Académique Documents
Professionnel Documents
Culture Documents
Scouting
Awards
Compiled by
Dan Wills
El Dorado District
Golden Empire Council
INTRODUCTION
I have looked for years, and have not found a single book that gives the knots available
for adults in Scouting. These knots are created to encourage growth for us as leaders, give
youth better qualified leaders and help the adults set a good example for the youth.
However, finding what is available is hard. For example, the Scoutmaster award was
meant to be an interim award between the training knot and the key. But most people
don’t even know it exists.
This compilation is made to remedy that. It is every knot available at this time to the best
of my knowledge. Most of this is taken from one website that is made by many
volunteers. The site is: http://usscouts.org. The site is updated regularly, in fact
one award was added while doing the research for this book. I would encourage all to use
this website. After looking at many, I have found this to be the most complete.
What I have discovered is that there are 42 knots currently approved and available. Some
of these can be earned in different types of units increasing the number of adult knots that
can be earned to 94. The requirements for most of these are here except the adult
religious knots. In that case, the addresses for the issuing body has been included. I have
also included some unapproved knots for your enjoyment.
I hope this helps and gives you the information you need to take those couple extra steps
needed for you to lead the way for others to follow.
Dan Wills
The knots are worn centered on the left side of the uniform, above the left pocket and in
rows of three with the bottom edge of the knot emblem(s) touching the top edge of the
pocket flap. Subsequent rows of knots are placed above the initial set, in rows of three and
again, at the discretion of the wearer.
As a general rule, the knots should not be worn when the medal, medallion or device is
worn. The knots are designed for informal, everyday wear by Scouts and Scouters
including Professional Scouters.
A few years ago Professional Scouters were discouraged from wearing training awards or
other awards except for those related to achievement and training. During his years at the
helm, Chief Scout Executive Ben Love, changed this policy and encouraged professional
members of Scouting to wear all of the square knots that they were entitled to wear. He
also lifted a longstanding restriction on allowing exceptional professionals to receive the
Silver Beaver, District/Division Award of Merit Awards, and other service awards. Now, if
a professional is nominated for a BSA service or tenure award, in addition to the approval
of the local Council's Scout Executive, the award must also be approved by the Director of
Operations at the National Office, BSA.
Devices
KNOT DEVICES
When an award is given to a Scout or Scouter that also has a related square knot, the knot
may be worn by itself on the uniform or with one of the devices depicted above to
indicate the program phase where the award was earned. For example, a Unit
Commissioner that earns the Commissioner Key (same knot as the Scouter Key) would
wear the Commissioner device. If a Scout or Scouter earns a subsequent award
represented by the same knot, the Scout or Scouter should wear a device for each
program phase where the knot was earned (you do not wear multiple issues of the same
knot). In particular, a Scout that earns a sequence of religious emblems would wear ONE
universal religious emblem knot and up to four devices, as described below.
• Wear the CUB SCOUT device for the first level emblem (God & Me,
Maccabee, etc.) earned as a Tiger Cub or Cub Scout;
• Wear the WEBELOS SCOUT device for the second level emblem (God &
Family, Parvuli Dei, Aleph, etc.) earned as a Cub Scout or Webelos Scout;
• Wear the BOY SCOUT device for the first level emblem (God & Church, Ad
Altare Dei, Ner Tamid, etc.) earned as a Boy Scout;
• Wear the VENTURING device for the second level emblem (God & Life,
Pope Pius XII, Etz Chaim, etc.) earned as an older Boy Scout, Varsity Scout,
Sea Scout, or Venturer.
Note that Webelos Scout and Venturer devices are used to designate the second level
emblems described above, EVEN IF the boy isn't a Webelos Scout and/or Venturer when
he earns the appropriate religious emblem.
AWARDS - KNOTS
ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Arrow of Light - Worn by adults who earned the Arrow of Light as a youth
member.
Eagle Scout - Worn by adults who earned the rank of Eagle Scout as a
youth member.
BRAVERY AWARDS
Medal of Merit - Awarded by the National Council for heroism with little
or no risk to life.
Heroism Award - Awarded by the National Council for heroism with less
risk to life.
Honor Medal - Awarded by the National Council to those who risk their
lives to save another.
Den Leader Coach Award - Two years of tenure and other requirements.
SUPPORT OF SCOUTING
James West Fellowship Award
Note that the current "Arrow of Light" patch worn by youth members (shown below),
was called the "Webelos award" from 1941 to 1967. When the current Webelos rank was
created in 1967 (replacing the Lion rank, the former Webelos rank was renamed the
"Arrow of Light". Scouters who earned the patch under the old system are also eligible
to wear the knot shown above. It's basically the same award with a different name.
Historical Note:
The Arrow of Light Square Knot is an adult only item. It was first issued in the days of
the older khaki-green shirts with the green rope forming the standing loop and the red
rope ends to the left. When BSA switched to the new khaki-tan an error was made in
ordering and for several months two versions of the knot were being sold. One was the
original configuration with the green standing loop and the other was a complete reversal
of the color scheme with a red standing loop. (I was one of those Scouters that ended up
with some uniforms having the older version and some uniforms with the newer version
- both with the new khaki-tan background. - MFB) Apparently more than 20,000 knots
were produced with the new color scheme before BSA reached a decision on what to do.
In the end, BSA elected to use the new color scheme and to pull remaining stocks of the
old version. Rumors persist that BSA may use the old design for a new award to
recognize recipients of the Youth Leadership in America Award and the Congressional
Award. However, this remains speculation at this point.
Eagle Scout
Worn by adults who earned the rank of Eagle Scout as a youth member. The Eagle Scout
is the highest youth rank in the Boy Scouting program.
Eagle Rank with Palms: After earning the Rank of Eagle Scout, a Scout can continue to
advance by earning palms. A palm may be earned by meeting a three month tenure
requirement, a leadership requirement, and earning five additional merit badges. A bronze
palm is awarded for the first five merit badges after Eagle. A gold palm for the next five
and silver for an additional five. If a Scout continues to advance, combinations of palms
may be earned with bronze and silver representing 20 merit badges beyond Eagle (and 12
months tenure). These palms may be worn on the Eagle Scout knot as illustrated below:
Credits: Our thanks to Mike Walton for the original scans of the palms and their placement.
Explorer Gold Award
This recognition knot was was most recently used for the Explorer Gold Award and earlier
for the Explorer Achievement Award
A. The candidate must have been an active, registered Explorer for at least 12 months
tenure before final qualification.
B. The candidate must have been an active member of the Explorer post, and served
in one or a combination of leadership roles within the past 12 months (roles may
be concurrent as follows: (paraphrased) Post officer, EPA member, post activities
chairman; church or school elected youth officer, elected or appointed team leader.
C. The candidate must have participated in a district/Exploring division, council, area,
region, or national Explorer event.
D. The candidate must, in consultation with the post Advisor or a member of the post
committee, set one personal growth goal related to each of the six experience areas
of Exploring, in which the Explorer certifies completion of the goals. (See
previous EAA examples)
E. The candidate must plan, prepare for, and lead to completion two or more post
activity projects that relate to at least two of the six experience areas; suggested
post activity projects are listed separately below. The action should involve at least
five Explorers, and it should require a minimum of 4 to 6 months from inception to
completion; the project should be approved and the goals of the project set by the
post Advisor and/or a member of the post committee and the Explorer candidate.
Both parties should certify the completion of the project(s). Activities should be
arranged to fit into normal post programming. Qualifying activities . . . (see
previous EAA examples).
