power of the eagle. It is also a poignant illustration of how the eagle is part of a larger tableau: In the Company of Eagles By Howard Simon Mountains for my mansion The forest for my pantry The clouds for my carpet The sky for my curtains The sun for my candle The wind for my chariot In the company of eagles Flying above fear Floating above failures Winging above worries Gliding above gravity Living above limits Soaring to success Come fly with me Flying as an Eagle Scout requires certain obligations. The first obligation of an Eagle Scout is to live with honor. An Eagle's honor is sacred. Honor is the foundation of all character. Socrates (the ancient Greek philosopher) said, "The shortest and surest way to live with honor in the world is to be in reality what we would appear to be; all human virtues increase and strengthen themselves by the practice and experience of them." Or, as Socrates paraphrased himself, "to do is to be." An Eagle's life should influence his family, community, and friends in a positive manner. May the white of your badge remind you to always live with honor. Please light the WHITE candle representing the WHITE of the Eagle Badge. (candidate lights the white candle in the 3-candle candelabra from the Scouting candle) The second obligation of an Eagle Scout is loyalty. Without loyalty, all character lacks direction. An Eagle is loyal to his ideals. Sir Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Scout Movement, said, "Loyalty is a feature in a boy's character that inspires boundless hope." May the blue of your badge remind you to always be loyal. Please light the BLUE candle representing the BLUE of the Eagle Badge. (lights the blue candle) The third obligation of an Eagle Scout is courage. Courage gives force and strength to a person's character. An Eagle's courage extends beyond physical bravery to fighting against injustice and hatred. W. Clement Stone, businessman, philanthropist, and long-time supporter of Boys' Clubs of America, said, "Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to face the truth. Do the right thing because it is right. These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity." May the red of your badge remind you to always act courageously. Please light the RED candle representing the RED of the Eagle Badge. (lights the red candle from the Scouting candle) The final obligation of an Eagle Scout is service. Mahatma Gandhi said, "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." It is indeed true that self-discovery follows the awareness of how you can assist others. For an Eagle Scout, this is especially true. You are charged with extending a helping hand to those who still travel along the Scouting trail, just as others helped you in your journey toward Eagle. The habit of the daily Good Turn translates into a life of service to all those who need you. You are charged with protecting and defending the weak and helpless. You will provide aid and comfort the unfortunate and oppressed. You will uphold the rights of others while defending your own. You will always be prepared to put forth your best. Are you willing and eager to accept the responsibilities, as well as the honor, of the rank of Eagle Scout? Eagle Candidate: I am. (Eagle Scout sits down and MC returns to Podium) EAGLE CHARGE MC: I would like to introduce ________ __________ , Eagle Advisor for Troop ____. Eagle Advisor: I have the honor to give the Eagle Scout charge on this occasion of your elevation to the highest rank in scouting. The Scouts of all nations constitute one of the most meaningful and significant movements in the world's history, and you have been found worthy of the highest rank in its membership. All who know you rejoice in your achievement. Your position, as you well know, is one of honor and responsibility. As an Eagle Scout, you have assumed a solemn obligation to do your duty to God and country, to your fellow Scouts, and others. This is a great undertaking. Be a leader, but lead only toward the best. Lift up every task you do and every office you hold to the highest level of service and honor. Live and serve so that those who know you will be inspired to finer living. Be among those who dedicate their skills and their abilities to the common good. By doing so, all who know you may be justly proud. Please make the scout Sign and repeat after me the Eagle Pledge. (Eagle Advisor leads, candidate repeats): On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty to God (pause), On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty to my country (pause), I reaffirm my allegiance to the three promises of the Scout Oath (pause), I thoughtfully recognize and take upon myself (pause), the obligations of the rank of Eagle Scout (pause). On my honor, I will do my best, to make my training an example, (pause) and make my rank and influence strongly count, (pause) for better scouting and citizenship, (pause) in my troop, in my community, (pause) and in my contact with other people, (pause) regardless of race, color, or creed. (pause) To this I pledge my sacred honor (pause). PRESENTATION OF THE EAGLE SCOUT AWARD (Eagle Advisor) We will now present the Eagle badge and neckerchief. Will this candidate's parents please join us? Your mother will pin the badge over your heart. (mother pins badge on candidate) Your father will place the neckerchief around your neck (father removes old neckerchief and places new one around candidate's neck) In recognition of the wisdom and guidance given to you by your father, present to him this Eagle tie-tack, which he will be proud to wear in your honor. (candidate presents tie-tack to father) And now, also in recognition of the many hours of patient guidance given by her in your efforts, will you pin the Eagle mother's pin over your mother's heart? (candidate presents pin to mother) It is my privilege and honor to welcome you to the rank of Eagle Scout. May the oath you have taken remain in your heart always. Ladies and Gentlemen, Scouts, I am proud to present to you Eagle Scout, ________ __________. (Family members and Eagle Advisor are seated. MC returns to the podium.) EAGLE RESPONSE (Eagle candidate) MC: Now ________ will give the Eagle Response. Eagle Candidate: (candidate moves to the podium and gives his speech EAGLE VIDEO MC: As we join ________ at the summit of his climb, we celebrate the journeys that led him here. Scouts, please lower the blinds. Audience, please enjoy this celebration of ________'s Trail to Eagle. (Scouts seated near the windows rise and lower the blinds). CLOSING (MC) Scouts, please raise the blinds. Color Guard, please come forward to retire the colors. All Rise! Color Guard! Retire the Colors! (Color guard takes flags to back of room.) This Eagle Scout Court of Honor is adjourned! |
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Family Cross-Over | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | Posters of all Cub Scout ranks Troop neckerchief and Scouts BSA neckerchief slide |
| Script: | AoL den leader, AoL Scout and parents, Scoutmaster, troop senior patrol leader, five Cub Scouts to hold posters, five other Cub Scouts, other pack leaders. Cub Scouts line up posters in order of advancement with one scout of that rank holding the poster and another scout standing beside. After these scouts, other pack leaders may line up also. The AoL den leader, AoL Scout, and parents stand at one end of the column. The Scoutmaster and senior patrol leader of the scout's new troop face them at the other end of the column. When all are in their places, the AoL den leader reads a review of the scout's accomplishments during the scout's Cub Scout years, mentioning awards received. AoL Den Leader: Our accomplishments are never made without help. And significant in [scout name]'s growth has been the help received from [scout name]'s parents. I thank you for the help you have given your child and your cooperation with the den and pack leaders. Of course, we will miss you as you move on into the Scouts BSA program - but, we are honored to present Troop [number] such an outstanding family! All of us here wish you continued success as you climb the Scouting trail. AoL Den Leader: A representative of each Cub Scout rank is ready to congratulate you as you make your final hike from this Pack to your new Troop. Congratulations! (AoL den leader shakes the scout's and parents' hands. The scout and parents now pass down the line, receiving good wishes and good-byes from all pack members in line. The AoL den leader might lead the rest of the gathered pack in singing "For They're a Jolly Good Family," to the tune of "For He's a Jolly Good Fellow" as the scout and parents pass down the line. When the AoL Scout and parents reach the end of the column, the singing should stop and the Scoutmaster welcomes them.) Scoutmaster: You have had a great experience in Cub Scouting. Scouting with our troop will introduce you to new skills that lead to more great fun - hiking and camping. Mr. and Mrs. [name], we hope you will continue to help your scout, and we will look forward to your active participation in making our troop one of the best. In so doing you will be assured that your child is receiving full benefits from the Scouting experience. (The scout's senior patrol leader puts on the neckerchief of the new troop and gives the Scout handshake.) Close with a pack howl or other appropriate cheer. |
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First Class | |
| Intended for: | 1st Class Scouts |
| Script: | Leader: I now ask the following scouts to come forward with their parents - (call names) Leader: The First Class rank represents a significant step in Scouting. It represents the 'Complete Scout', having demonstrated all the basic scouting skills. Leader: As a First Class Scout, you have earned the opportunity to demonstrate the code to which a true and mature Scout is forever bound by his Scout Oath and Law. This code is one of 'Service' and 'Leadership'. Do you accept this greater responsibility of First Class Scout? If so answer, 'I do.' Leader: In qualifying for First Class rank, you have advanced from being a Scout 'hiker' to being a Scout 'camper'. You have demonstrated skills making it possible for you to live in the outdoors for weeks rather than hours. You have the skills to survive in the wilds, and more importantly the knowledge to prevent the need to survive by planning well and making sound choices. Leader: The next phase of scouting lies before you. Some scouts pick up all the scouting skills and get very good at tieing knots, building fires, and that sort of thing. But, unless you grow past being a Scout 'hiker' and Scout 'camper' to being a Scout 'leader', you have not experienced the true Scouting life. As you watch other leaders and learn leadership skills, you will understand that a leader is actually a servant. Serving and leading go hand in hand. As a First Class scout, you are expected to lead other scouts up the trail with you. Make their path safe, fun, and memorable so one day they can stand here where you are while you have moved on to greater things. Leader: Wear this badge with pride in your accomplishments. The time it took you to reach this point is not important. The time that lies ahead of you and what you do with that time is all that matters. (hand out badges, cards, and pins) (continue when parents and scouts have exchanged pins) Leader: Troop, please stand and join me in congratulating these new First Class scouts! |
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First Class - Baden-Powell | |
| Intended for: | 1st Class Scouts |
| Script: | The First Class Badge combines the Tenderfoot and the Second Class badges. When a scout earns the right to wear it, it shows completion of the training needed to take part in most of Scouting's activities and high adventures. Wearing this badge shows others that a scout is ready, able, and willing to care for theirself and help others earn this rank. (call scouts forward) Who started the world Scouting movement? [Lord Baden-Powell] When Baden-Powell began scouting for boys in England, he had a clear vision of what to accomplish. He had been through wars and hardship. He had learned to survive and succeed in many different environments. Here are some of Baden-Powell's words: When I was a boy at Charterhouse I got a lot of fun out of trapping rabbits in woods. If and when I caught one, which was not often, I skinned him and cooked him and ate him. In doing this I learned to creep silently, to know my way by landmarks, to note tracks and read their meaning, to use dry dead wood off trees for my fire, and to make a tiny non-smoky fire. Somewhere about 1893 I started teaching Scouting to young soldiers in my regiment. When these young fellows joined the Army they had learned reading, writing, and arithmetic in school but not much else. They were nice lads and made very good parade soldiers, obeyed orders, kept themselves clean and smart and all that, but they had never been taught to be men, how to look after themselves, how to take responsibility, and so on. They had not had my chances of education outside the classroom. I wanted to make them feel that they were a match for any enemy, able to find their way by the stars or map, accustomed to notice all tracks and signs and to read their meaning, and able to fend for themselves away from regimental cooks and barracks. I wanted them to have courage, from confidence in themselves and from a sense of duty; I wanted them to have knowledge of how to cook their own grub; in short, I wanted each man to be an efficient, all-round, reliable individual. Baden-Powell based the scouting movement on those same aims - he wanted to help youth become all-round, reliable individuals. And, that is what we are stilling aiming to do today. The First Class rank is the biggest step towards reaching that goal of independence and reliability. To reach this rank, you demonstrated your skill to find direction and guide others - both with and without a compass. You found wild plants and animal signs. You cooked and cared for not just yourself, but your entire patrol. And, you showed that you are ready to help others that require first aid. By wearing the badge of a First Class scout, you are telling all scouts that you are ready, able, and willing to lead them through difficult situations, to help them learn their skills, and to befriend them as a fellow scout. It isn't a light commitment! You will have many opportunities to lead, teach, and encourage scouts in the coming months and this troop will expect much from you. I am confident you will exceed their expectations as you continue on to become a Star scout. (present badges. Have parents and scouts exchange badges and pins, if customary. Have scouts light First Class candle, if customary.) |
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First Class - Chivalry | |
| Intended for: | 1st Class Scouts |
| Required: | 7-candle Scout candelabra |
| Script: | [make sure candles are lit up through 2nd class] As the number of lit candles increases, so does the Scout's advancement along the trail to Eagle. The next milestone in advancement for scouts is First Class. At this point, the scout is more capable in the outdoors, and ready for the challenges of leadership. [call scouts and parents forward] In the days of chivalry, after a squire had earned the right to carry the sword and shield, it was customary for him to retire to the privacy of the chapel on the evening before he was to be made a knight. There he prayed that he might live worthy of the honor that was his, and that he might never bring disgrace on his knighthood. As a First Class Scout, you are entering the knighthood of Scouting: you have earned the right to demonstrate and abide by the code to which a true and mature Scout is forever bound: the Scout Oath, Law, slogan and motto. [Scout names], do you accept this great responsibility? Then, as a First Class Scout, I charge you to continue your development so that you may better serve your fellowmen in the spirit of chivalry. Please have your parent pin this First Class badge over your 2nd Class badge. Then, present this pin to your parent. Troop _____, attention! Please join me in congratulating this new First Class scout! (shake scout's hand) |
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First Class Candle | |
| Intended for: | 1st Class Scouts |
| Required: | Scouting candelabra with 7 candles - Scout through Eagle |
| Preparation: | Make sure the 2nd Class candle is lit. |
| Notes: | Leader can be Scoutmaster or SPL |
| Script: | (Call scouts forward with parents to line up behind ceremony table facing troop) Leader: In reaching First Class, you have demonstrated your knowledge of the outdoor skills of scouting. I challenge you to continue practicing those skills so they stay strong, and not forget them now that you have a checkmark in a box in your handbook. You are now entering the most rewarding part of your scouting experience. You will have many opportunities to build your leadership skills and demonstrate your scout spirit through service to others. You will change from being a scout learner to being a scout leader as you continue your trail to Eagle Scout. In earning the First Class rank, you learned how to find Polaris, the North Star, because we know it will help us find our way in the wilderness. For centuries people have known that the North Star is fixed in the heavens, and it has been used as a navigational aid by sailors ever since the first adventurers sailed away from the sight of land. The North Star is still used that way. So in learning how to find it, you are joining a very long line of adventurers. There are some "North Stars" in our everyday lives, too. One of them is your conscience. Listen to your conscience and you can be sure to steer your life in the right direction. The other North Stars are the Scout Oath and Law. They are North Stars because they give us excellent guidance in how to behave and what we owe to God, country, our fellow human beings, and ourselves. When you're lost at night, look for the North Star. The rest of the time, steer your life with those other North Stars - your conscience and the Scout Oath and Law - so you can reach your full potential. As Second Class, you were a 'hiker' scout but are now a 'camper' scout. Are you prepared to wear the First Class badge of rank to symbolize your achievements and commit to doing your part to lead the troop? To show that you are willing to lead scouts coming up the trail, everyone hold the First Class candle and light it from the Second Class candle. (hand out badges and parent pins) Parents, please pin the First Class badge on your scout. Scouts, pin the First Class parent pin on your parent. (when finished) Troop [number], attention! Congratulations to the newest Troop [number] First Class Scouts! |
