TROOP PROGRAM RESOURCES

FOR
SCOUT TROOPS
AND
VARSITY TEAMS
TROOP PROGRAM RESOURCES

FOR SCOUT TROOPS AND VARSITY TEAMS

33588A
ISBN 978-0-8395-3588-1
©2002 Boy Scouts of America
2008 Printing
 CONTENTS
The Scoutmaster’s Minute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Games . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Ceremonies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Interfaith Worship Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
Glossary of Scouting Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
Pearls of Wisdom—Quotes From Baden-Powell . . . . 111
Founders of the BSA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115
Clip Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

3
 THE SCOUTMASTER’S MINUTE
The Scoutmaster’s Minute is brief in duration but one of ONE PERSON CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE
the most important parts of a troop meeting. Occurring
In 1645, one vote gave Oliver Cromwell control
at the closing of the meeting, it is the thought that will
of England.
go home with the boys. It is the time to teach one of the
In 1649, one vote caused Charles I of England
ideals of Scouting. The Scoutmaster’s Minute is a spe-
to be executed.
cial time when you have the attention of all the boys in
In 1845, one vote brought Texas into the Union.
the troop, and it is your opportunity to convey a special
In 1868, one vote saved President Andrew Johnson
message of inspiration. Many of the Scoutmaster’s
from impeachment.
Minutes listed below are parables, short stories about
In 1876, one vote gave Rutherford B. Hayes the
everyday people and occurrences that illustrate a moral
presidency of the United States.
attitude or religious principle.
In 1923, one vote gave Adolf Hitler the leadership
Boys are “visual” thinkers; they relate well to stories
of the Nazi Party.
that are accompanied by props. Using a postage stamp
And in 1776, one vote gave America the English
as a prop, you can suggest that a stamp sticks to its job
language instead of German.
to get a letter to its destination. The moral is that Scouts
Each of us in our own way can make a difference.
should be as determined as a postage stamp to stick to
a task until it is completed.
FOOTPRINTS
On the following pages are some examples of
Scoutmaster’s Minutes for you to use in inspiring the One night a man had a dream. He dreamed he was
Scouts entrusted in your care, but don’t hesitate to walking along a beach with the Lord. Across the sky
begin a collection of your own inspirational messages flashed scenes from his life. For each scene, he noticed
to use in the future. two sets of footprints in the sand: one belonging to
the Lord and one belonging to him.
When the last scene of his life flashed before him,
SCOUTMASTER’S MINUTES he looked back at the footprints in the sand. He noticed
that many times along the path of his life there was
THE SLIM MARGIN OF SUCCESS only one set of footprints. He also noticed that it hap-
The difference between winning and losing is sometimes pened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life.
very slight. There were eight finalists in the men’s 100- This really bothered him, and he questioned the
meter dash at the 1976 Olympics. The Gold Medal win- Lord about it. “Lord, you said that once I decided to
ner beat the eighth man by less than half a second. follow you, you would walk with me all the way. But I
There are five million people engaged in selling in have noticed that during the most troublesome times
America. Can you imagine what our gross national prod- in my life, there was only one set of footprints. I don’t
uct would be if each of them had made just one more understand why, when I needed you the most, you
sale last year? In sports, business, politics, or Scouting, would leave me.”
winning isn’t everything, but it sure beats losing. The Lord replied, “My son, my precious child, I love
you and I would never leave you. During your times of
THIS WILL MAKE YOU FEEL BETTER trial and suffering, where you see only one set of foot-
prints, it was then that I carried you.”
If you sometimes get discouraged, consider this fellow:
He dropped out of grade school, ran a country store, DON’T BE AFRAID TO FAIL
went broke, spent 15 years paying off his bills, married,
became unhappy in his marriage, ran for the House of You’ve failed many times, although you might not
Representatives and lost twice, ran for the Senate and remember. You fell down the first time you tried to
lost twice, delivered a speech that left his audience walk. You almost drowned the first time you tried to
indifferent but later became a classic, was attacked swim, didn’t you? Did you hit the ball the first time you
daily by the press and despised by half the country. swung a bat? Heavy hitters, the ones who hit the most
Despite all this, imagine how many people all over the home runs, also strike out a lot. R. H. Macy failed seven
world have been inspired by this awkward, rumpled, times before his store in New York caught on. English
brooding man who signed his name simply A. Lincoln. novelist John Creasey received more than 700 rejection
slips before he published over 600 books. Babe Ruth
struck out 1,330 times, but he also hit 714 home runs.

5
Don’t worry about failure. Worry about the chances you Oath or Law. At that point, I erase the “t” and explain to
miss when you don’t even try. the Scouts that their trail to the Eagle rank will be much
easier if they start telling themselves they can do it
AIM SO HIGH YOU’LL NEVER BE BORED instead of using that other word. Before I walk away
from the chalkboard, I write a big “I” in front of the can
The greatest waste of our natural resources is the num-
and leave it there until the next meeting. The first thing
ber of people who never achieve their potential. Get out
they see the next time they walk in is the words “I can!”
of that slow lane. Shift into the fast lane. If you think
you can’t, you won’t. If you think you can, there’s a
A BICYCLE
good chance you will. Just making the effort will make
you feel like a new person. Reputations are made by Have you ever thought about how a bicycle works?
searching for things that can’t be done and doing them. Most of us just hop on and let it take us where we want
Aim low: boring. Aim high: soaring. to go without giving it a second thought. A closer look
shows it takes a lot of different pieces doing their part
WATER WORLD and working together to make transportation happen.
When you push the pedal with your foot, a lot hap-
Challenge each of your patrols to huddle and try this
pens to make the wheels turn. The pedal turns a crank
exercise in problem solving.
that turns a gear, which pulls a chain that turns another
Problem: You must measure exactly 1 gallon of water gear, which turns a hub, which pulls the spokes, which
out of a 20-gallon barrel. You have only a 5-gallon turns the wheel, which pulls the tire that pushes against
bucket and a 3-gallon bucket. How can you measure the road to make the bike go.
exactly 1 gallon? When you want to stop, you pull a lever that pulls a
cable against a housing, which causes another lever to
Solution: Fill the 3-gallon bucket and pour it into the
move, which pushes a pad against the wheel. Changing
5-gallon bucket. Refill the 3-gallon bucket and pour it
gears involves levers, cables, housing, springs, and pul-
into the 5-gallon bucket until it is full. The remainder in
leys working together. If any one part fails to work
the 3-gallon bucket will be exactly 1 gallon. A simple
when it is supposed to, the whole system fails to work.
solution to a problem that appeared complex!
When one system fails, the bike can still be ridden, but
not in top form.
REACH HIGHER
You are the parts, just like on the bicycle. Our patrols
Tape a large piece of paper on a wall at your eye level. are like the pedaling, braking, and gear-changing sys-
Ask two or three Scouts to come up and make a mark tems. The senior patrol leader is like the rider. He
on the paper with a marker as high as they can reach. directs a pedal or a lever—your patrol leaders—to do
Thank them for their effort and allow them to return to their part and they in turn ask you to do yours. If you
their seats. Tell the troop that we can all usually do choose not to do your part, your patrol suffers and the
better than our first effort. Remind them that you asked troop doesn’t work well. The troop is our vehicle to
the Scouts to reach as high as they could. adventure, fellowship, and good times. And each of you
Ask the same Scouts to come back up and see if they is a very important part.
can do better than their first effort. (It never fails that
they will always reach two to three inches higher on the SYMBOLS
second try.)
There are a lot of symbols that we recognize. Let’s take
This is a good opportunity to emphasize doing one’s
some time to name or draw a few that we know: the
very best, and to give every project one’s “second
Coca-Cola logo, a poison warning label, a stop or yield
effort” on the first try.
sign, the Kmart logo, the Scout badge, a heart symbol,
cross, etc.
CAN’T TO CAN!
When you see these symbols, you know what they
Every now and then we hear a Scout use the word mean—what they stand for, what some of them instruct
can’t: “I can’t hike 15 miles” or “I can’t tie that knot,” you to do.
etc. It’s at that point I’ll stop the meeting and ask the You, too, are a symbol. You represent the Boy Scouts
Scouts to give the Scout sign and repeat after me, “On of America. People see you and know that you stand for
my honor I will do my best!” Then I step up to our something good. You stand for being trustworthy, loyal,
chalkboard, write out the word can’t in big letters, and helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful,
ask the boys if that word appears anywhere in the Scout thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. Be a good symbol!

6
APTITUDE AND ATTITUDE dream of becoming a singer–songwriter by moving to
Nashville, Tennessee.
We are all different. We have different aptitudes and
Once there, Don made the most of his limited
attitudes. Aptitude is a natural ability or talent, one’s
resources. He bought a used car and slept in it. He took
capacity to learn. Attitude is a mood or a state of mind
a job working nights so he could visit record companies
shown by actions and words.
during the day. He learned to play the guitar. As years
As Scouts we must respect each other’s aptitudes.
passed, he kept writing songs, practicing, and knocking
We must be patient, whether we are teaching or being
on doors.
taught. Our attitude toward what we are doing reflects
After many years, Don finally got a song on the radio
what we are. If you have a good attitude, your aptitude
and it made the country hit charts. More time passed
will improve.
and Kenny Rogers recorded one of his songs. “The
Gambler” was the title song for one of the best-selling
A GAME OF CARDS
country-music albums of that time.
Christopher Reeve was a movie actor who played the Since then, Don Schlitz has had 23 number one
part of Superman. Everything was going right for him. songs on the charts. As a result of his focused determi-
He had a successful acting career and a nice family; he nation, the teenage dreamer had become a success. Don
was seemingly all set for a wonderful life. Then he had had done five things essential to success, without even
a horse-riding accident that left him paralyzed from the knowing it. They are the following:
shoulders down. All he could move was his neck a little
bit—he couldn’t even breathe on his own. It looked like 1. Define your goals. Set a goal and picture yourself
everything had changed for Chris, and that the rest of accomplishing that goal.
his life would be very dismal. 2. Seek out those who know more than you do. Model
It was true that nearly everything had changed for your efforts on theirs, adjusting and improving
Chris. Two things that hadn’t changed were his positive as you go.
attitude and the people around him who really cared.
Chris fought the desperate feeling of being paralyzed, 3. Pursue your vision with determination. Successful peo-
the fear of his breathing machine shutting off and no ple don’t quit. The biggest difference between those
one being there to help him, the fear of anything hap- who are successful and those who aren’t is usually
pening and not being able to do anything about it, not not talent, but persistence.
even yelling for help. He worked hard to get some “feel- 4. Make an emotional commitment. You will some-
ing” (if that is what it could be called) and learned to times want to quit after too many losses, but you
breathe somewhat on his own—he learned to talk by have to pull yourself together with enthusiasm
drawing in a mouthful of air and slowly letting it out and commitment.
past his voice box. This took hours and hours of pain-
ful, scary work, but with his positive attitude and other 5. Review and renew your goals. As you reach your
people helping, he improved his situation. goals, set new ones. Go to the next level.
He said in an interview that life is like a game of
cards. If you enjoy the game and you want a chance at THANKSGIVING
winning, you will keep playing cards. Sometimes you At Thanksgiving we always think of everything we are
get a good hand with a lot of face cards and sometimes thankful for—things like friends, family, freedom,
not. You have to play with the cards you are dealt. There churches, schools, plenty of food, activities we can do,
is always a chance that you will win. If the game is places we have been. It’s great that we can have things
worth playing, you will keep playing. The game of life is that we can be thankful for. Not everyone gets every-
worth playing. Do your best to fight off the fear of losing thing they want, but everyone should be thankful for
and encourage others to keep playing “the game.” what they have. Thankfulness is not having what you
want, but wanting what you have.
LOYALTY Another part of Thanksgiving is the giving part. Not
Don considered himself a musician. He played the tam- everyone can give money, but everyone can give time.
bourine in junior high school, but he wasn’t very good. You can give by doing a Good Turn every day. To do a
He also thought of himself as a singer, but he couldn’t Good Turn, you can’t expect to be rewarded (or paid).
have carried a tune in a bucket. Maybe you can help shovel a neighbor’s sidewalk, offer
Years passed, and when all of his school friends were to get groceries for an elderly person, or just do a favor
going to college and pursuing careers, Don nurtured his for someone. It can be as simple as holding a door for

7
someone. Whatever kind of Good Turn you do, don’t A SCOUT IS CLEAN
take more than a thank-you for doing it. Now is a good
(You will need one clean, opaque cup filled with very
time for you to begin being a good Scout and follow the
dirty water and one opaque cup, dirty on the outside
Scout slogan, “Do a Good Turn Daily.”
and filled with clean water. The soiling of the outside
of the dirty cup and the murkiness of the water in the
TRICK OR TREAT
clean cup must be exaggerated.)
A young university student was walking along with one (Hold up both cups so that the Scouts can see the
of his professors when they came across a pair of shoes outsides clearly but not what is inside.) Which of these
that belonged to an old man working in a field nearby. cups of water do you think I should drink from? You
Our young friend suggested hiding the old man’s shoes, probably think that I should drink from the clean cup.
but the professor objected. “We must never amuse our- But, you see, the cup that appears clean really contains
selves at the expense of others,” he said. “Why not put very dirty water. (Walk around the room and show the
a dollar in each shoe and see what he will do?” dirty water to the Scouts.) It’s the other cup, the one
Together they did this, then hid themselves behind a that looks dirty on the outside, that is really clean.
bush. Soon the old man returned for his shoes. He put (Show the clean water.)
one foot into a shoe, then quickly removed it to see It doesn’t really matter if Scouts play hard and get
what was causing the discomfort. Finding the dollar, he dirty doing the many fun activities we do in our troop.
examined it closely, then looked about to see who We can always take a shower and get clean again. But,
might have put it in his shoe. There was no one around, it is a little harder to keep our insides clean. When the
so he started to put on his other shoe and, to his Scout Law says “A Scout is clean,” it is also referring to
amazement, found a dollar in it, too. Overwhelmed, he our inside selves. A Scout has clean language, clean
looked up toward Heaven and thanked God aloud for manners, and clean thinking.
meeting the need of his distressed family.
The student was deeply moved by what he had TRIM YOUR SAIL
witnessed. “Now,” said the professor, “is not the treat
One merit badge that I really enjoyed earning as a Scout
better than the trick?”
was Small-Boat Sailing. And the thing that most
impressed me was learning how to tack. In a sailboat,
BRAVERY
you can’t get upwind by steering straight into the wind.
Actor and martial arts expert Chuck Norris knows that You have to move into it at an angle, with the mainsail
might does not always mean right. He explains: close-hauled, and the centerboard down. By putting
Not long ago, after a day of filming my televi- together a series of tacks, which looks like a big zigzag
sion series, I went alone to a small Texas cafe. As I pattern as you go through the water, you can actually
sat in a corner booth, a large man towered over me get yourself upwind of your starting point.
and said with an edge to his voice that I was sitting Sailors have a saying for this: They’ll tell you to
in his booth. I didn’t like his tone or his implicit “trim your sail so as to gain an advantage, even in an
threat, but I said nothing and moved to another adverse wind.” A good sailor knows how to take the
booth. A few minutes later, though, the big fellow very wind that is trying to blow him backward from his
was headed back in my direction. Here he comes, I intended course, and use it instead to move his boat
thought, a local tough out to make a name for him- forward. His forward progress might not be fast with all
self by taking on Chuck Norris in a fight. those tacks, but it’s steady.
When he arrived at my new booth, he looked There’ll be times in your life—there’ll be times in
directly at me. “You’re Chuck Norris,” he said. your Scouting career—when you’ll encounter an
I nodded. “adverse wind.” Everything seems to be moving against
“You could have whipped me good back there your intended course. Well, maybe you can’t steer
a few minutes ago,” he said. “Why didn’t you?” straight into the opposing “wind,” but by trying a differ-
“What would it have proved?” I asked. ent “tack,” you can find a way to move forward. That’s
He thought that over for a moment and then one of the secrets of success in Small-Boat Sailing, and
offered me his hand. “No hard feelings?” he said. it works in real life, too.
“None,” I said, and shook his hand. I had
avoided a confrontation and made a friend.
I had won by losing.

8
HAPPINESS “Nothing in the world can take the place of
persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common
Here’s a quote attributed to Benjamin Franklin:
than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not;
“Happiness is produced not so much by great pieces of
unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will
good fortune that seldom happen, as by little advan-
not; the world is full of educated derelicts.
tages that occur every day.”
“Persistence and determination are omnipotent. The
I know some adults who are wasting away their
slogan ‘press on’ has solved and always will solve the
lives, and their money, waiting for the day when they’ll
problems of the human race.”
“hit it big” in the state lottery. All they think they need
is to win a million bucks, and then they’ll be happy.
GIVING
The problem is, of course, that day is highly unlikely
ever to happen for them. In Israel, there are two major bodies of water. Both of
Ben Franklin suggests a much surer thing: Grab onto these bodies of water are fed by the waters of the River
those little advantages that come your way every day. Jordan. One is the Sea of Galilee, which is full of fish
Perhaps it’s your patrol leader offering to teach you and is surrounded by lush vegetation and trees. It is a
some knots you’ll need for Second Class; on the surface living body in every sense. The other is the Dead Sea.
it’s not a big thing, but take advantage of the offer—it’ll There is nothing green there, there are no fish, and the
make you a little bit better Scout than you were before. sea is stagnant and dead.
By steadily improving your Scoutcraft skills, by working The difference is that the Sea of Galilee overflows.
toward the next rank, one requirement at a time, you’ll For every gallon of water that flows into the sea, a gal-
gradually work yourself into a position in which you’re lon is given up and is passed on downstream. It is con-
prepared to go for some of the big things in Scouting— stantly renewing itself. It gives as much as it takes.
like Philmont or a high-adventure trek. The Dead Sea, on the other hand, because of its
geography, only takes. It gives up nothing. The water
AIM AT SOMETHING HIGH there is never cleansed; it stagnates and dies. And
everything depending on it dies also.
“In the long run, men hit only what they aim at.
Some people say that there are two kinds of people
Therefore, though they might fail immediately, they had
in the world—those who constantly give of themselves
better aim at something high.”
(who help other people at all times), and those who
That quote is from Walden, by Henry David
only take.
Thoreau. Remember the troop shoot at the rifle range
Which kind are you?
this past summer? You hit the target only if you aimed
at it. Well, Thoreau realized that this is true in life, also.
BE PREPARED FOR WHAT?
Whatever your goals are, you won’t achieve them
unless you aim for them. You might completely miss Scouts, every one of you can tell me, without thinking,
the mark on your first few shots, but as you practice what the two words on the Second Class pin are. That’s
and gain knowledge, and experience, and control, you’ll right, “Be prepared.”
become a better marksman, able to consistently hit There is a story of a Scout in Oklahoma. His
your target. younger sister went too near a gas heater and instantly
And set a high goal for yourself. Those who have her clothes were in flames. The father and his 13-year-
reached the rank of Eagle Scout in this troop will tell old Scout-trained son rushed up the stairs to try to
you that they decided early to aim for Scouting’s high- help. Remembering his first-aid work, the Scout knew
est rank, and then they kept that target in their sights what to do and he did it immediately. He grabbed a
until they hit it. small rug and rolled the screaming child in it. He had
been prepared.
PERSISTENCE In a moment he had smothered the flames and pre-
vented serious injury to the child.
I’d like to share a quote from Calvin Coolidge, who was
“Thank God my son is a Scout,” the boy’s father
our thirtieth president, serving from 1923 to 1929. He
told the Scoutmaster. “He knew what to do while I
was known as a man of few words—one of his nick-
stood confused.”
names was “Silent Cal,” but here’s one thing he said
That’s what it means to be prepared.
that I really like:
Once someone asked Baden-Powell, “Be prepared—
for what?” “Why, for any old thing!” he replied.