F. The candidate must be able to recite the Explorer Code.
G. The candidate must submit three letters of recommendation to the post Advisor
that confirms he or she lives in accordance with the principles of the Explorer
Code. The letters should come from adults outside the post, such as school or
church leaders, employers, or community leaders.
H. After completing all other requirements, the candidate should prepare evidence of
completion of the work and submit it to the post Advisor. The post president, in
conjunction with the post Advisor, should then appoint a review committee of four
to six people including Explorers and adults. The committee should interview the
candidate to determine whether that person grew as a result of the pursuit of the
Gold Award.
I. Finally, the candidate must have qualified for the Gold Award before his or her
21st birthday.
Significant differences from the Explorer Achievement Award to the Gold Award: Tenure
now 12 months, vice 18. Personal growth goals in all six experience areas, vice two. Must
recite the Explorer Code. Review committee is youth and adult, can be from the post, vice
district/council Exploring committee.
Presented by councils, areas/regions, and national to Explorers and adults who have made
exceptional contributions to Exploring and who exemplify the Explorer Code.
Qualifications:
Quota: Two youth and two adults per year, up to fifty posts/ships, one additional each for
each 25 additional units. Regions: 12/12. National: 6/6.
Ace Award This was the highest award/rank in the form Air Exploring Program of BSA.
Explorers had demonstrate flying proficiency, leadership, and service over a period of
time; and earn several rating awards. Ace Awards were conferred after a review board at
the local Council level. The Air Exploring program ended in 1977 and present Aviation
Exploring members are not eligible to earn this rare award.
The knot to the left is the old Silver Award Square Knot and the one to the right is the knot
that was used for the Exploring Achievement Award. The Old Silver Award was designed
as a replacement knot for the Ranger and Ace Exploring Awards. 533 of these were
awarded before BSA revised the Exploring Program and replaced the Silver Award with
the Exploring Achievement Award.
The Silver Award Knot may be worn by previous holders of any Exploring advancement
award except the Quartermaster Award (separate knot for this) and holders of any national
or local Council Young American Award. Both of these are very rare awards.
The Knot shown above is the knot which can be worn by those who have earned the
Venturing Silver Award.
The Quartermaster Award is the highest award in the Sea Scouting Program. In order to
earn Quartermaster Award, Sea Scouts must show nautical proficiency, leadership, and
service over a period of time; earn several rating awards; and pass a Board of Review at
the local Council level. This is a rare award.
The old Quartermaster Award knot (worn on the khaki-green uniform) looked like this:
Bravery
Awards
Medal of Merit
The Medal of Merit is awarded to Scouts and Scouters who have performed some act of
meritorious service above and beyond that normally expected of a youth or adult member
of the Boy Scouts of America. This act may involve a lifesaving effort, but is not confined
to lifesaving. It may also be awarded for any meritorious action using some aspect of
Scouting skills or learning.
The above knot is the old version of the same knot issued for the earlier khaki-green
uniform.
The Heroism Award is presented to Scouts and Scouters that have saved a life at little or
no personal risk. In the past, those persons would receive a Certificate of Heroism from
the local Council. Today, those previous holders of Certificates of Heroism as well as
present Scouts, Explorers or Scouters are honored with the present Medal.
The Honor Medal is presented to Scouts and Scouters shown courage in attempting to
save a life with personal risk. This award has been presented posthumously to Scouts who
have died while attempting to save the life of another. In very exceptional cases the award
is presented with crossed gold palms to Scouts, and Scouters who have attempted to save a
life at great personal risk demonstrating exceptional heroism.
The above knot is the old version of the same knot issued for the earlier khaki-green
uniform.
Tenure
Training
1. Complete "The New Tiger Cub Den Leader" Fast Start training.
2. Complete basic training for Tiger Cub Den Leaders.
3. Complete Youth Protection Training.
4. During your tenure for this award, participate in a Cub Scout leader pow wow or
University of Scouting, or attend at least four roundtables.
Performance
1. Conduct a Tiger Cub roundup for your pack with at least five new Tiger Cub
boy/adult teams recruited.
2. Contact the host team each month and provide support as needed for one year.
3. Coordinate Tiger Cub den participation in three Cub Scout pack activities each
year.
4. Graduate a Tiger Cub den into Cub Scouting with at least 60 percent of the Tiger
Cubs becoming Cub Scouts.
This Award was formerly called the Tiger Cub Coach Award.
Tenure
Training
Performance
1. During at least one program year, have a minimum of 50 percent of the Cub Scouts in
your den earn the rank for their grade or age (Wolf or Bear).
2. At least once, reregister a minimum of 75 percent of the eligible members of your den
as a part of pack rechartering.
3. Graduate a minimum of 60 percent of the eligible members of your den into Webelos
Scouting.
4. Have an assistant den leader who meets regularly with your den.
5. Have a den chief who meets regularly with your den.
6. Take leadership in planning and conducting a den service project.
7. Conduct at least three den meetings per month, 9 months per year or an optional
meeting plan approved by the pack.
8. Participate with your den in a Cub Scout day camp or Cub Scout resident camp
experience.
9. Explore three "Character Connection" activities with your den members in one year.
10. Hold regular den meetings and activity planning sessions with your assistant den
leader.
Tenure
Training
Performance
1. During at least one program year, have a minimum of 50 percent of the Webelos Scouts in
your den advance in rank (Webelos Badge or Arrow of Light Award).
2. At least once, reregister a minimum of 75 percent of the eligible members of your den as a
part of pack rechartering.
3. Graduate a minimum of 60 percent of the eligible members of your Webelos den into Boy
Scouting.
4. Have an assistant Webelos den leader who meets regularly with your Webelos den.
5. Have a Webelos den chief who meets regularly with your den.
6. Take leadership in planning and conducting two Webelos overnight campouts or other
outdoor den activities each year.
7. Assist in planning and conducting a Webelos den / Boy Scout troop joint activity.
8. Take leadership in planning and conducting a Webelos den service project.
9. Conduct at least three Webelos den meetings per month, 9 months per year or an optional
meeting plan approved by the pack.
10. Participate with your den in a Webelos day camp or resident camp experience.
11. Explore three "Character Connection" activities with your den members in one year.
12. Hold regular den meetings and activity planning sessions with your assistant den leader.
The older Den Leader Coach Knot had a gold and light blue rope on a blue background.
This knot is now used for the Cub Scouter Award. However, there are some older Scouters
that earned the award with the older version and still wear the older version.
Cubmaster Award
Tenure:
Serve as a registered assistant Cubmaster for one year and a Cubmaster for one year, or
two years as a registered Cubmaster.
,(Dates of service used to earn this award cannot be used to earn another key or award.)
Training:
Performance:
Tenure:
Training:
Performance
The Scouter's Training Awards can be presently earned by the following groups of
Scouters:
Boy Scouters:
• Scoutmasters
• Assistant Scoutmasters
• Committee Members
• Chartered Organization Representative
Varsity Scouters:
• Coaches
• Assistant Coaches
• Committee Members
• Chartered Organization Representative
Venturing Leaders:
• Advisors
• Assistant/Associate Advisors
• Committee Members
• Consultants
• Chartered Organization Representative
• Skippers
• Committee Members
• Consultants
• Chartered Organization Representative
District/Council Scouters:
• Cub Scout Roundtable staff members
• Boy Scout Roundtable staff members
• Varsity Scout Huddle staff members
Each award group has requirements covering basic training, performance, tenure, and
certification. Scouters earning the Training Award in one program area MUST complete
ALL requirements (including tenure) for a subsequent Training Awards in another
program area. Scouters earning a Training Award cannot use the tenure for the Training
Award toward earning the Scouters' Key Award in the same program area unless
specifically stated otherwise (i.e. Scoutmaster's Key).