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Flag Retirement 1 | |
| Intended for: | Scouts BSA |
| Required: | Leader, 4 scouts, hot fire |
| Script: | Lower the colors or unfold the flag. Have 1 scout at each corner of the flag. You can do this for multiple flags simultaneously, each flag needing 4 more scouts. Leader: This flag has served well and long. It is no longer a fitting emblem to display, so we are respectfully retiring it today. (The lead scout is at the lower-right corner of the flag, and cuts off the bottom stripe while 2 scouts continue to hold the top 2 corners of the flag and the 4th scout collects the bottom stripe as it is cut away.) (The 4th scout deposits the stripe on the fire. While depositing the stripe, the next stripe is cut off.) Leader: The 13 stripes stand for the original 13 colonies which are; Massachusetts, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and New Jersey. (Scout retrieves the next stripe and deposits it.) Leader: The white stands for purity (Continue with each of the 13 stripes...) Leader: The red stands for courage Leader: "Give me liberty or give me death" Leader: "One if by land, two if by sea" Leader: We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution of the United States of America. Leader: We hold these truths to be self evident that all people are created equal. They are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights. Among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Leader: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. Leader: Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech or press. Leader: "Four score and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth to this continent a new nation." Leader: The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex. Leader: "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." Leader: "One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." (Now, only the blue field and stars are left) Leader: Each state is being represented by a star on a field of blue, which signifies a new constellation being formed. As we place it in the fire, let it burn brightly and remind us how well our flag represents our country. Leader: Scout salute! Leader: Join me in the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance... (After the pledge of allegiance, have bugler play Taps) Leader: Two! Scouts dismissed. |
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Flag Retirement 2 | |
| Intended for: | Scouts BSA |
| Required: | five scouts sharp scissors |
| Script: | When the United States flag becomes worn, torn, faded or badly soiled, it is time to replace it. The old flag should be retired in the traditional manner of incineration. Start a hot, blazing fire large enough to completely consume the flag, but not so large that scouts can not reach over the center of it. Leader: The U.S. flag is more than just some brightly colored cloth; it is a symbol of our nation. This flag has been displayed with pride for many years and has become worn and no longer usable. A new flag has taken its place and we will now retire this flag with respect. In order to completely destroy the flag, we will burn it. This ensures that no bit of flag exists when we finish. Four scouts each hold a corner of the flag. The Leader uses the scissors to cut the flag in half vertically, right along the edge of the blue field of stars. Then, cut each half in half horizontally, keeping the blue field one piece. Use a scissors to cut the flag cleanly and quickly. Scout #1 places a flag section into the center of the fire. Scout #1: Seven red stripes and six white strips; together they represent the original 13 colonies that gained us liberty. Scout #2 approaches fire. Scout #2: The red stripes remind us of the lifeblood of brave men and women who were ready and willing to die for their country. Scout #3: The white stripes remind us of purity and cleanliness of purpose, thought, word and deed. Scout #4 has the blue field and goes last. Scout #4: The blue is for truth and justice, like the eternal blue of the star-filled heavens. The stars represent the fifty united states of our union. We leave the blue field intact because no one should ever let the union be broken. Leader: The aims of scouting are character, citizenship, and fitness. The American's Creed, which is the official creed of the United States, was written in 1917 and says a lot about what "citizenship" means: I believe in the United States of America, as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a republic; a sovereign Nation of many sovereign States; a perfect union, one and inseparable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes. I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it, to support its Constitution, to obey its laws, to respect its flag, and to defend it against all enemies. |
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Four Directions | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Required: | 4 AoL scouts 5 large colored disks of paper or cardboard with scripts taped to the back for each of the 4 scouts - Yellow, Orange, Red, Blue, Green |
| Preparation: | Place each scout at a different corner of the meeting place, matching east, west, north, and south. |
| Notes: | This is an advancement ceremony for Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos. |
| Script: | Cubmaster: O Great Spirit, bring forth the four winds. East: (with Yellow disk) I am East. From me comes the sun each day, with its light which all living things need. Just as I am the first direction, cub scouting begins with the Lion. South: (Orange disk) I am South. From me come heat and rains, so all living things might have warmth and water to drink. Just as I am the second direction, cub scouting's second step is the Tiger. West: (Red disk) I am West. To me the sun comes at the end of each day, giving the world darkness so all living things might rest. Just as I am the third direction, cub scouting's third step is Wolf. North: (Blue disk) I am North. From me come cold and snow, so all living things might experience coolness and the beauty of winter. Just as I am the fourth direction, so Bear is the next step of cub scouting. Cubmaster: (with Green disk) As the sun, rain, and air come from all directions and combine with the earth to give life, the previous steps on the Cub Scout trail bring us to Webelos. (holds up Green disk) We have many scouts ready to receive recognition for their ranks today. As I call your name, go and stand by the color of your rank. (Calls out Lions, then Tigers, Wolves, Bears, and Webelos that have earned rank. Wait for all scouts to find their place.) Scouts of East, South, West, and North - will you lead us all in the Scout Oath? (4 scouts raise the Cub Scout Sign and wait for everyone to join them) East: "On my honor, I will do my best" South: "To do my duty to God and my Country and to obey the Scout Law" North: "To help other people at all times" West: "To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight" The four winds are dismissed by the Cubmaster. Rank patches and pins are handed to scouts. 4 adults could be stationed at each direction to hand out recognition to each scout as they arrive when their name is called, to speed the ceremony. |
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Four Winds Cross-over | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | 4 candles, matches. 4 scouts, Akela, AoL den leader, 1 volunteer for lights. Script for each of 4 scouts. |
| Preparation: | The AoL scouts and their parents are escorted out of the room by the AoL den leader. |
| Script: | When the AoL scouts have left the room, light the 4 candles of the 4 scouts and have them take their positions in the corners of the room. Be sure to use candles with wide wax drip shields. Akela: Our pack is gathered to recognize some of our scouts that are about to travel further on the trail of scouting. Please bring in the scouts. (volunteer signals AoL den leader to lead the AoL scouts in to the front of the room.) Akela: You have experienced much in your adventures in Cub Scouts. You have explored, learned, and grown as you progressed through the ranks. It is now time for you to take on new challenges outside our Pack. The winds from the four directions of the compass have thoughts to share with you. North Wind: I am the North Wind. People say I am cold, but you have grown to accept me because you have been true-blue Scouts and have lived up to the Scout Law. Accept others that you meet on your scouting trail. South Wind: I am the South Wind. Over hill and dale I have blown fair and warm on your outdoor adventures as you explored the world around you. As Cub Scouts you have been cheerful and friendly - a credit to your den and pack. Continue to be cheerful and friendly as you follow the Scout Law. East Wind: I am the East Wind. I bring the worst of storms on my gusts. Through the challenges you faced in Cub Scouts, you have shown that you are brave and helpful to others. Remain brave in the face of hardship and keep looking for ways to help those in need. West Wind: I am the West Wind. I bring warmth, fair weather, and blue skies. You have shown yourself to be a trustworthy scout, loyal to your Arrow of Light den. Loyalty and trust will fill your life with fair skies and good friends as you scout outside our Pack. All Winds: (in unison) We will be with you forever. We wish you the best of luck in your travels and experiences on the Scouting trail. (volunteer turns on room lights) Akela: As the winds have spoken, the Pack wishes you a great scouting trail ahead. Pack, please stand. Let's give a big Pack Cheer for these great scouts! Akela: The leader(s) from Troop(s) [numbers, ...] are here to accept you into their troops. If you have chosen a troop, please go to them when your name and new troop number are announced. (Call out the name and troop for each scout) (You might add the removal of blue shoulder loops to the ceremony if the troops have green shoulder loops and troop neckerchiefs ready) |
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From Pack to Troop | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | campfire setting |
| Notes: | This ceremony is for an Arrow of Light scout moving on to Scouts BSA ahead of the rest of the den. |
| Script: | Cubmaster: Friends and parents, scout [Name] is ready to cross over into a Scouts BSA troop. [Name], you have looked forward to this for many years. You have been a good Cub Scout, and a good Arrow of Light scout, and we know you will continue to be a good Scout in your new troop. We are all proud of you. Denner: [Name], the members of [AoL Den Name] are happy to see you continue on into the troop. We don't feel bad about your leaving because soon we will all be in the troop, maybe even in the same patrol. (The denner leads the den in a yell for the departing AoL scout.) Den Chief: There are two things, [Name]. First, I want to tell you that I have enjoyed my association with you in [AoL Den Name], and second, I'm glad to welcome you to Troop [number], where we will be able to keep on doing things together. Cubmaster: Scoutmaster [Name], we now present to you and Troop [Number] Arrow of Light scout [Name], who is eager to be in the Scouts BSA program. We recommend this scout highly. [Name] has been a fine member of our pack. Scoutmaster: [Name], on behalf of Troop [number], I want to welcome you into the great Scouting family. The scouts tell me that you have been asked to join the [name] Patrol, so I would like to have you meet [name], who will be your patrol leader. (If this is not known, have the Senior Patrol Leader welcome the new scout to the troop.) Patrol Leader: I'm glad to welcome another scout from Pack [number] into our troop. We hope there will soon be more of you. We are having a meeting of our patrol [day, time, and place], and we would like to have you attend. Cubmaster: (Asks the parents of the AoL Scout to come forward.) Friends, we of the pack wish to congratulate you. You have done much to keep your child interested and happy in Cub Scouting, and we appreciate it. I would like to have you meet the Scoutmaster. (Introduces the Scoutmaster to the parents.) (The pack forms a circle around the Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, and AoL scout.) In Scouts BSA, you will still have the Scout Oath and Law to guide you, but as you leave us to follow the trail through Scouting, we would like you to renew with us the Scout Oath one more time. (The whole group repeats the promise. The circle then breaks to let the Scoutmaster, patrol leader, and AoL scout out, and re-closes around the Cubmaster. The group faces the AoL scout and gives the Cub Scout salute. The entire group shouts, "Do Your Best!") |
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Iktomi's Spider web | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Required: | Weaving frame Yarn Weaving shuttle |
| Preparation: | Begin with several strings tied across a frame, meeting at a central point. |
| Script: | (While telling the story, weave a web in and out of the cross strings using a shuttle, working from the outside in) Would the following Scouts and their parents please come forward? (call off names) The story is told that long ago an old Lakota climbed the highest mountain to seek spiritual enlightenment. While there, he had a vision of the spider, Iktomi, who is known as a teacher of wisdom. Iktomi began speaking, and as he did, he began spinning a web. Starting from the outside and working inward, he spun around and around in circles. He spoke of the cycle of life, beginning with infancy and youth, adulthood, and old age, where one might again need to be cared for as an infant, completing the cycle. Remember that throughout your life, you will encounter many forces. Some are good, and some are not. Those that are good will help you, while those that are bad will hinder you. You see that the web forms a perfect circle but that there is a hole in the center. Use the web to catch the best ideas and influences. But let the hole (hold up finished web) allow the bad ones to pass through. It serves us well to heed Iktomi's advice. You have earned your awards through hard work. You would not have made it this far without following the good influences in your lives. Every time you see a spider web, remember to catch and keep those good things that come into our lives while letting the bad pass through. Parents, please pin your scouts' awards on their left pocket flap. Parents, the pin is yours to keep to signal your pride in your scouts' accomplishments. Congratulations! |
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Indian Bear to Webelos | |
| Intended for: | Bear Scouts, Webelos Scouts |
| Required: | Fire or artificial indoor fire Headbands with feathers for Den Chief and Den Leader drum Webelos neckerchiefs, slides, handbooks, caps |
| Preparation: | 3 current Webelos scouts memorize the 3 Winds parts. Den Chief, Den Leader, and Akela have speaking parts. |
| Script: | Current Webelos den members come forward and sit in a circle around the fire with the den leader and den chief standing to the side of the circle. Advancement Chair, Cubmaster, or Bear den leader is Akela. Akela: Scouts of the Webelos tribe, I know of [number] scouts who wish to join your council fire. Den Chief: Who are these that wish to join us? Akela: They are scouts of the Bear clan [read names]. Den Chief: These Bears may come forward to the edge of our fire to be tested. (Bear scouts come forward. Beat drum while they are gathering.) Den Chief: Give the Cub Scout salute. Den Chief: Show me the Cub Scout handshake. (shakes with each scout) Den Chief: Wait here. (goes to the Den Leader) Den Chief: These scouts of the Bear are ready to join the Webelos. (hit drum once) Den Leader: Do I hear the South Wind? South Wind: I am the South Wind. I wish you good Scouting. As Cub Scouts you have been happy, game, and fair, and a credit to your den and pack. (hit drum once) Den Leader: Do I hear the East Wind? East Wind: I am the East Wind. I wish you well. I have spread the story of your fun and happiness as Lions, Tigers, Wolves, and Bears in Cub Scouting with Pack [number], and how you lived up to the Scout Promise. (hit drum once) Den Leader: Do I hear the West Wind? West Wind: I am the West Wind. I would like everyone to know that these Cub Scouts going into the Webelos den did not walk the trail of Cub Scouting alone. Each had the help of their parents. (hit drum once) Den Leader: What are all the winds saying? All Winds: (All the winds in unison.) We wish you the best of luck in the Webelos den. Den Leader: The Webelos den will be the last full year you have in the Pack. You will each have opportunity to earn the Webelos rank and then try for Cub Scouting's highest rank, the Arrow of Light. Den Leader: Webelos, welcome these Bears into your tribe by putting on their Webelos neckerchief and slide, and cap, and giving them the Webelos Scout Handbook. |
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Key to Scouting | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Required: | Very large key cutout painted gold with "Scout Spirit" written on it. Old key on a string. |
| Notes: | this can be used for any Cub Scout rank |
| Script: | I would like [name of scout] and parents to please come forward. The Cub Scout program faces you with many challenges. You are required to attend den meetings and monthly pack meetings. You need to work with leaders and also at home with your parents. In order to achieve the highest rank in Cub Scouting, the Arrow of Light, you must set your goals and work to fulfill them. Many times you may get discouraged because the Cub Scout Trail seems steep and hard to climb. There is a key to achieving all of the goals you set for yourself. The key to Cub Scouting. Do you know what that key is? (wait for scout to answer. Then, display the large gold key.) The key to Scouting is "Scout Spirit." Scout Spirit includes teamwork. It includes fair play and good sportsmanship. It includes that something special that makes Scouts want to be the best they can be at everything they do. This key will unlock the door of achievement, both in scouting and in your everyday life. Remember, with this key to Scouting - "Scout Spirit" - you can hike up the Scouting trail. This smaller key is a reminder of the Key to Cub Scouting. Let it remind you that doing your best will open many doors. (hang key around the scout's neck.) You have recently reached an important goal along your scouting path. I am happy to recognize you for earning your [Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light] rank. I will present this award to your parents in token of the help they have given you. They will then pin it on your uniform. (Wait for parent to attach patch.) Pack, please stand. Join me in congratulating our newest [Lion, Tiger, ...] |