9
WHY ARE YOU IN SCOUTING? THE NEW SCOUT
You know, there are more than a million Scouts in There was a boy named Jim who moved into town just
our country. I wonder how many of them will stay in after his 11th birthday. For a long time he had dreamed
Scouting and climb to the top, don’t you? about becoming a Scout. Jim was a bit timid, perhaps
Tell me, why are you in Scouting? (Pause for too much so. He didn’t push himself into things but
answers.) So many boys enter Scouting for just one usually waited for an invitation.
reason—to have fun. If you think that’s the only reason Well, one night Jim came down to visit our troop
you’re in Scouting, believe me, there are other good meeting. He looked in through the window and saw us
reasons, too. playing and heard our voices. But he couldn’t quite
Sure Scouting is fun. But a lot of other things are force himself to come down those steps. Now don’t
fun, too. If you’re just looking for fun, you can play all smile too broadly. It wasn’t so very long ago that you
kinds of indoor and outdoor games, go to the movies, might have been in Jim’s place. Maybe you were
watch television—or a thousand other things. inclined to be timid, too.
Scouting must be more than just fun for you. It must Jim waited around awhile and went home, without
be a way of life, a law and an oath to which you are getting his nerve up to the coming-in point. He was
loyal. Unless you try to live Scouting, you’ll find that
pretty miserable about his failure, but he came back a
other kinds of fun are easier and you’ll quit. The loyal
week later.
Scout is dedicated to the Scout Oath and the 12 points
He waited outside the door again. He just couldn’t
of the Scout Law. He has a deeper reason for sticking
force himself to come in uninvited. Finally he saw a
than just having fun. He sees the importance of learn-
Scout coming down the street, heading for the meeting.
ing the Scout skills, of developing himself so that he
That Scout was you. Now, that’s all of the story I’m
can be prepared to face anything that comes. He wants
going to tell you tonight. What happened? Did you
to grow to be a real man. That’s why he’s loyal. That’s
brush by him or did you invite him to come in?
why he sticks.
I hope you won’t ever quit until you’re up before a
HOT COCOA
court of honor some day to get your Eagle Scout badge.
That will be one of the biggest days of your whole life— At a jamboree trading post a Scout had spread out his
and mine, too. collection of trinkets, including some fine beadwork,
neckerchief slides, and badges. At a snack bar nearby,
A GOOD TURN a lady picked up her cup of hot cocoa, but instantly
Why does Scouting encourage a boy to do Good Turns? found it too hot to handle. She juggled it for several
Here is what Lord Baden-Powell, Scouting’s founder, seconds, and then lost control. The cocoa drenched
had to say about it: the Scout’s prize collection of beautiful souvenirs.
“The Scouting practices tend in a practical way to But there was no burst of angry protest—not even a
educate the boy out of the groove of selfishness. Once rueful glance at the thoroughly ruined display. Instead,
he becomes charitable, he is well on the way to over- this real Scout was instantly on his feet inquiring anx-
come or to eradicate the danger of this habit.” iously of the startled and dismayed lady, “Did you burn
The promise that a Scout makes on joining has as its yourself, ma’am?”
first point, “To do my duty to God.” Note that it does See what we mean when we speak of Scout spirit
not say, “To be loyal to God,” since that would merely helping us to think of other people before we think
be a state of mind. It clearly says to do something, of ourselves?
which is the positive, active attitude.
Baden-Powell went on to say, “The main method of THE HIGH COST OF GETTING EVEN
the Boy Scouts movement is to give some form of posi-
tive training rather than merely to inculcate negative One night years ago, I was traveling through
precepts, since the boy is always ready to do rather than Yellowstone Park. I sat with some other people on a
to digest. Therefore, we put into his activities the prac- stand of bleachers facing a dense growth of pine and
tice of Good Turns in his daily life as a foundation of spruce. Eventually a grizzly bear, the terror of the for-
future goodwill and helpfulness to others. The religious est, strode out into the glare of the lights and began
basis underlying this is common to all denominations, devouring the garbage that had been dumped there
and we, therefore, interface with the form of none. from the kitchen of one of the park’s hotels. Now, a
“Thus we teach him that to do his duty to God grizzly bear can whip any other animal in the Western
means, not merely to lean on his kindness, but to do world, with the possible exceptions of the buffalo and
his will by practicing love toward one’s neighbor.” the Kodiak bear; yet I noticed that night that there was
10
one animal, and only one, that the grizzly permitted to for the night, and I just had to check that out, too.
come out of the forest and eat with him under the glare When I’d satisfied my curiosity, I headed back toward
of the lights—a skunk. The grizzly knew that he could Pap Pap. I could see that he hadn’t reached the fence
kill the skunk with one swipe of his mighty paw. Why yet, so I still had time to look for more arrowheads to
didn’t he do it? Because he had found from experience add to my collection before sprinting to the fence just
that it didn’t pay. before Pap Pap got there.
I have also found that to be true. I have encountered Pap Pap stood there for a few minutes, then told me
both four- and two-legged skunks during my life and to look back across the field at our two paths, which
found from sad experience that it doesn’t pay to stir up were very visible in the new snow. There was his,
either variety. straight as an arrow from the barn to the fence. My path
When we hate our enemies, we are giving them was scattered here and there—going first to the stream,
power over us—power over our sleep, our appetite, then to where the deer had bedded down, then all
our blood pressure, our health, and our happiness. across the field looking for those arrowheads. He asked
Our enemies would dance with joy if they knew how me, “Which path was the correct one?” When I said,
they were worrying us, exasperating us, or simply get- “I don’t know,” he replied, “Both are. Mine is surely
ting even with us. Our hate is not hurting them at all. faster and easier, but I didn’t get to see the things that
But our hate is turning our own days and nights into you saw. Remember, you always have a goal, just as we
an agonizing turmoil. did in getting to the fence today, but sometimes, if you
Try to cultivate a mental attitude that will bring you can, take the time to explore the wonders of life.”
peace and happiness.
THE GOOSE STORY
THE TWO KNAPSACKS Next fall, when you see geese heading south for the
We are told that life is like a hike from the cradle to the winter, flying along in a V formation, you might con-
grave. For some, it is a long trip of many moons; for sider that science has discovered why they fly that way:
others, it is a short excursion that ends unexpectedly. As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for
But all are equipped with two knapsacks—one to be the bird immediately following. By flying in V forma-
carried on the back and the other on the chest. tion, the whole flock creates at least 71 percent greater
The average hiker along the trail of life puts the flying range than if each bird flew on its own.
faults of others in the sack on his chest so that he can People who share a common direction and sense of
community can get where they are going faster and eas-
always see them. His own faults he puts in the bag on
ier because they are traveling on the trust of one another.
his back so that he can’t see them without some effort.
When a goose falls out of formation it suddenly feels
And so, he hikes through life constantly seeing the
the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone and
errors of others, but overlooking his own mistakes.
quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of
Guys, this pack arrangement is bad, because nobody
the lifting power from the bird in front. If we had as
has a successful hike through life finding fault with the
much sense as a goose we would stay in formation with
other guy. The person who can see his own faults, then
those who are headed in the same direction that we are.
strive to correct them is the one who enjoys the trip and
When the head goose gets tired, it rotates back and
enters the happy hunting ground with thanksgiving.
another goose flies point. It is sensible to take turns
So place your bag of faults upon your chest and put
doing demanding jobs whether it’s with people or with
the bag of other people’s faults and mistakes behind
geese flying south.
you, and have happy hiking.
Geese honk from behind to encourage those up front
to keep up their speed. What do we say when we honk
WHICH PATH?
from behind?
It was a cold spring morning. A light snow had fallen Finally, and this is important, when a goose gets
during the night. You know, the kind that just covers sick, or is wounded by gunshots, and falls out of forma-
the grass. I was visiting my grandmother and grand- tion, two other geese fall out with that goose and follow
father on their farm. it down to lend help and protection. They stay with the
It was still very early when Pap Pap and I started fallen goose until it is able to fly or it dies; and only
across a field to check a fence. Being the curious type, then do they launch out on their own, or with another
I first had to run down to the creek to see if it had frozen formation to catch up with their group.
during the night. Then, as I started back across the If we had the sense of a goose, we would stand by
field, I noticed a spot where a deer had bedded down each other like that.
11
MATCHES On this particular morning, I decided to go see the
house with golden windows. I packed a lunch and
(You will need a small bundle of wooden matches and a
started out on my big journey. Not long after I started,
rubber band. Gather up the matches and neatly bundle
I came to a fence and couldn’t resist the temptation to
them together so that they will stand when you set
see how far I could walk along the top rail. Then,
them down.)
I continued on my way until I came to a stream, where
Our troop is much like these matches. (Stand the
I stopped for a long while to catch crayfish and min-
matches on end for everyone to see.) You might have
nows. By that time I was hungry and I ate my lunch.
noticed that we all stick together. It is the trust, friend-
Starting up the hill to the house with the golden win-
ship, and knowledge of everyone here that makes us
dows, I happened to see a porcupine. We stared at each
feel this way. We know that when the going gets tough,
other for what seemed to be an eternity. Finally, I gave
like on our last campout, if we stick together we will
up and returned to my quest.
come out on top. On our campout, everyone did their
When I did reach the house with the golden win-
job. The tents were set up, the cooks prepared a fine
dows, I was very disappointed. There was the house,
meal, and the wood crew brought in enough firewood
but instead of being majestic, it was a deserted, run-
to last a week. We stuck together.
down shambles. The railings were falling off the porch,
But what happens if we don’t stick together? (Pick
the screen door was off its hinges, the yard needed
up the bundle of matches and take the rubber band off.
mowing, and the flower garden was overgrown with
Then set the bundle back on the floor. Let the matches
weeds. I was crushed. Sadly, I sat down on the front
fall and scatter.) If we don’t stick together, we will all
steps and just happened to gaze back toward my own
fall apart just as these matches did. When this happens
home. There, in the late afternoon sun, was my house
we cannot accomplish as much as we can as a team.
with golden windows!
Thanks for sticking together.
Often in life we think that someone else has it far
better than we do, or maybe that we should have a
THE CARNIVAL
position much better than the one we have. But, we
I must have been only 5 or 6 when my grandfather took really should stop and think about all that we have and
me to see the carnival that had come to town. It was be thankful.
really great. First we went to see the parade. It came
right down the middle of Main Street. Then we went THE SCOUT SALUTE AND HANDSHAKE
into the big top tent to see the acrobats and the lions.
Our Scout salute and handshake are ancient signs of
Afterward, as we were leaving, I saw where the ele-
bravery and respect. Back in the days when George
phants were tied and I just had to go over and see them.
Washington was general of the Continental Army, men
I was very surprised when I noticed that the smallest
carried weapons for their protection. When they met
elephant, just a baby really, was tied up with a very
one another there was an uneasy moment as each
heavy chain, but its mother was tied with what seemed
watched the other’s right hand. If it went toward his
to be only a piece of old clothesline. I asked my grand-
sword or gun, there was a battle, but if it went to his
father why the elephants were tied so differently. He
hat it was a salute of friendship or respect.
replied, “The older elephant has learned that she can’t
The left-handed shake comes to us from the Ashanti
break free and run away. Her baby hasn’t learned that
warriors whom Baden-Powell knew over a hundred
yet, so the people in the circus have to chain her to one
years ago in South Africa. He saluted them with his
place. Learn from this. The older elephant could easily
right hand, but the Ashanti chieftains offered their left
break free from that old rope and run away, but she has
hands and said: “In our land only the bravest of the
long since stopped trying. Don’t you ever be like that
brave shake hands with the left hand, because to do so
and stop trying.”
we must drop our shields and protection.”
The Ashanti knew of General Baden-Powell’s brav-
THE GOLDEN WINDOWS
ery, for they had fought both against him and with him,
It was getting toward the end of summer and I was and they were proud to offer him the left-handed shake
about to enter the second grade. Each morning all sum- of bravery.
mer long I had noticed a particular house up on a hill During February, we will honor the birthday of two
about a mile away. This house, I thought, must be spec- brave men: General Washington, founder of our nation,
tacular because every morning when I got up, it looked and General Baden-Powell, founder of our Scouting
like it had golden windows. movement. As you use the Scout salute and handshake,
remember these two great men.
12
EVERYBODY’S CANOE
BEING RESPECTFUL AND POLITE.
A young Indian brave was busy at work carving a BEING HELPFUL AND COURTEOUS.
canoe out of a log. As he worked, members of his tribe
RESPECTING THE PRIVACY OF OTHERS.
passed by. They all had a piece of advice to offer the
young man. RESPECTING OTHER PEOPLE’S PROPERTY.
“I think you are making your canoe too wide,” one RESPECTING THE RIGHT OF OTHERS TO HAVE
of them said. The young brave, wishing to show respect DIFFERENT BELIEFS AND IDEAS.
for the advice of an elder, narrowed the canoe.
A little later, another warrior stopped and said, “I’m
Have you heard the story about an old man who
afraid that you are cutting your stern too full,” he said.
went to the Olympic Games in ancient Greece? He
Again the young brave listened to the advice of the
arrived late and not a single seat was left. A Spartan
elder and cut down the stern.
youth noticed the old man’s problem and gave him his
Very soon, yet another member of the tribe stopped,
seat. A group of Athenian boys saw this act of courtesy
watched for a while, then commented, “The bow is too
and began to applaud. The old man turned to them say-
sheer.” The young brave accepted this advice as well
ing, “Yes, you Athenians know what is right to do—but
and changed the line of the bow.
it takes a Spartan to do it.”
Finally, the canoe was complete and the young brave
Knowing what you should do to be courteous is not
launched it. As soon as it hit the water, it capsized.
enough; you must put it into practice every day.
Laboriously he hauled it back onto the beach. Then he
The courtesy you practice as a boy will make you a
found another log and began his work anew.
better man.
Very soon, a member of his tribe stopped by to offer
some advice, but this time the young brave was ready.
OUR FLAG
“See that canoe over there?” he asked, pointing to
the useless craft on the beach. “That is everybody’s Our flag stands for freedom and equality. It is the ban-
canoe.” Then he nodded at his work in progress. ner of a people who are still willing to lay down their
“This one,” he said, “is my canoe.” lives in defense of right, justice, and freedom. It is the
emblem by which we proclaim to the world that this is
LOOK AT THE TURTLE “the home of the brave and the land of the free.”
Our flag is an emblem of true patriotism—the
What can we learn from the turtle? First we see his
patriotism of deeds; the patriotism of courage, of
shell, his armor, his means of defense. We are like the
loyalty, of devotion to freedom, justice, and humanity;
turtle in that we have many ways to protect ourselves—
the patriotism of men who have lived and died, not
our instinct to draw away from danger, to shelter our-
for themselves but for their country.
selves from it, for example.
When we look at our flag—its stars and stripes, its
Secondly, we see the turtle’s persistence. He’s slow,
vivid red, white, and blue—and read its story and hear
he’s plodding, but he always gets where he’s going. His
its message, when we contemplate what our flag means
persistence is memorialized in the age-old story of the
and what it stands for, and when we consider the sacri-
tortoise and the hare. The persistent tortoise outlasted
fices made and the lives given so that our flag could
the showy, flashy, and very fast hare. We can learn from
still be flying over us today, we are quietly reminded to
the turtle that our greatest accomplishments do not
cherish, to protect, and to defend it.
come from skill alone, but require our persistence in
striving for the goal, such as in our journey to the rank
THE STATION
of Eagle.
Finally, we see that the turtle can go nowhere unless Tucked away in our subconscious is an idyllic vision.
he first sticks out his neck. Again we are like the turtle We see ourselves on a long trip spanning the continent.
in that we accomplish nothing until we dare to stick out We are traveling by train. Through the windows we
our necks once in a while. drink in the passing scene of cars on nearby highways;
city skylines and village halls; children waving at a
A SCOUT IS CONSIDERATE crossing; cattle grazing on a distant hillside; smoke
pouring out of a power plant; row upon row of corn
A person is considerate if he is concerned about the
and wheat; expanses of flatland giving way to rolling
feelings of other people. With this basic idea in mind,
hillsides, mountains, and valleys.
what characteristics would make you considerate?

13
 But uppermost in our minds is the final destination. purify. You see, the tough treatment in the laundry of
On a certain day at a certain hour we will pull into life can help you to be clean—if you can take it.
“the station.” Bands will be playing and flags will be How about it? Will you settle for being unsoiled, like
waving. Once we get there many wonderful things will this? (Hold up the clean, but unironed, handkerchief.)
come true and the pieces of our lives will fit together Or would you like being clean, orderly, and unspotted,
like a completed jigsaw puzzle. How restlessly we pace like this? (Hold up the clean, ironed handkerchief
the aisles, cursing the minutes for loitering—waiting, again.) A Scout is clean.
waiting, waiting for the station.
“When we reach the station, that will be it!” we cry. A QUIET HERO
“When I’m 18!” “When I can buy a new Mercedes!”
Barry Bonds probably hit another home run last night.
“When I’ve put my last kid through college!” “When
Now, I know I’m going to ruffle a few feathers when
I’ve paid off the mortgage!” “When I reach the age of
I say this, but, Big deal! Another run. Yawn, hooray,
retirement, I shall live happily ever after!”
ho-hum. It will be in the papers and discussed on sports
Sooner or later we must realize there is no station,
talk shows, I’m sure. The guy is a real hero, right?
no specific place to arrive at once and for all. The true
A couple of years ago at summer camp, I met
joy of life is the trip. The station is only a dream. It con-
another hero. He was a very small 13-year-old. And he
stantly outdistances us.
was a very homesick Scout.
“Relish the moment!” is a good motto, especially
“Big deal,” I hear someone out there echoing my
when coupled with Psalm 118:24: “This is the day
comment, “a little wimp who can’t stand to leave
which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad
his mommy.”
in it.” It isn’t the burdens of today that drive men mad.
That’s a pretty insensitive thing to say to a kid
It is the regrets over yesterday and the fear of tomorrow.
whose feelings are tearing him up to the point of crying
Regret and fear are twin thieves who rob us of today.
in front of his friends—a kid who probably hates him-
So, stop pacing the aisles and counting the miles.
self for being weak and feeling homesick. To make
Instead, climb the mountains, eat more ice cream, go
things worse we were at the base camp for our annual
barefoot more often, swim more rivers, watch more
canoe trip on the rain-swollen Kippewa River in Canada
sunsets, laugh more, cry less. Life must be lived as long
and more than one boy (and leader) was having second
as we go along. The station comes soon enough.
thoughts. The homesick Scout came to me as we were
loading the canoes.
BEING CLEAN
“Mr. Sterrett, I don’t think I want to go. I think I want
(Have three handkerchiefs—one crumpled and soiled, to go home,” he said. When he had made similar com-
one clean but not ironed, and one clean and ironed.) ments the night before, the other Scouts and leaders had
Being clean and unspoiled seems like a simple joked and tried to distract him. But there comes a time
thing, doesn’t it? But it’s really one of the toughest when a boy has to either go forward or back.
assignments in our Scout Law. We walked away from the others and I put my hand
Think of what a soiled handkerchief goes through in on his shoulder. “In five minutes, we’ll be leaving,” I
order to be clean. (Hold up the soiled handkerchief.) It said, “You can be in the canoe with us or you can be in
gets scalded in hot water. It gets soaked in harsh soap the truck going back.” And then, oh, how hard it was to
suds and strong bleach. It gets scrubbed or tumbled do—I walked away and left him to his thoughts.
around roughly in a washing machine. Then it gets He came with us on the trip. A couple of his buddies
thrown around in a hot clothes dryer until it’s dry. And gave him a friendly punch on his shoulder, but nobody
then, the worst torture of all, it gets flattened out under cheered. His accomplishment wasn’t printed in the
a heavy, hot iron. But then when all that’s done, the papers or discussed on talk shows. Now, Bonds—he’s
handkerchief looks like this, clean and unspotted. okay. But to me, that Scout is a special kind of hero.
(Hold up the clean, ironed handkerchief.) The quiet kind.
We must be willing to go through something like that
if we are to be clean and unspotted. Turning your back PHILMONT
on everything dirty is not as simple as it sounds. It
I remember my first Boy Scout meeting. One of the
often means making yourself unpopular with some peo-
older Scouts gave us a slide presentation on his recent
ple. Not going along with the crowd can be mighty
trip to Philmont. I went home so excited. I really
rough. Or, if you have done wrong, it’s extremely pain-
wanted to go there. So I told Mom and Dad that when
ful to admit what you’ve done and try to make it right
I was 14 I was going to Philmont Scout Ranch in New
again, to ask forgiveness. But these are the trials that
14
Mexico. Dad asked how much it would cost. I told him asked the old man what the people were like in this
only $150, plus maybe another $50 for expenses on the town. The old man replied by asking the same question
trip. (Things were a lot cheaper back when I was a kid.) of him, “What were the people like in the town you
Dad asked who was going to pay for the trip. I told him came from?” The first twin said they were very unkind
that I thought he would. Well, Dad set me straight right and harsh, not very friendly at all. The old man said, “I
then. He reminded me that I had an allowance and I think you’ll find that the people who live here are very
could save to go to Philmont. much the same.”
I went up to my room and started figuring out how Not long after the first twin left, the second twin
long it would take to save that much. Every week, Dad came across the same old man sitting by the same road.
gave me 10¢ for each grade level I’d reached in school. This twin stopped and asked the same question of the
In sixth grade I got 60¢ a week. In seventh grade I old man. The old man again replied by asking what the
would get 70¢, and so on. That night I figured out that people were like in the town the twin had come from.
if I tithed my 10 percent to the church and spent noth- The second twin said the people were all great. “I had
ing else I could afford to go to Philmont after my senior a lot of friends and the people always tried to help
year in high school. I was crushed. I didn’t think that I others.” The old man replied, “I think you’ll find that
could go five years without spending anything. What the people who live here are very much the same.”
was I going to do? The point here isn’t about the people who lived in
The next day Dad took me aside and suggested that I those towns, it is about how a person treats the people
open a bank savings account and keep my money there around him. If you treat others with kindness and
so I wouldn’t spend it. He added that Aunt Rae had understanding, they will treat you the same way.
heard about Philmont and she thought it would be a
good idea if I started saving my money for a chance to OUR SPIRITUAL COMPASS
go there. Well, Dad and I went to the bank and opened
For Scouts on a hike or a canoe trip, a compass is an
a savings account with the $25 Aunt Rae had given me
important tool. Because it gives you a stable reference
and the $1.10 I had already saved. I got a job delivering
point (magnetic north), you can set a course and follow
newspapers and saved half of everything I earned. Then
it. As long as your compass is accurate and you don’t
I found something out that I didn’t know. The bank
damage it, it will serve you faithfully—if you trust it.
paid me to keep my money there. They called it inter-
Our faith or spirituality is something like that. We
est, but to me, it was free money! That encouraged me
have a point of reference that does not change: God.
to save even more.
And we have a compass, so to speak, in our relation-
Our neighbor, Mrs. Finney, asked if I could cut her
ship with God. It’s something we have learned and
grass during the summer, and I said, Sure! I put all of
continue to learn about, just as we learn to use a com-
that money in the account.
pass properly.
It wasn’t easy. I still remember having to deliver
We use our spirituality and faith to get us through
those newspapers in the pouring rain and the freezing
this grand journey we call life. If we are prepared to
snow. And then, cutting Mrs. Finney’s grass when I
trust the things we have learned about God, our spiritu-
wanted to be playing baseball. But by the time I turned
ality can guide us through the joys and the temptations
14 and was a First Class Scout I had enough money for
of life. We can use it to show us what service we can
my trip to Philmont. I had earned the money—no one
give and what potential dangers to stay away from. We
else. I could pay my own way. That trip was all mine
can use it to guide us in our friendships, in our work, in
and it felt good going there. To this day, I’m still saving
what we say to people and about people, and in how
for things I want. Going to Philmont taught me how
we treat our natural world.
and it turned out to be a lifelong lesson.
ATTITUDE
THE TWINS
Words could never adequately convey how great the
One day a set of twins decided to move to a new town
impact our attitude can have on our lives.
because they felt like they’d seen everything there was
The longer I live the more convinced I become that
to see in their hometown. They started out together, but
life is 10 percent what happens to us and 90 percent
somehow along the way one twin had gotten ahead of
how we respond to it.
the other one.
I believe the single most significant decision I can
This first twin came to an old man sitting by the
make on a day-to-day basis is my choice of attitude. It
road just outside a nearby town. The twin stopped and
is more important than my past, my education, my