Boy Scout Leader's Training Award
Training
1. Conduct Boy Scout Fast Start training and Basic Leader Training for a parent or
other leader
2. Participate in a supplemental training course..
Tenure
Performance
Training
Tenure
Performance
Training
Tenure
Huddle Attendance
Training:
Tenure:
Performance:
Mates and ship committee members earn this award by qualifying for the requirements
listed below.
Training
Tenure
Complete two years' tenure in any adult capacity in the Venturing program.
Performance
Training
Orientation:
1. Review with the roundtable commissioner orientation material in the current Cub Scout
Roundtable Planning Guide, No. 34239D; or Boy Scout Roundtable Planning Guide, No.
34253A; or Varsity Scout Huddle Guide, No. 34829.
2. Review all material in the current Cub Scout Program Helps, Troop Program Features, or
Varsity Scout Game Plan.
Basic Training
Complete basic training for Cub Scout or Boy Scout roundtable commissioners.
Tenure
Complete two years as a registered roundtable/huddle staff member. Tenure for one award cannot
be used for other training awards.
Performance
Do the following:
Commissioners may earn the Arrowhead Honor and the Commissioner's Key.
Scouter's Key Awards
The Scouter's Key Awards can be presently earned by the following groups of Scouters:
Boy Scouters:
• Scoutmasters
Varsity Scouters:
• Coaches
Venturing Leaders:
• Advisors
• Skippers
District Committee:
• Committee Members
Commissioners:
Each award group has requirements covering basic training, performance, tenure, and
certification. Scouters earning the Key Award in one program area MUST complete ALL
requirements (including tenure) for a subsequent Key Awards in another program area.
Scouters earning a Key Award cannot use the tenure for the Key Award toward earning the
Scouters' Key Award in the same program area.
Note: Other leaders in each program area described above may earn an appropriate
Training Award.
Scoutmaster's Key
Training
Roundtable Attendance
Attend at least six Boy Scout Leader Roundtables during each year for three years.
Tenure
Performance
Earn the Boy Scout Troop National Quality Unit Award. (2 times)
Training
Huddle Attendance
Attend at least six Varsity Scout Leader Huddles during each year for three years.
Tenure
Complete at least three years of tenure registered as a Varsity Scout Coach within a 5 year
period.
Performance
At least twice during the three-year period, serve as Coach of a Varsity Scout team that
earns the National Quality Unit Award.
Training:
Tenure
Complete three years of registered tenure as a Venturing crew advisor within a five year
period.
Performance
1. Earn the Venturing Crew National Quality Unit award two times.
2. Have a parent's night each year.
Attend at least 4 Venturing Roundtables or teen leaders' council meetings each year for
three years.
Training
Tenure
Complete three years of registered tenure as a Skipper within a five year period.
Performance
At least twice during the three-year period serve as the Skipper of a ship earning the
National Quality Unit Award or its equivalent.
Training
1. Complete basic training for Cub Scout or Boy Scout roundtable commissioners.
2. Complete the 3-session training program outlined in Commissioner Basic Training
Manual, No. 33613E.
3. Complete personal coaching assignments.
Tenure
Complete 3 years as a registered commissioner within a 5-year period. Tenure for one
award cannot be used for other training awards.
Performance
Training
1. Review The District, No. 33070A, and the Highlight book for your position.
Discuss the role of the district and your position with your committee chairman or
district executive.
2. Complete the District Committee Training Workshop.
Tenure
Complete three years as a district committee member within a 5-year period. Tenure for
one award cannot be used for other training awards.
Performance
1. Your district must earn the Quality District Award at least once within a 3-year
period.
2. Take part actively in six district committee meetings.
3. Help give leadership to eight projects of your operating committee or other
projects as approved by your district executive (organizing a unit, running a
training course, planning a camporee event, completing an FOS assignment, etc.).
Training
Tenure
Complete 3 years as a registered commissioner within a 5-year period. Tenure for one
award cannot be used for other training awards.
Performance
Training
Tenure
Complete 3 years as a registered commissioner within a 5-year period. Tenure for one
award cannot be used for other training awards.
Performance
1. Work with your district executive to evaluate all commissioners you supervise.
2. Achieve a ratio of one unit commissioner for every three units in the district or
service area.
3. Develop and put into action a suitable recruiting plan.
4. Chair or take part actively in six district commissioner staff meetings.
5. Attend six district committee meetings (not required for assistants).
6. Attend a council commissioner conference or planning conference with a majority
of your staff.
7. Provide personal coaching for the commissioners you supervise.
Roundtable/Huddle Commissioner
1. Review all material in the current Venturing Roundtable Guide, No. 34342, current
Boy Scout Roundtable Planning Guide, No. 34253A; or the current Cub Scout
Roundtable Planning Guide, No. 34239D; or the current Varsity Scout Huddle
Guide, No. 34829.
2. Review all material in the Troop Program Features, Cub Scout Program Helps, or
Varsity Scout Game Plan.
3. Recruit a roundtable staff.
4. Lead staff in preparing a 1-year roundtable or huddle outline.
5. Supervise the staff in conducting these roundtables or huddles.
6. With the district commissioner and district executive, develop and use an
attendance promotion plan.
7. Attend a council commissioner conference or planning conference.
Unit Commissioner
1. Fill in and follow up on Unit Commissioner Work Sheets (Pack, No. 34125A;
Troop/Team, No. 34126A: Crew, No. 33660A; Post, No.33619A) for each
assigned unit.
2. Conduct membership and leadership inventories in each assigned unit.
3. Attend six district commissioner staff meetings and provide the training topic for
one meeting.
4. Participate in a charter renewal meeting that results in on-time unit reregistration.
5. Participate in a charter presentation.
6. Attend a council commissioner conference or planning conference, or actively
participate in a major council event.
7. Help a unit resolve a specific problem or improve some aspect of their unit
operation.
Requirements
The Scoutmaster Award of Merit may be earned by a Scouter who meets the following
requirements. The nominee need not be an Eagle Scout but must:
• Be a currently registered Scoutmaster who has served in that position for at least
18 months
• Have achieved the Quality Unit Award at least once during his period of service
• Have completed Boy Scout Leader Fast Start and Scoutmastership Fundamentals
or equivalent
• Have a record of proper use of the Boy Scout advancement program, resulting in a
majority of his Boy Scouts attaining the First Class rank
• Have a record of:
o · Development of boy leadership through the patrol method
o · Positive relations with the troop's chartered organization
o · An extensive outdoor program including strong summer camp attendance
o · A positive image of Scouting in the community
o · A troop operation that attracts and retains Boy Scouts
• A list of Boy Scouts who became First Class Scouts during the nominee's tenure as
a Scoutmaster
• A statement by the senior patrol leader on behalf of the patrol leaders' council and
the troop committee chairman attesting to the nominee's performance as
Scoutmaster. (This statement is certified by the senior patrol leader and troop
committee chairman.)
Background
Shortly after the National Eagle Scout Association was established in 1972, it began to
make available a NESA Scoutmaster Award. The award was presented to one Scoutmaster
per BSA area each year. These Scoutmasters' records demonstrated proper use of Boy
Scout advancement, and a significant number of their Boy Scouts attained the Eagle Scout
rank. This award was discontinued on December 31, 1987.
The President of the Boy Scouts of America requested that NESA convert its award into a
Scoutmaster Award of Merit which could be earned by all Scoutmasters. His rationale was
that there is a need for recognizing a man relatively early in his work as a Scoutmaster,
prior to his qualifying for the Scouter's Key.
