Awards & Recognitions
During their time in the scouts, boys progress through seven ranks, finishing with the rank of Eagle+Scout. In order, these ranks are Scout, Tenderfoot, Second+Class, First+Class, Star, Life, and Eagle. Troop 8 has a proud List+of+Eagle+Scouts.
Scout ranks reflect increasing level of skills, maturity, and leadership. The Scout rank is earned as part of the joining requirements, and is almost identical to the requirements for the Arrow of Light in Cub Scouting. Tenderfoot, Second+Class, and First+Class ranks are earned by completing a “laundry list” of requirements that include basic camping skills, first aid, and citizenship. The “field ranks” of Star, Life, and Eagle+Scout require completion of merit badges, leadership within the troop, and service to the community. In order to earn a rank, a boy must complete all of the requirements by having them “signed off” by a scoutmaster or a scout of field rank. Next, the boy must have a personal conference with the scoutmaster, where he must demonstrate his knowledge. Finally, the boy must appear before a “board of review” composed of troop adults and satisfy them that he deserves the change in rank. It’s a great experience for developing confidence and interviewing skills.
Merit badges are recognition of advanced skills in a particular area. Merit badges are awarded for outdoor skills, citizenship, hobbies, and career-related achievement. Twelve merit badges are termed “required,” because they must be earned in order to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout (citizenship, camping, first aid, etc.). To earn a merit badge, a boy must fulfill all the requirements for that badge and be “signed off” by a merit badge counselor who is knowledgeable in that particular field. Counselors are always troop adults, either scoutmasters or parents. In addition to ranks and badges, scouting and Troop 8 each have a number of additional awards and recognitions for boys who have developed particular skills or participated in noble activities.
One of the highlights of scouting are troop award ceremonies, called “Courts of Honor,” where boys receive recognition for their achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions
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