15
bankroll, my successes or failures, fame or pain, what Somebody got angry about that, because it was
other people think of me or say about me, my circum- Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could do
stances, or my position. it but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t do it. It
Attitude keeps me going or cripples my progress. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when
alone fuels my fire or assaults my hope. Nobody did what Anybody could have done.
When my attitude is right, there’s no barrier too
wide, no valley too deep, no dream too extreme, no SET OF THE SAIL
challenge too great for me.
It’s likely that several of you guys have done some sail-
ing and found it to be a lot of fun. The amazing thing
WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE
about sailing is that two sailboats in the same breeze
It was just about midweek during our annual canoe can be going in different directions! I’m sure you’ve
trip. Just as dinner was being served, an argument noticed that.
erupted between two of the older Scouts. After separat- The same thing can be true of Scouts. Let me read
ing them and counseling with each of them, I went you a very short play to show what I mean.
down to the lake for a little solitude. Somehow the
Act 1: Curtain! Two boys enter to join a Scout troop.
group just wasn’t coming together. I sat on a log with
The curtain closes. Time passes.
my feet propped up on two rocks resting in the water,
trying to think of what I could do to make a difference. Act 2: The curtain opens again to show the same troop
Just about when I’d decided that the trouble was all two or three years later. Where are those guys who
due to some failing on my part, I looked up and noticed joined in Act 1? Wait, there’s one! Hey, he’s an Eagle
some huge thunderheads that had formed. How beauti- Scout now. And there’s the other one! But look, he’s
ful they were. Then something caught my eye across wearing only a Second Class badge. Why?
the lake. It looked as if diamonds were dancing toward Both had the same chances. One Scout sailed ahead,
me on the water! Closer and closer they came until they one limped along. Why? Must be the set of their sails!
finally reached me. Hail! The hail started coming down As Ella Wheeler Wilcox said:
harder and harder until I had to put my head down. One ship drives east and another drives west
Still, the hail came down even harder. I pulled my With the selfsame winds that blow.
jacket up over my head, but the hail was unrelenting in ’Tis the set of the sails and not the gales
its force. There I was with my head between my legs, Which tells us the way to go.
my eyes squeezed shut against the pain of the pounding
hailstones, my nose only inches from the surface of the I WISH I WAS LIKE THAT BROTHER
water, thinking, “Why me, God? Why me?” And the
Upon graduation from college a few years back, a
hail came down even harder. Finally, I opened my eyes
young man received a gift from his older brother. It was
and looked down below the surface of the lake. There,
a shiny brand-new car, the car of his dreams! One
under the protection of my jacket, the underwater life
morning as he approached the car, he saw a boy of
continued as normal, while beyond the influence of my
about 12 peering through the windows into the car. The
coat the lake churned with the fury of the hailstorm. It
young man recognized him as the boy his parents paid
was only then that I realized what God was trying to
to mow their lawn and shovel their sidewalk. Obviously
tell me—I did make a difference.
enthralled with the car, the boy hadn’t heard the young
We all make a difference to a Scout in life’s
man approaching. “Is this your car?” the boy asked
storms. Just by being who we are, someone to come to
when he finally noticed the man.
with a problem, someone who can understand the
“Yes, it is,” the man responded proudly.
differences of opinions, someone who stands for right
“Wow! This is a nice car!” remarked the boy. “How
and provides a good example. Just remember, we do
much did it cost?”
make a difference.
“I don’t know,” the man answered.
“It’s your car, but you don’t know how much it cost?”
WHOSE JOB IS IT?
“No,” admitted the man. “You see, my brother
This is a story about four people named Everybody, bought it for me.”
Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. There was an impor- “I wish . . . I wish . . . I wish. . . ,” stuttered the
tant job to be done and Everybody was asked to do it. boy. The man thought, He’s going to say, I wish I had a
Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it. car like this. “I wish I was like that brother!” finished
Anybody could have done it. But Nobody did it. the boy.

16
 Amazed at the boy’s response, the young man learn to be responsible young men to your families, to
offered to drive him around the block. The boy hopped other people, and to your fellow Scouts.
in the car and soon asked if the man would drive him Caring about and helping others are a large part of
home. Thinking that the boy wanted to show off to his being responsible, which forms the basis of all aspects
friends that he was riding in a new car, and since the of Scouting. For instance, you might know a skill and
boy and his own parents were such good friends, the perform it very well while another Scout might be hav-
man agreed. They drove more than a few blocks to ing a problem with it. Don’t mock or belittle him. Take
where the boy lived and as he turned onto the street the the time to show him the correct way to perform the
man noticed that it wasn’t the best-kept neighborhood. skill. You might be wondering how that will help. Well,
The houses were dirty and run down. He pulled up in it will help in so many ways.
front of the boy’s house. “Please wait!” the boy yelled Naturally, it will benefit the boy you have stopped to
as he ran into the house. help by building his confidence and enabling him to
Oh, he’s probably going to get his family so he can teach others. But, also, can’t you see that you will be
show off the new car, the man thought. receiving the most benefit? You will have grown by
The front door opened and out came the boy. In his showing others that you care. You will be looked up to
arms he carried a smaller boy, his younger brother who as a leader. You will no longer be regarded as the stu-
had been crippled since birth. The older boy brought his dent; you will now take your place as a role model and
brother out to the car, and exclaimed as he hugged him teacher, someone who is respected and admired.
tightly, “See, just like I told you! It’s a brand-new car! So the next time I ask you to ask yourselves, “Am I
And someday, I’m going to buy you one just like it!” my brother’s keeper?” you can look at me and proudly
How unselfish this boy was, to be the kind of brother say, “Yes, I am!” Just remember that the answer to this
who looked after the other one first. question is not just a commitment, it is a way of life.
What kind of Scout are you? Are you like the older
brother? GIVE IT YOUR ALL!
(You will need one baking potato and two plastic
TWO MONKS
drinking straws.)
Two monks on a pilgrimage came to the ford of a river. (Hold up the potato.) Scouts, think of this potato as
There they saw a girl dressed in all her finery, obviously your obstacle to a desired goal, whether it’s your
not knowing what to do since the river was high and advancement to Eagle Scout or earning money for that
she did not want to spoil her clothes. Without a new mountain bike you want.
thought, one of the monks took her upon his back, (Hold up the first plastic straw in your other hand.)
carried her across the river, and put her down on dry Now think of this straw as your desire to reach your
ground on the other side. goal on the other side of the obstacle—in this case, the
Then the monks continued on their way. But after potato. (Push the straw against the potato. The straw
about an hour, the other monk started complaining, will bend over.) Notice that if you go at your obstacle
“Surely it wasn’t right for you to touch that woman. It is halfheartedly, your will to reach your goal is easily
against the commandments to have close contact with bent. You are easily kept from your goal.
women. How could you go against the rules of monks?” (Now take the second straw and hold it in your fist,
The monk who had carried the girl walked along placing your thumb over the open end of the straw.)
silently, but finally he replied, “I set her down by the But, if you are willing to give it your all, you can easily
river an hour ago. Why are you still carrying her?” reach your goal on the other side! (Thrust the straw at
the potato, keeping your thumb over the open end of
AM I MY BROTHER’S KEEPER? the straw. The trapped air in the straw makes it rigid
and the straw is easily thrust cleanly into the potato.
Everyone, close your eyes for a minute and clear your
Hold up the potato and straw to show the Scouts that
minds. I am going to give you a question to ask your-
indeed you have reached your goal.) This demonstra-
selves, but I do not want you to answer it yet: “Am I my
tion was meant to show you the value of not giving up,
brother’s keeper?”
even if an obstacle seems too great to surpass!
Scouting is, of course, a time in your lives to have
fun. But it has a very serious side as well. It is a time
when you will learn many things to help you grow
physically as well as mentally. It is hoped that you will

17
TURK’S HEAD Keep in mind that some members of your patrol and
troop might not belong to a regular church group. That
(Make a large Turk’s head knot about 4 to 6 inches
doesn’t mean they don’t believe in a higher power.
around. Before your Minute begins, pass the Turk’s
Native Americans believe that the Great Spirit is the life
head around for all of the boys to see.)
force that flows through all living things and controls
Who knows what this is? See how the strands of
the wind, fire, and the Earth. You might think of the
rope go in and around each other, and seem to never
Great Spirit as Mother Nature. Nature has created a
end? Working as a patrol, you boys are like the strands
world for its creatures that allows them to live and pros-
of this Turk’s head knot, in that you must learn to work
per, from the lowest insects to the mighty eagle. To me,
in and around other people to reach a common goal.
that sounds like a higher power at work.
(Next, pull two opposite strands apart so that the
It doesn’t matter to me how you believe in God—
shape of the Turk’s head is distorted.) This is what hap-
whether you attend church every week or simply
pens when the patrol members do not work together:
respect the power of nature as the Native Americans do.
The patrol becomes all bent out of shape. (Begin rolling
But I can’t imagine how this world could have come to
the knot around your fingers or hands; this should put
exist without God, and I don’t want to think about
the shape back into the Turk’s head.) This external
where it will go if he isn’t there to guide us.
“working” could be the senior patrol leader or his assis-
tant or even the Scoutmaster working with the patrol to
A GOOD TURN
set the example on working together.
Does anyone know when the Boy Scouts of America
LOSING YOUR TEMPER was started? It was the year 1910. Now for a tougher
question: Who started the BSA? Not Baden-Powell. He
(Hold up a hand ax for all to see.)
started Scouting in England. It was an American busi-
Scouts, I have in my hand a tool that helped the pio-
nessman, William D. Boyce.
neers blaze a trail across our country. Many lives
In 1909, William Boyce was wandering around
depended upon this instrument to protect, shelter, and
London and got lost in a dense fog. A young boy found
feed them. The care and handling of the ax, of course,
him and led him to his destination. The boy refused to
was given only to a very responsible individual, one
accept a tip from Boyce, saying that he was a Boy
who was certain to keep it sharp and clean, one who
Scout. That intrigued Boyce, and he later asked the boy
would know that placing the ax too close to a fire
to take him to meet Lord Baden-Powell.
would heat up the metal and cause it to lose its temper,
Because of that meeting, Boy Scouts of America
thus rendering it useless.
was officially organized in 1910, and there have been
Just as the group of pioneers depended upon the ax,
more than 93 million Americans involved in the BSA
so do the people in your life depend upon you as a
since then.
Scout. When you joined Scouting, it was you who
The Scout slogan is “Do a Good Turn Daily.” That is
promised to be an individual sharp of mind and clean
what the Boy Scout in 1909 did for William Boyce, and
of body, someone who could be entrusted with many
that is what you should always try to do, every day—a
responsibilities, including fire.
Good Turn, without expecting reward.
During your time in Scouting, you will undoubtedly
be involved in an argument or some fiery discussion
THE X WORDS
while on a campout. When things get out of hand,
always try to remain calm and in control of yourself. There are two X words that we use frequently in Boy
If you become overheated in those situations and Scouting—eXperience and eXample.
lose your temper, you’ll find yourself rendered as You learn Scout skills by eXperience. We know that
useless as that ax. the way to learn is by doing. When we go on camping
trips, you get the eXperience you need to master your
TWELFTH-POINT MINUTE skills.
When you start to teach other Scouts what you
Many of you are members of a large, organized religion.
know, you set the eXample. But much more important
You might be Catholic, Presbyterian, Baptist, Jewish, or
than teaching Scout skills is the eXample you set in
any one of a number of others. As you know, part of
your life. Do you always wear a clean uniform at Scout
being a Boy Scout is having a belief in God. Every time
meetings? Are you careful with the language you use?
you repeat the Scout Oath or Law, you reconfirm that
Do you always finish your work before playing?
you will do your duty to God, and that you are reverent.
Remember to think about the two X words every day.

18
A SIMPLE CLOTH AND A COMMON THREAD the Dodgers to many pennants and World Series during
his colorful baseball career. The second uniform was
They are woven of simple cloth and common thread.
when he served his country and wore the uniform of
They are no more than an inch and a half in diameter,
the U.S. Army, and distinguished himself as a good sol-
and weight no more than a couple of ounces.
dier. The third uniform, of which he is equally proud,
They are priceless, yet cost less than a dollar.
was when he was a young boy, and he wore the uni-
They have the power to turn struggle into courage.
form of the Boy Scouts of America.
Self-doubt into self-esteem
Indecision into leadership
CORK IN A SODA BOTTLE
The unknown into knowledge
And the most magical metamorphosis of all, Hold up a soda bottle with a cork inside it and ask,
the transforming of a boy into a man. “Does anyone know how to get the cork out of the soda
What are these mysterious things: merit badges. bottle without breaking the bottle?” Allow Scouts to
offer opinions of how this might be done, and allow
TWO KINDS OF BUCKETS several to try to get it out.
Ask, “Can you think of any items that would help
(You will need two buckets that are the same size to
get the cork out of the bottle?” Again you probably will
make this effective.)
get some more opinions. After hearing some ideas, pull
Two buckets equal in size when filled to the rim will
a piece of heavy string out of your pocket, and ask if
hold about the same amount of water. Neither bucket
you believe that a piece of string will do the job. As you
has a hole so, as long as they are not moved, they are
demonstrate, explain that the key to removing the cork
equally effective holding water. However, one bucket
with the string is a knot tied on the end of the string.
has a bail, or a handle to carry it by, and the other does
Run the knotted end into the bottle, turn the bottle
not. Have you ever tried to carry a bucket without a
upside down with the small end of the cork turned
handle? The water will slosh out and you usually spill
toward the crown of the bottle. Gently pull the string
most of the contents. The bucket with a handle is eas-
out, and as the knot slides against the cork, it will pop
ily movable, and the contents can be carried with little
out. Explain that the knot is the key to the success of
or no spillage. (You might have two Scouts demonstrate
removing the cork. Add, “If something as small as a
moving the two buckets.)
knot can serve such an important role, think how
People are sometimes a lot like the buckets. Some
important each of you are to your patrol and troop.”
are out of control; leaving splashes everywhere, they go
for someone to clean up after. Others are like the bucket
DETERMINATION
with a handle, leaving no mess or bother. Which kind
of bucket are you? Troop 3 in Youngstown, Ohio, recently had its first
Eagle Scouts after being in existence for over 25 years.
PARABLE OF THE TOOTHPASTE Troop 3 is a troop for Scouts who have mental and
physical disabilities, and most of the Scouts are in their
(You will need a small tube of toothpaste to make
30s and 40s. At the Eagle ceremony, five men received
this-effective.)
their coveted Eagle, after most of them had worked for
Have you ever squeezed too much toothpaste out of
the better part of 25 years earning the award, one small
a tube of toothpaste and tried to put it back in the tube?
step at a time.
It can’t be done, can it? No matter how hard you try,
As you work on your advancement—I know you all
the toothpaste is out of the tube forever.
get impatient and want to move along faster at times—
Toothpaste is similar to unkind words. Once unkind
remember Troop 3 and the Scouts who spent 25 years
words come out of your mouth, you cannot take them
working toward their goal of becoming Eagles.
back. So when you are tempted to say something
unkind, remember the parable of the toothpaste, and
BULL’S-EYE
keep the unkind words to yourself.
Many years ago a young man traveling through the
THREE UNIFORMS countryside noticed that on many of the barns was a
large bull’s-eye painted on it with an arrow squarely in
Tommy Lasorda, former manager of the Los Angles
the center of the target. He thought he would like to
Dodgers, says that he has worn three uniforms in his
meet the great archer, and asked around until he found
lifetime, and that all three were very important to him.
out the name of the man, who lived in a nearby village.
The obvious one is that of Dodger blue, as he managed

19
 He introduced himself, and asked the archer for a All the armies that have ever marched, all the navies
demonstration of his great skills. “Sure,” said the archer, that have ever sailed, all the parliaments that have ever
and they walked to the outskirts of town to a barn. He sat, and all the kings that have ever reigned, put
carried his bow and a quiver of arrows and several together, have not affected the life of man like the life of
buckets of paint and some brushes. He selected a barn one man, Jesus Christ.
site, and carefully took aim at the barn, and hit it
squarely in the middle. Then he walked up to the arrow, ASPENS
and carefully painted the bull’s-eye around the arrow.
If you have ever seen a grove of aspens wave in a
He then proudly stood back and admired his work.
breeze, you have witnessed the strength and beauty of
The moral of the story is to not be misled by things
the trees. A grove of aspens can withstand the mighty
as they sometimes appear. Often, things are not as
forces of nature because they are tightly bound together,
they seem.
both in their trunks and limbs, and in their root sys-
tems, and each tree draws strength from the others.
THREE BRICK MASONS
However, one aspen standing alone would soon split or
Three brothers were all equally skilled at a craft taught break in the force of a big wind.
to them by their father, that of a brick and stone mason. Your patrol is a lot like a grove of aspens. The
The work was hard, as it required lifting heavy bricks strength and teamwork of a group of guys can accom-
and cement, and they were exposed to the elements of plish tasks that would be impossible for individuals
severe weather on a daily basis. However, they viewed working independently. Each patrol member brings
their work very differently: skills and talents that compliment the other members of
When asked what he was doing, the first brother the patrol.
said, “I’m making a living for my family” as he toiled.
The second brother replied, when asked the same THE LEAD STEER
question, “Can’t you see? I’m laying brick.”
In the early 1800s, before railroads, the only way to
But the third brother, working next to the other
move cattle from the west to the big cities was to drive
brothers, replied, “I’m building a beautiful cathedral.”
the huge herds of cattle across the planes to places like
As you go about your daily tasks, don’t lose sight of
Kansas City and St. Louis. Trails like the Chisholm Trail
what you are really doing with your life. Build cathedrals.
were marked as the best routes that would provide
water, food, river crossings, and safety from man and
ONE LIFE
beast. Cowboys would be on the trail for weeks at a
Taken from The Real Jesus and Other Sermons, time moving the cattle before finally arriving at their
by James Allan Francis. Philadelphia: The Judson
Press, 1926. destination.
Each herd had a lead steer, which was usually an
A young man was born in an obscure village, the child older longhorn steer that led the way along the trail.
of a peasant woman. He worked in a carpenter shop The cowboys would get the lead steer moving each
until he was 30, and then he was an itinerant preacher morning, and he would slowly start leading the way up
for three years. He never wrote a book. He never held the trail to the destination. The herd would fall into
an office. He never owned a home. He never had a fam- line behind the lead steer and follow him. Cowboys
ily. He never went to college. He never put his foot in a would ride on the flanks and the rear to keep the strag-
big city. He never traveled more than 200 miles from glers from wandering away from the herd.
the place he was born. He never did one of the things The lead steer was trained to lead the herds. After
that usually accompany greatness. completing a trail drive, the cowboys would drive the
While he was still a young man, the tide of public lead steer back home to lead another herd up the trail,
opinion turned against him. His friends deserted him. and this would be repeated time and again. The story
He was turned over to his enemies. He went through of the lead steer points out that leadership is a skill
the mockery of a trial. He was nailed to a cross between that can be taught, and as a Scout you will be given
two thieves. While he was dying, his executioners gam- many opportunities to learn leadership skills and to
bled for the only piece of property he had on earth, and be a leader.
that was his coat. When he was dead, he was laid in a
borrowed grave through the pity of a friend. Twenty
centuries have come and gone, and today his is still the
central figure of the human race.