Procedure
The chairman of the troop committee has the responsibility of nominating the Scoutmaster
on behalf of the patrol leaders' council and the troop committee.
The nomination is certified by the unit commissioner and forwarded to the local council
service center.
Approval authority lies with the Scout executive and either the council NESA chairman or
the council commissioner.
The Scout executive will forward the nomination to the director of the National Eagle
Scout Association at the national office. The nomination should be approved by the Scout
executive and either the council NESA chairman or the council commissioner.
Award
A full-color certificate will be provided by NESA free of charge. A cost of $1.50 per
certificate will be charged for a certificate with the recipient's name hand lettered.
Payment should accompany the order. The National Eagle Scout Association will send the
certificates to the Scout executive via pouch mail. A 3-week turnaround should be allowed
if the names of recipients are to be hand lettered on the certificates. Those unlettered
require a 2-week turnaround time.
A full-color, 6-inch, jacket patch, No. 5004, is available through the Supply Division.
A square Knot (white on tan) for the uniform, No. 5007, is available through the Supply
Division.
Presentations
The award may be presented at an appropriate chartered organization or unit function with
acknowledgment at a district or council event or at a district or council recognition event.
Requirements
The Varsity Scout Coach's Award of Merit may be earned by a Varsity Scout Coach who
meets the following requirements. The nominee need not be an Eagle Scout but must:
• Be a currently registered Varsity Scout Coach who has served in that position for
at least 18 months
• Have achieved the Quality Unit Award at least once during his period of service
• Have completed Varsity Scout Leader Fast Start and Varsity Scout Leader
Fundamentals or equivalent
• Have a record of proper use of the Boy Scout advancement program, resulting in a
majority of Varsity Scouts in the team attaining the First Class rank
• Have a record of:
o · Development of youth leadership through the squad method
o · Positive relations with the team's chartered organization
o · An extensive outdoor program including strong high-adventure
participation
o · A positive image of Scouting in the community
o · A team operation that attracts and retains Varsity Scouts
Background
This award is the Varity Coach's equivalent of the Scoutmaster's Award of Merit.
One of the unique attributes of the Venturing program is the relationship between
Venturers and the crew Advisor. The ability to work effectively with young adults as they
themselves plan and run the program is a true test of leadership skills. The Venturing
Advisor Award of Merit recognoizes crew Advisors for tenure, training, and quality crew
program.
The Venturing Advisor's Award of Merit may be earned by a Scouter who has met the
following requirements:
1. Be a currently registered Venturing Advisor who has served in that position for at
least 18 months.
2. Complete Venturing Fast Start and Venturing Leader Specific Training.
3. Achieve the Quality Unit Award at least once while serving as crew Advisor.
4. Demonstrate the use of the Venturing Silver Award program.
5. Develop youth leadership by effective use of crew officers.
6. Use the crew officer orientation and program planning process.
7. Have a proven positive relationship with the chartered organization and associated
Boy Scout troop and Cub Scout pack, if any.
8. Project a positive image of Venturing in the community.
9. Attract and hold Venturers with crew program and operation.
10. Lead crew in completion of the Venturing Leadership Skills Course.
Nomination Procedure
The crew president in conjunction with the crew officers nominates the Advisor. The
nomination is approved by the crew committee chairman. The nomination is then certified
by the unit commissioner and submitted to the council service center. The nomination is
then approved by the Scout executive and council commissioner.
The Square Knot patch is the same as the one worn by recipients of the Scoutmaster's
Award of Merit, but with a Venturing device added.
Requirements
• Venturing Leadership Award candidates must be registered and involved in
Venturing as a Venturer or an adult for at least one year.
• They must hold a leadership position or office on the unit, district, council, area,
region or national level (as appropriate for the level of award presented).
• The candidate must show exceptional dedication and give outstanding leadership
and service to Venturing and to Venturers on the level appropriate for the award.
Quota Restrictions
Councils may present two awards for youth and two for adults per year for up to fifty
crews/ships and one additional youth and adult award per year for each fraction of
twenty-five crews/ships above fifty.
Example: For fifty-one registered crews/ships, a total of three youth and three adult
awards may be presented; for seventy-eight crews/ships, four youth and adult awards
could be presented.
Regions may present twelve youth and twelve adult awards per year.
National may present six youth and six adult awards per year.
Procedures
Venturing youth and adults may be recommended at the council, area, region or national
level by completing the Venturing Leadership Award candidate information form. An
additional sheet with two hundred words or less explaining why the candidate should
receive the award and letters of recommendation from school, church, clubs, etc., must be
provided with the information form.
Recognitions
• Council: Medallion suspended from blue and white ribbon and worn around the
neck. (For unit-, district-, and council-level recognition.)
• Area/Region: Medallion suspended from green and white ribbon and worn
around the neck. (For area- and region-level recognition.)
• National: Medallion suspended from red and white ribbon and worn around the
neck. (For national-level recognition.)
• Square Knot: The Square knot patch shown at the top of this page may be worn
by a recipient of the Venturing Leadership Award at any level.
Sea Badge Award
These awards are given as recognition of completion of the Sea Badge Course, which is
the advanced training course for Sea Scouting leaders at the Ship, District, Council or
Regional level.
The single trident versions are awarded to attendees. (The different background colors are
for different color uniforms.) The version with two tridents is awarded to staff members,
and the three trident version is awarded to course directors.
There is also a Sea badge pin, pictured, below, which is awarded after completion of the
course.
The recognition knot was derived from an earlier unofficial emblem (illustrated above)
Distinguished Commissioner Service Award
Requirements:
1. Complete training as outlined by the local council, including earning the Scouter's
Key for Commissioners.
2. Serve as an active commissioner or an active Exploring service team member for 5
consecutive years and be currently registered with the Boy Scouts of America.
3. Recharter at least 90 percent of the units in your area of service for a minimum of
the past 2 consecutive years. this applies to council commissioners, assistant
council commissioners, district commissioners, assistant district commissioners,
unit commissioners, council Exploring service team chairpersons,
division/district/cluster Exploring service team chairpersons, and Exploring service
team members.
4. Assist units so that more than 50 percent achieve National Quality Unit Award in
your area of service for a minimum of the past 2 consecutive years.
5. Roundtable/huddle commissioner recognition is based on completing requirements
No. 1 and No. 2 listed above, plus the following. In place of items No. 3 and No. 4,
roundtable/huddle commissioners are to conduct at least nine roundtables/huddles
per year for the past 2 consecutive years.
Recognitions:
1. The following recognition items are available from the Supply Division:
The title on both commissioner recognitions will read, "Distinguished Commissioner. The
plaque is approximately 5 x 7 inches. The medallion is cast in three colors:
The title on both Exploring recognitions will read "Distinguished Service Team.
An embroidered square knot (silver knot on red background, may also be presented.
2. Local councils certify the eligibility of individuals, and present the recognition.
(There is no national application.)
Professional Training Award
• Successfully attend all three sessions of the Professional Executive Institute (PEI)
• Complete or participate in five of eight training or coaching programs (including
Wood Badge, Exploring Advanced Seminar, and National Camping School)
• Meet all critical achievements in his or her District/Division/Council for two of the
three years.
This award may be earned by completing all eight coaching or training programs, meeting
of all critical achievements within all three years, and the completion of a research paper
to be forwarded to the National Executive Training Center for approval. Holders of this
award may wear the small Universal/Troop device at the center of the knot.
The George Meany Award is a national recognition approved by the AFL-CIO Executive
Council. It may be presented to any adult union member who has made a significant
contribution to the youth of their community through Scouting.