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Lewis and Clark | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | Crossover bridge |
| Script: | Setting: A bridge is in the center stage. One side of the bridge is represented as the Cub Scout side and the other side as the Scouts BSA side. Cubmaster and Scoutmaster(s) stand on the appropriate sides. Cubmaster: Our scouts earn many rewards and we perform many ceremonies honoring their accomplishments. Arguably, none is more momentous than the one we now celebrate. During their years as Cub Scouts, they have enjoyed themselves at campouts, field trips, Pinewood Derbies, parades, meetings, and all kinds of events. But Scouting, as our founder Robert Baden-Powell said, is "a game with a purpose". That purpose is to develop their characters, their leadership, and practical skills - giving them valuable tools that will benefit them their entire lives. Anyone who was ever a Scout at any level will never forget the experience. I would like those Arrow of Light scouts ready to cross over to a Scouts BSA troop to step forward with their parents and leaders now. (scouts, parents, and leaders come forward.) Cubmaster: Over two hundred years ago, President Thomas Jefferson commissioned an expedition to explore this great continent. Meriwether Lewis and William Clark along with their party faced many hardships in navigating from the east, up the Missouri River, and after more than a year's journey to the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Picture as they stood near the bottom of those snow-covered mountains, looking up at the challenge before them. They were driven to reach their goal, believing that once they reached the mountain pass they would cross the continental divide and find a river to float down to the sea. Imagine their surprise when after an arduous trek up the mountain they finally crested the pass - and found nothing but more mountains before them as far as the eye could see. So it is with Cub Scouting. These scouts have experienced and accomplished much during their years in our Pack. It is tempting to see today as the end of their journey. In reality, today is the day they crest the ridge and begin to discover the wonders before them, as the real adventure is only beginning. All they have done and everything they have learned so far is in preparation for the next exciting phase of their lives, one that offers unlimited opportunity. Just as Lewis and Clark successfully traversed the Rockies and reached the Pacific, they too can achieve their goals while developing themselves in the process. So while we may be tempted to see an ending and we may be sad to see these scouts leave our pack, we know that today truly marks just a transition and a new beginning for these young scouts about to embark on the great adventure in their new troop. These scouts have worked hard for this moment and have earned many advancements along the way. They should be proud of their accomplishments. And yet, it is now time to leave the things of Cub Scouting behind. Our rank badges, our pins, our belt loops, our Adventure Colors all deserve a place of pride in displays on our walls, in scrapbooks, and in keepsake drawers. But, except for the Arrow of Light patch, we cannot take them with us to the troop. Parents, please remove the Cub Scout insignia from your child's uniform when you get home. I will call each of you by name and tell which troop you have decided to join. When I do, please leave your parents behind and cross over the bridge, where you will be greeted by your new troop. In the Cub Scouts, all of our activities we did with our families. Now that you are older, you will be more independent and will most often be on your own with the other members of your troop. (optional gift for each scout crossing over) Before you leave, I offer you one last gift from the pack. We have prepared you for your next steps on the scouting trail to the best of our ability, and we send you off with your Scouts BSA Handbook so that you are ready to start your new adventure. (One at a time, call off each scout's name and troop, give Scout handshake and present gift and allow to cross over to be greeted by troop.) Cubmaster: Let's congratulate these scouts, ready for the adventures ahead of them. |
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Life - simple | |
| Intended for: | Life Scouts |
| Script: | Scoutmaster: Candidate, the heart has always been an emblem of courage, strength, and service to others. Indeed, it is the emblem of life itself. You are now entering the final steep and rocky trail that leads to the summit - the rank of Eagle Scout. This Life Scout heart symbolizes the strength and courage that you will need to scale the final heights, at last to join the great brotherhood of Eagle Scouts. It also reminds you to keep yourself physically strong, mentally awake, morally straight, and to be of service to others. Are you now prepared to meet these obligations? Candidate: I am. Scoutmaster: This court of honor finds you qualified for the rank of Life Scout. The rank of Eagle awaits you as you continue on the trail of scouting. As I present you this rank of Life Scout, may the red heart of the badge be a constant reminder of the fine things you have received from Scouting and of the fine things you carry in your heart as a pledge to Scouting and your fellow man. |
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Life Candle | |
| Intended for: | Life Scouts |
| Required: | Scouting candelabra with 7 candles - Scout through Eagle |
| Preparation: | Make sure Star candle is lit |
| Notes: | Leader should be Scoutmaster |
| Script: | (Call scouts forward with parents to line up behind ceremony table facing troop) Leader: Take a look at the Life Scout badge I have here. It is the only rank badge that has as symbol from INSIDE the scout - a heart symbol. Being a Life scout means you have taken the ideals of Scouting to heart and have made them part of you, not something that you do a couple times a month. You have provided guidance and leadership to the troop and have served others in your community. As the Scouting trail has steep parts and resting places, you may have rested longer at some points along the trail than you had hoped. Maybe you did not advance as quickly as you wished or some other priority came ahead of Scouting for a time. However your path took you, you reached this milestone. You've completed all the requirements to wear this emblem - you earned merit badges, performed service to others, and offered leadership to the troop. As the heart symbol reminds us, you are the Life of the troop. This troop needs you: We need you to help the younger scouts in their challenges. We need you to take on formal leadership roles. We need you to encourage other youth to become scouts. We need you to keep climbing your own scouting trail to the ultimate level. Will you accept this Life Scout rank and do your very best to demonstrate its meaning to others? (Hand the badge to parent as each scout answers) As a sign to others that you hold the ideals of Scouting in your heart, hold the Life candle and light it from the Star candle. Parents, please pin the Life badge on your scout. Scouts, present the Life parent pin to your parent. (when finished) Troop [number], attention! Congratulations to the newest Troop [number] Life Scouts! |
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Life Scout | |
| Intended for: | Life Scouts |
| Script: | Leader: _______, please come forward. Leader: ______, in receiving your Life rank tonight, you have fulfilled your last step before taking on your Eagle requirements. You have shown that you can lead your troop through serving and guiding others. You have shared your Scouting experience with younger scouts following after you. You have helped your patrol and troop grow in strength and character. Tonight, you enter that small group directly working towards their Eagle rank. In doing so, you must not only give service, you must also lead others in performing a service project of your choosing. Your willingness to do so will be a pledge of service and a sign of your understanding of the ideals of Scouting. When you are finished with the requirements, you will be worthy to join those few who are Eagle Scouts. (hand out Life badge) Leader: Let this Life Scout badge remind you of the life of service that will shine as a guide to lead you on the trail to adulthood. |
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Life Scout - red badge | |
| Intended for: | Life Scouts |
| Script: | (ensure the Star candle is lit before proceeding. Have a current Life or Eagle scout light it if no Star advancement happened this day.) The last rank before Eagle Scout is Life. Few Scouts advance this far in scouting and most that reach it have been in scouting for more than 9 years. They have demonstrated leadership, service, and citizenship in many ways as they earn the right to wear this badge. (Call scouts and parents forward) The red heart of the badge is a constant reminder of the fine things you have received from Scouting, and of the fine things you carry in your heart as a pledge to Scouting and your community. The heart shape of the badge is symbolic of courage. This badge will remind you to have courage in challenging yourself to reach further than you think you can and to use what you've learned in Scouting - the Scout Oath, Law, motto and slogan - in your everyday life and as you work towards the rank of Eagle Scout. [Scout name], do you have the courage to continue your Scouting career, and to work to meet these high standards in your life? (if using a candle) Light the Life candle to signify your courage in living the life of a true scout and your willingness to lead others up the trail. As a Star Scout, you've worked hard to pass along your knowledge, experience and leadership skills to other Scouts in your troop. Without you, your troop wouldn't have developed as well as it has. I'm proud of the effort you've put forth and of your accomplishments in Scouting. |
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Light of Knowledge | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | one candle for each scout large candle as source for them to light their own candles candelabra to hold all candles, or a raingutter section filled with sand in which candles can be stood up in a row |
| Preparation: | Have each scout decide what they will say, well before the day of the ceremony. |
| Notes: | What each scout says can be modified to match talents and personality. It is best performed at dusk or in a darkened room so the candles are more dramatic. |
| Script: | (This is a crossing over ceremony, not for Arrow of Light nor for completing Webelos. It is for scouts continuing on to a Scouts BSA troop.) Call all the Arrow of Light scouts forward and give each one a candle. Light the main candle. Akela: Over the years, our pack has had scouts leave us for greater adventures. It is now time for these scouts to do the same. They have learned all they can here and now seek more excitement with older scouts. Each of them has special knowledge to share with their new troop. (Each scout in turn lights a candle, recites their prepared lines, and crosses over to place the candle with the others. If it is a group smaller than 5, have unlit candles waiting in the candelabra so the scout lights one and places their lit candle there also - this doubles the amount of light created.) (some examples) Scout 1: I've studied animals and nature. I will bring the light of my knowledge to my new troop. Scout 2: I've learned a lot about rocks and geology. I'll share this knowledge with my troop. Scout 3: I'm good at music and painting. I'll help my troop as bugler. Scout 4: I love sports and I play fair. I can show my new troop how to be good sports. (continue with each scout sharing a thought.) Other examples: being helpful, good humor, imagination, religious belief, flexibility, problem solving, curiousity, ... Akela: These scouts have gained much knowledge while part of the pack. I'm glad to see they will be using their abilities to make their new scouting home a great place. They leave a trail for the rest of us to follow and a light for us to look for when we are ready to move on. |
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Lion Cub Induction | |
| Intended for: | Lion Scouts |
| Required: | Arrow of Light diagram on cardboard. A candle and matches. |
| Script: | Den Leader: Oh, Great Akela, hear me! Akela: I hear you, leader of Lions. What is it you want? Den Leader: We have young ones who seek the fun of Cub Scouting. Akela: Have these young ones been properly prepared? Den Leader: Yes, Akela, they have. Each one has prepared to move into Cub Scouting by thoughts, deeds, and participation in the Pack. Akela: Very well. I am Akela, the Great Chief of the Webelos tribe and the head of this council of braves. My totem is the Arrow of Light, which is the highest honor any Cub Scout may earn. This board shows the Arrow of Light and points the way of the trail. The arch represents progress along the Cub Scout trail, preparing cubs for greater adventures in Scouts BSA. The candle which I now light represents the Spirit of Akela and the light of Cub Scouts. We learn the ways of our tribe from the wisest of the forest animals. From the Tiger, we learn to be alert and watchful. From the Wolf we learn the language of the ground, we learn to follow the tracks of other animals, and we learn the ways of the food of the forest. From the Bear, we learn the secrets of the trees and birds, the language of the air and the sky. The Lion Cub is curious and adventurous, but remains within the lair with its parents for some time before venturing out to hunt its own game. The parents have the responsibility of looking after the cub, teaching it to hunt and play, and how to protect itself from the other predators of the jungle. Akela: (to Den Leader) Which young ones have joined your Lion Cub Den? Den Leader: Great Akela, we have _____(number) new Lions, and _____(number) are with us here tonight. Please step forward, along with your parents, when your name is read. (Call out names) Akela: You scouts are embarking on a great new journey with your parents. Our motto tells us how to to live our lives. Do you remember the Cub Scout motto? Repeat it with me: 'Do Your Best'. By doing your best, you will grow together, become better friends, and prepare yourselves for more scouting adventures. Now that you have learned the Cub Scout motto, you are prepared to wear the Lion neckerchief. (Den Leader hands the items to parents, who put them on their children as Akela is talking). Each time you participate in a Lion adventure, you will receive a loop to wear on your belt. Over time, your belt will become full and you will finally earn the Lion badge. Akela: Members of Pack [number], please stand. Join me in welcoming these Lions and their partners to our Pack family! |
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National Honor Patrol Award | |
| Intended for: | Scouts BSA |
| Required: | Candle for SPL Candle for each scout in receiving Patrol |
| Script: | This ceremony is for presenting the National Honor Patrol Award to a patrol. SPL lights a candle on the front table. SPL: 'Scoutmaster, the __________ Patrol of Troop ____ has proven itself most worthy and has completed all the requirements for the National Honor Patrol Award.' SM: 'Senior Patrol Leader, please assemble the patrol.' SPL: '__________ patrol - front and center, please.' (SPL hands an unlit candle to each Scout as they assemble. The patrol forms a line facing the troop with the SPL and ASPL at the ends.) SM: 'Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, why is the _________ Patrol receiving this award?' ASPL: 'They have shown patrol spirit and have conducted themselves with honor. They have fulfilled their duty to others through patrol service projects, including _____________(list projects). They have had patrol meetings and have planned and carried out patrol events. They have helped with the planning and execution of the troop's program through their participation on the Patrol Leaders Council. _____(number) of their members have recently advanced and they routinely present themselves in proper Scout uniforms.' SPL: 'They have proven themselves worthy of this honor and the Patrol Leaders Council has confirmed their worthiness. In remembrance of Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, I recommend that the ______ Patrol be awarded the National Honor Patrol Award to wear below their patrol patch as a symbol of their great achievements for all to see.' SM: 'Senior Patrol Leader, you may present the Award patch to the members of the ______ Patrol.' SPL and ASPL present the patch to each Scout. The SPL then lights the Patrol Leader's candle and asks that scout to light the next scout's candle and raise the candle high until all candles are lit and raised high. SPL: '__________ Patrol, continue to light the way for Troop ____ as we continue down our Scouting path.' SPL: '__________ Patrol - Give your patrol yell.' SPL: 'Congratulations!' (lead troop in applause as patrol is dismissed.) |
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National Honor Patrol Award 2 | |
| Intended for: | Scouts BSA |
| Required: | eight candles one large candle award stars in envelope safety pin |
| Script: | This ceremony is for presenting the National Honor Patrol Award to a patrol. Make sure the patrol brings their patrol flag to the ceremony. Line up the 8 candles on the head table with the 9th large candle off to the side. Turn off all the lights in the hall. Senior Patrol Leader lights the one large candle. Scoutmaster: 'I would like the ______ patrol leader and assistant to please come forward with their patrol flag.' (SM indicates where he wants the PL and APL to stand. APL should hold the patrol flag.) SPL: 'The National Honor Patrol Award is a PATROL, not Scout, honor. To earn the Star, this Patrol has: ...'
SPL: 'We have the honor of presenting this award to the ________ Patrol, of Troop ____. Please bring your patrol flag forward.' (SPL hands candle to SM and receives envelope from him. APL presents patrol flag and SPL pins envelope to it. APL returns to PL. SM gives candle back to SPL.) SPL: 'The Honor Patrol Award is a Group, not individual, award. Additional requirements the _______ patrol fulfilled to earn the award were:...'