20
WISDOM them, and it was very fun. Then they’d glide from the
Walt Disney was once asked what a person would need top of the shed. Wow! That was exciting!
to do to be like him. Disney named four steps: Eventually, they learned how to take off from a run-
ning start, glide and flap, and slowly lift. They learned
1. Think! Think about the values and principles that how to catch thermal wind currents, soar up and fly
guide you in your business and personal life. high into the sky! And even do some fancy acrobatics.
2. Believe! Believe in yourself. They could look down and see the whole farm in
great detail. They could see what was on the other side
3. Dream! Dream of something you want to do. of hills and woods that had previously blocked their
4. Dare! Dare to make your dream a reality. view. They could see vast horizons that they had never
known.
TRADITIONAL IRISH BLESSING It was a wonderful and exciting and exhilarating
experience. And after the meeting, all the turkeys
May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind walked home.
always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon Moral of the story: Put to practice the skills that
your face, and the rain fall soft upon your fields, and you learn.
unto we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow
of his hand. ACHIEVING A GOAL

CHARACTER Have you ever had an assignment or task that was so

large that you were overwhelmed with the size of it and
A Scoutmaster asked his troop to define character. One didn’t know where to begin? When you are faced with
Scout said character is “thinking good thoughts,” and such a task, ask yourself this question: If you had to eat
another said it is “ being a good citizen.” Another said an elephant, how would you approach it? The answer:
character is having good morals, and another said it is one bite at a time. You would do the big assignment
“being honest and courageous.” just like eating an elephant, one bite at a time.
A young Scout held up his hand and when
called upon said, “Character is what you do when EVERYTHING I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LIFE, I
nobody’s looking.” LEARNED FROM NOAH’S ARK
Everything I need to know about life, I learned from
THE ORIGINAL SCOUT LAW
Noah’s ark. One: Don’t miss the boat. Two: Remember
At the BSA’s first annual meeting in 1911, a committee that we are all in the same boat. Three: Plan ahead. It
was charged with “Americanizing” Lord Baden-Powell’s wasn’t raining when Noah built the ark. Four: Stay fit.
Scout Law. When you’re 600 years old, someone may ask you to do
B-P’s Scout Law had nine points, covering the vir- something really big. Five: Don’t listen to critics; just
tues of trustworthiness, loyalty, helpfulness, friendli- get on with the job that needs to be done. Six: Build
ness, courtesy, kindness, obedience, cheerfulness, and your future on high ground. Seven: For safety’s sake,
thriftiness. The BSA committee changed the wording to travel in pairs. Eight: Speed isn’t always an advantage.
each point but retained their meaning. At the urging of The snails were on board with the cheetahs. Nine:
James E. West, three points were added: brave, clean, When you’re stressed, float a while. Ten: Remember,
and reverent. West was particularly adamant about add- the ark was built by amateurs, the Titanic by profes-
ing “reverent” because, he said years later, “I felt then, sionals. Eleven: No matter the storm, when you are
as I feel now, that there is nothing more essential in the with God, there’s always a rainbow waiting.
education of the youth of America than to give them
religious instruction.” PARABLE OF THE MULE
This parable is told of a farmer who owned an old mule.
A TURKEY EXPERIENCE
The mule fell into the farmer’s well. The farmer
A flock of turkeys had a training meeting. All the tur- heard the mule “praying”—or whatever mules do when
keys went, and there, the head turkey taught them how they fall into wells.
to fly. After carefully assessing the situation, the farmer
At first they were taught how to make short flights sympathized with the mule, but decided that neither
off the fence to the ground. This was certainly new to the mule nor the well was worth the trouble of saving.

21
 Instead, he called his neighbors together, told them I read once of a group of Scouts who happened upon
what had happened and enlisted them to help haul dirt some abandoned railroad track. Each Scout took his
to bury the old mule in the well and put him out of turn trying to walk the entire length of the track with-
his misery. out falling off. None of the boys was able to go the
Initially, the old mule was hysterical! But as the entire length without falling off.
farmer and his neighbors continued shoveling and the Two of the boys got their heads together, and after
dirt hit his back, a thought struck him. It dawned on some discussion came running to the group, smiling
him that every time a shovel load of dirt landed on his from ear to ear. They told the group that they were will-
back, he could shake it off and step up! This he did, ing to bet that they could walk the entire length of the
blow after blow. “Shake it off and step up . . . . Shake it track without falling off.
off and step up . . . . Shake it off and step up!” He The others in the group thought it was a good bet
repeated it to encourage himself. because they had already seen each of the boys fail in
No matter how painful the blows, or how distressing the attempt to accomplish the feat. So the bet was
the situation seemed, the old mule fought panic and accepted and the two boys moved toward the track.
just kept right on shaking it off and stepping up! Each of the boys got on one rail and began their
It wasn’t long before the old mule, battered and walk. Side by side they were walking down the track.
exhausted, stepped triumphantly over the wall of that Soon one of them became a little shaky, so the boys
well! What seemingly would bury him actually helped stopped. They then did something none of the other
him, all because of the manner in which he handled boys had thought of—they reached out and joined
his adversity. hands! After joining hands, they were able to walk
That’s life! If we face our problems and respond to the entire length of the track without falling off.
them positively, and refuse to give in to panic, bitter- Joining hands and supporting each other, they
ness, or self-pity. The problems that come along to bury were able to accomplish what neither of them could
us usually have within them the very potential to bene- accomplish alone.
fit us . . . and benefit Scouting, too! When we help another, we help ourselves. When we
lend a helping hand, we receive one in return. Neither
WALKING THE RAILS of the boys could walk the length of that track sepa-
rately. But by the boys joining hands, the task was
Have you ever tried walking the rails? As a youngster
made relatively easy.
growing up, I had to walk about a mile to school.
There are many rails in life that have to be walked.
The railroad track ran past both my house and the
Some of them are very difficult to master by ourselves.
school. It was the shortest and quickest route.
But if we are willing to extend a hand and receive a
I can remember many times while walking to and
hand, we will find that walking the rails of life is much
from school that I would try to walk the rails—seeing
easier to accomplish.
how far I could go without falling off. I usually didn’t
get too far before a foot would slip and I would be off
the rail and on the crosstie.

22
 GAMES

INITIATIVE GAMES Blindman’s Knots . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Flying Disk Setback . . . . . . . . . . 44

Bow-Saw Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Foamball Dodgeball . . . . . . . . . . 44
Aerobic Tag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 British Bulldog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Foamball Soccer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
All Aboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Bucketball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Four-Handed Seat Carry Relay . . . 45
Amazon, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Bucket Brigade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Four-Way Tug-of-War . . . . . . . . . 45
Bike Games . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Bull in the Ring . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Fun Field Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Blindfold Soccer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Buzz-Bing-Bang . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Fuzz-Stick Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Boy Scout Shuffle, The . . . . . . . . 27 Can It (Object Relay) . . . . . . . . . 36 Get ’Im Up! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Crossing the Alligator Pit . . . . . . . 27 Cannibal Rescue . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Get the Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Electric Fence, The . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Canoeing Races . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Getting Your Bearings . . . . . . . . . 46
Everybody Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Capture the Flag . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Grand Prix Game . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Foggy Harbor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Catch Ten . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Granny’s Footsteps . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Frantic Object . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Catch-the-Snapper . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Grasshopper Race . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Hi-Lo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Caterpillar Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Greased Watermelon . . . . . . . . . . 47
Human Ladder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Center Miss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Haunted House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Inchworm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Chain-Gang Race . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Hawaiian Handclap . . . . . . . . . . 47
Maze, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Checkerboard Kim’s Game . . . . . 37 Hockey Steal-the-Bacon . . . . . . . . 47
Moonball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Circle Pull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Hopping the Gauntlet . . . . . . . . . 47
Night Crossing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Clove-Hitch Race . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Horse and Rider . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Nitro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Code-O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Hot Isotope Transport . . . . . . . . . 48
Nitro Crossing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Commando Raid . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Hot or Cold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Nitro Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Compass Facing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Hula Hoop Horseshoes . . . . . . . . 48
Punctured Drum . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Concentration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Human Chain Race . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Reactor Transporter . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Corner Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Human Obstacle Race . . . . . . . . . 48
Scout Pace Contest . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Crab Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Hunter, Gun, or Rabbit . . . . . . . . 49
Soccer Flying Disk . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Crab-Crawl Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Ice Accident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Sports Tourney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Crack the DEW Line . . . . . . . . . . 39 Indian Arm Wrestling . . . . . . . . . 49
Stepping Stones . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Creativity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Indian Hand Wrestling . . . . . . . . 49
Tangle Knot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Crosses in the Circle . . . . . . . . . . 40 Indian Leg Wrestling . . . . . . . . . . 49
Two-by-Four . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Crowded Circle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Infiltration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Crows and Cranes . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Island Hopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Deer Stalking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Izzy-Dizzy Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
OTHER GAMES Deliver the Message . . . . . . . . . . 41 Jump the Shot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Direction-Finding Relay . . . . . . . . 41 Kick Bridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Antelope Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Direction Hunt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Kim’s Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Ante Over . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Dodgeball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Knot Hoop Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Arm-Sling Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Double Dodgeball . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Knot Trail (Knot Kim’s Game) . . . 51
A to Z . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Edible Plants Who’s Who . . . . . . 42 Knot-Tying Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Ball-Over Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Famous Visitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Knotty-Silent Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Ball Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Fire Bucket Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Ladder Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Balloon Battle Royal . . . . . . . . . . 33 First-Aid Baseball . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Leaf Matching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Balloon Bounce . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 First-Aid Kim’s Game . . . . . . . . . 43 Leaking Backpack, The . . . . . . . . 52
Balloon Busting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 First-Aid Problems . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Lifeline Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Bandage Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Fishnet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Life’s Little Riddles . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Beach Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Fitness Medley Relay . . . . . . . . . 43 Log-Chopping Relay . . . . . . . . . . 53
Beginners’ Water Games . . . . . . . 33 Flag-Folding Display . . . . . . . . . . 44 Log Hauling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Blackout Fun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Flagpole Raising . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Log-Raising Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Blind-Flying Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Flapjack-Flipping Relay . . . . . . . . 44 Log-Rolling Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Blindfold Compass Walk . . . . . . . 34 Flying Disk Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Long-Legged Puddle Jumper . . . . 53

23
Long, Short, Round . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Rooster Fight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Subway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Lost Quiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Rope Circle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Swat ’Em, or
Luck Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Rubber-Ball Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Whipped-to-the-Gap . . . . . . . . 71
Map Symbol Kim’s Game . . . . . . 54 Scouting History . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Swimming Races . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Map Symbol Relay . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Scout Law Baseball . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Tags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Message Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Scout Law Hunt . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Take the Mat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Milk Jug Hockey . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Scout Law Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Taut-Line Hitch Race . . . . . . . . . . 71
Mow the Man Down . . . . . . . . . . 55 Scouts to the Rescue . . . . . . . . . . 64 Tenderfoot Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Nail-Driving Relay . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Sealed Orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Tent-Pitching Contest . . . . . . . . . 72
Name That Fish . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Shallow-Water Games . . . . . . . . . 64 Tent-Striking Contest . . . . . . . . . . 72
Name the Merit Badge . . . . . . . . 55 Ships in the Fog . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Three-Legged Football . . . . . . . . . 72
Nature Art Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Shipwreck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Three-Person Tug-of-War . . . . . . . 72
Nature-Go-Down . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Shoe Hunt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Thurman Throw . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Nature Memory Hunt . . . . . . . . . 56 Shoot-the-Gap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Tiger in a Cage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Nature Scavenger Hunt . . . . . . . . 56 Short-Splice Tug-of-War . . . . . . . . 65 Tire-Roll Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Newspaper Crumpling . . . . . . . . 56 Shuttle-Run Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Torpedo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Newspaper Good Turn . . . . . . . . 57 Signal Steal-the-Bacon . . . . . . . . . 65 Trail Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Night Eyes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Silent Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Train Chase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Silver Dollar Hunt . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Tree Hunt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Observation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Silver Tongue Orator . . . . . . . . . . 66 Tripod Lashing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Obstacle Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Skin-Diving Contest . . . . . . . . . . 66 Tug-of-War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Obstacle Relay Race . . . . . . . . . . 58 Skin-the-Snake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Tug-of-War Steal-the-Bacon . . . . . 74
Octagon Compass Course . . . . . . 58 Slapjack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Twig Hunt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
O’Grady . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Sleeping Pirate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Two-Person Square-Knot Tying . . 74
Old Plug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Sloppy Camp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Walking Statues . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
One-Handed Knot Tying . . . . . . . 58 Snake Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Wall Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Outdoor Winter Games . . . . . . . . 59 Spies in the Woods . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Wastebasket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Over-and-Under Relay . . . . . . . . . 59 Split-the-Match Relay . . . . . . . . . 67 Water Basketball . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Overtake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Spoon Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Water Dodgeball . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Paper-Wad Tennis . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Sports True-False Water Games for Nonswimmers . 75
Patrol Charades . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Steal-the-Bacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Wet-Weather Fire Building . . . . . 75
Patrolo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Spud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 What Do I Feel? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Pony Express Race . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Standing Long-Jump Relay . . . . . 68 What Do I Smell? . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Porpoise Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Star Hunt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 What Happened? . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Prisoner’s Base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Steal-the-Bacon Variations . . . . . . 69 What’s Cooking? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Remedies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Steal-the-Bacon, Blindfold . . . . . 69 What’s Wrong? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Remote Clove-Hitch Tying . . . . . . 60 Steal-the-Bacon, Wheelbarrow Relay . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Rescue-Carry Relay . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Horse-and-Rider . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Whip-the-Rope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Rescue Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Step on It . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Who Am I? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Reverse Softball . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Stick Fight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Winter Constellations Quiz . . . . . 77
Ring Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Stiff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Ring Buoy Throw . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Stretcher Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Ringleader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 String-Burning Race . . . . . . . . . . 70
Ring on a String . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Struggle, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Roman Chariot Race . . . . . . . . . . 62 Submarines and Minefields . . . . . 70

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 GAMES
A game can be the highlight of a meeting. Boys seem to PRESENT THE GAME
enjoy simple, active games that have few rules. Don’t Make the rules clear. Be sure the Scouts understand the
wear out a game that is a troop favorite. Introduce a problem they must solve or the skill to be learned
new game occasionally, and recycle the ones that the before they begin. Emphasize that there should be no
troop likes. Here are a few games that were submitted put-downs or harassment during the activity.
by Scoutmasters from around the country. Some are Stand back. Let the Scouts solve the problem them-
patrol games, some are troop games. Most are just for selves. Even though you might know a better solution,
fun. Enjoy! let them figure it out for themselves. They will learn
the most from an experience they have worked through
on their own.
INITIATIVE GAMES
LEAD THE REFLECTION
Initiative games and cooperative games are different
After the games, lay the ground rules for discussion.
from most games that are familiar to us. What’s differ-
Have the Scouts sit so that they can see one another,
ent is the way we play them. These games require lots
and ask them to agree not to interrupt or make fun of
of strategy and skill. Everyone has fun, and in that
each other. Let them know that they are free to keep
sense, everyone wins.
silent if they wish.
Initiative games are purposeful activities with spe-
Facilitate the discussion. As a leader, avoid the temp-
cific goals and learning processes that are less competi-
tation to talk about your own experiences. Reserve
tive and less rule oriented. They can best be described
judgment about what the Scouts say to avoid criticiz-
as “action-and-reflection” experiences. These games
ing them. Help the discussion get going, then let the
1. Have a specific objective or objectives, such as coop- Scouts take over with limited guidance from you. If you
eration, trust, or imagination, through physical and describe what you observed during the activity, be sure
verbal group activity that your comments don’t stop the boys from adding
their own thoughts. Above all, be positive. Have fun
2. Are problem solving in nature with the reflecting session!
3. Must be talked about or reflected upon in order to Use thought-provoking questions. The following types
have the maximum impact on the participants of questions are useful in reflecting:
Open-ended questions require more thought and
4. Are fun result in more information. “What was the purpose of
the game?” and “What did you learn about yourself?”
HOW TO USE INITIATIVE GAMES Avoid yes-or-no answers.
Consider the following steps in using these games with Feeling questions require Scouts to reflect on how
your troop: they feel about what they did. “How did it feel when
you all started to pull together?”
BE PREPARED! Judgment questions ask Scouts to make decisions
Familiarize yourself with the activity you have chosen. about things. “What was the best part?” or “Why was it
Know how the game is played, what the objectives are, a good idea?”
and how its parts lead to the learning objective. Guiding questions steer your Scouts toward the pur-
Plan a strategy ahead of time so you can help your pose of the activity and keep the discussion focused.
Scouts if they get into trouble with the game. “What got you all going in the right direction?”
Figure out space and equipment requirements. If Closing questions help Scouts draw conclusions and
you’re planning an activity for a camporee, try it end the discussion. “What did you learn?” or “What
out ahead of time with your own troop to avoid last- would you do differently?”
minute snags. Reflecting on an activity should take no more
Think about some questions to ask during the reflec- than 10 minutes. The more you do it, the easier it
tion following the activity. You might want to jot down becomes for both you and your Scouts. Remember that
some notes. the value of the game (and the values of Scouting) often
lie beneath the surface. Reflection helps you ensure that
these values come through to your Scouts. (Reflection
can be held in the time allotted for the Scoutmaster’s
Minute.)

25
SOME INITIATIVE GAMES This exercise stimulates discussion about team effort,
group and individual commitment, leadership, compas-
AEROBIC TAG
sion, and group problem-solving dynamics.
This is an active game that requires constant movement
and little explanation. It’s good for any size group. THE AMAZON
Equipment: Plastic flying disk, hula hoop, beanbag, or Equipment: Rope, 1⁄2 inch in diameter; pole or tree limb,
similar object; watch with a second hand at least 11⁄2 inches in diameter; plank, at least 6 inches
wide, 2 inches thick; stick of any diameter; container
Object: For a team (any size) to maintain possession of with a handle
the object of play (flying disk, hula hoop, beanbag, etc.)
for 30, 45, or 60 seconds (depending on the size of the Object: Using the plank, pole, stick, and length of rope,
playing area and the age and ability of the group) the patrol must retrieve the container, which is placed
some distance from the “riverbank.”
Procedure: The object of play is thrown randomly into
the air and onto the field by the timekeeper. A player Rules:
grabs it and, by using speed, guile, and help from his
1. The Scouts may use only the assigned materials and
teammates, attempts to keep the object from the
their bodies.
opposing team.
If the person who has possession is tagged with two 2. If a Scout steps into the “river,” he must go back and
hands by an opponent, he must stop running and get try again.
rid of the object immediately. If a team member catches
3. Time penalties may be given when a player or any
or picks up the object, time continues for that team. If
of the equipment touches the ground.
an opposing team member takes possession, the time-
keeper yells “Change!” and begins timing once again Scoring: The first patrol to retrieve the container wins.
from zero.
BIKE GAMES
Considerations:
Bull’s-Eye. For each patrol, set out four empty 1-pound
1. Make up penalties, if necessary, for infractions such coffee cans, open end up, about 8 feet apart in a
as unnecessary roughness or holding onto the object straight line. Give each Scout four marbles. The object
too long after having been tagged. of the game is to drop one marble into each can while
riding down the line at any speed. Score 1 point for
2. Limit the playing area, or the game could end up in
each hit; deduct 1 point if the rider touches his foot to
the next town.
the ground.
3. This is a fine game for cold weather since it doesn’t
Slalom Relay. For each patrol, remove the top halves of
take long for the players to warm up if the action is
four empty plastic milk jugs. Set them out about 6 feet
spirited.
apart in a straight line. The rider must weave in and out
4. Some kinds of plastic flying disks become brittle and without touching the jugs and without his feet touching
crack or shatter if the temperature falls much below the ground. If he touches a jug or the ground, he must
30 degrees. If the temperature is low, have several return to the starting line and begin over. Run the game
disks or an alternative object on hand. as a relay. The fastest patrol wins.