Each AFL-CIO city central labor council and each AFL-CIO state federation is permitted
to give one award annually. The emphasis of this award is on the the importance of being
selective. There is no rule that the quota must be used every year. No honorary
recognitions should be made.
The purpose of the award is to recognize the recipient's outstanding service to youth
through the programs of the Boy Scouts of America.
From 1974 to 1991 1,440 Scouters were recognized with this award. In recent years about
125 of these awards have been presented each year.
Applications may be obtained from your AFL-CIO central labor council, state federation,
or your area's AFL-CIO Community Services liaison or from
The central labor council or state federation may develop its own standards for judging,
but will consider such factors as the nominee's record in:
• Promoting and expanding the use of the American Labor merit badge
• Recruiting youth to earn the American Labor merit badge
• Forming Scout units, especially those to be operated by local unions or other labor
groups
• Recruiting union members to become Scout leaders, especially to become
American Labor merit badge counselors and to be involved in units operated by
union organizations.
• Contributing to Scouting in the field of labor relationships, and bringing the
Scouting and labor movements together to serve the community
• Taking Scouter training and setting a good example to youth
• Promoting Scouting for all youth, regardless of race, creed, or handicapping
condition.
Awardees receive a medal suspended from the neck, a cloth pocket insignia, a square note
and a frame certificate. Distribution is restricted and orders may only be made via Labor
Relations, BSA.
By the way, each of the professionals at your Council Office should have a three ring
binder entitled, "Foundations for Growth: A Resource for Unit Development." The
application form is in that binder.
Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.
NOTE: There were several thousand George Meany Award knots made incorrectly. The
knot is right side up but the background colors are reversed. The Red portion of the
background should be on the wearer's right. Here is what the "right" and "wrong" version
look like:
Correct Incorrect
Whitney Young, Jr. Award
Several years ago BSA was concerned that certain rural and inner-city urban areas were
not being reached by the Scouting program. As part of its push to offer the Scouting
program, the Whitney Young, Jr. Award was developed to recognize outstanding support
and service at both the local and national level in reaching under-served areas. The knot
may only be worn by holders of individual awards.
Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.
El Premio por Servicio
¡Scouting ... Vale La Pena!
Service Award
PURPOSE PROPÓSITO
The purpose of the ¡Scouting…Vale la Pena! El propósito del premio por servicio ¡Scouting
Service Award is to recognize outstanding … Vale la Pena! es reconocer los servicios
services by an adult individual or an destacados de una persona u organización por
organization for demonstrated involvement in el compromiso demostrado en el desarrollo y
the development and implementation of la implementación de oportunidades Scouting
Scouting opportunities for Hispanic para la juventud hispanoamericana y latina.
American/Latino youth.
COUNCIL
PROCEDURES PROCEDIMIENTOS DEL CONCILIO
1. Recipients are approved nationally through 1. Los merecedores al premio son aprobados
nomination by a local council. (Councils nacionalmente a través de la nominación por
should use ¡Scouting…Vale la Pena! Service parte de un concilio local. (Los concilios
Award Nomination Form, No. 11-193. Copies deben usar el formulario de nominación al
may be obtained from the National premio por servicio ¡Scouting … Vale la Pena!
Distribution Center, 2109 Westinghouse No. 11-193. Las copias se pueden obtener en
Boulevard, P.O. Box 7143, Charlotte, NC el Centro de Distribución Nacional, 2109
28241-7143.) Westinghouse Boulevard, P.O. Box 7143,
Charlotte, NC 28241-7143.)
2. The award is presented to people at all 2. El premio se presenta a personas de todos
levels of the organization (executive board, los niveles de la organización (consejo
district Scouters, unit personnel) and to people ejecutivo, Scouters de distrito, personal de la
of all races and income levels. unidad) y a gente de todas las razas y niveles
de ingresos.
3. The council’s annual quota of awards shall 3. La cantidad anual de premios del concilio
not exceed the number of districts in the no debe exceder el número de distritos del
council. Emphasis is on being selective, with concilio. Se debe hacer énfasis en ser
no intention that the full quota must be used selectivos, sin la intención de usar toda la
every year. The quota is noncumulative. cantidad cada año. La cantidad no es
acumulativa.
4. The council president designates a 4. El presidente del concilio designa un comité
committee to administer the award for the para administrar el premio para el concilio.
council. This may be a special ¡Scouting… Éste puede ser un comité especial para el
Vale la Pena! Award committee or the premio ¡Scouting … Vale la Pena! o el comité
council’s advancement and recognition de desarrollo y reconocimiento del concilio, el
committee, Silver Beaver committee, or comité Silver Beaver o el comité Scoutreach
council Scoutreach committee. The committee del concilio. El comité debe incluir al menos
should include at least one person who is una persona que esté familiarizada con la
familiar with the serving Hispanic prestación de servicios a las familias
American/Latino families. The Scout hispanoamericanas y latinas. El ejecutivo
executive or a designated staff member serves Scout o un miembro designado del personal
as adviser to the committee. sirve como consejero del comité.
5. The committee screens, prioritizes, and 5. El comité examina, asigna prioridades y
selects worthy nominees. Nominations may be selecciona a los nominados que sean
submitted to the committee by committee merecedores. Las nominaciones pueden ser
members, professional staff, or any other presentados al comité por los miembros del
registered Scouter. mismo, el personal profesional o cualquier
otro Scouter registrado.
Asian American
Spirit of Scouting Service Award
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Asian American Spirit of Scouting Service Award is to recognize
outstanding services by an adult individual or an organization for demonstrated
involvement in the development and implementation of Scouting opportunities for Asian
American youth.
COUNCIL PROCEDURES
NOTE: Allow two months for national volunteer committee consideration, approval, and
delivery of award.
Boy Scout Community Organization Awards can be used by any community organization
to honor its volunteers for Scouting. A community organization is permitted to create its
own neck medallion and to award a gold on purple square knot badge with a gold border.
See the following page on BSA's web site for additional information:
http://www.scouting.org/factsheets/02-582.html
• Alpha Phi Omega: Herbert G. Horton Alpha Phi Omega Youth Service Award
• American Legion: American Legion and Scouting Square Knot Award
• BPOE (Elks): Marvin M. Lewis Award
• Department of Defense: United States Military Outstanding Volunteer Service
Medal
• Freemasons: Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award
• Veterans of Foreign Wars: Scouter's Achievement Award
The George Meany Award of the American Federation of Labor & Congress of Industrial
Organizations (AFL-CIO) is also part of this category, but retains the use of the original
square knot designed for the that award.
The Boy Scouts of America's Community Organization Award square knot consists of an
embroidered gold square knot on a purple background with a gold border and is the
means by which the BSA recognizes Scouters who have received an approved
community organization service recognition. As with all other square knots, it is worn on
the Scouter uniform shirt above the left pocket.
To ensure compatibility with the objectives and mission of the Boy Scouts of America,
the concept, requirements, and criteria for presenting the award must be approved by the
BSA national Relationships Committee.
Current Awards
As of January 1, 2004, there are seven awards which fall into this classification: The
Marvin M. Lewis Award of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE),
Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award, Veterans of Foreign Wars Scouter's
Achievement Award, American Legion Scouting Square Knot Award, Department of
Defense—United States Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, and Herbert
G. Horton Alpha Phi Omega Youth Service Award of the Alpha Phi Omega national
service fraternity.
The George Meany Award of the American Federation of Labor & Congress of
Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) is also part of this category, but retains the use of the
original square knot designed for the Meany Award.