SM: 'Just as this group of candles lights this room that one candle could not, a patrol working together can do more than its individuals. Congratulations on earning this award.' SPL: Troop _____, please stand. Join me in congratulating the _____ patrol on their accomplishment!' (Troop applauds while SPL and SM shake hands with PL and APL who then return to their seats.) |
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Neckerchiefs | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Required: | 6 neckerchiefs - Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and generic Scouts BSA - stapled to tall pole or long broom handle |
| Preparation: | this can be used for any rank, or a running ceremony of all ranks |
| Script: | (leader holds the pole with Scouts BSA neckerchief at top and Lion at bottom) When children become Cub Scouts they start on an upward trail. I say 'upward' because as they grow older they advance in Cub Scouting. They do not join a Cub Scout pack and then wait around for a few years until they join a troop. As a child moves up the Scouting trail, badges of rank and changes in uniform show that scout's progress. One of the changes in uniform is the neckerchief. These are the six neckerchiefs of Scouting. First is the yellow Lion neckerchief worn by the youngest scouts. Then, the orange Tiger neckerchief. Next is the red Wolf neckerchief. Then, the blue of the Bear scout. The fifth neckerchief of mixed colors is worn by Webelos scouts. The last neckerchief represents those worn by even older Scouts, but each troop has it's own neckerchief. (use the appropriate section, depending on ranks) (Scouts are called forward with parents) ::::::::::::::: You are receiving your Lion neckerchief. The yellow is like a small spark, the very beginnings of a flame. To show you have the spark of scouting in your heart, make the Cub Scout Sign... And, show the Cub Scout salute (distribute Lion neckerchiefs and slides to parents) ::::::::::::::: You are ready to receive your Tiger neckerchief. The orange represents the beginning flame of scouting. An orange flame is not yet hot, but has just started and has huge potential. To show you have the flame of scouting in your heart, make the Cub Scout Sign... And, say the Cub Scout Motto: Do Your Best (distribute Tiger neckerchiefs and slides to parents) ::::::::::::::: You are ready to receive your Wolf neckerchief. The red shows that the flame of scouting is burning bright in you and you are learning more scout skills. There is also more expected of you as your flame grows. Please make the Cub Scout Sign... And, repeat the Scout Promise: On my honor, I will do my best To do my duty to God and my Country and to obey the Scout Law; To help other people at all times; To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. (distribute Wolf neckerchiefs and slides to parents) ::::::::::::::: You are ready to receive your Bear neckerchief. The Bear neckerchief is blue. Just as a blue flame is very hot, the scouting spirit flame burns hotly in you. Blue also stands for truth, loyalty, and obedience. As you grow into a leader, you must learn that these are important traits. To demonstrate the strength of your scouting flame, make the Cub Scout Sign and recite the Scout Law: A Scout is: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful Friendly, Courteous, Kind Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty Brave, Clean, and Reverent (distribute Bear neckerchiefs and slides to parents) ::::::::::::::: You are ready to receive your Webelos neckerchief. The multiple colors in your new neckerchief are more like fireworks than a flame. You are reaching the very top of the Cub Scout ranks and are exploding with skills, spirit, and energy. You now need to use your scouting spirit to reach the final heights of Cub Scouts and prepare to launch into a Scouts BSA troop before you know it. (distribute Webelos neckerchiefs and slides to parents) ::::::::::::::: Parents, please remove your scout's neckerchief and put the new one in place. Pack, please join me in congratulating these great scouts! |
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New Cub Scout Welcome | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Required: | A burning fire. A few sticks for each new scout. |
| Preparation: | Prepare a campfire outside or a fake fire inside if you really have to. Have a stack of sticks well away from the fire, but in front of the audience to the right. |
| Notes: | Use this at the beginning or end of your first Pack meeting in September. |
| Script: | Akela: (standing by the stack of wood on the right) At this time, I would like all scouts that are new to Pack [number] to please come up here with me. This fire represents the life of our Pack. As you can see, it is burning fairly well, but it is beginning to fade a bit. This fire needs new wood, new fuel to burn bright, just as our Pack needs new scouts to be strong and full of life. I would like each of you to take 2 or 3 sticks from this pile and hold onto them. Those sticks you have in your hands represent your energy, your eagerness, and your excitement to be part of this Pack. I bet you know what I want you to do with those sticks, and I bet you are very excited to do it! But, think about what will happen. (Akela should now walk a bit closer to the fire, but still well away from it. The scouts will soon line up in front of him but there may be some jostling.) When you toss your sticks on the fire, what will happen? (the fire will burn brighter, the sticks will be burned, ...) Just as those sticks will make the fire hotter, bigger, stronger, and full of life, having you in our Pack will make us stronger and more full of life. Before you add your sticks to the fire, decide in your head and heart if you really want to join our Pack and learn our secrets and go on our adventures. When you have decided to join, come and stand right here in front of me and make a single line behind the scout in front of you. (As the scouts scramble to make a line, keep it safe.) After you add your sticks to the fire, stand by Baloo. (Baloo should be on the left of the fire and makes sure scouts stay well away from the fire) (When all are finished) Akela: Congratulations, you are now all part of the life of Pack [number]. Pack, please stand and make the Cub Scout sign. Join me in the Scout Promise. Join me in the Scout Law. Two! Now, how about a gigantic Pack [number] cheer for our new scout friends? You could soak the sticks in a copper chloride solution so they create blue-green flames when added to the fire. See Campfire Dude for other campfire magic. |
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New Scout | |
| Intended for: | Scout Scouts |
| Required: | Scout badges, straight pins, Parent scout rank lapel pins |
| Script: | Leader: At this court of honor, we welcome some new Scouts into our Troop. The following scouts have completed the requirements to become a Scout. As I say your name, please come forward with your parent. (read names of new scouts). Leader: You are about to pledge yourself to a way of life that has guided millions of youth before you. It is not a promise to be taken lightly. Are you ready to take this promise? Scout: I am. Leader: Please give the Scout sign and repeat after me the Scout Oath. Leader: On my honor, I will do my best. (Scout repeats) Leader: To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law. Leader: To help other people at all times. Leader: To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. Leader: As a new Scout in Troop ____, we expect you to uphold the ideals of our troop. You will be expected to live according to the Scout Law and the Scout Oath you took tonight and to be regular in attendance at troop activities. (Hand out badges to each scout) Leader: This badge signifies you are a member of our troop and have begun your advancement path. Attach the parent pin to your parent's shirt or collar. Parents, pin the Scout badge on your scout's left pocket. (When scouts are finished pinning, continue) Leader: Troop _____, please stand. Leader: We know each of you will be a fine addition to Troop _____, and we welcome you. (lead troop in applause. Give scout handshake to each new scout.) |
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New Scout 2 | |
| Intended for: | Scout Scouts |
| Required: | 3 lit candles on ceremony table. |
| Script: | Sr. Patrol Leader: Tonight, we have some children here ready to join Troop [number] and become Scouts. They have passed their requirements and qualify to receive the Scout rank badge. Candidates, when your name is called, please come forward and form a straight line behind the table, facing the troop. ASPL: (call names) SPL: These 3 candles represent the 3 parts of the Scout Oath - Duty to God, Duty to Others, and Duty to Self. The flames of these candles represent the spirit of scouting and each scout's honor. SPL: The Scout Oath is a pledge to strive for a way of life that has guided millions of youth and adults before you. It is not a pledge to be taken lightly. The Oath begins, "On my honor, I will do my Best." Before I ask you to make this promise, think about what those first few words mean and if you are willing to give your word to do your best. [wait 5 seconds] SPL: Are you ready to make this promise to do your best? (scouts reply) SPL: Troop [number], attention! SPL: Troop [number], give the Scout Sign. SPL: Candidates, give the Scout Sign. SPL: Candidates, join the troop in reciting the Scout Oath. On my honor, I will do my best, To do my duty to God and my country. To obey the Scout Law. To help other people at all times. To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. SPL: Troop, be seated! SPL: Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, please hand the Scout Badges to these children that have taken an oath to uphold the ideals of Scouting. SPL: Parents of these children, please stand. You children, go to your parents now and have one of them pin your Scout badge to your uniform. And you give the parent pin that is attached to your card to them. Then, quickly return here. [when all scouts have returned, continue...] SPL: Scouts, notice I'm no longer calling you 'Children'? You Scouts are the lifeblood of this troop. You are the next generation of leaders and I am honored to welcome each of you into this troop! [ Give Scout Handshake to each ] SPL: Troop [number], attention! SPL: Troop, please join me in welcoming these new SCOUTS! |
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New Scout Circle | |
| Intended for: | Scout Scouts |
| Required: | Scout Badge and pin for each new scout |
| Preparation: | Troop Guide takes candidate into a separate room to wait. Take all candidates if more than one. Troop and US Flags are placed in center of room. Scoutmaster and SPL stand by flags. Troop circles the flags, ordered by patrols, facing outward with elbows linked. |
| Notes: | This ceremony is for troops that have permanent patrols. It can be modified slightly as noted for troops where new scouts form their own patrols. |
| Script: | SPL: Be prepared! Troop: We are prepared! (This is the signal for the troop guide to lead the candidate in, halting him outside the circle, opposite the SPL.) SPL: Troop Guide, who is with you? Troop Guide: I have Candidate _________ (name), who wishes to join our troop and become a Scout. ______ has met the requirements and is duly qualified. SPL: (to candidate): Candidate, you come from the darkness into the light of Scouting, and you see before you the Scouts of Troop _____ in an unbroken circle of comradeship, guarding the flags of their country and their troop. [[ Use this if permanent patrols ... Patrol Leader (of patrol the new scout is joining): Sir, the _______ Patrol will open the circle and admit the candidate. SPL: Good. In doing so, you accept this scout into your patrol. (Troop Guide conducts the candidate to the opening the patrol leader has made by dropping their elbows and leads the candidate into the center of the circle in front of the Scoutmaster.) [[ Or, use this if new scout patrols ... Have all Eagle scouts standing together in the circle. ASPL: Sir, the Eagle Scouts (or Life Scouts if no Eagles) will open the circle and admit the candidate. SPL: Good. In doing so, you accept this scout into our troop. (Troop Guide conducts the candidate to the opening the scouts have made by dropping their elbows and leads the candidate into the center of the circle in front of the Scoutmaster.)
Scoutmaster (to candidate:) You have been admitted to our troop circle. Place your left hand on the flag of your troop and raise your right hand in the Scout Sign. Scoutmaster: Now, where will I get a badge for this Scout? Scout: I offer my Scout badge for this new scout to wear. Scoutmaster: Very well. Present your badge to this new Scout. Older Scout steps into the circle and pins the badge on the new scout. Scoutmaster (to new scout): You have been given a badge that has been worn with honor and distinction by a Scout who has gone before you. This shows our friendship for you and the trust we place in you. As Scoutmaster of Troop ____, I declare you a Scout and a full member of this troop. SPL: Troop, join me in congratulating our newest scout! |
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Pledge of Allegiance Intros | |
| Intended for: | Scouts BSA |
| Script: | Reciting the pledge of allegiance at the start of every meeting can become boring and meaningless. A short statement about the pledge or flag before reciting can help keep it meaningful.