Snail Race Relay. Mark a 3-foot-wide lane about 50 feet

ALL ABOARD
long with string or chalk for each patrol. Half of the
Object: To have 12 to 20 Scouts aboard a 2-foot-square
patrol lines up at either end of the lane. The object is to
platform without anyone touching the ground around it.
ride as slowly as possible without touching the ground
Combine patrols to make a group.
or allowing a bike tire to touch the line. The race starts
Rules: with the first rider at one end riding to the other end of
the lane; there the first Scout in that line rides the other
1. Each person must have both feet off the ground. way, and so on until all patrol members have ridden the
2. Everyone must remain on the platform for at least course. The slowest patrol time wins.
10 seconds.

26
BLINDFOLD SOCCER CROSSING THE ALLIGATOR PIT
Equipment: Blindfolds for half the Scouts, two Equipment: For each patrol, three spars, 6 to 8 feet long;
soccer balls three 6-foot lashing ropes; four guylines

Object: Each team tries to kick the ball past the oppo- Procedure: Mark the “alligator pit” on the ground; it
nent’s end zone as many times as possible. should be 20 feet across and as wide as necessary to
accommodate your patrols. The patrols line up on one
Procedure: Divide the Scouts into two teams, or use
side of the pit. On signal, they lash together a triangular
patrols. Each team then divides into pairs. One member
“walker,” using a shear lashing at the top and diagonal
of each pair is blindfolded. The game starts when the
lashings for the crossbar. Near the top, they attach the
referee throws or kicks two soccer balls into the middle
four guylines, using two half hitches. The patrol then
of the soccer field or playing area.
stands the walker upright and one member climbs on
Rules: the crossbar. One or two Scouts control each guyline
and “walk” the walker across the pit by tipping it from
1. Only the blindfolded Scout may kick the ball; the side to side and moving it forward.
sighted Scout can only offer verbal directions to
his partner. Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.

2. Team members may not intentionally touch one Note: This can be a timed contest if there aren’t enough
another. Normal game contact is allowed as long spars for all patrols.
as the touching is not used to direct a blindfolded
Active
participant.
Fitness
3. There are no goalies. Whole troop

4. If a ball is kicked out of bounds, the referee will THE ELECTRIC FENCE
throw the ball into the middle of the field and
Object: To transport a patrol over an “electrified” wire or
play resumes.
fence using only the team members and a “conductive
5. Any additional rules are at the discretion of beam”
the referee.
Construction: The electric fence is a length of rope tied
Scoring: Each successful kick earns 1 point for the in a horizontal triangular configuration to three trees or
team. The team with the most points at the end of the poles. (It can be a single rope between two trees, but a
game wins. triangular setup is more challenging and safer because
Scouts cannot get a running start to try to jump over
THE BOY SCOUT SHUFFLE the rope, and thus are less likely to take a chance.) The
Equipment: A 30-foot telephone pole lying on a flat area height of the rope should match the skill or age level of
the Scouts; 5 feet should be the maximum. The conduc-
Procedure: Ask a group of about 20 Scouts to split into tive beam is an 8-foot-long pole, log, or 2-by-4. Clear
two teams, or use two patrols. The two groups stand the ground of rocks and roots to prevent injury.
balanced on opposite ends of the pole so that they are
facing each other in single file. Rules:
Now ask the two groups to exchange ends of the 1. The only route allowed is over the fence. If a Scout
pole without any team members touching the ground. touches the fence (rope), he is “zapped” and must
Time the action and give a 15-second penalty for every attempt the crossing again. Any Scout touching the
touch on the ground. After a completed attempt, hapless victim as he touches the wire must also
encourage the group to talk it over and try again. return for another crossing.
As in all timed initiative activities, it is important to
attempt the problem more than once. The first attempt 2. If the conductive beam touches the wire, all those in
establishes a time to beat. Additional attempts invari- contact with that beam are zapped and must attempt
ably result in a faster time because of greater coopera- another crossing.
tion, planning, individual effort, etc. Exceeding a
3. An “electric force field” extends from the wire to the
personal “best” is the best kind of competition.
ground and cannot be penetrated.

27
4. The trees or other supports that hold up the wire are keep every tennis ball in motion. Referees are used to
“iron woods” (an excellent conductor) and cannot spot balls that have stopped moving.
be safely touched.
Variation:
Cautions:
1. During the activity, additional tennis balls may be
1. Be careful not to let the more enthusiastic Scouts lit- added, increasing the difficulty.
erally throw other participants into the air over the
2. The activity may be allowed to continue until the
ropes. Injury might result.
referees have spotted three balls that have stopped
2. Do not let the last person perform a headfirst dive moving.
into a shoulder roll.
HI-LO
3. Trust dives (falls into the arms of other Scouts) are
Have patrols stand in line with patrol members shoulder
OK, even though such a dive seldom works and can
to shoulder. Tell them they are to arrange themselves
overwhelm some catchers.
from high to low, or from most to least. For example,
you might tell them to arrange themselves by age, from
EVERYBODY UP
oldest to youngest. Or, choose from the list below:
This initiative exercise is a useful way to introduce the
idea of group cooperation. Ask two Scouts of about the s (EIGHT
same size to sit on the ground or floor facing each other s /CCURRENCE OF BIRTHDAY NOT AGE
with the soles of their feet touching, their knees bent,
s !LPHABETˆLAST NAME
and their hands tightly grasping each other’s. From this
position they try to pull themselves into a standing s $ISTANCE FROM HOME
position. If they succeed, ask another Scout to join s .UMBER OF BROTHERS AND SISTERS
them and try standing with three Scouts, then four, etc. s .UMBER OF MERIT BADGES EARNED
As the group grows, each player must grasp the hands
of another person and must maintain foot contact with s .UMBER OF PETS
the group. An expanding group will find that thinking is When they have completed the task, they should
required to come up with a solution that allows large give the Scout sign and shout their patrol yell.
numbers (50 or more players) to get everybody up.
HUMAN LADDER
Variation: Ask the Scouts to sit back-to-back and try to
stand as a pair, trio, etc. To avoid possible shoulder dis- This game will help Scouts develop trust and learn to
locations, do not allow interlocked arms. be responsible for each other’s safety.

Equipment: Six to 10 smooth hardwood dowels about

FOGGY HARBOR
3 feet long and 1⁄4 inch in diameter
The group must maneuver an “oil tanker” (one member
of the patrol) through the “harbor” without bumping Procedure: Pair the Scouts and give each pair one
into the other “ships” (the remaining patrol members). “rung” of the ladder. Several pairs, each holding a rung
The oil tanker is blindfolded and moves on his hands and standing close together, form the ladder. A climber
and knees. He is not to touch any of the other ships, starts at one end of the ladder and proceeds from one
who remain stationary and are distributed throughout rung to the next. As the climber passes by, the pair
the harbor. As the oil tanker nears a ship, the ship must holding that rung may leave that position and go to the
give a warning signal, such as a foghorn. The oil tanker front end of the ladder, extending the ladder length
then approaches more cautiously and tries to maneuver indefinitely.
through the harbor without colliding. Note: The direction of the ladder may change at
any time (making a right-angle turn, for example).
FRANTIC OBJECT
Obstacles may be added, and the height of the rungs
Object: To keep a number of tennis balls in constant may also vary.
motion for as long as possible

Procedure: Everyone in the group is given a worn-out INCHWORM

tennis ball or two. Play on a smooth surface that is Pair the Scouts, then have them sit on each other’s feet
bounded by walls. On signal, the group attempts to and grasp each other’s elbows or upper arms. Each pair

28
advances by having the Scout whose back is toward the der. The patrol leader cannot get on the course. If a cyl-
direction of travel lift his bottom off the other’s feet and inder is bumped over, that Scout must start over. Once a
rock backward. Meanwhile, his partner slides his feet Scout has successfully navigated the course, allow him
forward about a foot and rocks forward as the other sits to take off his blindfold. All members can be on the
down on his feet again. Continue with this rocking-slid- course at once, or one at a time. This can be a timed
ing motion to the turning line—but don’t turn. For the event or it can serve as a team-building exercise.
return trip, Scouts simply reverse roles, with the Scout Rearrange the course for each new patrol.
who had been going backward now going forward. The
first pair to return to the start wins. NITRO
Three members of the patrol join hands. They are the
THE MAZE “nitro” and must be transported as carefully as possible
The patrol forms a circle. Next, each patrol member to a designated spot without touching the ground. The
reaches across with his right hand and takes someone rest of the patrol must move them without breaking the
else’s right hand. Then each group member does the grip or changing the position of the three players’ hands.
same with his left hand, but it must be the left hand of
a different person. On signal, two players (appointed NITRO CROSSING
beforehand) let go of their right hands only. No one else Object: To transport a patrol and a container that is
may let go. These two “loose ends” will attempt to almost full of “nitro” (water) across an open area using
straighten out the maze of hands into a straight line. a swing rope

MOONBALL Rules:
Equipment: For each patrol, a well-inflated beach ball 1. Participants must swing with a hanging rope over
a “trip wire” at the beginning and end of the open
Object: To hit the ball aloft as many times as possible
area without touching either wire. If a trip wire
before it hits the ground
is touched, the entire group must go back and
Rules: start again.

1. A player may not hit the ball twice in succession. 2. No knots may be tied in the swing rope, although a
loop or a large knot may be tied in the bottom of the
2. Count 1 point for each hit. Have the patrols gather in
rope if less adept players need help. This knot may
different areas of the field or gym and begin playing.
be held tightly between the legs to help support
Tension and expectation may build as each “world
the player.
record” is approached.
3. The nitro must be transported in such a way that
Variation: Have a different-colored ball for each patrol.
none is spilled. If any of the nitro spills, the entire
Start the game with all patrols in the same area, and
patrol must start over. The container must be refilled
allow patrol members to hit the ball of other patrols as
after each spill.
well as their own. Do not permit pushing and shoving
to get at another patrol’s ball. 4. The swing rope must be obtained initially without
stepping into the open area between the two
NIGHT CROSSING trip wires.
This game will give a good assessment of the verbal
5. Participants may use only themselves and their
communication skills of a patrol leader and the listen-
clothing to reach the swing rope.
ing skills of the patrol.
6. Participants may not touch the ground while swing-
Equipment: Enough blindfolds for everyone except the
ing between trip wires, and must attempt the
patrol leaders; about a dozen 4-inch-diameter cardboard
crossing again if they do so.
cylinders, 18 to 24 inches long (such as the tubes that
come inside rolls of carpet or in PVC pipe) Variation: The nitro scenario can be accomplished
indoors by using a gym climbing rope as the swing
Procedure: Blindfold the entire patrol, except the patrol
rope. Set up the trip wires using empty tennis ball cans
leader. Set up the cylinders at irregular intervals across
as supports and a section of bamboo as the top cross-
the course. It is the patrol leader’s job to coach his
piece. Fill the No. 10 nitro can with confetti to avoid a
patrol across the course without bumping over a cylin-
wet gym floor.

29
NITRO TRANSPORT Scoring: The Scout who finishes closest to 12 minutes
The patrol must move a can of radioactive nitro (an (more or less) wins.
orange juice can full of water) from point A to point B
(a distance of about 25 to 30 feet) by lifting the can on SOCCER FLYING DISK
a small board (12 inches square) with eight 6-foot Equipment: A plastic flying disk; a field marked for
ropes. (It will look a lot like an octopus.) All Scouts soccer with a semicircular penalty area surrounding
must pick it up at the same time without spilling the goal
the liquid.
Object: To send the disk across the opponent’s goal line
(sliding on the ground or sailing through the air) as
PUNCTURED DRUM
many times as possible
This is a summertime game, best suited near a swim-
ming pool. The object is to see which patrol can fill a Procedure: Divide the troop into two teams or use
large plastic garbage can with water until it overflows, patrols. Position a team on each half of the soccer field.
by using either a bucket, if dipping from a lake or pool, Have each team choose a goalie, who stands in the pen-
or a garden hose. Oh, yes. The can has a few holes in it. alty area.
Before the event, drill 50 to 60 holes at various points
Rules:
around the sides with a small drill bit. The patrol must
plug the holes as the can fills. No foreign objects are 1. Play begins when anyone throws the disk high into
allowed. The patrol with the best time wins. the air.

REACTOR TRANSPORTER 2. After catching or picking up the disk, a player may

run toward the opponent’s goal. If he is tagged
Equipment: For each patrol, six Scout staves or saplings
above the waist with two hands, the tagged player
about 6 feet long, four 6-foot lengths of cord, 20 feet of
must drop or throw the disk within three seconds.
binder twine or light cord, one No. 10 can, and one nut
for a 1⁄2-inch bolt 3. A throw at the goal can be made from anywhere on
the field except within the penalty area. The only
Procedure: On signal, each patrol builds a transporter by
person allowed in this area is the goalie. The goalie
lashing a three-sided frame with three staves and then
may leave or enter the penalty area at any time.
lashing on a tripod from the three corners of the frame.
The tin can is suspended from the top of the tripod. The 4. If two or more players grab the disk simultaneously,
nut is also hung from the top of the tripod. It hangs a “jump” ball is called. A leader stops the action and
down into the can but does not touch the bottom or the throws the disk into the air at the point where play
sides. When finished, three patrol members pick the was stopped.
transporter up by its three corners and carry it to a finish
line at least 100 feet away. If the nut swings and hits the 5. The only penalty is for excessive roughness. The first
side of the can, the patrol must return to the starting line infraction results in a two-minute penalty: one
and start the carry again. The object is to transport the player is removed from the field. The second infrac-
reactor so gently and evenly that it is not jarred. tion means removal from the game. Body contact is
inevitable, but purposeful roughness is unnecessary.
Scoring: The first patrol across the finish line wins.
Scoring: Each goal scores 1 point for the team.
Informal The team with the highest score wins.
Knots
Patrol teams SPORTS TOURNEY
This can be held either indoors in a gym or outdoors,
SCOUT PACE CONTEST depending on the climate. Have an interpatrol competi-
Equipment: Watch with a second hand tion in two or more team sports, such as basketball,
volleyball, team handball, indoor soccer.
Object: To complete 1 mile in exactly 12 minutes
Play patrol against patrol in abbreviated games
Procedure: The Scouts travel a 1-mile course, by pairs, (two five-minute halves of basketball, for example).
using the Scout pace (50 steps running, 50 steps walking). If possible, have every patrol play all other patrols.
Measure a point that is 1⁄2 mile from the meeting place, or If the patrol leaders’ council desires a full-scale
as many times around the block as needed to make a mile. tourney with regulation games, schedule one that
Space the pairs apart at two-minute intervals. covers two or three Saturdays.

30
STEPPING STONES 2. As a pair moves, the empty space left in the line
This game is a good team-building exercise. Give every- must remain open until it is closed by another pair.
one in the patrol, except the patrol leader, a “life-sup- 3. Pairs may not pivot or turn around.
port capsule” (a 6-inch-square block of wood). Each
life-support capsule must be in contact with at least one 4. The final line must be solid—no gaps.
human at all times. (The capsules can be touched by
5. No more than four moves are allowed, but don’t
more than one human.) If a capsule loses contact with
announce this until the group has made a first try.
a human, it is taken away. The patrol must get from
point A to point B, about 15 to 20 feet, without touch- The following sequence shows the four-move solution:
ing the ground, using the life-support capsules as step-
ping stones. If anyone touches the ground, the patrol
must start over.

TANGLE KNOT
Procedure: Ask a group of 10 to 16 Scouts to form a tight
circle. Have everyone close their eyes and extend their
hands toward the center of the circle. Ask each person
to grasp someone else’s hands in both of his hands,
keeping his eyes closed. When every hand is grasping
another hand, tell the participants to open their eyes
and listen to their objective.

Object: Without letting go of hands, the group is to

unwind, freeing themselves from the seemingly impos-
sible knot and forming a circle.

Rules:

1. Hand-to-hand contact may not be broken when

unwinding the knot. Grips may change and palms
may pivot on one another, but contact must be
maintained.

2. When the group is finally arranged in a circle, the

arms of some individuals might be crossed. This is
part of an acceptable solution.

3. If time is running out, the problem can be simplified

by breaking one grip and asking the group to form a If the group is frustrated, give them the first correct
single line instead of a circle. move. This will increase the group’s confidence that
the solution is imminent. If you forget the solution or
TWO-BY-FOUR neglect to draw the above solution on your palm, don’t
Object: To get all members of patrol A on one end of the panic, just appear slightly amused at their attempts.
line and all members of patrol B on the other end by Couple that with an occasional smile or slight affirma-
moving in pairs tive nod of the head until the Scouts eventually hit on
the right combination. If two or three hours have gone
Procedure: This noncompetitive game is usually
by and your nod is more weary than it is reinforcing,
played with red and black checkers. We will substitute
you might have to postpone the solution by suggesting
Scouts—four from each of two patrols. The eight Scouts
that they “sleep on it.”
line up shoulder to shoulder, alternating patrols (Scout
from patrol A, then B, A, B, etc.).
OTHER GAMES
Rules: ANTELOPE RACE
1. All moves must be made as pairs. (Members of dif- Procedure: On signal, the Scouts run in single file, each
ferent patrols may move together.) One pair moves with one hand on the belt of the Scout ahead, to a point
at a time.
31
50 yards away. They make a left turn and run back to A TO Z
the starting point. Falling down or breaking apart dis- Give each patrol a large paper bag. The players are to
qualifies the team. find one item for each letter of the alphabet, and all of
Scoring: Give the first patrol across the finish line the items must fit into the bag. No letter of the alphabet
60 points; the second patrol, 40 points; and the third, may be skipped. For example: A patrol finds an apple, a
20 points. bug, a can, an egg, a feather, and so on through the
alphabet, but cannot find an item that starts with the
ANTE OVER letter ‘d.’ They get only 3 points, 1 for each of the items
beginning with ‘a,’ ‘b,’ and ‘c,’ even though they found
Equipment: Soft rubber ball; a barrier such as a house,
other items. The time limit is 10 minutes. Spell out the
or perhaps tarps strung up
boundaries. Give a prize for the best score.
Procedure: Half of the troop lines up on one side of the
barrier, the other half on the opposite side. One team BALL-OVER RELAY
begins by throwing the ball over the barrier and at the Equipment: Ball, about basketball size; whistle;
same time shouts “Ante over!” to alert the other team. blindfold
If a member of the receiving team catches the ball on
the fly, his team rushes to the other side of the barrier Procedure: Draw a line across the center of the game
and the player with the ball tries to hit a member of the area, and assemble teams on either side of the line. The
opposing team by throwing the ball at him. The team players take positions at various points on their side of
being attacked escapes by running to the other side of the line; they cannot cross the line. One Scout is blind-
the barrier. Any team member hit by the ball joins the folded and has the whistle. When he blows the whistle,
team that hit him. If the ball is dropped when it is the leader puts the ball into play. The players must try
thrown over the barrier, the receiving team throws it to keep the ball in the opposing team’s territory so that
back over, shouting “Ante over!” they don’t have possession of it when the blindfolded
Scout blows the whistle again. The whistle should be
Game blown fairly often, continuously starting and stopping
Patrol teams play for a given time.
Parallel file
Scoring: Deduct 1 point from the side that has the ball
ARM-SLING RELAY when the whistle is sounded. At the end of the game,
the side with the lowest score wins.
Equipment: Scout neckerchief or triangular bandage for
each Scout Game
Patrol teams
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation, with
Whole troop
one Scout acting as a patient and standing across from his
patrol on the opposite side of the room. There is a judge
BALL RELAY
for each patrol. On signal, the first player in each patrol
runs to the patient and applies an arm sling. At the Equipment: Ball or other “throwable” object for
instant the judge can see that the sling is correct, he each patrol
shouts “Off!” and the Scout removes the sling and runs Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation, with
back to tag the next member of his patrol. This continues each patrol leader stationed 15 to 20 feet in front, facing
until all in the patrol, except the patient, have tied a sling. his patrol. The first Scout in line has the ball to start the
Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins. game. On signal, the first Scout throws the ball to the
patrol leader, then sits down. The patrol leader throws
Note to judges: Slings must be correctly applied and the ball to the second Scout in line, who throws it back
adequate to serve the purpose. to the patrol leader, then sits. Play continues until all
(including the patrol leader) are sitting. A missed ball
First Aid
must be recovered by the Scout who missed it. He must
Game
be back in place before throwing the ball again.
Individual
Parallel file Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.
Patrol teams
Relay

32
Variation: Basketball. The patrol leader forms his arms Variation: Line up the troop in a single line. Each player
into a hoop by clasping his hands in front of him. The has a deflated balloon. At the signal, “Blow,” the play-
Scouts must throw the ball so that it goes through the ers do just that. The first player to overinflate his bal-
patrol leader’s arms. Each player keeps trying until he loon and cause it to burst wins. All players must burst
succeeds. their balloons.