Fact Sheets
Significance:
In recognition of a Brother of Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity who has made
contributions to America’s future as participating citizens through the principles of Scouting and
the Scout Oath and Laws. Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity has established the
Alpha Phi Omega (ΑΦΩ) Herbert G Horton - Service to Youth Award. It recognizes Brothers of
Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity, who are in good standing that have made
significant contribution to the youth of their communities by volunteering in the programs of the
Boy Scouts of America.
ΑΦΩ honors Herbert G. Horton’s memory, and the dedicated service he and other Brothers have
given to Scouting by naming this award after him.
The National Scouting and Youth Services Committee of Alpha Phi Omega, National Service
Fraternity, invites chapters, recognized geographical or Chapter alumni association, alumni
volunteers or elected officers to submit candidates for this award. The cost of the award will be
borne by the recommender. (The official nomination form must be used.)
1. The recommender must complete the application and submit an attached page explaining
the candidate’s qualifications for the award.
2. The recommender must have the application approved and verified by the local Council,
indicating that the candidate is currently registered as an active Scout leader.
3. The recommender should then have the application sent to the National Office of Alpha
Phi Omega, along with $40 for the award, for submission to the National Scouting &
Youth Services Committee. The Committee Chair or a select subcommittee of that
committee will then determine if the candidate is qualified. If so, they will authorize the
National Office of Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity, to send to the
recommender the award/regalia for presentation to the recipient.
4. The National Office of Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity will be instructed
to forward the information on the recipient to the Boy Scouts of America, Relationships
Division, for the official record of recipients.
Qualification Guidelines
The award will be presented to active, alumni, advisory, or honorary Brothers of Alpha Phi
Omega. Who are currently a registered Scouter and are active in a Scout unit, Local Council, or
on the Area, Regional or National Levels of the Boy Scouts of America, and who have displayed
outstanding dedication to the Scouting program. Their activities in scouting should include:
Work accomplishment and dedication, rather than a specific number of years in Scouting, will be
the criteria for this award. Promoting and strengthening the relationship between ΑΦΩ and
Scouting is an important part of this award. Thus, a Scouter who has little or no current
involvement with ΑΦΩ will most likely not be considered for this award.
Presentation
Alpha Phi Omega (ΑΦΩ) Herbert G. Horton - Service to Award will be presented annually at a
Regional Conferences or at the National Convention by a member of the National Scouting and
Youth Services Committee. Recognition of previous and recent recipients of this award should be
made at subsequent ΑΦΩ Section Conferences, Regional Conferences, and National
Conventions.
In addition, a presentation may be made at a BSA local council or district function, such as an
awards dinner or an annual meeting.
The Alpha Phi Omega (ΑΦΩ) Herbert G Horton - Service to Youth Award is a BSA Community
Organization Award, used by community organization to honor their volunteers for Scouting.
Recipients are presented a medallion on a neck ribbon in the Fraternity colors, a certificate and
lapel pin, and if a BSA member, may wear the generic Boy Scout Community Organization
Award Square Knot.
American Legion and Scouting
Square Knot Award
The award consists of the gold on purple square knot badge with a gold border and a
suitable certificate.
A. Service
1. Be a current member of The American Legion, American Legion
Auxiliary or Sons of The American Legion.
2. Be registered in a Scouting leadership position at the Unit, District or
Council level; or as a Chartered Organizational Representative (COR); or
as a District/Council Member-at-Large; or as a Unit Commissioner.
B. Training
The Department would arrange for presentation of The American Legion Square
Knot, certificate and congratulatory letter at an appropriate place and time.
A list of Department Headquarters addresses can be found on the last page of the
brochure at the following URL, to assist in obtaining the written endorsements of the
Department Scouting Chairman, Department Adjutant and Department Commander.
http://www.legion.org/pdf/squareknot_update.pdf
Marvin M. Lewis Award of the
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks
The Boy Scouts of America established the Marvin M. Lewis Award in 1998 in
recognition of the Elks’ significant contributions to Scouting and the development of
America’s youth.
The Grand Lodge invites all local Lodges to nominate ONE candidate for the award.
Candidates must have the recommendation of their local Lodge and their local Scouting
Council to be eligible. Each year eight Elks will receive Marvin M. Lewis Awards, which
consists of a medal and ribbon, a framed certificate, a lapel pin and a square knot.
When selecting their candidate, Lodges were asked to consider Elks who:
The awards will be presented at the Grand Lodge Convention. Application forms may be
obtained from Grand Lodge Committeeman, James C. Beckley, Jr., or from any state
Youth Activity Chairman.
Department of Defense
Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
The Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal is an honor awarded to members of the armed
forces who perform outstanding volunteer community service of a sustained, direct and
consequential nature
Description:
A Bronze medal, 1 3/8 inches in diameter bearing on the obverse, five annulets interlaced
enfiled by a star and environed by a wreath of laurel. On the reverse is a sprig of oak
between the inscription "OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE" at the top and
"UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES" at the bottom. (Shown below)
Criteria:
Awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, subsequent to 31
December 1992, performed outstanding volunteer community service of a sustained,
direct and consequential nature. To be eligible, an individual’s service must
While there is no specific time threshold to qualify for the Military Outstanding Volunteer
Service Medal (MOVSM), approval authorities shall ensure the service to be honored
merits the special recognition afforded by this medal. The MOVSM is intended to
recognize exceptional community support over time and not a single act or achievement.
Further, it is intended to honor direct support of community activities.
Daniel Carter Beard
Masonic Scouter Award
The Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award is an honor due to members of the
Masonic Lodge who act as role models and provide dedicated service to the young men
in the BSA. The Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Award not only supports the Masonic
relationship through the man who brought Scouting to America, but proclaims the
integrity of the recipient who is honored by receiving the award.
The Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award is a Boy Scout Community
Organization Award, used by community organizations to honor their volunteers for
Scouting. Recipients are presented a medallion on a neck ribbon (shown below), and
may wear the generic Boy Scout Community Organization Award Square Knot shown
above.
Eligibility
The award will be presented to a Master Mason who is currently a registered Scouter and
active in a Scout unit, district, council, or national affiliate, and has displayed outstanding
dedication to the Scouting program through:
Work accomplishment and dedication, rather than a specific number of years in Scouting,
will be the criteria for this award.
Nominations
• Step 1: The recommender must complete the petition and submit an attached page
explaining the candidate's qualification for the award.
• Step 2: The recommender should also have the petition approved and verified by
the local Council, indicating that the candidate is currently registered as an
active Scout leader.
• Step 3: The recommender should then have the petition reviewed by the
Worshipful Master of the candidate's lodge. If found to be qualified, the petition
will be authorized and forwarded to the lodge's district deputy or other Masonic
authority designated to handle the award in his home jurisdiction. That person
will then submit the petition, as instructed by his Grand Lodge, for action.
• Step 4: The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania will then forward the information on
awardees to the Boy Scouts of America, Relationships Division, Irving, TX for
the official record of recipients.
The Daniel Carter Beard Scouter Award will be presented at the discretion of the Grand
Master. It may be presented at a Grand Communication or other similar meeting where a
representative of the Grand Lodge makes the presentation. Arrangements also can be
made to make the presentation at a Lodge or Scouting-related function. In all cases, a
representative of the Grand Lodge should present the award.
Veterans of Foreign Wars
VFW Scouters Achievement Award
This award is designed to recognize VFW Scouters who serve on the VFW State and
National Scouting teams for a three-year period and who accomplish the required tasks
during this period. This award is not meant to be a selective or limited award, but one that
is available to any VFW Scouter on the Scouting team who completes the requirements.
It is our personal VFW award to recognize dedication and work required by a VFW team
member to assist in furthering the Scouting program in the VFW.