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Prisoner of War Flag | |
| Intended for: | Scouts BSA |
| Required: | US Flag pinned to a blanket and rolled up 3 scouts |
| Script: | You might use this rather than marching the flag into the room to start a meeting. 2 scouts act out the play while the 3rd reads... On a summer day in a prison camp during World War II, the prisoners were just completing a talent show when, without any announcement, two soldiers stood up in front of the group holding a rolled up blanket. They looked quickly but carefully in all directions to make sure no guards were watching. Then, holding the blanket high, they let it unroll. Fastened to the inside of the blanket was the beautiful Stars and Stripes of the flag of the United States. (Scouts match actions to story.) At the time of their surrender, one of the soldiers had taken down the flag and somehow managed to wrap it around his body. Covered by his uniform, it had not been discovered during the inspection of his personal belongings. He had been able to keep it hidden until he had arrived at the prison camp. As the blanket was unrolled, the other prisoners saw the flag. Many of them had not seen the flag for a very long time, since becoming prisoners. A ripple of wonder and amazement ran through the group, followed by a deep silence that comes only when the heart is too full to permit words to be spoken. With their eyes still gazing upon this beautiful banner the soldiers rose to their feet and began to sing softly, but with pride. They sang our National Anthem. Will the audience please rise and join in singing our National Anthem (or reciting the Pledge of Allegiance) |
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Rabbit Shares Fire | |
| Intended for: | Webelos Scouts |
| Required: | candles for each Scout earning rank and for current Webelos scouts participating in the ceremony |
| Preparation: | practice with Webelos beforehand |
| Script: | (Current Webelos scouts are asked to leave the room where they are given the large lighted candle to bring in) (Webelos rank candidates are called forward, along with the parents of the rank candidates. Give each candidate a smaller unlit candle. ) Cubmaster: According to legend, long ago, fire was allowed only in the square during the ceremonial dance. But Rabbit had different ideas. He felt there should be fire in other places. So he devised a plan. Rabbit had his friends rub his head with pine until his hair stood on end. Everyone thought this new crested headdress looked so fine that they made him leader of the dance. He danced around the sacred fire logs, but no one noticed how close to them he was getting. On one pass he dipped his headdress, catching it on fire, and ran away so fast no one could catch him. The people chanted and danced, bringing four days of rain, which they thought would put out Rabbit's fire. Rabbit had planned ahead however, and sheltered the fire in a hollow log. When the sun came out, he emerged and began sharing the fire with others. Soon the people began to have fires in their homes and before long, everyone had fire. Just as Rabbit shared the fire with others, so we share the spirit of Scouting. As we all know, the Webelos are the keepers of the flame for our pack. (The Webelos den enters, carrying the large candle) Cubmaster: Webelos scouts, are you willing to share your fire with these new Webelos candidates? (Webelos say 'Yes' and then light the candle of each candidate) Cubmaster: As we share the spirit, it is not divided, but increased. We spread the flame as we welcome you to the ranks of those who have earned the Webelos badge. You are progressing on your trail to the Arrow of Light. We congratulate you on this accomplishment and encourage you to remain steadfast in your devotion to the journey. (Distribute awards to parents.) Parents, please pin your scout's patch on the left pocket. Pack, please join me in congratulating our Webelos! |
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Rank Achievements | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Required: | 6 scouts - one that has completed each rank. large replications of each badge - lion, tiger, wolf, bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light. Each badge has that scout's lines taped to the back. |
| Preparation: | Lay the badges in order on a table at the front of the gathering. |
| Notes: | This is good for a meeting toward the end of the year, such as Blue Gold so you have scouts of every rank. Or, use it at the first pack meeting and invite a past Arrow of Light scout back to do the Arrow of Light part. |
| Script: | LION: I made new friends. I try to do my best. I am a Lion. TIGER: I am having fun learning about the world around me. I enjoy Searching, Discovering and Sharing. I am a Tiger. WOLF: I have completed many adventures. I grew physically and spiritually. As I grew in mind and body, I also grew within my family. It is fun being helpful and doing your best. I am a Wolf. BEAR: I too have completed many adventures. They required more skill and effort, but were fun and interesting. I developed habits and attitudes of good citizenship. I am a Bear. WEBELOS SCOUT: I have learned about the outdoors and leadership. I learned to get along with others and gained a sense of personal achievement. I am a Webelos scout. ARROW OF LIGHT: I have learned the requirements to join Scouts BSA. I have visited a troop. I have attained the highest award in Cub Scouting. I am The Arrow of Light. |
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Scout Induction | |
| Intended for: | Scout Scouts |
| Required: | 2 candles and candle holders. Scout badges. Troop flag. |
| Preparation: | Light one candle placed in the center of the ceremony table |
| Script: | Scoutmaster: This flame is the Flame of Knowledge. You new Scouts have shown me that you have a hunger for Knowledge by fulfilling the requirements of joining our great troop. The Scouting program offers you a special kind of knowledge that will serve you well as you walk the sometimes difficult Road to Adulthood. Scoutmaster: The Flame of Knowledge never goes out as long as there are people on the earth who seek knowledge. It's light guides seekers to higher understanding. (Pick up the 2nd candle from the table and light it from the first) Scoutmaster: This candle represents a Youth who seeks knowledge. It represents each of you scouts here today because you seek to travel on the scouting path and learn our ways. Scoutmaster: Tending this flame is a big responsibility. (Hand candle to the closest scout) Pass this candle from scout to scout until you have all held it, never letting the flame go out. Just as you receive this flame from another scout, you will receive much knowledge from other scouts in your troop. Receiving the knowledge is only half of the challenge. Just as you pass the flame to another scout, you will be expected to pass the knowledge you gain on to other scouts that follow you. As you become a more experienced scout, rising through the ranks of Tenderfoot, 2nd Class, and 1st Class, your flame will grow stronger, helped along by these scouts around you. When you are ready, you will become the teacher rather than the student and will help new scouts keep their flame burning. You will only excel and grow if you take your responsibility seriously. Scouting will give you more than you can possibly imagine, but only if you fulfill your commitment to your patrol and your troop. (When the last scout has the candle, the Scoutmaster takes it from him.) Scoutmaster: Remember, this flame is your new search for knowledge about our scouting ways. As you are just beginning, it is not yet strong. (Scoutmaster puffs out the candle) See how easily the Breeze of Laziness extinguishes it? If you put off your responsibilities, or don't bring your Scout Handbook for requirements sign-offs, or let other scouts carry the load, your small flame will fail. Luckily, the flame of Knowledge in our troop is strong, very strong. You can relight your flame at any time by participating and concentrating on the Scout Law. The more you participate and the more effort you put in, the stronger your flame becomes and more difficult to extinguish. At some point, your flame will become a burning ember deep in your heart that will be impossible to ever put out. Scoutmaster: It is my pleasure to present each of you with your Scout badge to show that your flame is burning and you are on your way to higher ranks. Notice there is also a small pin. Present this pin to your parent now and have them attach your badge on your left shirt pocket. In our troop, it is customary to attache the badge upside down until the scout has performed a good deed. Quickly return here when you are finished. (when all have re-assembled...) Sr. Patrol Leader: Scouts, gather around our troop flag and take hold of the flag with your left hand. Make the Scout Sign with your right hand. Troop [number], stand at attention! Troop [number], Scout Sign! New scouts, please lead the troop in the Scout Oath. Troop, join me in congratulating these new Scouts of Troop [number]! |
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Scout Investiture | |
| Intended for: | Scout Scouts |
| Required: | 12 white candles in candelabra. 1 tall white candle. 2 tall green candles. 1 red candle. |
| Preparation: | Position the candelabra on a table - the 12 candles are the points of the Scout Law. Place green, then white, then green candles behind the candelabra - the 3 parts of the Scout Oath. |
| Script: | Troop Committee Chairman: We are going to welcome a few new Scouts and their parents to our troop tonight. Assistant Senior Patrol Leader ____________ (name), please call forward the candidates and their parents. ASPL: You that wish to join our troop please come forward and have your parents stand behind you. (read off candidate names) ASPL can help the candidates line up to the side of the table facing the audience with their parents behind them. Chairman: It is my privilege as chairman of the troop committee to pass this burning candle (the red one), which represents the spirit of Scouting, to Scoutmaster ____________ (name) who will formally invest the candidates. (Chairman lights candle. As he hands it to the Scoutmaster the room lights are turned off.) Scoutmaster: Thank you, Chairman _________ (name). My happiest duty as Scoutmaster is to receive new scouts and their parents into our troop family. Candidates, we are going to light these candles representing the 12 points of the Scout Law. Let these be your guide in life. Senior Patrol Leader ___________ (name), please take this candle, the spirit of Scouting, and light our way. (SPL lights the first candle.) SPL: A Scout is trustworthy. (Narrator with a good voice, who is behind a curtain or offstage with The Official Scouts BSA Handbook and a flashlight, reads the explanatory text for this part of the Scout Law. SPL and narrator carry on in this manner until the 12 candles are lighted and the 12 points of the Scout Law have been read.) SPL: Candidates, you are about to pledge yourself to a way of life that has guided millions of youth before you. It is not a promise to be taken lightly. Think well now before you take it. (SPL pauses and allows 5 or 6 seconds to elapse) SPL: Are you ready to take this promise? Candidates: I am. SPL hands red candle to ASPL SPL: Candidates, give the Scout Sign. Repeat after me the Scout Oath. SPL: On my honor, I will do my best. (Candidates repeat.) SPL: To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law. (Candidates repeat. ASPL lights center white candle.) SPL: To help other people at all times. (Candidates repeat. ASPL lights a green candle.) SPL: To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. (Candidates repeat. ASPL lights 2nd green candle.) SPL: Two! SPL and candidates lower their scout signs. ASPL sets the red candle in its holder and retrieves the Scout badges. If there are a lot, they can be split with the SPL. Scoutmaster (to parents): Our ASPL will now present you with your child's Scout badge. Will you please attach it to the center of your scout's left shirt pocket. Pin it on upside down as is tradition in our troop. When your child has done a God Turn as a Scout, it can be sewn right side up. ASPL distributes badges. Parents pin them on scouts. Scoutmaster (to new Scouts): Now that you are a Scout, you have the privilege of presenting your parent with a pin replica of your new badge. As you advance in Scouting, a new pin will be presented each time you complete a rank. Scouts attach pin to mothers' dress or lapel. Scoutmaster (to Scouts): As a new Scout in Troop ______ , we expect you to uphold the ideals and program of the troop. You will be expected to live according to the Scout Law and the Scout Oath you took tonight and to be regular in attendance at troop activities, including troop and patrol meetings, hikes, camps, and good turn projects. We know you will be a fine addition to our troop and we welcome you. (Scoutmaster give Scout handclasp to each new Scout.) Scoutmaster (to troop members): Troop, attention! Join me in congratulating our new scouts. Scouts, please be seated. |
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Scouting Spirit Arrow of Light | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | candles - white, blue, yellow, green. Arrow of Light patches |
| Preparation: | have the candles arranged - white, blue, yellow, green. |
| Script: | Leader lights the white candle to begin the ceremony. Akela: Will the following scouts come forward with their parents. (Read names of the Arrow of Light candidates and wait) Akela: These scouts have fulfilled the requirements for the Arrow of Light rank, the highest recognition in Cub Scouting. They have also visited a Scouts BSA troop and talked with the Scoutmaster. Akela: This white candle represents the spirit of Scouting. This spirit burns inside every scout and it's flame is what keeps the Scouting movement alive. Akela: Before you is a blue candle that represents the spirit of Cub Scouting - that spirit of giving goodwill and doing your best. Do you promise to continue to fulfill the Cub Scout Promise and the Cub Scout motto, "Do Your Best", even after you receive your Arrow of Light? AoL Scouts: We do. Akela: These scouts have faithfully promised always to keep alive the spirit of Cub Scouting. Please work together as a team to light the blue Cub Scouting Spirit candle. (Wait as they light the candle.) Akela: As their parents, do you also promise to continue to help your children in their Scouting adventures? Parents: We do. Akela: Since you scouts have met the requirements to earn the Arrow of Light, it is my honor to give your parent your badge. I would like each of you parents to pin the badge to the center of the left pocket flap on the uniform. (Hand out badges and continue as they are being pinned on...) Akela: This Arrow of Light patch is the only Cub Scout recognition that can be later worn on the Scouts BSA uniform. It is such a noteworthy accomplishment that adult scouters who earned it as a scout can even wear a square knot emblem on their scouting uniform. Akela: Now that you each have your Arrow of Light pinned in place, you may light the yellow candle to show your brighter, bolder scouting spirit that you will continue to grow. (Scouts light yellow candle.) Akela: It is a great honor for me to greet you who have earned the Arrow of Light. (Give out certificates and give Cub Scout handshake.) Akela: Notice that we are leaving the green candle unlit because it represents Scouts BSA. This is to remind you Arrow of Light Scouts of something yet to be enjoyed, a grand adventure that will open to you very soon. Good luck and success to you and your family in your future Scouting career. Pack, please join me in congratulating these fine scouts! |
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Scouts BSA Flag Collection | |
| Intended for: | Scouts BSA |
| Script: | Whatever ceremony you attempt, these guidelines will help make it go smoothly:
Remember these points of U.S. Flag etiquette:
Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com Equipment: 4 Candles Spotlight or bright flashlight 6 Scouts (Darken Room. 4 person color guard in back of room - each member has an unlit candle. One scout with spotlight seated front center of audience.) Color guard enters with flagbearer in lead and 3 scouts following. They stop at center stage. One scout grasps the upper right corner of the flag and raises it up so the flag hangs full. Other two scouts each take a single knee at two lower corners of the flag. Narrator scout steps forward and lights each of the four candles to illuminate the flag then returns to position to the audience's right. Narrator: You see here the past, present and future of our country. The stripes of our flag stand for the original 13 colonies that began our nation. The stars represent the current 50 states. The blue field represents the dreams of the future. The Scouts represent the men of tomorrow. The lit candles remind us of our four great freedoms and if any of those are lost our nation will be lost:
