Scouting and Military Service

Boy Scouts of America Alumni

For nearly 100 years, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has created a strong foundation of leadership, service, and community for millions of America’s youth. It is no surprise, then, that many Scouting alumni go on to serve their nation in the U.S. Armed Forces.

The link between the military and Scouting traditions is strong. The BSA counts Defense Secretary Robert Gates, General David Petraeus, Admiral Elmo Zumwalt, and countless others among its distinguished alumni. In addition to the top brass, there are tens of thousands of in the ranks.

In 2010, the BSA turns 100. It is an exciting time for the organization. But rather than focus on an incredibly rich heritage, the BSA has sights set on the next century. We would like to invite the military community to get involved:

Through BSA Alumni Connection, we are inviting Scouting alumni (including friends and supporters) to reconnect and become active and involved with Scouting programs once again.

Scouting alumni are eligible to do something they haven’t done since they were Scouts … earn a merit award. Through A Year of Celebration, A Century of Making a Difference, individuals can earn up to five award ribbons that hang from our centennial patch. An article on 100th Anniversary activities could call special attention to this program, and encourage military men and women to earn the awards.

Please help us spread the word. Let us know what you are able to do.

Best,

Bill Steele
Director of Alumni Relations
Boy Scouts of America
Bill.Steele@scouting.org