The award consists of a gold and purple square knot which may be worn on the Scout
uniform and a certificate.
Requirements
It is expected that the VFW team members will work to provide the maximum impact of
VFW support to the Scouting program and to achieve maximum visibility for VFW
efforts.
Objective: To go beyond the Post and be able to understand and influence Scouting in
the VFW District and Department as well as at the local Council level.
Complete a total of three years as a member on the National or State Team of VFW
Scouters.
Performance. While a member of the State or National team do five of the following:
Approval.
Obtain the approval of the Department Commander and Department National Team
Scouter that you have satisfactorily completed the requirements for this award.
Documentation will be sent to VFW National Headquarters for review and final approval.
Order of the Arrow Distinguished Service Award
The National Order of the Arrow committee presents the Distinguished Service Award to those
Arrowmen who have rendered outstanding service to the Order on a sectional, area, regional, or
national basis. It is given primarily for dedicated service to the Order and Scouting over a period
of years. Only a limited number of awards can be presented. Arrowmen whose service records are
the most outstanding and extend the farthest beyond the local lodge level are usually selected.
Young men under 21 and adults (volunteer and professional) are eligible for nomination.
Nominations will not be accepted or considered for posthumous awards.
The Distinguished Service Award was created in 1940 to honor those who rendered service to the
Order of the Arrow beyond the lodge level. Since the time of the first awards given in 1940,
approximately 500 Distinguished Service Awards have been presented.
Nominations are open to both youth and adult, and must be made on form No. 24-201.
Nominations must be approved by the Lodge Chief, Lodge Advisor, Council Scout Executive, who
then forwards the application to the Region OA Chairman or staff Advisor. If the region concurs,
the nomination is sent to the National Office. Nominations must be received by the OA Director
prior to February 1 of each national conference year.
The actual award is a sterling silver arrowhead, bearing an arrow pointing upward and to the
wearer's right, suspended from a white neck-ribbon upon which are embroidered red arrows. A
picture of the award is below. Presentation of the award is limited. The white on red square knot
badge shown above is worn on the uniform to identify recipients.
Source: OA Website
Hornaday Award
The William T. Hornaday Award recognizes Scouts and Scouters for ecology efforts and
service to conservation in their communities. To earn the Hornaday Award as an
individual, youth members must earn a series of merit badges followed by a concentrated
series of conservation and/or environmental education projects to be conducted in the
member's community or nearby, under the advise of a trained conservation, naturalist, or
environmental engineering expert.
There are seven levels to this award -- the Unit Certificate for Scouting groups, the Badge
(shown above), Bronze Award and Silver Award for youth, the Gold Badge and Gold
Medal for Adults, and the Gold Certificate for outside organizations and corporations.
Holders of the Bronze and Silver Awards and the Gold Medal may wear the square knot
shown above.
The Unit certificate is awarded by the local council to a den, pack, patrol, team, crew, or
group of five or more Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, or Venturers for a unique, substantial
conservation project.
The Hornaday Badge is awarded by the local council to an individual Scout, Varsity Scout,
or Venturer for outstanding service in conservation.
The Bronze medal is awarded to an individual for exceptional service in natural resource
conservation or environmental improvement. A national committee judges the
applications.
The Silver medal is awarded to an individual for unusual and distinguished service in
natural resource conservation or environmental improvement. Applications are reviewed
three times a year by a national committee.
The Gold Badge is nominative in nature and is awarded by the local council to an adult
Scouter to recognize leadership to conservation at council or district level for at least three
years
The Gold Medal is nominative in nature and recognizes adult Scouter for outstanding
service in natural resource conservation and youth education on a multistate or national
basis. Nominations are made by a national or regional conservation organization or
agency. (A maximum of six per year can be awarded)
See the BSA Hornaday Award Page and our Hornaday Award page for additional
information.
This award is presented to adults and organizations for outstanding service to youth.
Only holders of individual awards may wear the knot (not members of an organization that
received the award).
Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.
District Award of Merit
Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.
Requirements:
Note: The nature and value of "noteworthy service to youth" may consist of a single plan
or decisions that contributed vitally to the lives of large numbers of youth or it may have
been given to a small group over an extended period of time.
Consideration must be given to the nominee's Scouting position and the corresponding
opportunity to render outstanding service beyond the expectations of that Scouting
position.
The nominee's attitude toward and cooperation with the district, division, and/or council is
to be taken into consideration.
Silver Beaver Award
The Silver Beaver Award is presented upon action of a Council Executive Board of one of
the BSA's local Councils or the Direct Service Council for outstanding service to youth
within the Council or for outstanding longtime service to youth by a registered Scouter
residing within that Council. The average tenure for Silver Beaver candidates is ten years
or longer. Career members of the Boy Scouts of America may receive this award upon
concurrence of the Council Scout Executive and the Director of Operations at the National
office, BSA.
Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.
This is the old Silver Beaver knot designed for the older khaki-green uniform.
The Silver Antelope Award is presented upon action of the Regional Executive Board of
one of the BSA's four Regions for service to youth within the Region or for outstanding
longtime service to youth by a registered Scouter residing within that Region.
Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.
This is the old Silver Antelope knot designed for the older khaki-green uniform.
The Silver Buffalo Award is awarded upon action of the National Executive Board of the
Boy Scouts of America to volunteers Scouters and other individuals for outstanding
service to youth on a national basis or over a significant period of national service to a
youth agency or in actions affecting youth. The Silver Buffalo Award is the traditional
award presented to the Honorary President of the Boy Scouts of America sometime during
his term of office.
Candidates for this award must be nominated. Self-nomination disqualifies the candidate.
Until 1994 this award was presented by the Chief Scout Executive, National President,
International Commissioner BSA, or other designated person to adults for international
service to the BSA's Scouting programs, but were not registered members of the BSA. The
Chief Scout Executive, National President and the BSA's International Commissioner had
the group authority to authorize the award to anyone that they chose. This created several
situations whereby the Silver World Award was awarded to BSA Scouters. The awards
were suspended in 1994 by action of the National Executive Board until narrower
requirements for the awarding of the medal could be made. Of the 40 or so Scouters that
were presented the award for international service to the BSA's Scouting programs,
approximately half were presented to Scouters belonging to the Direct Service Council,
the Transatlantic Council, the Canal Zone Council, or to a stateside local Council.
The Silver World Award, conceived in 1971, is presented by the BSA to world citizens
who give outstanding service to their nation's youth, to young people in other countries, or
to the Scouting program of their nation through their participation or support. Recipients
of the Silver World must be citizens of countries whose Scout associations are members of
the World Organization of Scouting Movements (WOSM), to include registered adult BSA
members. Nominations are accepted from anyone with knowledge of an individual's
service to Scouting or to youth on an international or worldwide basis, to include
individuals served by the BSA's Direct Service. Awards are presented through the BSA's
National Court of Honor by the Chief Scout Executive, National President, International
Commissioner, or National Commissioner or by BSA volunteers or professionals on
behalf of the BSA's National officers. A limited number of Silver World Awards are
presented
based upon one award for every 50, 000 registered BSA youth members at the end of the
preceding calendar year. Awards not presented may be held over for presentation in
subsequent years. The Award consists of a red and white striped ribbon holding a light
blue sphere with the BSA's emblem in the center, surrounded by three stars - two on the
right and one on the left; a certificate; a lapel pin; and a cloth emblem for the BSA and
other nation's field uniforms.
Applicants must be currently registered adult Scouters of the Boy Scouts of America.
All applicants must receive the approval of their local council's international committee
chairperson or international representative and their council Scout executive.