(after a couple seconds, the spotlight scout turns his light directly on the flag.) Narrator: In this world of oppression, fear, and lack of freedoms, the United States of America stands forth. In our country, the four freedoms do exist and are an example for all. Narrator: Please stand. Scouts salute and join me in the Pledge of Allegiance. Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com (Color guard brings in the flag. Read this poem before saying the Pledge of Allegiance.) Face the Flag of stars and bars, Of red and white and blue, A flag that guarantees the rights For folks like me and you. Face the flag, friends, read what's written there The history, the progress, and the heritage we share Our flag reflects the past, friends, but stands for so much more And in this age of challenge, it still flies in the fore. It leads the forward movement shared by all mankind To learn, to love, to live with peace in mind To learn the mysteries of space, as well as those of earth To love each person for what they are, regardless of their birth. To live without the fear of reprisal for belief To ease the the tensions of the world that cries out for relief. Face the Flag of stars and bars, Of red and white and blue, A flag that guarantees the rights For folks like me and you Face the flag, friends, take a good long look What you're seeing now can't be found in any history book It's the present and the future so it's being written now And you're the one to write it, but the flag can show you how. Do you know what it stands for? What it's makers meant? To think, to speak, the privilege of dissent To think our leaders might be wrong, to stand and tell them so These are things that other folks under other flags will never know. But, responsibility, that's the cross that free men must bear And if you don't accept that, the freedom isn't there. Face the Flag of stars and bars, Of red and white and blue, A flag that guarantees the rights For folks like me and you. Face the flag, friends, and face reality Our strengths and our freedoms are based in unity The flag is but a symbol, friends, of the world's greatest nation And as long as it keeps flying, there's cause for celebration. So do what you've got to do, but always keep in mind A lot of other people believe in peace, but there are the other kind If we want to keep these freedoms, we may have to fight again God forbid, but if we do, let's always fight to win. For the fate of a loser is futile and it's bare No love, no peace, just misery and despair. Face the flag, friends, and thank God it's still there. Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com Some people call me Old Glory, others call me the Star Spangled Banner, but what ever they call me I am your Flag, the Flag of the United States of America. Something has been bothering me, so I thought I might talk it over with you, because it is about you and me. I remember some time ago people lined on both sides of the street to watch the parade and naturally, I was leading every parade, proudly waving in the breeze. When your daddy saw me coming he immediately removed his hat and placed it against his left shoulder so that his hand was directly over his heart. Remember? And you, I remember you, standing there straight as a soldier. You didn't have a hat, but you were giving the right salute. Remember little sister? Not to be outdone, she was saluting the same as you with her right hand over her heart. Remember? What happened? I am still the same old flag. Oh, I have a few more stars since the old days. A lot more blood has been shed since those parades of long ago. But now I don't feel as proud as I used to. When I come down your street, you just stand there with your hands in your pockets and I may get a small glance and then you look away. Then I see the children running around and shouting, they didn't seem to know who I am. I saw one man take his hat off, then looked around. He didn't see anybody else with their hats off so he quickly put his hat back on. Is it a sin to be patriotic anymore? Have you forgotten what I stand for and where I've been? Anzio, Guadalcanal, Korea, Viet Nam, Okinawa. Take a look at the memorial honor rolls sometime of those who never came back to keep this Republic Free. One Nation Under God. When you salute me, you are actually saluting them. Well, it wont be long until I'll be coming down your street again. So, when you see me, stand straight, place your right hand over your heart, and I'll salute you by waving back, and I'll know that ... YOU REMEMBER! Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com I am your flag. I was born June 14, 1777. I am more then just cloth shaped into a design. I am the refuge of the World's oppressed people. I am the silent sentinel of freedom. I am the emblem of the greatest sovereign nation on earth. I am the inspiration for which American Patriots gave their lives and fortunes. I have led your sons into battle from Valley Forge to the dense jungles of Vietnam. I walk in silence with each of your honored dead to their final resting place beneath the silent white crosses - row upon row. I have flown through peace and war; strife and prosperity; and amidst it all, I have been respected. I am your flag. My red stripes symbolize the blood spilled in defense of this glorious nation. My white stripes signify the yurning tears shed by Americans who lost their sons and daughters. My blue field is indicative of God's heaven, under which I fly. My stars, clustered together, unify fifty states as one, for God and Country. "Old Glory" is my nickname, and I proudly wave on high. Honor me, respect me, defend me with your lives and your fortunes. Never let my enemies tear me down from my lofty position, lest I never return. Keep alight the fires of patriotism; strive earnestly for the spirit of Democracy. Worship God and I shall remain the bulwark of peace and freedom for all mankind. I am Your Flag! Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com The flag of the United States is a symbol of our country and all it represents. One of the many great things our flag represents is Scouting. Let's look at the flag from our Scouting viewpoint. The white stripes are all Scouts with their clean, fresh desire to learn, be with the best of others, and still stand out in their own individuality. The red stripes can represent the parents, who have given their children the blood of inheritance, the closeness of constant support, the brilliance of visible good example and distinction of encouraging self-reliance. The blue field represents the Scouting organization with it's broad principles and high ideals bound together with sound practices serving a teaching and supporting background. The white stars are Scout leaders - all those who promote the interest of Scouts, guide them in self-leadership, brighten the way of their growth, and illuminate the goals to constructive manhood. Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com It's just a piece of cloth, that's all it is Just a piece of cloth. But when a little breeze comes along, it stirs and comes to life And flutters and snaps in the wind, all red and white and blue. Then you realize that no other piece of cloth could be like it. It has your whole life wrapped up in it. The meals you eat, the time you spend with your family, The kind of things boys and girls learn at school, The strange and wonderful thoughts you get in church. Those stars on it, They make you feel just as free as the stars in the wide, wide, deep night. And the stripes, they are the bars of blood To any dictator who would try to change this way of life. Just a piece of cloth, that's all it is Until you put your soul into it and give it meaning; Then it is the symbol of liberty and decency and fair dealing for everyone. It is just a piece of cloth Until we breathe life into it, Until we make it stand for everything we believe in And refuse to live without it. Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com Equipment: One scout wearing a jacket over the scout uniform and is blindfolded, gagged, and hands bound. Another scout to lead the first scout to the front and perform actions. (scout is brought forward) This is an American child. The American Revolution won this child freedom. (Scout removes bindings.) The Constitution guarantees this child free speech. (Scout removes gag.) Public education lets this child understand the world. (Scout removes blindfold.) Scouting teaches this child to preserve and enjoy our heritage and to become a good citizen. (Remove jacket to show uniform.) As Americans, let's pledge our allegiance in gratitude for the opportunities and freedoms we enjoy in this country. Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com Equipment: Red, white, and blue candles. 3 scouts. Have you noticed the strong bond between our flag and our Scout Promise? (Scout lights white candle) One of the colors of the flag is white, It is the symbol of purity and perfection, It is like the first part of our Scout Promise, Our Duty to God. (Scout lights red candle) The color red in our flag means sacrifice and courage, the qualities of the founders of our country. Red is the symbol of the second part of the Scout Promise. Our duty to other people requires courage to help anyone in trouble and the self-sacrifice of putting others first. (Scout lights blue candle) Blue is the color of faith. It represents the Scout Law, which we faithfully follow. We do our best to be true and honest and strong in character. Let's dedicate ourselves with our Pledge of Allegiance and follow with the Scout Promise. Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com (Flags are processed in.) Up to 10 scouts can each speak one of the following, or have each scout have multiple parts: My country gives each one of us the opportunity to advance according to his ambition. Education is for all. I am an American. My country means love of freedom, faith in democracy, justice and equality. I am an American. My country believes in the moral worth of the common man. I am an American. My country gives us the privilege of expressing beliefs or opinions without fear of persecution. I am an American. My country has the best form of government. It is my duty to keep it that way. I am an American. My country promises life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I am an American. My country gives us a privilege that we will protect and defend even with our lives. I am an American. My country is, and always shall remain, the land of the free and the home of the brave. I am an American. My country meets any need or suffering with compassion and loyalty. I am an American. My country believes in the freedom of the individual. I am an American. Please join in the Pledge of Allegiance. Find more Scouting Resources at www.BoyScoutTrail.com I occasionally stop to look at the Flag rippling in the breeze around our town. I think it's a baeutiful flag, with it's 13 stripes and it's stars on a field of blue. Red is a symbol of Bravery, White is a symbol of Purity, and Blue is a symbol of Love and Devotion. The cloth of which our Flag is made is made up of millions of threads and stitched, and all bound together and each doing it's part, making our Flag. In the same way, our Country is made up of millions of individuals, with different religious beliefs, different colors and creeds, but all bound together in the common cause to see that Liberty and Justice prevails in this Country. When looking at our flag, I can understand how proud Francis Scott Key was when he wrote our National Anthem. He had visited a British battle ship anchored in Baltimore Harbor to intercede for the release of a friend of his held captive by the British. When he walked into the British Captain's cabin he overheard the plans the British were making to assault Fort McHenry that night. The British Captain agreed to release Key's friend, but made Francis Scott Key remain overnight aboard the ship so he could not give away the plans for the attack. As darkness was closing in, Francis Scott Key was on the deck of the ship and the last thing he saw was Old Glory proudly floating above Fort McHenry. During the night, the British made a terrific assault on Fort McHenry and Francis Scott Key had his doubts as to whether the Fort could stand during the night. As dawn was breaking, Francis Scott Key walked out onto the deck of the ship. The first thing that met his eyes was Old Glory still proudly flying above the Fort, and the words of our National Anthem, The Star Spangled Banner, came to him at this time. Oh say can you see, by the dawn's early light, What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming. I think we should be as proud of our Flag as was Francis Scott Key, and that we should re-pledge our Allegiance to our Flag. |
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Second Class | |
| Intended for: | 2nd Class Scouts |
| Script: | Leader: Will the following Tenderfoot scouts and their parents please come forward - (read names) Leader: Once before, you stood before this court and were recognized as a Tenderfoot Scout. Time has passed since then, for some of you a short time, for others longer. You have used that time well in pursuing Scout activities and knowledge and have distinguished yourselves by qualifying for Second Class rank. This rank of Second Class represents to you the opportunities for service to others. By living according to the Scout Oath and Law, you are adding your bit to the fires of good citizenship and world brotherhood. I know that you will wear the Second Class badge with honor and distinction. Leader: I present to you the badge and rank advancement card, documenting your achievement, as well as the parent lapel pin. Have your parent affix the badge to your left pocket while you give her or him the parent pin. (hand out badges and give scout handshake to each scout) (continue when finished with badges) Leader: Troop ____, please stand. Leader: Troop, give the Scout sign. Leader: (to candidates) Give the Scout sign. To prove you know the rules by which this award may be worn honorably, I ask you to lead the Troop in the Scout Law. Candidates: A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. Leader: Two! (all lower sign) Leading the troop in the Scout Law is a small demonstration of the leadership potential you have. Someday soon, you will be leading this troop as the Senior Patrol Leader or other leadership position. From today forward, keep that goal in mind and strive to become a better leader. Leader: Troop, join me in congratulating these new Second Class Scouts! |
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Second Class Braves | |
| Intended for: | 2nd Class Scouts |
| Script: | Announce names of scouts to come forward with their parents. Leader: Long ago, as youth grew to become scouts and then braves, they first learned to build a fire. Then, they learned to cook, and finally to hunt. The skills they learned built on each other, starting with simple tasks and growing more difficult. In this way, they mastered the skills and knowledge they would need to survive their harsh world. In your few months with this troop, you have successfully learned and demonstrated basic scouting skills to achieve your Second Class rank. Some of these skills may seem simple and insignificant, but all that you learn as you climb in rank will be rooted in here. How thoroughly you complete these easier requirements tells a lot about your character. If a Tenderfoot tossed some bandaids in a baggie and called it a first aid kit, that requirement may have been signed off. But, if antiseptic, tape, gauze, and moleskin were added and the scout took time to learn how to use them, then the scout was prepared for safe hikes in the future. Just as a brave in the wilderness could only count on skills and knowledge to survive, you will need to count on yourself to advance to First Class. Challenge yourself to not simply check off requirements, but to really learn the skill. In this way, you will be ready for higher adventures and be able to guide other scouts through the wilderness. Remember these skills you've learned in reaching Second Class rank. They will serve you, not only in scouting but even further as you travel through life. |
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Second Class Candle | |
| Intended for: | 2nd Class Scouts |
| Required: | Scouting candelabra with 7 candles - from Scout to Eagle. |
| Preparation: | Make sure Tenderfoot candle is already lit. |
| Notes: | Leader can be Scoutmaster or SPL |
| Script: | (Call scouts forward with parents to line up behind ceremony table facing troop) Leader: The Second Class rank badge has some interesting symbolism on it. Our motto of "Be Prepared" is boldly displayed to remind you that the outdoors skills you have demonstrated are valuable and may be required at any time. The ends of the scroll are turned up at the ends much like a smile to remind you that scouting is meant to be fun - it is a game with a purpose. And, there is a knot hanging from the scroll meant to remind you to follow our slogan of "Do a Good Turn Daily". This last one might be one of the most difficult tasks for a scout to fulfill - Do a Good Turn Daily. That means you need to be looking for people that need help, you need to be purposefully trying to improve your world, you need to care for something outside yourself. When you are able to do those things, that is a huge step in becoming the adult you will be. On the way to Second Class, you learned to use compass, fire, and axe. You demonstrated swimming, cooking, and first aid. All of these are important skills for your future adventures in the wilderness as your scouting trail leads you higher and further from the comforts of home. But, just as those skills prepare you to care for yourself, you learned other skills to prepare you for life in community with others. You did service for others, showed respect for the flag, and used the Scout Oath to help direct your actions. As a Tenderfoot, you were a 'beginner' scout and are now a 'hiker' scout. Are you prepared to wear the Second Class badge of rank and continue your trail to First Class? To show that you are willing to help scouts that follow after you, everyone hold the 2nd Class candle and light it from the Tenderfoot candle. (hand out badges and parent pins) Parents, please pin the Second Class badge on your scout. Scouts, pin the Second Class parent pin on your parent. (when finished) Troop [number], attention! Congratulations to the newest Troop [number] Second Class Scouts! |
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Second Class Rank | |
| Intended for: | 2nd Class Scouts |
| Script: | Leader: Would the following Tenderfoot scouts and their parents please come forward. (read names of scouts) Leader: When the Indian boy prepared for manhood, he was required to go through a stern ordeal testing his worthiness and his fitness for a place among the braves of the tribe. If he passed through the ordeal successfully, he appeared before the chief at the council fire to receive the eagle feather as a sign of his bravery. As the chief placed in his hands the weapons of his rank, he pledged the new brave to an oath - he bound him in honor never to use his weapons in any way that would bring discredit to his tribe or himself. Just at the Indian youth went through his ordeal to prove himself, so you have gone through your Second Class rank requirements to prove yourself as a Scout who can take care in the outdoors. Just as the Indian youth pledged himself to his tribe, so should you pledge yourself to Scouting and maintain the Scout Oath and Law. In your growth toward becoming a Second Class Scout, do you feel that the Scout Oath and Law have become more meaningful to you personally? Scout: I do. Leader: Then retake the Scout Law. As you speak the words, reflect on the 12 points of the Scout Law that will act as a foundation for later life. Troop attention! Scout Sign. Repeat the Scout Law. Scout: A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. Leader: Two! Troop, be seated. Leader: Once before, you stood before this court and became a Tenderfoot Scout. Time has passed since then. You have used that time well in pursuing Scout activities and knowledge. You are now qualified to assume the title and duties of the Second Class Scout. This rank of Second Class represents to you the opportunities for service to others, as the weapons did to the Indian youth. We place no weapons in your hands, but the honor of all Scouting rests as surely on your shoulders. Leader: It is a tradition in Troop ____ to pin the Second Class rank badge upside down. The badge can be turned right side up after the scout has done a good deed. We also realize that this achievement could not have happened without the support of your family, _____(scout)______ pin this Second Class rank pin to your mother or father. (Wait) Parents, pin the Second Class rank badge upside down on your scout's left pocket. (Wait) Leader: Scouts, form an arc around the Second Class candle. As a group, light the candle and put it back into the holder. Leader: I now present our newest Second Class Scouts! (Applause) |
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Silent Flag | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts |
| Required: | At least 5 scouts. U.S. Flag Flashlight for each Scout in ceremony |
| Preparation: | Before you begin, turn off all lights. Scouts in ceremony should be seated around flag pole, sitting on the ground. |