Game Facing lines

Informal Fitness
Patrol teams Fun race
Relay Game
Half-troop teams
BALLOON BATTLE ROYAL Patrol teams
Equipment: Balloon and 18-inch piece of string for
each player BANDAGE RELAY
Equipment: Scout neckerchief or triangular bandage for
Procedure: The players blow up their balloons (all the
each Scout
same size) and help each other tie them to the back of
their belts. On signal, the players use only their hands Procedure: The patrols are seated in their patrol corners.
to try to break the balloons of other players while pro- A judge is assigned to each patrol. Each Scout selects a
tecting their own. All’s fair except using any kind of buddy from his own patrol. The name of a bandage is
instrument, punching, tackling, or other forms of fight- announced. On signal, one Scout from each team ties
ing. When a player’s balloon is broken, he drops out. the named bandage on his buddy. The judge checks
bandages as they are finished. As soon as a bandage is
Scoring: The winner is the last one left with an inflated
approved by the judge, it is removed, and the Scout on
balloon.
which the bandage was tied now ties the same bandage
Game on his buddy. When the judge approves both bandages
Individual for each team in the patrol, the patrol has finished the
Informal first round. They use another type of bandage for the
Patrol teams second round, and so on.

Scoring: Score 1 point for the first patrol to finish a

BALLOON BOUNCE
round. The patrol with the most points wins.
Give each patrol an inflated balloon. The object is for
each patrol to try to keep their balloon in the air the First Aid
longest by hitting it back and forth between the mem- Game
bers. A patrol is out when their balloon touches the Informal
floor or bursts. It is not permitted to catch or hold a bal- Parallel file
loon. It is permitted to redirect the flight of other Patrol teams
patrols’ balloons.
BEACH BALL
BALLOON BUSTING Challenge the entire troop to keep a beach ball in the
Equipment: One balloon, one newspaper, and one air for 100 hits. If they achieve the goal, challenge the
18-inch piece of string for each player troop to go for a record. Play becomes very competitive,
and they are competing against their own best effort. A
Procedure: The players blow up their balloons (all the player cannot hit the beach ball twice in a row. Use two
same size) and help each other tie them to the back of balls in a large group. Have the troop count the hits
their belts. Each player has a newspaper that he rolls up out loud.
tightly. The players pair off. On signal, they try to burst
their opponents’ balloons by hitting them with the BEGINNERS’ WATER GAMES
newspapers. When half of the original players have
Horse and Rider. Pair the Scouts into buddy teams.
busted balloons, the winning players pair off again, and
One is the “horse” and one is the “rider.” Each team
so on until a troop champion is left.
tries to unseat the other teams in knee-deep water. The
Scoring: The champ earns 50 points for his patrol. last team left standing is the winner.

33
Wheelbarrow Race. Two Scouts from each patrol line Scoring: The first team to finish wins.
up, one behind the other, in shallow water. The Scout
Nature
in front is the “wheelbarrow” and gets down on all
Patrol teams
fours. The other Scout grasps the wheelbarrow’s ankles
Quiet
and raises his legs. On signal, all race to the finish line.
BLINDFOLD COMPASS WALK
BLACKOUT FUN
Equipment: For each patrol, eight small, numbered
Here are five ideas that can be made into patrol or
stakes; for each Scout, one orienteering compass and a
troop games. All of these ideas require blindfolding
large paper bag
each player.
Procedure: Set the stakes in the ground 5 feet apart in a
1. The players must correctly identify a sudden, sharp
north-south line. One Scout from each patrol stands at
noise or a series of noises, such as items being
each of the eight stakes. The Scouts from one patrol set
dropped, striking a match, pouring water, etc.
their compasses between 45 and 135 degrees; boys from
2. The players walk a prescribed number of steps, turn the opposing patrol, between 225 and 315 degrees. A
around, and walk back to the exact starting place. paper bag is then placed over the head of each Scout,
permitting him to see only the ground and the compass
3. Open several small cans, each with different con-
in his hand. Each Scout turns himself around three
tents, such as ground coffee, onions, cloves, mint,
times, then follows the bearing on his compass for 100
etc. The players must identify the contents by smell.
steps. He then turns around and follows the bearing
4. Before the Scouts are blindfolded, they are shown back (orienting the arrow toward himself instead of
several objects that are about 15 feet away. Once away) for 95 steps.
they are blindfolded, they must try to find and pick
Scoring: Only Scouts within 10 steps of their stake score.
up the objects they just observed.
The patrol with the most points wins.
5. The patrol members must try to write the names and
Game
addresses of fellow patrol members.
Informal
Scoring: Develop your own scoring system best suited Patrol teams
for these games.
BLINDMAN’S KNOTS
Game
Equipment: A 3-foot length of rope for each Scout
Patrol teams
Active Procedure: Each patrol lines up in relay formation and
all Scouts blindfold themselves. For each patrol, a
BLIND-FLYING RELAY leader passes a familiar knot down the line. Each Scout
Equipment: For each patrol, a grocery bag, compass, has up to 10 seconds to try to identify the knot by touch
and a card with degree readings, one written at the top, only. The Scouts are then given the length of rope and
one at the bottom asked to reproduce the knot.

Procedure: Form partner patrols. Have each patrol line Scoring: Score 1 point for each correct knot.
up in relay formation in a corner opposite from the The highest-scoring patrol wins.
other patrol on its team. The first Scout on each team is
Game
given the bag, the compass, and the card. The top
degree reading on the card, if followed correctly, will BOW-SAW RELAY
lead him toward the other patrol on his team. On sig-
Equipment: For each patrol, one bow saw, one log
nal, he puts the bag over his head and is turned around
about 6 feet long with a 4-inch butt, and one short log
three times. He then uses the compass and the top
or block for support
degree reading to find his way to the other patrol. There
he gives the equipment to the first Scout in the other Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation, each
patrol, who repeats the procedure, using the lower facing their log from a distance of 20 feet. The bow
degree reading (which is 180 degrees opposite from the saw is placed alongside the log. On signal, two Scouts
top reading) on the card to find his way to the opposite from each patrol run up to the log. One Scout supports
corner. Continue until the partner patrols have the log while the second Scout saws off a disk about
exchanged places.
34
2 inches thick. As soon as the disk drops to the ground, BUCKET BRIGADE
the Scouts change positions and another disk is sawed Equipment: Two plastic milk jugs for each patrol, one
off. When the second disk hits the ground, the bow saw empty and one filled with water; one empty paper cup
is placed beside by the logs, then both Scouts race back for each Scout
to the starting line and tag the next two Scouts, who
repeat the process. This continues until all Scouts have Procedure: The patrols line up in single file. A full jug is
had a chance to saw and all members of the patrol have in front of the patrol leader and an empty one is at the
returned to the starting line. end of the line. Mark the empty jug 1⁄4 inch below the
waterline of the full jug. On signal, the patrol leader fills
Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins. his cup with water from the jug. He pours the water
Game into the cup of the next Scout in line, who pours it into
Informal the next Scout’s cup, and so on to the last Scout, who
Patrol teams pours the water into the jug at the end of the line. This
process is repeated until one patrol has emptied the
BRITISH BULLDOG front jug and filled the other jug.
Procedure: The troop lines up along one side of the Scoring: The first patrol to fill the second jug up to the
room. One player, the “bulldog,” stands in the center of mark is the winner.
the room, facing the troop. At the command, “Go,” the
entire troop charges and tries to reach the other side of Note: If water is spilled, it’s possible that the patrol will
the room without being caught. To catch someone, the be unable to reach the mark even though it empties the
bulldog in the center must lift a player off the floor long front jug.
enough to yell “1, 2, 3, British bulldog!” A caught player Game
becomes one more bulldog for the next charge. No more Half-troop teams
than three bulldogs can join to catch one player. The Line
game is played until everyone has been caught.
BULL IN THE RING
Scoring: The last player caught is the winner.
Procedure: Each patrol forms a circle and joins hands. A
Circle representative from another patrol is the “bull” and goes
Facing lines into the center of the ring. On signal, each bull attempts
Fitness to break out of his ring in any manner he wants.
Game
Half-troop teams Scoring: The first bull to break out of his ring wins
Whole troop 1 point for his patrol.

Variation 1: In turn, entire patrols act as the bulls, with

BUCKETBALL the rest of the troop forming the ring. Time each patrol.
Equipment: Two bushel baskets or large cartons; The patrol that breaks through in the shortest time wins.
a basketball
Variation 2: The Scouts forming the ring each have a
Procedure: Place the buckets at opposite ends of the 6-foot rope. The object is to keep the bull in the ring
room. Play a basketball game following the usual rules. while at the same time tying all ropes into a circle using
The only exception is that the ball must stay in the square knots. The first patrol to tie the rope circle
bucket to count for a score. before the bull has broken out wins.
This can be played as an interpatrol competition.
After each score, the patrol that didn’t score leaves the Game
floor and another patrol enters. This should be a fast- Informal
moving game, with patrols constantly entering and Patrol representatives
leaving the game.
BUZZ-BING-BANG
Game Have the troop sit in a circle, then begin counting off,
Patrol teams substituting “buzz” for the number seven and any mul-
Vigorous tiples of seven. Let it circle the group at least twice. If a
mistake is made, start over with the next person.

35
 Now add to the mix by substituting the word “bing” line, and so on. This continues until the whole patrol is
for the number five and any multiples of five. Again, if safely across.
a mistake is made, start over at the point of the error.
Scoring: The first patrol to get all of its members across
Try to circle the group twice without a mistake.
the river wins.
If you get this far, substitute “bang” for the number
three and any multiples of three. Patrol teams
Pioneering
Variation: When a person makes a mistake they are
Relay
eliminated.
CANOEING RACES
CAN IT (OBJECT RELAY)
Canoe Tug-of-War. Tie the painters of two canoes
Equipment: Two No. 10 cans or coffee cans for each
together, with two Scouts to each canoe. On signal,
patrol; various objects, such as nails, sticks, pieces of
each canoe team tries to pull the other beyond a desig-
string, stones, etc.
nated line by paddling.
Procedure: The patrols line up in extended relay forma-
Canoe Splash. With two men to each canoe, one of
tion. The players sit down and extend their feet in front
them paddles while the other uses a pail to try to fill
of them. Each patrol counts off with the same set of
their opponents’ canoe with water until it sinks. (Proper
numbers, so that each Scout will share a number with
safety precautions must be taken: a lifeguard boat must
one Scout from each of the other patrols. One can is
be at hand and participants must be wearing personal
placed at each end of the patrol lines. Three objects are
flotation devices.)
placed in one can of each team. The leader calls out a
number and the name of an object. All Scouts who No-Paddle Race. Just that! There are four Scouts to a
share that number race to the can, pick out the object canoe. Each Scout uses his hands instead of a paddle to
named, transfer it to the can at the other end of the move the canoe across the finish line.
patrol line, and return to their places. An object can be
called more than once, so when their number is called, Facing teams
the Scouts must know where to find the object. Scouts Game
must keep track of objects as they are transferred from Half-troop teams
can to can.
CAPTURE THE FLAG
Scoring: The first Scout back in his place with the object This can be used as a wide game, which means you’ll
transferred wins 1 point for his patrol. need a large playing area.
Game Equipment: Two pieces of cloth to use as flags
Parallel lines
Patrol teams Procedure: Divide the troop into two teams. Each team
has a location designated as its goal. Tie one flag
CANNIBAL RESCUE loosely to each goal. The object of the game is to get
Equipment: One long rope for each patrol the opposing team’s flag without being captured. A
player is captured when he has been tagged by a mem-
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. Draw ber of the opposite team. Captured players become
a chalk line in front of each patrol and another line par- members of the opposing team.
allel to the first but about 20 feet away. Give the first
Scout in each patrol a rope. Then tell this story: “You CATCH TEN
are fleeing from cannibals and have reached the bank of Equipment: A ball; enough neckerchiefs for half of the
a wide river. Only one Scout in each patrol can swim. players to each have one
The rest of the patrol must be pulled across with the
help of a rope.” On signal, the first Scout in each patrol Procedure: Divide the group into two equal teams.
“swims” (runs) to the other “shore” (second chalk line) Identify all members of one team by tying neckerchiefs
and throws one end of the rope back across the “river” on their right arms. The ball starts in the hands of one
to the second Scout in line. The second Scout ties a team member, who tosses it to a teammate. The opposi-
bowline knot around his waist and is pulled across to tion tries to intercept the ball. As the first player catches
the other shore by the first Scout. Then the second the ball, he shouts “One!” and throws the ball to
Scout unties the rope, throws it to the next Scout in another teammate, who shouts “Two!” as he catches

36
the ball. This continues until the number 10 has been exchange continues until the center player misses. The
reached. If a player from the opposing team intercepts player who caused the center player to miss or fumble
the ball, he shouts “One!” and his team then tries to the ball changes places with him. All passes must be
reach ten. As teams intercept the ball, they must always accurate and in the shoulder-to-waist range. A miss
start over with the number one. caused by a bad pass does not count against the center
player.
Scoring: The first team to reach 10 is the winner.
Scoring: None—just for fun.
Active
Game Active
Half-troop teams Game
Half-troop teams
CATCH-THE-SNAPPER
Equipment: Four Scout staves, several lengths of cord, CHAIN-GANG RACE
and a mousetrap for each patrol Equipment: For each Scout, 61⁄2 feet of 1⁄4-inch-thick rope

Procedure: Form a “river” by drawing two parallel lines Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation at the
15 feet apart. The patrols line up on one “riverbank.” starting line. On signal, the first Scout in each patrol ties
On the opposite bank is a cocked mousetrap. The patrol his rope around his ankle with a bowline knot and
members use the lengths of cord to lash the four staves hands the other end to the second Scout. The second
into a long fishing pole, which they use to catch the Scout joins his rope to the first with a square knot, then
“snapper.” makes a clove hitch around his own ankle and hands
the other end to the third boy, who does the same.
Scoring: The first patrol to catch its snapper wins.
When all patrol members are joined in this way, they
Orienteering race to the finish line.
Informal
Scoring: The first patrol to cross the finish line with all
Patrol teams
knots tied correctly wins.
CATERPILLAR RACE Knots
Equipment: A chair for each patrol
CHECKERBOARD KIM’S GAME
Procedure: The patrol members line up in single file
Equipment: Large piece of cardboard marked into 16
behind the starting line. Put one chair for each patrol
squares, each square numbered and with an item on it,
about 25 feet from the starting line. The first Scout in
such as a key, pocketknife, nail, acorn, etc.
each patrol places his hands on the floor. Each of the
other Scouts bends down and grasps the ankle of the Procedure: Each patrol walks silently around the board
Scout in front of him. On signal, the patrols move for- of items. All of the items are then removed and put in a
ward, swing around the chair, and return to the starting pile. The patrol members walk around the board again.
line. The first Scout in each line must walk on his As each player passes, he replaces an item in the cor-
hands and feet throughout. If the line is broken, the rect square without talking. A player may use his turn
team must stop and re-form the line before continuing. to move an item he feels has been incorrectly placed.
They continue walking around the table until all of the
Scoring: The team to finish first wins.
squares are covered.
Game
Scoring: The patrol with the most items correctly
Parallel file
replaced wins.
Patrol teams
Game
CENTER MISS Informal
Equipment: Two basketballs or volleyballs Patrol teams

Procedure: Arrange the troop in a circle with one player CIRCLE PULL
in the center. One ball is given to the center Scout and
Equipment: Chalk
the other to one of the Scouts in the circle. On signal,
the circle player passes his ball to the center player just Procedure: Divide the troop into two equal teams. Draw
as he is passing his ball to another circle player. This a circle on the floor. One team of players is stationed

37
within the circle. The other team is scattered outside through the guarding team and switch on the lights
the circle. On signal, the players who are stationed out- within three minutes. If the commandos haven’t suc-
side try to pull the inside players so that their feet go ceeded in turning on the lights in that time, the guards
outside the circle. At the same time, the inside players win that round. If the lights are turned on, note the
try to pull their outside opponents so that their feet step number of minutes and seconds it took. After the
inside the circle. Once a player has been pulled in or round, change positions so that the commandos from
out of the circle, depending on which side he is on, he the first round become guards for the second. Each side
becomes a prisoner and is out of the game. Continue should develop a secret password so that team mem-
the game for two minutes and count each team’s pris- bers can be identified in the dark.
oners. Change sides and play a second round.
Scoring: Two runs constitute a round. The team that
Scoring: The team with the most prisoners wins. does the best job of guarding or getting the lights on
wins the round. Play as many rounds as desired.
Active
Fitness Facing lines
Patrol teams Game
Half-troop teams
CLOVE-HITCH RACE
Equipment: Set up a rack of three spars on six uprights. COMPASS FACING
Use clove hitches to tie a rope of sufficient length to the Procedure: The participants line up in open lines, an
spar in the middle. Drape the ends over the other spars. arm’s length apart sideways, front, and back. One wall
There should be one rope for each Scout. of the room is designated as north. On the signal,
“Northeast—go!” all turn to face what they believe to
Procedure: The Scouts line up at the ropes. On signal,
be northeast, and on the command, “Freeze!” they
each Scout grasps a rope end and ties a clove hitch
stand motionless. Those who are facing in an incorrect
around the spar. When all members of the patrol have
direction are out of the game. Continue with other com-
finished, the patrol gives its yell. The first patrol to yell,
pass directions: south, northwest, south-southeast,
with all hitches tied correctly, wins.
west-northwest, and so on.
CODE-O Scoring: Continue until one player is left—the troop
Equipment: For each player, two flash cards, each with compass “champion.”
25 different letters printed on it in five rows of five; for
Variation: Have those who are facing correctly go out
each patrol, a handful of beans or small pieces of paper;
of the game each time. This will give more training to
set of 26 cards, each with a different letter of the alpha-
the others, and leave you with a troop “champ-nit”
bet printed on it; a buzzer
at the end.
Procedure: Have the patrols in patrol corners. Give each
Note: For many other games involving compass,
Scout two flash cards. The leader shuffles the alphabet
maps, and orienteering, see The Basic Essentials of
cards, draws one, and, using the buzzer, sends the letter
Map and Compass.
on the card to the patrols in Morse code. Any Scout
who has this letter on one or both of his cards covers it Game
with a bean. The first Scout to get five beans in a row Individual
in any direction, including diagonally, is the winner. Single line
Variation: Instead of five in a row, use combinations
CONCENTRATION
such as four corners, a square in the center, etc.
This game is best played with about 16 to 20 Scouts. If
Game your troop is larger, two groups can play simultaneously.
Individual
Equipment: A list of simple words, a rubber ball
Quiet
Procedure: The Scouts sit in a circle. The leader throws
COMMANDO RAID the ball to a Scout in the circle and at the same time calls
Procedure: Divide the troop into two teams. Station one out a word from the list. The Scout who catches the ball
team near the room’s light switch and the other team at must spell the word backwards. The object of the game
the far end of the room. Turn out the lights. The team isn’t so much to test spelling as to test concentration.
farthest from the light switch, the commandos, must get
38
Scoring: None—just for fun. 25 to 30 feet away from the starting line. On signal, the
first Scout in each patrol lies on his back, raises his
Game
body up with his hands and feet, places the ball on his
Patrol corners
stomach, and proceeds to crawl in the “crab” position
Patrol teams
to the second line. If the ball rolls off his stomach, he
must stop and retrieve it before continuing. When he
CORNER BALL
has crossed the second line he runs back with the ball
This game is played by four patrols at a time. to the next patrol member, who assumes the crab
Equipment: Volleyball, chalk position and continues the relay.