Requirements
Complete any six of the following, from at least three of the following categories:
Click Here to download an application form for the International Scouter's Award from
BSA's web site.
Religious
Awards
Universal Youth Religious Emblem
For more a summary of requirements for individual religious emblems, please visit
http://usscouts.org/scoutduty/index.html. Requirements are listed by religion.
You may also want to look at either our Religious Emblems for Cub Scouts and Webelos
Scouts page, or our Religious Emblems for Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, Venturers, and
Explorers page, for a list of the faiths which issue the awards, and which awards are
available.
This knot may be worn by any Scout or Scouter that completed a religious emblem
program as a youth member. (Similar programs are administered by the religious
organizations for Girl Scouting USA, 4-H, and Campfire) The actual administration of
religious emblem programs is conducted by the Scout's religious organization. The
religious organization usually presents the religious emblem upon completion of the
religious emblem program. Units frequently honor the recipient with a presentation of the
Universal Religious Emblem Square Knot. Only one youth award square knot is worn, no
matter how many times the holder earns a second or subsequent religious award as a youth
member. For subsequent awards, the Scout wears the appropriate devices on his square
knot to indicate multiple awards.
The above knot is the old version of the same knot. The difference is that the background
purple was not fully embroidered and appears to be a slightly different shade of purple.
For more a summary of requirements for individual Adult Religious Awards, please visit
http://usscouts.org/scoutduty/index.html. Requirements are listed by religion.
This square knot is worn by those whom have received a religious award as an adult
member of the BSA. The awards are not BSA awards and are presented by religious
organizations for long tenure of service to Scouting, the religion, and the community.
With one exception all of these awards require a nomination. Self-nomination is not
allowed.
Only one Adult Religious Award square knot is worn regardless of how many awards
have been received. It is possible, for example, to receive two or three levels of awards in
some faiths or to receive awards from more than one faith.
The James West Fellowship Award is probably the one award that sparks the most
misunderstanding when spotted on a uniform. Some folks immediately assume that the
award was simply purchased, which is not accurate. This award is presented to individuals
based on a contribution of $1000 or more to the local Council's West Fellowship Fund.
Only registered Scouters or youth members receive and wear the square knot.
The money may be given by a group of Scouters or individual Scouter to honor a fellow
Scouter, as a memorial on the death of a Scouter, or to recognize an achievement. For
example, a group of Scouters could put the money together to recognize the outstanding
efforts of an individual who spent years doing publicity work for a local Council through
newsletters, press releases, web pages, etc., for which there is no official recognition. The
award can also be given to an individual who makes a contribution on his/her own behalf.
Regardless of the source of funding, the award is used by BSA to generate badly needed
funds to support critical local Council and national programs which have suffered major
losses due to diversion of funding for national-level resolutions of risk-management
issues.
All contributors receive special invitations to local Council and National West Fellowship
Dinners, special publications, and a certificate in addition to some local Council plaques
and other items.
William D. Boyce New-Unit Organizer Award
Description
The William D. Boyce New-Unit Organizer Award is presented to recognize volunteers
who organize one or more traditional Scouting units. The award may be worn on the adult
uniform. The award is a square knot placed over the three colors representing the three
phases of our program—Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, and Venturing. A volunteer can earn
the knot by organizing one traditional unit, and a program device can be earned for up to
three additional units organized.
The award recognizes volunteers for organizing traditional units after March 1, 2005.
The award is administered by the Relationships Division and will be presented by the
local council.
Requirements:
1. With the approval of the district committee chair, the volunteer serves as the
organizer and completes the successful organization of one new traditional unit
(Cub Scout pack, Boy Scout troop, Varsity team or Venturing crew).
2. The volunteer organizes the unit by following all procedures as published in the
“New Unit Organization Process” (No. 34196), particularly ensuring that new unit
leadership is trained, a program for the new unit is organized and in operation, the
new unit committee is functioning, a unit commissioner is assigned, all paperwork
for the new unit is completed and processed, and the unit charter is presented to the
chartered organization.
3. The Boy Scouts of America realizes that quite often several individuals help to
organize a new unit. However, for this award, only one volunteer can be
recognized as the organizer for a new unit.
4. To further recognize the volunteer’s effort for organizing additional new units, a
program device can be earned and worn on the new-unit organizer knot. The
program device represents the type of unit organized (a Cub Scout pack, Boy Scout
troop, Varsity team, or Venturing crew.) The knot and up to three program devices
may be worn in recognition for organizing up to four new traditional units.
Multiple program devices for organizing units in the same program may be earned
and worn.
5. The new-unit organization award recognizes volunteers for organizing traditional
units after March 1, 2005.
Recognition Items
• New-Unit Organizer Award Certificate
• New-Unit Organizer Award Uniform Insignia
• Square Knot
• Program devices to recognize additional new units organized
The official Wood Badge training recognition regalia include the neckerchief, woggle,
and beads (necklace). Onboard a nautical vessel, any necklace type device can be
hazardous. Because of this several Sea Scouting leaders created the Wood badge emblem
to be worn informally with Sea Scouting whites, blues and khaki. There are three
versions of the knot shown above, corresponding to the two-bead, three-bead and four-
bead necklaces worn by Wood Badge trained Scouters. However, the National Uniform
and Insignia Committee has denied requests by the Sea Scouting community to authorize
this knot. The universal insignia of Wood Badge are established by the World
Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM). Other Scouters developed the knot
shown below, which is also unofficial and unauthorized for wear on the uniform..
Credits: Scan of top knot provided by Mike Walton. The other was scanned by Paul Wolf
Silver Alligator
The Silver Alligator Award is the highest award given by Troop 339 of Tampa, FL to
adults for outstanding service to the Troop. The knot is a triple sheetbend in white on a
lime green background. The formal decoration is a silver medal suspended from a green
neck ribbon. The medal has a picture of the troop mascot imposed on it.
Used at three colleges to recognize individuals for Scouting-service. Taken from the
Scoutmaster Award of Merit knot, the knot is silver instead of white.
Credits: Text and scan of the knot provided by Mike Walton. (Note the original scan included only
the left portion of the knot. We've computer enhanced the image to make it as close to the original
knot as we could.)
Tippey Award
The knot is for adult leaders.... (Tippey didn't have any set requirements for the award;
from the description, it appears that it's just a gag thing to give to new Scouters in her
District)
The "Why Knot" ("Why not?") was a "joke patch" which eventually became the
prototype for the Scoutmaster Award of Merit. It was said that during a visit to a local
Council in the Northeast Region early during his new tenure as Chief Scout Executive,
Ben Love talked with several uniformed Scouters. All of the Scouters were wearing this
strange-looking square knot and when Love asked "what's the knot for?", his staff
members nor the Council Executive could answer. So, Love asked the Scouters. The
Scouters explained that new Scouters were sometimes "put off" by older, more senior
Scouters that seem to have "rows of those things" on their shirts. So, in their District, they
decided to include those new Scouters that have "stuck around" for 18 months after being
trained with a "why knot". When asked about the name, a Scouter responded "why not?
We have knots for everything else, why don't we recognize the relatively new Scouter?"
Love took this back to National, and later when discussions were being made about the
NESA Scoutmaster Award, he related the visit to that Council and asked "Why don't we
recognize EVERY Scoutmaster that have achieved a certain level early in their tenure? It
seems that they had the right idea, even if it was 'just a joke.'"
The difference between the "Why Knot" and the Scoutmaster Award of Merit is the color
of the background and border color (this is a off-white background, and the Scoutmaster
Award of Merit is on a tan background and border, the standard background and border of
most Scout knots.