| Script: | Each Scout should have a flashlight - if less than 9 scouts, then some have two flashlights and two lines. They will turn on their flashlight, pointing it at the flag immediately before they recite their part of the ceremony. They should keep their light on after they speak. Leader: Tonight you will hear the words of the Pledge to our country's flag. Reflect on the words in your heart as you hear them. Please rise and join us in saluting our flag. Place your right hand over your heart; Scouts in uniform should render the proper salute. Please listen quietly. Scout 1: Turn on flashlight, "I pledge allegiance" Scout 2: Turn on flashlight, "to the flag" Scout 3: Turn on flashlight, "of the United States of America" Scout 4: Turn on flashlight, "and to the Republic" Scout 5: Turn on flashlight, "for which it stands" Scout 6: Turn on flashlight, "one Nation, under God" Scout 7: Turn on flashlight, "indivisible" Scout 8: Turn on flashlight, "with liberty" Scout 9: Turn on flashlight, "and justice for all" Leader: Scouts, please make the Cub Scout sign and join us in the Scout Law. A Scout is: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful Friendly, Courteous, Kind Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty Brave, Clean, and Reverent Leader: Two. (turn on lights. turn off flashlights.) Please return to your seats. |
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Simple Cross-Over | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | AoL den leader, Scoutmaster, a Scout, AoL scout and parents. A rustic bridge; two spotlights, one directed on each end of the bridge; Scout neckerchief. |
| Preparation: | Place the bridge on the stage or in front of the pack meeting room. The AoL den leader, with the AoL scout and parents, stands on one end of the bridge. On the other end is the Scoutmaster with a Scout holding a rolled troop neckerchief. |
| Script: | AoL Den Leader: (To parents) During the years you and your scout have been in Cub Scouting, we have had numerous opportunities to work together along the scouting trail. Now [AoL scout's name] is leaving the Pack to join a Troop. I am sure you are going to find the same satisfactions there that you have found in Cub Scouting. To symbolize your scout's growth and entrance into Scouts BSA, I will remove the blue shoulder loops, and you and your scout will then cross over the bridge, to be welcomed by Scoutmaster [name] of Troop [number]. (After the AoL den leader has removed the scout's shoulder loops and saluted, he hands them to a parent. Then, the scout and the parents cross the bridge and stand before the Scoutmaster.) Scoutmaster: (Greets AoL scout and parents with handshake) As Scoutmaster of Troop [number], it is a pleasure for me to welcome you into the troop. We meet each week at [time] at [place]. We look forward to welcoming you at our next meeting. Scout: (To AoL scout) I present to you this Scout neckerchief (Places rolled neckerchief around the AoL scout's neck) Wear it with pride; its colors are those of Troop [number], which welcomes you as our newest member. (If the troop has green shoulder loops, put them on as well.) (All exit) |
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Simple Wolf | |
| Intended for: | Wolf Scouts |
| Required: | large cutout or drawing of the Wolf Cub Scout badge on an easel candleholder with a lit white candle candleholder with an unlit red candle Wolf Cub Scout badge and certificate safety pin |
| Notes: | Use a blue candle and this can easily be a Bear ceremony. |
| Script: | One of our Cub Scouts has completed all the adventures for the rank of Wolf Cub Scout. Tonight we honor this scout. Will Cub Scout [name] and parent(s) come forward. [Name], according to your Wolf Cub Scout Handbook, you have completed all necessary adventures for the rank of Wolf Cub Scout. I am glad you have attained this honor and hope you will continue to progress through the elective adventures until you reach the time to start work on the Bear rank. Before you is a picture of the Wolf Cub Scout badge. You may now wear this badge with pride. Also before you is a candle representing the spirit of Cub Scouting. By advancing to Wolf Cub Scout you have demonstrated the spirit of Cub Scouting, so please light the Wolf Candle. (directed to parents) I want to tell you how much we appreciate the support you have given [name] in the quest for the Wolf rank. Without your guidance, your child could not have reached this point. Cub Scouting is a family program, and that means not only that your scout is advancing to the Wolf rank, but that the whole family has taken another step upward, too. As Akela, you have the privilege of presenting the Wolf badge to your child. Please pin it on the left pocket until it can be sewn in place. Now, will all the Cub Scouts in the audience please stand. Join me in giving [name] a hand for the fine job of advancement to Wolf rank. (Cub Scouts applaud. Scout and parents return to seats.) |
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Star Candle | |
| Intended for: | Star Scouts |
| Required: | Scouting candelabra with 7 candles - Scout to Eagle |
| Preparation: | Make sure First Class candle is lit. |
| Notes: | Leader can be Scoutmaster or SPL |
| Script: | (Call scouts forward with parents to line up behind ceremony table facing troop) Leader: You have reached a very important point in the path of Scouting. Whether or not you realize it, by meeting your Star Scout requirements, you have left the group of those who merely receive in Scouting. Tonight, you join a smaller and more significant group - those whose duty and privilege it is to give Scouting to others. You have been learning about service, leadership, and responsibility. Before you climbs a trail that leads to a worthier, more mature part of Scouting, that of giving. By following the Scout Oath and Law, you can follow this trail. If you follow the trail far enough, the highest Scouting goal will be yours. As you receive your Star Scout badge, it must be with full realization that you will be giving guidance and inspiration to younger Scouts. Are you willing to accept the responsibilities as well as the privileges that accompany the Star Scout rank? To show that you are prepared to guide and inspire your fellow scouts, hold the Star candle and light it from the First Class candle. (hand out badges and parent pins) Parents, please pin the Star badge on your scout. Scouts, pin the Star parent pin on your parent. (when finished) Troop [number], attention! Congratulations to the newest Troop [number] Star Scouts! |
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Star Scout | |
| Intended for: | Star Scouts |
| Script: | Leader: Please come forward when your name is read. (read names of Star scouts) Leader: Scouts, in receiving your Star rank, you are taking another important step toward Eagle. You have advanced in a way that obligates you to give less experienced Scouts the service and experiences you have received. Today, you leave that group which receives Scouting. You are now admitted to a smaller group whose privilege and duty it is to give Scouting - to give leadership, guidance, and inspiration to younger Scouts who will follow your lead. Your willingness to do so will be a pledge of service and a sign that your understanding of the ideals of Scouting is growing. (hand out badges) Leader: May this Star Scout badge be a constant reminder of the star of service that will shine as a guide to lead you on the trail to manhood. |
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Star Scout 2 | |
| Intended for: | Star Scouts |
| Required: | (optional) scout candelabra of 7 candles |
| Script: | Leader: The Star rank is a significant advancement milestone. Up through the First Class rank, advancement was driven by learning new skills such as cooking, first aid, knots, and other camping skills. Earning the Star rank demonstrates a scout's ability to use a completely different set of skills - that of leading and serving. [Call Star Scout candidates forward with their parents.] I am very pleased to see you receive your Star badge today! Not only because of the merit badges you completed or the fact that you held a troop leadership position, but because you've demonstrated that you can set and commit to goals; you are ready to help other scouts; you care about your community; and you continue to hold to the Scout Oath and Law. By accepting this rank of Star Scout, you are taking on more responsibilities to this troop and its success. As a Star Scout, you'll be looked upon as a role model for younger scouts, and be given more responsibilities to help them grow through Scouting. It shouldn't be a difficult role for you, but it is a very important one. When Baden-Powell wrote about Scoutmastership, he said: "Scouting is a game in which elder brothers can give their younger brothers a healthy environment and encourage them to healthy activities, such as will help them to develop citizenship." I hope, above anything else, that you understand that message. I hope that you will go from here and teach others, both in Scouting and out, by personal example of the Scouting principles. You are now an 'elder' able to lead those 'younger scouts' to great things. Is this a challenge you are willing to accept as a Star Scout? Then, signify your desire to light the way to other scouts by lighting the Star Scout candle (if available) I'm honored to present you with your Star badge. Please have your parent pin it over your First Class badge and then present your parent with their pin. (wait for scout to finish) Troop ____, attention! Troop, join me in congratulating Troop ____'s newest Star Scouts! (leader shakes scout's hand while audience applauds) |
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Story of Cub Scout Colors | |
| Intended for: | Tiger Scouts, Wolf Scouts, Bear Scouts, Lion Scouts |
| Required: | Leader. Awards. Lion kerchief. Tiger kerchief. Wolf kerchief. Bear kerchief. 4 small clear bottles - containing water died yellow, orange, red, and blue. 4 scouts, dressed in Indian attire. A tripod with a large cooking pot suspended over an imitation fire. |
| Preparation: | Leader stands behind cookpot. 4 scouts are offstage. |
| Notes: | A small pot fits inside the large one and contains a yellow Lion kerchief, orange Tiger kerchief, red Wolf kerchief, blue Bear kerchief, and the awards to be presented. Dry ice may be packed around the small pot to give a smoking effect (smoke increases as water is added) |
| Script: | Leader: Many moons ago the great chief Akela called a council to see what could be done to make the Webelos tribe the best of all tribes. After many hours he called his four most trusted braves to the council fire. (He pauses as four braves come in and stand, one on each side of their chief.) Leader: He told the first brave to climb the mountain and ask the great eagle to fly high into the sky and bring back part of the sun. (The first brave leaves.) Leader: He told the second brave to go into the forest and ask the fox to dig into the ground and bring back some of the earth. (The second brave leaves.) Leader: He told the third brave to find the bear and ask him to share some food from his berry bushes. (The third brave leaves.) Leader: He told the last brave to go to the ocean and ask the salmon to swim far into the ocaen and bring back part of the sea. (The fourth brave leaves.) (All four scouts return carrying bottles - yellow, orange, red, and blue water. They take positions, on the side of the fire, and hold bottles up for everyone to see.) Leader: (Addressing the first brave.) Pour some of the beauty of the sun into our council mixing pot. (The brave pours some of the yellow on the dry ice, being careful not to get any in the small pot.) Leader: (to second brave) Pour some of the beauty of the earth into our council mixing pot. (pour orange water) Leader: (to third brave) Pour some of the beauty of the food into our council mixing pot. (pour red water) Leader: (to fourth brave) Pour some of the beauty of the sea into our council mixing pot. (pour blue water) Leader: From this day forward, Yellow will stand for happiness and good cheer. Orange will stand for curiousity and creativity. Red will stand for strength and energy. Blue will stand for truth and loyalty. (Akela stirs the pot, reaches in, and pulls out the orange, yellow and blue Cub Scout neckerchiefs. He holds them open for all to see, and speaks.) Leader: And that is why Cub Scouts use the colors blue, yellow, and orange. Now let us meet the parents and Cub Scouts who have helped to keep Cub Scouting alive and growing since we last met. (Akela stirs the pot again and takes the awards from the small pot. The scouts and the parents are called forward and the awards are presented.) |
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Tenderfoot | |
| Intended for: | Tenderfoot Scouts |
| Script: | Leader: I now call ________ and parents to come forward. (Repeat for each tenderfoot scout) Leader: These scouts have completed the requirements for the rank of Tenderfoot. Leader: Since you first joined this Troop, you have said the words of the Scout Oath many times. You have learned many skills which will serve you well as you travel on your scout trail to become an Eagle Scout. You have learned some basic first aid skills and to tie knots and you have improved your physical fitness. But these skills are only the beginning. As you advance into other ranks, you will learn more knots, more first aid skills, how to use a compass, how to cook, and most importantly how to lead others. The activities you participate in will become more challenging and more rewarding. When you passed your Board of Review, you became a Tenderfoot scout. I now present to you your rank advancement card which documents this achievement. Keep this card, and all other cards you receive in Scouting, in a safe place. As you advance in Scouting, these are very important in documenting your achievements. When you submit your Eagle application or if you move to a new location, you will need these cards. I am also presenting you with your Tenderfoot badge. This announces to the world that you have reached the first advancement level in Scouts BSA and you are on your way along the path of scouting. Finally, you are given a small pin to pass on to your parent as a keepsake of this step you've taken towards becoming an independent young adult, able to take care of yourself and help others. (Pass out badges, pins, and cards. Give scout handshake to each scout.) Leader: Troop ____, please stand. Leader: Troop, join me in congratulating these fine scouts on their advancement to Tenderfoot rank! (lead applause) |
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Tenderfoot Candle | |
| Intended for: | Tenderfoot Scouts |
| Required: | A scouting candelabra with 7 candles - one for each badge from Scout to Eagle. |
| Preparation: | Make sure the Scout candle is already lit. |
| Notes: | Leader can be Scoutmaster or Sr. Patrol Leader |
| Script: | (Call scouts forward with parents to line up behind ceremony table facing troop) Leader: A 'Greenhorn' is a newcomer - someone brand new with no experience. 'Tenderfoot' means "inexperienced beginner". That describes you pretty well - inexperienced beginners, but no longer a greenhorn. You've successfully taken this advancement step on the scouting trail by earning the Tenderfoot rank. Many, many scouts before you have traveled this path to Tenderfoot, each of them performing the same requirements that you've completed. But, just as our Leave No Trace guidelines allow the wilderness to recover from our passing to become new and fresh for the next visitor, your path to this point was new and fresh, covering a trail that no other scout has experienced. Your fellow scouts standing with you each took slightly different paths to get here. You quickly accomplished some tasks and struggled with other tasks that were challenging for you. You learned basic first aid, conquered camping skills, and improved your physical fitness. You have reached your first milestone on the trail of Scouting and you should be proud of your accomplishment. You will find that your trail from here on will become steeper and rougher at times. More will be required of you and you will need to challenge yourself to excel and push your abilities to reach the next level. But, keep in mind that there are friends all around you ready to help - your parents behind you, your patrolmates beside you, and your troop in front of you. (Ask each scout directly and hand the badge to the parent when the scout answers) Are you ready to accept the Tenderfoot rank and continue the hike up the next stretch of trail to Second Class? (after all badges are distributed) As a reminder that you are now responsible to light the way for scouts coming after you, everyone hold the Tenderfoot candle and light it from the Scout candle. Parents, please pin the Tenderfoot badge on your scout. Scouts, present the parent pin to your parent. (when finished) Troop [number], attention! Congratulations to the newest Troop [number] Tenderfoot Scouts! |
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Tiger to Wolf | |
| Intended for: | Tiger Scouts, Wolf Scouts |
| Required: | 4 large candles Tiger badges |
| Preparation: | 3 candles in a row with 4th candle above and behind them. Or, all in a row. |
| Script: | Akela: These scouts have completed their Tiger requirements and are ready to receive their rank advancement. Please bring your parents forward when your name is called. (call each scout) Akela: For the past few months you and your adult partner have explored all sorts of new and exciting things and places. You have done many adventures with your den. (Light first candle) Akela: You have explored the outdoors. (Light middle candle) Akela: You have played games together. (Light third candle) Akela: You have worked together with your family, friends, and fellow Tigers, and that helped you all become a stronger den. (Light last candle) Akela: You have fulfilled all the requirements of wearing the Tiger rank badge. Your adult partner will now pin it onto your shirt. (while the badges are being pinned on) Akela: For the rest of this year, you will continue to have fun in your Tiger den and do more Tiger adventures. When the school year ends, you will begin the trail of the Wolf. Akela: In Cub Scouting your family is very important. Support in earning each badge comes from your family as well as from your den leader. Your adult partner will help you each step of the way. Akela: Congratulations to each of you on earning your Tiger rank! |
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Tiger Wolf and Bear Paws | |
| Intended for: | Tiger Scouts, Wolf Scouts, Bear Scouts |
| Required: | black water-based paint small paintbrush |