Procedure: Mark four 8-foot squares on the floor. Each Scoring: The first patrol to finish the relay wins.
of the four patrols lines up with the first player in their Fitness
square. The player in square 1 serves the ball in volley- Half-troop teams
ball fashion so that it bounces in square 3; he then runs Vigorous
to the rear of his patrol’s line. The player in square 3
hits the ball on the first bounce to either square 2 or CRACK THE DEW LINE
square 4. The game continues with each player hitting
Equipment: Neckerchiefs for blindfolding one team
the ball so that it bounces into either of the two oppo-
site squares. He cannot return it to the square it came Procedure: Divide the troop into two teams—the
from. After each hit, the player goes to the end of his “aggressors” and the “DEW line.” The DEW (distant
patrol line, and the next in line becomes the player for early warning) line players are blindfolded and line up
his patrol. side by side with their feet spread apart and touching
each other’s. All DEW line players have two “depth
Scoring: Score 1 point against a patrol that fails to
charges”—their hands, which they hold at shoulder
return a shot properly. The patrol with the fewest
height. The aggressors try to penetrate the DEW line by
points wins.
crawling through. The DEW line players must eliminate
the aggressors by touching them with a depth charge. If
CRAB BALL
a DEW line player makes a hit, the aggressor is out and
Equipment: Basketball, volleyball, or similar large ball the DEW line player’s depth charge is still good. If he
Procedure: Set two goal lines about 40 feet apart. Divide misses, his depth charge is wasted and he must put that
the players into two teams, each team lining up on one hand on his knee. Limit the playing time to five minutes
goal line. The players sit on their goal line with their and then change teams.
arms extended backward, supporting their bodies off of Scoring: The team that gets the most members through
the floor. The ball is placed midway between the goals. the DEW line wins.
On signal, the players move toward the ball, staying in
the “crab” position, and try to kick the ball over the Facing lines
opposing goal line. Fouls include touching the ball with Patrol teams
the hands, leaving the crab position, and unnecessary
roughness. The penalty for a foul is a free kick for the CREATIVITY
opposition at the point of the foul. Equipment: For each patrol, a like supply of miscella-
neous materials such as Scout staves or saplings, lash-
Scoring: A team scores 1 point each time they kick the
ing cord, empty cans, and coat hangers
ball over the opposing goal. The first team to score 10
points wins. Procedure: Assign a project that involves using the
materials provided to create a device that does a spe-
Fitness
cific job. Here are a few sample creations: a device that
Half-troop teams
will weigh camp objects up to 50 pounds, a device to
Vigorous
signal a message by a concealed operator located at
least 10 feet from the device, or a device that will cata-
CRAB-CRAWL RELAY
pult a 25-pound weight at least 30 feet. The leader can
Equipment: One tennis ball for each patrol dream up additional creations as desired. Give the
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation at a patrols a time limit.
starting line. The leader marks a parallel line about

39
Scoring: Patrols are judged on ingenuity and how well Variation 2: Make as many circles as there are patrols.
their device meets the requirements of the job. Assign each patrol a circle. In the darkness, patrol mem-
bers must find their patrol’s circle.
Variation: Instead of assigning all of the patrols the
same project, assign a different one of similar skill level Circle
to each. This will eliminate one patrol copying the idea Game
of another. Patrol teams

Game CROWS AND CRANES

Patrol teams
Procedure: Divide the troop into two teams, lined up
Quiet
2 or 3 feet apart, facing each other in the center of a
room or cleared space. One team is called the “crows”
CROSSES IN THE CIRCLE
and the other the “cranes.” The leader calls out one of
Equipment: A piece of chalk for each patrol
these names, rolling the “r,” as “Cr-r-r-rows!” or
Procedure: Draw on the floor, 15 feet apart, as many “Cr-r-r-ranes!” All members of the team called must
6-foot-diameter circles as there are patrols. Assign each turn and run to a designated wall or line behind them.
patrol a circle, have the members stand inside it, and If a player is tagged by an opponent before reaching
give each patrol one piece of chalk. On signal, the the wall, he is captured and becomes a member of the
members of each patrol may leave their circle and try to other team. This is kept up until all players are on
draw as many chalk crosses within other patrol circles one team. The leader can add to the fun by giving
as possible, while at the same time protecting their own occasional false alarms—for example, “Cr-r-r-rabs!”
circle from others. or “Cr-r-r-rash!” Any player moving on a false alarm
is deemed caught and goes to the opposite side.
Rules:
Scoring: The last player captured wins.
1. The players may not erase crosses.
Variation: When a player violates the leader’s call, he
2. Chalk may not be broken and divided among play- drops out. The last remaining Scout earns 20 points for
ers, but it may be passed from one player to another. his team.
3. Set a time limit before starting the game. Game
Scoring: The patrol with the fewest crosses in its circle Informal
at the end of the game wins. Patrol teams

Fitness DEER STALKING

Half-troop teams Procedure: One player is selected as the “deer” and goes
Vigorous “grazing” in the woods. The rest try to get within 6
yards (or any suitable distance) without being seen. If
CROWDED CIRCLE the deer notices a tracker, he calls his name and points
Equipment: A piece of chalk in his direction. That player must move back 50 feet. If
Procedure: Draw a circle on the floor about 6 feet in the deer hears a tracker near him, he may “stampede,”
diameter. Have the players walk freely around the room. but not more than 30 feet (the tracker must remain in
Turn the lights off for 10 seconds. In the darkness, all place). The first player to get within the agreed distance
players must get inside the circle. When the lights go trades places with the deer.
back on, everyone must freeze on the spot. All players Variation: The deer is in a circle about 50 feet in diame-
found outside the circle are out of the game. The game ter. The players try to enter the circle unnoticed. If the
resumes with shorter darkness periods, if necessary, deer sees a player and calls his name, that player is out
until only one player remains in the circle. of the game. The patrol with the most players in the cir-
Scoring: The last player in the circle wins. cle within a certain time wins.

Variation 1: Instead of one circle, draw three circles on Game

the floor and number them. When the lights go out, Hike
announce which ring should be used. Patrol teams

40
DELIVER THE MESSAGE DIRECTION HUNT
This is an excellent wide game. (As with most wide Equipment: Eight (or more) tall stakes with pointers
games, this one requires about a half-mile-square that are pointing to distant landmarks or clearly identi-
territory.) fied objects (large tree, large rock, etc.); an orienteering
compass, a pencil, and paper for each participant
Equipment: One neckerchief for each player; a sheet of
paper (the “message”) for each patrol leader; whistle Procedure: Scouts from each patrol distribute them-
selves at the different stakes. They check each land-
Object: For each patrol to try to get a message to the
mark toward which the marker on the stake is pointing,
senior patrol leader or adult leader stationed in the cen-
set their compasses for the degree direction to the land-
ter of the playing area. At the same time, each patrol
mark, and write it down. The Scouts then move to the
tries to “capture” Scouts of other patrols by removing
next pointer and determine the next degree direction. At
the neckerchief tucked into their belts in the back.
the end of the specified time, each Scout turns his find-
Procedure: Station the leader in a 4-by-4-foot space in the ings over to the judge.
center of the playing area. He gives each patrol leader a
Scoring: The patrol with the most correct degree direc-
message and orders him to take his patrol a quarter mile
tions (within 10 degrees) within the time limit wins.
away. Each patrol goes in a different direction. When all
patrols are in place, each patrol leader gives the message Game
to one of his patrol members. The message may be Parallel file
passed to other members during the game. Patrol teams
The game starts with a whistle blast. All patrols start
toward the center, trying to help their patrol member DODGEBALL
who has the message reach the leader in the center Equipment: Volleyball
without being captured. At the same time, the boys try
to capture Scouts from other patrols. When a Scout is Procedure: Divide the Scouts into two teams. One team
captured, he is eliminated (or he may be sent back to forms a circle around the other team. The idea is for the
his patrol’s starting point to begin again). If the patrol outside team to tag the members of the inside team
member who has the message is captured, he must with the ball. Scouts drop out of the game when they
admit that he has it. are hit by the ball. After a given time, the teams switch
The game ends when all messages have either been positions.
captured or delivered safely to the leader in the center. Scoring: The team that has the most players inside the
Scoring: Score 10 points for each delivered message; circle at the end of the playing time wins.
5 points for each captured message; 2 points for each
DOUBLE DODGEBALL
captured Scout who does not have a message.
Equipment: Two inflated balls at least 6 inches
DIRECTION-FINDING RELAY in diameter
Equipment: For each patrol, one map with magnetic Procedure: Divide the playing area into three equal
north-south lines drawn on it, one orienteering com- parts. One team is divided into two groups. Half of the
pass, eight cards (each naming two towns or clearly team is positioned across one end of the playing area,
identifiable map features) the other half across the other end. The second team is
Procedure: The patrols line up near their map, compass, in the center section of the playing area. The balls are
and cards. On signal, the first Scout runs up, selects a given to the team halves at the ends. The end team
card, and determines the bearing from the first point on must throw the balls so as to tag any player in the cen-
the card to the second. He writes the bearing on the ter section below the waist. An end player may enter
card and hands it to the judge. He then runs back to tag the center area to retrieve a ball, but must carry it (not
the next Scout. Continue until all have raced. throw it) back to his end zone before it can be thrown
again at the center team. When a player in the center
Scoring: Score 10 points for each bearing within 5 degrees gets tagged, he joins the end team and continues play-
of accuracy; 5 points for bearings within 10 degrees. ing by trying to tag his former teammates. When all
center players have been tagged, those who started in
Orienteering
the center become end players and the original end
Patrol buddy teams
players move into the center.
Quiet

41
Scoring: None—just for fun and alertness. FIRE BUCKET RELAY
Fitness Equipment: For each patrol, a fire bucket full of water
Patrol teams Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. There
Vigorous is a bucket full of water about 50 feet in front of each
patrol. On signal, the first Scout in each patrol runs up,
EDIBLE PLANTS WHO’S WHO grabs the bucket, and brings it back to the next person
Equipment: Twenty (or more) edible plants, each in a in line. The second Scout runs and places the bucket in
numbered No. 10 can; a card at each plant that gives the its original place, and comes back to send off the third,
name of the plant and the part that is edible (for who copies the first, and so on until each boy has had
instance, “Cattail: pollen for flour, shoot for greens, root a turn.
(rhizome) for starch”); pencil and paper for each player
Scoring: The first patrol to finish without losing more
Procedure: The patrol members walk silently around the than 1 inch of water wins.
cans as they read the descriptive cards and try to learn
about the plants and their edible parts. All of the identi- Variation: The first player on each team runs and gets
fying cards are removed. The patrol again walks around the bucket and passes it down one side of the team and
the cans. The Scouts try to identify and list all the plants up the other, the next player takes it back to its place,
and their edible parts. Each patrol goes into a huddle returns to send off the third, and so on.
and makes a list of plant names and edible parts. Active
Scoring: Score 5 points for each plant correctly identified. Fitness
Half-troop teams
Informal
Nature FIRST-AID BASEBALL
Patrol teams Equipment: Ten numbered cards (1 through 10), list of
questions based on Second and First Class first-aid
FAMOUS VISITORS requirements, piece of chalk
Procedure: The patrols assemble in patrol corners, and
are informed that they will receive a famous visitor Rules:
shortly. They try to figure out his identity by asking him 1. Card 2 is a double.
questions. The famous visitor will be able to under-
stand English but unable to speak it very well, and can 2. Card 6 is a triple.
answer only yes-or-no questions. The game leader 3. Card 10 is a home run.
assigns a famous identity to each patrol leader; for
instance, Christopher Columbus, George Washington, 4. All other cards are singles.
and Abraham Lincoln. The patrol leaders go to patrol
Procedure: Draw a miniature baseball diamond on the
corners, and the patrols begin questioning.
floor with chalk. Line up one team (patrol) behind
Scoring: The first patrol to correctly identify the visitor home plate. The “umpire” (game leader) holds the
scores 1 point. After a set number of rounds, the patrol cards in his hands. In turn, each Scout tries to answer a
with the most points wins. question given to him by the umpire. If the Scout gives
the correct answer, he draws a card. He scores whatever
Variation: Twenty Questions. The patrol tries to deter- hit is indicated on the card and becomes a base runner
mine the identity of an object by questioning the patrol as in regular baseball. If he does not answer the ques-
leader. The Scouts are told only whether it is animal, tion correctly, he is out. After three outs, the next patrol
vegetable, or mineral. They may ask only 20 yes-or-no comes to bat.
questions.
Scoring: The patrol with the most runs after two innings
Game is the winner.
Individual
Informal First Aid
Patrol teams Game
Patrol teams
Informal

42
FIRST-AID KIM’S GAME of his left elbow into which dirt and sand are ground.
Equipment: Blanket or tarp; collection of 10 or more His left wrist is swollen and painful.
first-aid items, such as gauze pads, bandages, splints, Problem F: A woman is pinned under a pickup truck
adhesive tape, absorbent cotton, soap, scissors, twee- that has overturned at the side of the road. When she is
zers, sunburn ointment, snakebite kit, calamine lotion, released, it is found that she has a cut over her right eye
thermometer, etc.; 10 or more items not used in first aid, and is spurting blood. Her right ankle is very painful
such as a ball, paper clip, Scoutmaster Handbook, pen- and swelling rapidly.
cil, penny, photo, shoe, glove, hand ax, toothpaste, etc.
Problem G: On an extremely hot day, several boys are
Procedure: Spread all items on the floor and cover them sitting on a fence in front of their high school, watching
with the blanket or tarp. Group the patrols around the a parade. One of the boys falls to the ground. His face is
blanket, then remove the cover for exactly one minute. hot, dry, and flushed, and his pulse is exceptionally
Afterward, the patrols huddle separately and write rapid. His left ear is torn and bleeding profusely.
down all first-aid items they can remember.
Problem H: On a very cold day, an unconscious man is
Scoring: The patrol with the most complete list wins. found lying behind a train shed. It is evident that he
Deduct 1 point for each non-first-aid item listed. slipped on the railway track and struck his head. There
is a gash running five inches from the front to the back
FIRST-AID PROBLEMS
of his head and it is bleeding profusely. The skin on his
These problems can be used for individual or patrol face is very cold, and his ears are pale.
competition.
First Aid
Procedure: Scouts or patrols should give a correct Informal
answer for each problem. Parallel file
Scoring: The Scout or patrol that gets a correct answer Patrol teams
gets 1 point. The individual or patrol with the highest
score wins. FISHNET
Pick three Scouts to be the “fishermen,” who catch the
Problem A: A boy zigzagging on a bicycle is hit by a car. other Scouts. When caught, the Scouts become the
He receives a cut on his left forearm that severs an “fishnet” by joining hands. The Scouts at the ends of
artery. He also sustains a simple fracture of his right leg. the fishnet line try to catch players by tagging them. If
Problem B: A driver is speeding along a country road the fishnet line breaks, it must be re-formed before any-
when one of his tires blows out. The car crashes into a one else can be caught. Players can charge the line to
pole. The driver receives a simple fracture of the right break it or slip through it. When all are caught, start the
forearm and a gash on his right shoulder, causing game over.
arterial bleeding.
FITNESS MEDLEY RELAY
Problem C: While on a hike, a Scout patrol finds an Equipment: For each patrol, a used tire casing, two
electrical repairman lying at the bottom of a transformer gunnysacks, and eight triangular bandages or Scout
pole. He is not breathing and has burns on both hands. neckerchiefs
Problem D: While swimming in a country pond, one Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation, in
boy jumps from a rock ledge and does not come back pairs. On signal, all pairs tie their inside legs together at
up to the surface. The other boys notice he is gone, the ankles and above the knees using a triangular ban-
jump in, and pull him out. He is not breathing and has dage or Scout neckerchief. The first pair races around a
a gash on his forehead that is bleeding profusely. turning point about 50 feet in front of the patrol. As
Note: For problems C and D, each Scout must show soon as the pair returns to the start, the second pair
how to get the victim into the correct position for races. When four pairs have raced and have untied their
rescue breathing, without giving actual mouth-to- legs, the first Scout steps into a gunnysack with both
mouth resuscitation. feet and hops around the turning point and back.
Repeat until eight Scouts have hopped around the
Problem E: A boy is riding his bicycle when a dog bites course. Then each Scout in the patrol, in turn, rolls the
him on the right ankle. The boy swerves to get away, tire around the turning point and back to the start.
and falls heavily on the road. He lacerates a large area When eight Scouts have rolled the tire, the event is

43
finished. If there are fewer than eight in a patrol, some FLAPJACK-FLIPPING RELAY
Scouts will have to run the relay more than once. Equipment: For each patrol, a frying pan and a linoleum
Scoring: The first patrol to complete the three parts of “flapjack” with a white “X” painted on one side
the medley wins. Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. Pans
Fitness and flapjacks are at a line 20 feet in front of the patrols.
Patrol teams On signal, the first Scout from each patrol runs to the
Relay line and flips his flapjack. Then he runs back, touches
off the next Scout, and so on until all have run.
FLAG-FOLDING DISPLAY Scoring: Award 1 point for each flapjack thrown into the
Equipment: A United States flag for each patrol air, turned over, and caught properly. Deduct 1 point if
the flapjack hits the side of the pan, falls on the floor, or
Procedure: Line up the patrols in relay formation. Place
does not turn over. Give 5 points to the first patrol to
a table or a chair with a folded flag on it about 40 feet
finish with all flapjacks correctly flipped. The patrol
in front of each patrol. On signal, the first two Scouts in
with the most points wins.
each patrol run to the flag, unfold it completely, refold
it, place it back on the table or chair, and return to their Fitness
patrol to tag the next pair in line. They repeat the proce- Patrol teams
dure until all pairs have run. The flag may not touch Vigorous
the ground at any time. If it does, the patrol will
be disqualified. FLYING DISK GOLF
Scoring: Give 100 points to the first patrol to complete Set up a flying disk golf course outdoors or in a large
the run, 80 points to the second patrol, and 60 points to room. Use your imagination to develop the hazards. Use
the third patrol. Deduct 10 points for each flag that is waste cans or boxes as the holes, number them one
folded incorrectly. through nine, and let the players work their way
through the course. You might want to establish par for
Variation: Instead of unfolding and folding, have the each hole, depending on the degree of difficulty.
patrols display the flag for various prearranged occasions.
FLYING DISK SETBACK
Game
This requires an outdoor area about half the size of a
Informal
football field. It doesn’t have to be completely cleared;
Whole troop
trees can add to the fun of the game. Set goal lines and
FLAGPOLE RAISING sideline boundaries. Divide the group into two teams,
facing each other. The object is to get the flying disk
Equipment: For each patrol, five Scout staves, one
over the other team’s goal line. Teammates take turns
patrol flag, eight pieces of sash cord, three wooden
throwing the disk. It is considered dead at the point
stakes, one mallet for driving stakes, and three guylines
where the other team catches it or stops it, and that is
about 18 feet long
where the other team throws it back. If the disk is
Procedure: The patrols line up, each with four Scout caught in the air by the other team, it is worth five steps,
staves and their patrol flag attached to the fifth stave. which may be used immediately or banked for future
On signal, the Scouts use the sash cord to lash the five use. If the disk crosses the goal line, banked steps may
staves together with four double lashings, omitting frap- be used to bring it back onto the playing field.
pings. Next, they attach the three guylines about two-
thirds of the way to the top, raise the pole, and stake FOAMBALL DODGEBALL
down the guylines so that the pole stands vertically. Designate a playing area and choose one person to be
When finished, the patrol forms a single line at the base “It,” who tries to eliminate players by hitting them with
of the pole and stands at attention. a large foam ball. He cannot run with the ball; he can
only pivot where he stands. A player who is hit must sit
Scoring: The first patrol finished wins. Give extra points
down where he was hit, with his legs crossed. He is out
for the tallest pole.
of the game unless he can intercept the ball from where
Game he sits. Then he is back in the game and becomes the
Informal new It. Players who have not been hit can move around
Patrol teams at will. For added confusion, add a second ball.

44
FOAMBALL SOCCER Candle Race. Each Scout runs to the goal line and
Divide the group into two teams and play soccer back with a lit candle and a box of matches. If the
using a foam ball. If it is a large group, put two balls candle goes out, the Scout must stop and relight it
into play at the same time. You might need one team to before proceeding.
roll up a pants leg or wear a cap to distinguish between Bag-Breaking Relay. Each Scout runs to the goal line,
the teams. blows up a paper bag, bursts it, and runs back.