| Script: | Leader: When someone joins our Cub Scouts, they earn the Bobcat badge and start on an upward trail. This trail will lead them through the ranks of Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos and on to the highest award of Cub Scouting, the Arrow of Light. Tonight we are honoring scouts who have made significant advancement along this journey. I would like the following scouts and their parents to come forward. (Read names of Tiger scouts) I understand that you seek the rank of Tiger, is that true? (response) Please recite the Cub Scout Motto. (response) Tigers: Do Your Best. Leader: I can see by your knowledge of the Cub Scout Motto and the adventures that you have completed that you have worked hard along with your parents. You are now ready to become a Tiger scout. (With paint draw on the back of the Cubs hands the 1st toe) The first toe of the Tiger paw is for your work in making your family special. (Draw 2nd toe) The second toe of the Tiger paw shows you have learned about where you live. (Draw 3rd toe) The third Tiger toe says you are keeping yourself healthy and safe. (Draw 4th toe) The fourth toe stands for your effort in telling stories and communicating. (Draw the footpad) The pad of the Tiger paw represents your time spent outdoors. You have finished the requirements to be a Tiger Scout and can continue to move up the scouting trail. (Present rank badges) Leader: I would now like the following scouts and their parents to come forward. (Read Wolf names) Leader: I understand that you seek the rank of Wolf, is that so? (response) Please recite the Scout Promise. Wolf Scouts: On my honor, I will do my best To do my duty to God and my Country and to obey the Scout Law; To help other people at all times; To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight Leader: I can tell by your knowledge of the Scout Promise and your completed adventures that you have worked hard and put in much effort. These achievements are very important as they have helped you gain a deeper appreciation of many things. You are now ready to become a Wolf Scout. (Draw 1st toe) The first toe of the Wolf paw is for your growth through feats of skill and having fun with your family. (Draw 2nd toe.) The second toe of the Wolf paw represents that you have learned about your home, community, country and your religious beliefs. (Draw 3rd toe.) The third toe stands for the skills you have gained in handling tools, trying new things, and making collections. (Draw 4th toe) The fourth toe represents your new appreciation for conservation and safety. (Draw the footpad) The pad of the Wolf paw represents your growth as a Scout and the increased responsibility you are now capable of handling. Wolfs, remember the inscription of this paw. It shows you are ready to continue along the upward trail of Scouting. (Present badges) Leader: Would the following scouts and their parents please come forward. (Read names) You are climbing on the trail to the Arrow of Light. Do you desire the rank of Bear? (response.) Then please recite the Scout Law. Bear Scouts: A Scout is: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful Friendly, Courteous, Kind Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty Brave, Clean, and Reverent. Leader: I see that you have worked hard with your parents and Den Leaders to achieve your rank. You are ready to become Bear scouts. (Draw 1st toe) The first toe of the Bear paw symbolizes your increased understanding of God. (Draw 2nd toe) The second toe of the Bear paw symbolizes your new knowledge of your country, its folklore and heritage. (Draw 3rd toe) The third toe shows your increased appreciation of your family. (Draw 4th toe) The fourth toe stands for your increased understanding of your own self worth. (Draw footpad) The pad of the Bear paw represents your growth as a Cub Scout, and your ability to take on new challenges and responsibilities. The climb up the Scouting trail is getting shorter, but steeper. Not everyone will finish. Follow the Promise and the Law so that no harm will come to you along the trail. (Present badges) |
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Virtues | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | Seven candles |
| Script: | Akela: Tonight we are assembled to honor Scouts that have brought honor to our pack as they have climbed the Cub Scouting trail together. These Scouts are now ready to go into the great adventure of a Scouts BSA troop. With the help of willing parents they will soon start up the next section of the Scouting trail. As your name is called, please come forward with your parents. Baloo: (call out each scout name) (Continue when all are in position) Akela: The seven candles before you represent seven virtues of life. The seven rays of the Arrow of Light can remind us of these virtues. As these candles are lighted, listen and take to heart the meaning of each. (Candles are lighted by Baloo) Akela: WISDOM. Having wisdom doesn't mean that you are smarter than others. It means that you use what you know to live a better life. Akela: COURAGE. Courage does not mean you have no fear of danger. It means that you can face danger despite your fear. Akela: SELF-CONTROL. This means being able to stop when you have had enough of something, such as eating, playing, or even working too much. Akela: JUSTICE. Justice means being fair with others we play and work with, regardless of who they are. Akela: FAITH. Faith is belief in God and things we cannot see but feel are true. Akela: HOPE. Hope means to look forward to good things you believe will happen. You hope for better things tomorrow, but at the same time you work hard today to make them happen. Akela: LOVE. There are many kinds of love. Love of family, home, other people, God, and country. Every kind of love is important for a full and happy life. Akela: By doing your best to live by these seven virtues, you will find a happier and more fulfilling life. Akela: It is now my pleasure to congratulate you on a fine and memorable path through Cub Scouts. To symbolize your transition from Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA, I ask that your parents now remove your blue shoulder loops and hold them. Akela: You have chosen a Scouts BSA troop to join. As your name and new troop number are called, please let me give you a farewell handshake and then go to that troop's representative to be welcomed into their group. (Baloo calls each scout name) Senior Patrol Leader and Scoutmaster of troops can present the green Scouts BSA shoulder loops, troop neckerchief, Scouts BSA Handbook, and any other items as is customary. |
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Virtues of the Bear | |
| Intended for: | Bear Scouts |
| Script: | (Ask candidate to come forward with parents and den leaders) Consider the bear. The bear is one of the largest and strongest creatures in the forest. Yet, it only uses strength and ferocity when needed and otherwise is harmless. Like the bear, you must know how and when to use your own strengths and should never bully others. The bear is ingenious and adaptable - able to catch fish or raid a beehive, or to find food and shelter in many forms. Like the bear, you have learned many skills, and you must apply them appropriately. The bear is self-sufficient. While bears may coexist with others, they do not depend on them for survival. You will soon be in Webelos, becoming more independent as you grow and mature. You have learned many things during your time with us. Remember those skills and use them wisely, as the time is growing near when you are expected to be able to fend for yourself. The bear can be nurturing, as a mother bear is with her cubs. She provides food and care while teaching the skills that will be needed for survival. Like the mother bear, pass on what you have learned and help the younger scouts who look to you as an example. You have completed the requirements for the Bear rank. As you wear the mark of the Bear, do not forget those attributes of the bear that you should emulate. (present award to parent) Parent, please pin your scout's award on the left pocket. Please wear the parent pin yourself as a symbol of your pride in your scout's accomplishment and of how you have helped along the scouting trail. (parents pin on badge) Pack, I present to you our newest Bear Scouts. |
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Voucher CrossOver | |
| Intended for: | AoL Scouts |
| Required: | Akela, Baloo, scout parents, Scoutmaster & Sr. Patrol Leader, Troop Guide, 1 cub scout for each AoL scout |
| Preparation: | Give script to the parents of each AoL scout and to the Cub Scouts that will vouch for them, and the Sr. Patrol Leader and Scoutmaster. |
| Notes: | A cub scout vouces for each AoL scout crossing over. |
| Script: | AoL scouts are led out of the room by their Den Leader or Den Chief - this is optional. Akela: We are assembled to honor Arrow of Light scouts and their parents this day. I request that these Arrow of Light scouts with the courage, strength, and desire to continue their scouting adventure in Scouts BSA come forward now. (read AoL name) (AoL scouts are led in by their den leader or just come forward from their seats.) (As the scouts line up, the AoL den leader removes their blue shoulder loops and tells them to put them in their pocket) Akela: These scouts have brought honor to our Pack as they have climbed the Cub Scout trail together. Each of them is now ready to go into the great adventure of Scouts BSA and continue up the scouting trail. Akela: Before [scout name] may go forward and join Troop [number], is there anyone who will vouch for the virtues of this Scout? (that is the cue for the Cub Scout to stand and read the script) Cub Scout: [name] has been a good scout, and has earned [number] adventure pins, the Webelos rank, and the Arrow of Light. I think [name] will continue being a great Scout. Parents: As parents, we accept the responsibilities of helping [name] along the scouting trail. We are excited to see our child take this next step in Scouting. (each parent may want to personalize or add a bit) Den Leader: [name] has been a loyal and trustworthy scout, and has grown strong in scouting abilities and has developed character. I believe this scout is ready to join a troop. Sr. Patrol Leader: Knowing this scout to have a strong desire to learn the ways of our troop and to continue the climb to the ultimate scouting rank of Eagle Scout, I accept [name] into troop [number]. [name]'s patrol will be led by [Troop Guide or Patrol Leader name]. We will have many adventures together over the next few years. Scoutmaster: Just as [name] will grow the ranks of our troop, the parents are needed to support our program and I welcome you to our scouting family and encourage you to be involved in our troop. Akela: [name], thank you for your time with Pack [number]. Congratulations as you join your new scouting family. (shakes scout's hand and directs the scout to the new patrol where the Troop Guide presents the scout with a troop neckerchief, shoulder loops, and other items as is customary) (repeat for each AoL Scout) (after last AoL scout is finished) Akela: Pack [number] please stand at attention! Join me in a huge cheer for these scouts! |
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Webelos Adventures | |
| Intended for: | Cub Scouts, Webelos Scouts |
| Required: | 1 large candle in a stand many small candles, all in stands |
| Preparation: | Line up small candles in a line with the large candle at one end. |
| Script: | Akela: Our Webelos scouts have been very busy the past few months, completing adventures towards their advancement. I would like the following scouts to please come forward. [call off names of scouts receiving pins] Akela: Den Chief [name] will light one of the small candles for each adventure as it is presented. The [adventure name] adventure has been earned by [scout names]. Please step forward to claim your pin and tell us one thing you did to complete this adventure. (Den Chief lights small candle) For each adventure, Akela may change what he says. For example, for the First Responder adventure, he may ask what items a scout put in a first aid kit. For Cast Iron Chef, ask what food was cooked. (once all recognition items are distributed) Akela: Den Chief [name], I see we have one candle left. Should we light it now? Den Chief: No, Akela, that big candle stands for the Arrow of Light. Akela: That's right, [name]. This candle will remain unlit until we have a Webelos Scout who has completed the Arrow of Light requirements. Then we will light that candle. These small candles, representing the adventures, are steps along the trail of Webelos Scouts. They are important in themselves, but they lead us to the Arrow of Light which signifies that a Webelos scout has reached the highest step on the Cub Scout trail and is fully prepared to continue on the Scouting trail. Akela: Now, Den Chief [name], will you lead the Webelos Scouts in your den yell and then return them to their seats? |
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Webelos Buffalo | |
| Intended for: | Bear Scouts, Webelos Scouts |
| Required: | Blue, yellow, green, and red tempera paint. Webelos neckerchiefs. Red koolaid. Beef jerky. |
| Script: | AKELA: Many moons ago the Great Chief Akela called a council to see what could be done to make Webelos the strongest of all tribes. The council said, 'We need colors for our braves, to guide them in how they live their lives.' The council talked for many hours and finally decided on the colors that would offer best guidance. Red to represent blood of warriors that fought to protect us, to make us a great nation, to which a Scout is loyal. Yellow to represent the rays of sun that bring warmth, good cheer, and happiness, for the Arrow of Light which Webelos strive to achieve. Green to represent the forest, for the Webelos learn how to live under nature's canopy of trees. Blue to represent the heavens, the house of God to which the Scout is reverent. Members in the Webelos tribe now wear these colors as they trail the eagle, follow the sun, and keep the spirit of Scouting a bright light. AKELA: It is time to welcome new members into the tribe of Webelos. All scouts wishing to take on the risks, challenges, and adventures of the Webelos tribe, leaving behind their Bear tribe, come forward now. BALOO: Remove any signs of your old tribe that you are wearing. (Scouts remove their scarves and slides) AKELA: Becoming a Webelos Scout is a major step on the Cub Scout trail on your way to the Arrow of Light and onto the Scouts BSA trail to Eagle. Just as Indian youth became warriors and were painted in the colors of their tribe, we will paint you with the colors of the Webelos tribe. AKELA: Blue symbolizes the effort you will make to reach your goals along the Webelos trail. You will earn adventure pins and your Webelos badge. The strongest and bravest will earn the Arrow of Light. BALOO: Do you accept the challenges ahead of you in the Webelos tribe? (BALOO marks a blue streak) AKELA: Yellow represents the Pack. Yellow is the color of the sun and will light your way along the Webelos trail. You will help the Pack go and it will help you grow. BALOO: Do you vow to do your best? (BALOO marks a yellow streak on the other cheek) AKELA: Green represents the Scouts BSA Troop that you will eventually join. Green stands for the tree so that you may stand tall on the Scouting trail. As a Webelos scout, you will spend more time in the outdoors and learn the ways of nature. You will understand animals, plants, and the forces of weather. BALOO: Do you wish to learn more about these things and grow in your scouting skills? (green mark) AKELA: Red represents the blood of your fellow Webelos. You are all bound together through struggles and challenges. You will need each other to succeed and you must always be prepared to help each other along. BALOO: Do you promise to help your fellow Webelos on their trail? (BALOO marks with red) AKELA: Wear your Webelos Colors proudly while you progress along the Webelos Trail, never forgetting that a tribe grows together. (BALOO and AKELA put new kerchiefs on each scout and give each one the Cub Scout shake) AKELA: This is a joyous occasion! A new Webelos tribe has been created and we will now celebrate. Together, we will eat of the buffalo to gain its strength so we may overcome all challenges. Chew on its meat to gain its stamina and endurance so that no hardship can defeat us. Drink its blood to gain its heart so that we remain loyal to our tribe and our beliefs. (Have a snack of kool aid and jerky) |
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Wolf Jungle Book | |
| Intended for: | Wolf Scouts |
| Script: | (Call wolf scouts and parents, and den leader, to the front) Cubmaster: Many years ago, a boy named Mowgli was rescued by wolves, who raised him as their own. His wolf-parents, and Akela, who was the leader of the wolves, ensured that Mowgli grew strong in body and mind. Only by following Akela and his parents could Mowgli learn the skills and wisdom necessary to survive in the jungle. Mowgli explored far and wide, learning where he could find food. He learned tracking, and the ways of the jungle creatures. He learned to swim. He learned to find his way without becoming lost, and how to move undetected. He learned to find safe shelter. He learned the traditions of his pack. And he made friends among his brother wolves. When Akela was satisfied that he was ready, Mowgli's wolf-parents presented him to be fully accepted by the pack as a wolf. Only when Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther spoke for the boy and agreed to be responsible for his further training was he accepted. Likewise, tonight young Wolf candidates are presented to us. Cubmaster: (To den leader) Akela, you are the leader of this den. Have these scouts fulfilled the requirements of a Wolf? Den Leader: Yes, they have. Cubmaster: Parents, will you be responsible for their continued learning and growth? Parents: Yes. Cubmaster: (to audience) Pack, these scouts are ready to become Wolves. Please howl with your approval! (Pack howls until sign goes up) Cubmaster: Very well. You have proven yourselves and earned the rank of Wolf. Your journey is far from complete, as you will always have more to learn. You are no longer among the youngest in the pack, so you now are also expected to teach what you know to those with less experience and to set a good example so that they may follow in your footsteps. Tonight we congratulate you on your accomplishment and present you with this symbol so that all may know you as Wolves. (Present award to parents to pin onto uniforms.) Congratulations, Wolves. |
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Wolf Rank | |
| Intended for: | Wolf Scouts |
| Script: | Akela: The Indians believed in animal spirits that helped the Indians and gave them special powers. Each Indian also had a guardian spirit with which he had a special bond. Baloo: One advantage to spending time alone in the wilderness is that you might meet your spirit animal which would make your life more complete. An Indian might be canoeing alone across a lake, when a wolf is spied on the shore. And as the wolf looks into his eyes, he'll just know that that's his spirit animal. Of course you can only meet your spirit animal when you're alone. Akela: The wolf gives us two strengths: wisdom and bravery. The wolf is one of the smartest animals in the woods. This wisdom will serve our scouts well. The wolf is also loyal to the pack. Because of this, the pack is much stronger than the wolf by itself. Baloo: Today we have (number) scouts that have earned the Wolf rank. They have learned how to handle tools and how to display the flag; they know how be healthy and safe. They have learned to serve in the community and to conserve energy. They are physically active and like to read. They have fun with their families and their den mates. They obey our country's laws and worship God. Akela: Call them and their parents forward so I may reward their efforts. Baloo: As I call your name, come forward with your parents. (call each name) (Hand badge to parents when they are in front) Akela: Parents, please present your child with the Wolf badge. Attach the badge to the uniform upside down. Once the scout performs a good deed, it may be permanently attached right side up. Wear your parent pin with pride in your scout's accomplishments. Baloo: Join me in a Wolf howl congratulating these new Wolf Scouts. |
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