FOUR-HANDED SEAT CARRY RELAY Happy Hooligan. Each Scout walks rapidly to the goal
Equipment: One turnaround post line and back again with a paper cup balanced on his
forehead.
Procedure: The Scouts line up in relay formation at the For more games along these lines, see G. S. Ripley’s
starting line, facing a single turnaround post located 30 Book of Games.
feet away. On signal, each patrol’s Scouts 1 and 2 carry
Scout 3 with a four-handed seat carry (for a conscious Fitness
patient) up to and around the turnaround post, then Individual
back to the starting line. Scout 3 will then join with Active
Scout 4 to carry Scout 5 around the course. Then Scout
5 will join Scout 6 to carry Scout 7 around the course, FUZZ-STICK RELAY
and finally Scout 7 will join with Scout 8 to carry Scout Equipment: For each patrol, one sharp knife and one
1 around the course. If at any time a “victim” touches stick of dry softwood about 1⁄2-by-1-by-9 inches
the ground, the Scouts transporting this victim must
Procedure: Each patrol lines up in relay formation oppo-
stop, re-form their carry, and then continue.
site the equipment. On signal, the first Scout runs up
Scoring: The first patrol to make the full circuit with the and cuts one sliver on the stick, lays the knife down,
four victims is the winner. and runs back to tag the next Scout, and so on. Slivers
should be at least 3 inches long. Twenty slivers, all
First Aid attached, complete the fuzz stick.
Informal
Patrol teams Scoring: The first patrol to finish scores 10 points. The
best fuzz stick scores 30 points, the next best scores
FOUR-WAY TUG-OF-WAR 15 points.
Equipment: About 100 feet of 1⁄4-inch or thicker rope,
Variation 1: The players each cut three or four slivers
chalk or rags for marking the rope
instead of just one.
Procedure: Mark a spot in the center of the playing area.
Variation 2: To vary the scoring, deduct 5 points for
Tie the ends of the rope together to make a circle, then
each sliver that is cut off the fuzz stick and see how
divide the rope into four equal segments marked by
many patrols end up “in the red.”
chalk or tied with rags. Lay the rope in a rectangle
shape with the marked spot directly in the center. Have Game
equal-size patrols line up along each of the four sides. Parallel file
On signal, the Scouts grasp the rope and try to pull the Patrol teams
other patrols toward them. The winning patrol is the
one that has made the most backward progress after a GET ’IM UP!
specified time. Equipment: For each patrol, three Scout staves or poles,
one 8-foot length of lashing rope, and one 10-foot length
FUN FIELD DAY of rope
Choose five or six relay games, stir up excitement
Procedure: On signal, each patrol lashes the poles
among the patrols, and conduct the games, giving liberal
together with a tripod lashing, ties a bowline knot in
scores: first place, 100 points; second place, 50 points;
the shorter rope, and passes the running (or free) end
third place, 25 points. Each patrol uses eight runners for
of the rope over the top of the tripod. One Scout stands
each game. A few relay games are listed below:
in the loop, grasps the free end of the rope, and is lifted
Initiative Relay. Each Scout runs in his own way, and up. (On a slippery surface, Scouts might need to steady
no method can be repeated within the patrol: forward, the staves.)
backward, hopping on both feet, on one foot, etc.

45
Scoring: The first patrol to get a Scout in the loop with GRAND PRIX GAME
his weight fully supported by the tripod wins. Equipment: String or chalk; a can and a broomstick
Game handle or long dowel for each patrol
Patrol teams Procedure: With the string or chalk, mark a large figure
Quiet eight on the ground or floor—the bigger the better.
Then mark a starting point for each patrol at intervals
GET THE MESSAGE around the figure eight.
Equipment: Signal flag and secret message of 30 letters The patrols line up at their starting point. On signal,
for each patrol, paper and pencil for each Scout the first player in each patrol starts sliding the can
around the outside of the figure eight with the broom-
Procedure: Each patrol has one signaler and one dicta-
stick handle.
tor. These two players are sent 100 yards or more away
(All patrols move in the same direction.) When
from the rest of the patrol and given a secret message to
the first player gets back to his patrol, the second one
send with the signal flag. The rest of the patrol mem-
starts, and so on until all have run. To make sure no
bers are the receivers. When the message is sent, each
one cuts corners, place boxes inside the curve at
receiver writes the message on his paper. There must be
each end.
no communication between receivers in the patrol. The
signaler may not repeat the message, but he may send it Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.
slowly enough to be understood by all his patrol mem-
bers. The patrol leader collects the slips for the judge. Game
Patrol teams
Scoring: All correct letters recorded by the receivers are Quiet
added together, then divided by the number of receivers
to get the patrol average. The patrol with the highest GRANNY’S FOOTSTEPS
average wins. Procedure: Assemble the troop in a single line. To start
Variation: This same game could be played at night the game, a leader acts as “Granny.” Granny stands 20
using flashlights and Morse code, or during the daytime yards in front, with his back toward the troop. The
using mirrors. Scouts try to sneak up on Granny without being seen.
Granny counts to himself from one to any number up to
Game 30. At any point he wishes, he turns around and tries to
Parallel file catch someone moving. A Scout caught by Granny starts
Patrol teams over. If caught three times, a Scout is out of the game.

GETTING YOUR BEARINGS Scoring: The first Scout to touch Granny wins.
Equipment: Topographic map (the master map); com- Variation: Pandemonium’s Footsteps. A leader with a
passes; for each Scout, paper, a pencil, and a photocopy whistle stands with his back to the troop. The Scouts go
of a section of the master map hopping and bouncing around the room. When the
whistle is blown, they must freeze on the spot. Any
Procedure: On signal, the first Scout in each patrol runs
motion detected puts the offender out of the game.
to the master map. The leader names or points to two
Continue until all but one are eliminated.
locations or features on the master map (buildings, rock
outcroppings, hilltops, bridges, etc.). The Scout takes a Game
bearing from one to the other, draws the route on his Individual
photocopied map section, and writes the bearing on it. Informal
He then runs back to tag the next patrol member.
GRASSHOPPER RACE
Scoring: The winning patrol is the one with the most
compass bearings correct within 5 degrees. This is not a Equipment: A Scout hat, ball, or other small object
speed contest; however, if two patrols have identical Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. The
scores, the faster one wins. game leader marks a turning line 25 feet in front of the
Active patrols. The first “grasshopper” in each patrol grasps
Game the Scout hat or other small object between his knees.
Half-patrol teams On signal, he hops up to the turning line and back to

46
his patrol, hands the object to the next grasshopper, and son, slap their knees on the first count, clap their hands
so on. If the object is dropped along the way, the grass- on the second count, and snap their fingers on the third
hopper must retrieve it and put it back between his count. Once the rhythm is set, the first player calls a
knees before proceeding. number at the instant he snaps his fingers. Keeping up
the rhythm, the player whose number has been called
Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.
waits until the instant of snapping his fingers to call
Variation: Seal Race. The “seals” line up in relay forma- another number. A player who calls a number too
tion. The first seal grasps the object between his knees soon or too late, doesn’t call any number, or calls a
and then balances a book on his head. On signal, the nonexistent number—all of which happen frequently—
seal hops or walks (or uses any mode he wants) to the loses his number, goes to the end of the line, and
turning line and back to tag the next seal. starts again with the bottom number, while the others
move up a number. The object is to get to be number
Game
one and stay there.
Informal
Various formations Variation: Instead of calling a number, the first player
says a word as he snaps his fingers. The player next in
GREASED WATERMELON line must say a word that will logically follow the first
Equipment: One medium-size watermelon, greased with word in forming a sentence, and so on around the
shortening circle. The object is to say a word that will complete
a sentence.
Procedure: Divide the Scouts into two teams and station
them in the water 25 feet apart. Float a watermelon Game
halfway between the teams. On signal, each team tries
to bring the watermelon back to its own line. HOCKEY STEAL-THE-BACON
Equipment: Two Scout staves or 5-foot poles, a beanbag
Scoring: The team that brings the watermelon back to
(the “bacon”)
its own line wins.
Procedure: This game is a variation of “Steal-the-Bacon.”
Game
In this game, however, the bacon is a beanbag. Divide
Half-troop teams
the group into two teams and have them line up facing
Informal
each other. Each team counts off with the same set of
HAUNTED HOUSE numbers, so that each player will share a number with a
player from the other team. When the leader calls a
Equipment: Blanket hung up as a curtain, miscella-
number, the players from both teams who share that
neous items for making sounds
number grab their team’s stave, race to the bacon, and
Procedure: The patrols are seated in front of the curtain. try to sweep it back to their goal line.
Behind the curtain are two boys who produce various
Scoring: Award 1 point for each goal.
sounds for the Scouts to recognize and remember, such
as turning the pages of a book, crumpling a cellophane Game
wrapper, breaking a stick, striking a match, hammering Informal
a nail, and so on. After the demonstration, the patrols Patrol teams
return to their corners to make a list of the noises
they heard. HOPPING THE GAUNTLET
Scoring: Award 3 points for each sound correctly listed. Procedure: Half the troop lines up at one end of the
The patrol with the most points wins. room and the other half is out in the middle. The lined-
up players try to hop on one foot from one end of the
Game room to the other. They must firmly hold the leg not
Parallel file being used with one hand. The players in the center
Patrol teams must also hold up one leg; they try to prevent their
opponents from crossing the room by shoulder charging
HAWAIIAN HANDCLAP (no hands), trying to knock them off balance. If a player
The players sit in a circle or a line, and count off. from either side touches the ground with the foot he’s
Establish a 1-2-3 rhythm by having all players, in uni- been holding up, he must join the other team.

47
Scoring: None—just for fun. Obviously the team with HOT OR COLD
the most players at the end of the game has done the Procedure: Select a patrol representative as “It.” It leaves
better job; however, since players change sides fre- the room or playing area. During his absence, the group
quently, team identity cannot be maintained. designates an object for It to identify on his return—it
can be anything, from someone’s button or neckerchief
Patrol teams
slide to a nearby tree. When It returns, the group starts
Relay
chanting “cold” or “hot” depending on how close It
comes to the object. The closer he gets to the object,
HORSE AND RIDER
the “hotter” he is; the farther away he gets, the “colder”
Procedure: The troop is divided into two equal teams. he is. When he is right on top of the object or touches
The Scouts pair up and get into horse-and-rider position it, the group cries “Fire!” Then the next It is selected
(piggyback). The teams stand behind lines 20 feet and sent out to try his luck, and so on until every patrol
apart, facing each other. On signal, the “horses” try to member has been It.
reach the opposite goal without losing their “riders.” At
the same time, the riders try to unseat their opponents. Scoring: Set a limit of two minutes and give 1 point to
each It who finds the object within the time limit.
Scoring: When a rider falls, both he and his horse are
out of the game. The team that has the most horse-and- HULA HOOP HORSESHOES
rider pairs to reach the opposite line is the winner. Use hula hoops as targets and sand-filled socks as
horseshoes, and play regulation “Horseshoes” rules. A
Patrol teams
sock inside the hoop is a ringer. It is safer than regular
HOT ISOTOPE TRANSPORT “Horseshoes,” and can be played indoors.

Equipment: A log, 6 to 8 inches in diameter and

HUMAN CHAIN RACE
10 inches long (the “radioactive isotope container”);
Procedure: The patrols line up at the starting line, one
a length of rope to mark a 20-foot circle; a 2- or
Scout behind another. Each Scout leans forward,
3-inch-wide rubber band cut from an inner tube
reaches between his legs with his right hand, and
(the “transporter”); several lengths of rope (tied to
grasps the left hand of the player behind him, thus
the rubber band)
forming a patrol chain. On signal, the patrol chains race
Object: To pick up the radioactive isotope container to a turning point and back. If the chain breaks, the
with the transporter, lift it out of the circle, and place it patrol must stop and re-form it before continuing.
on the ground outside of the circle Scoring: The patrol to finish first with the chain
Procedure: Set the radioactive isotope container in the intact wins.
center of the rope circle. Have each patrol, in turn, line Patrol teams
up around the circle. Each Scout grasps a rope. Under Relay
the patrol leader’s guidance, the Scouts pull the rope to
stretch the rubber band, then bring the expanded band HUMAN OBSTACLE RACE
down over the container, relax the band to fit tightly Equipment: Stopwatch or a watch with a second hand
around the container, then lift and deposit the container
upright outside of the circle. Procedure: This is a series of races in which patrol mem-
bers form obstacles for the runner, who is one of their
Scoring: The patrol that completes the task in the teammates. (One runner from each patrol competes at a
shortest time wins. time.) First race—The patrol members stand side by
side in a straight line about 5 feet apart and clasp hands.
Variation: Instead of having only one container, have
The runner must zigzag through the chain, going under
several containers. The patrol to transport out the most
each pair of hands. Second race—The patrol members
containers in a given time wins.
get down on their hands and knees; the runner hurdles
Informal the patrol members one at a time. Third race—The
Knots patrol members stand in a line with their feet spread
Patrol teams apart; the runner scrambles under each pair of legs.

48
Scoring: Award 1 point per heat for the runner with the Variation: Drowning Accident. Announce that a Scout
fastest time; when all Scouts have raced, the patrol with has fallen into the water. Each patrol is to rescue the
the highest score wins. “victim” and render first aid. Observe the same rules as
for “Ice Accident.”
Active
Game Circle
Patrol teams Game
Whole troop
HUNTER, GUN, OR RABBIT
Procedure: Two patrols compete in each round. The INDIAN ARM WRESTLING
patrols are seated in a circle, preferably around a camp- Procedure: Two Scouts face each other across a table.
fire. Before the round, each patrol secretly decides Each places his right elbow on the table in front of him
whether it will be the “hunter” (all standing with their and grasps the hand of his opponent. On signal, each
hands on their hips), the “gun” (pantomiming aiming a Scout presses to the left in an attempt to make his
gun), or the “rabbit” (making long “ears” with their opponent’s knuckles touch the table or to make his
hands at their heads). On signal, each patrol instantly elbow leave the table. The Scouts are not permitted to
strikes the pose they secretly selected. use any other parts of their bodies.

Scoring: The gun defeats the rabbit, the rabbit defeats Scoring: The first Scout to make his opponent’s
the hunter, and the hunter defeats the gun. For exam- knuckles touch or his elbow rise scores 1 point. Two
ple, one patrol strikes the pose of hunter, while the out of three wins the game.
other poses as the gun. This would score for the hunt-
Variation: Indian Thumb Wrestling. The Scouts place
ers. Had the second team selected rabbit, it would have
their fists on the table with their thumbs up and their
won, since the rabbit defeats the hunter. If both patrols
knuckles touching each other’s. They link their thumbs
pick the same pose, repeat the round. The losing patrol
together, then each Scout tries to twist first so that his
is replaced after each round by a new patrol.
opponent’s fist is raised off the table. Two out of three
Game wins the game.
Informal
Game
Patrol representatives
Informal
ICE ACCIDENT Patrol representatives
Equipment: For each patrol, a 10-foot rope, a stave or
INDIAN HAND WRESTLING
broomstick handle, and a blanket
Procedure: Two Scouts stand facing each other. Each
Procedure: Casually arrange the equipment in a corner of them places the outside of his right foot against the
of the room so that it’s ready for use, but don’t draw outside of the other Scout’s right foot. Both Scouts
attention to it. Have each patrol place a Scout “victim” brace themselves by placing their left foot behind them,
in a prone position at the opposite end of the room. then grasp right hands and try to throw each other
Announce that these victims have broken through the off balance.
ice and that it is up to each patrol to rescue its victim Scoring: The first to succeed in making the other person
and to render first aid. move a foot or lose his balance wins. Run the contest
Note the following: for the best two out of three tries.
s 7HETHER OR NOT ROPES AND STAVES ARE NOTICED
INDIAN LEG WRESTLING
and used
Equipment: Blanket, if desired
s 7HETHER OR NOT ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION IS GIVEN
s 7HETHER OR NOT THE VICTIM IS WARMED BY THE BLANKET Procedure: After a formal challenge, or elimination con-
and treated for shock tests within the patrols, two patrol representatives lie
down on a blanket, side by side, flat on their backs with
s 7HETHER OR NOT MEDICAL HELP IS SUMMONED their legs pointing in opposite directions. On the signal,
Scoring: The patrol with the best performance and “One,” each contestant raises his inside leg to a vertical
time wins. position. On “Two,” the action is repeated, and on

49
“Three,” each tries to lock legs with his opponent and Scoring: The first patrol to cross the finish line is
twist him over. the winner.

Scoring: The first Scout to twist his opponent over two Fitness
out of three times is the winner. If both players are Patrol teams
twisted over simultaneously it is a tie. As in all duel con-
tests, the winner should be promptly challenged in a IZZY-DIZZY RELAY
more or less formal manner by someone else until (1) a Procedure: In turn, each member of the patrol runs to a
troop champion is found, (2) one Scout has been the designated turning point, touches one finger to the
winner three times in succession, (3) a certain number of ground or floor, walks around his finger six times, then
rounds have been played, or (4) a set time has elapsed. runs back to tag the next Scout.
Game Caution: Beware of falls! It’s a good idea to assign
Informal each patrol a spotter to run alongside each Scout for a
Patrol representatives few yards after he finishes revolving and break his fall
if he topples.
INFILTRATION
This is a nighttime wide game that is best played on a Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.
field about 300 feet long and 100 feet wide, preferably Game
with some cover.
JUMP THE SHOT
Procedure: Divide the troop into two teams, and have
one team tie white handkerchiefs around their arms. Equipment: Soft weight, such as a rolled-up cloth or
Post one team at each end of the field. At each goal sandbag, tied to the end of a rope at least 10 feet long
line, have an adult leader as umpire and scorekeeper. Procedure: Have the players form a wide circle. The
Two adult leaders or junior leaders are the “sentries,” leader in the center swings the rope around inside the
who pace back and forth across the center of the field circle to get it going in a steady, circular motion. Then
with flashlights. the rope is swung wider, around the circle below the
On signal, both teams begin advancing toward the knees of players, who must “jump the shot.”
opposite goal line. Their objective, as the “infiltrators,”
is to get to the other goal line without being spotted by Scoring: Any player who is hit by the rope or weight
the sentries. They may walk, crawl, or run. If a sentry drops out. The last player in the game is the winner.
shines a flashlight on an infiltrator, that player must go
Scoring variation: Each patrol begins with 50 points.
back to his starting line and wait five minutes before
When a player fails to “jump the shot,” 5 points are
resuming play.
deducted from the patrol score. All players remain in
Scoring: Score 1 point for each infiltrator who makes it the circle. The game is continued until one of the
safely to the other goal line within a specified time. patrols is “in the red.”

Fitness
ISLAND HOPPING
Three-player teams
Equipment: Two sheets of 8 1⁄2-by-11-inch paper for each
patrol member; one extra sheet of paper KICK BRIDGE
Procedure: Place the sheets of papers in a single line on Equipment: Two 12-foot spars, two (or four) 20-foot
the floor, perpendicular to the finish line. Each patrol guylines, one 6-foot rope, one 20-foot recovery line
member stands on two of the sheets, facing the finish
Procedure: The patrol members tie the guylines to the
line. One sheet should be left unused at the rear of the
top of one spar and stand it up. Then they tie the
patrol line. On signal, the extra sheet of paper is passed
upright and horizontal spars together with the 6-foot
up the line from the last player to the first, who places
rope, using clove hitches, so that the horizontal spar
the sheet down in front of him and steps onto it with
hangs loose. The recovery line is tied to the free end of
his rear foot. Each Scout in line advances by moving his
the horizontal spar. Two (or four) Scouts support the
rear foot to the newly vacated sheet ahead of him. The
guylines. The first Scout runs to the upright, swings on
remaining empty sheet is passed forward and the pro-
the horizontal spar across the “stream,” and gets off.
cess is repeated. If a Scout steps off a sheet of paper, the
The horizontal spar is swung back for the next Scout,
entire patrol must move back and start over.

50
and so on. The guylines are eventually brought to the KNOT TRAIL (KNOT KIM’S GAME)
opposite side. Equipment: Several pieces of rope of varying thicknesses
Scoring: The first patrol to get all Scouts across the Procedure: Tie the ropes together, using different knots
stream in the shortest time wins. Add 30 seconds for (square, sheet bend, bowline, two half hitches, taut-line
each Scout who falls into the “water.” hitch). Tie one end of the rope to a tree using a clove
hitch, the other end to another tree using a taut-line
Informal
hitch. Each patrol is told to walk along the rope from tree
Knots
to tree and back again, silently, to view and memorize
Patrol teams
the knots (for approximately two minutes). The patrols
then huddle to come up with a list of the knots (includ-
KIM’S GAME
ing the knots around the trees) in the correct order.
Equipment: Twenty or 30 assorted items, a large cloth
or neckerchief, paper and pencils for each patrol Scoring: The patrol with the best list wins.

Procedure: Spread the items out and cover them with Trick question for extra points: How many ropes
the cloth or neckerchief. Gather the patrols around. Lift were used?
the cloth and allow the patrols to study the items for
Game
one minute. Cover the items after the minute is up and
Informal
have the patrol members list them on a slip of paper.
Patrol teams
Scoring: Award 1 point for each correct item listed. The
patrol with the most correct items listed is the winner. KNOT-TYING RELAY
Equipment: One 6 1⁄2-foot rope per patrol; Scout staff
Variation: Up-and-Down Kim’s Game. Tie the items or long stick
along a length of rope. Throw one end of the rope over a
tree limb. The items are hanging down out of sight in a Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation with
pack or an ice cooler. The game leader pulls the rope, the first Scout about 10 feet from the staff, which is held
revealing the items for one minute, then lowers them horizontally 30 inches off the ground. On the signal,
again. The patrols must list the items in the correct order. “Bowline (or other knot), go!” the first Scout runs up,
rope in hand, ties the rope to the staff with a bowline,
Game has it approved by the judge, unties it, runs back, and
Informal gives the rope to the next Scout, who repeats the proce-
Patrol teams dure, and so on until all players have tied a knot.

KNOT HOOP RELAY Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.

Equipment: One 6-foot piece of rope for each patrol Note: For the square knot, sheet bend, and fisherman’s
Procedure: On signal, the first Scout ties the rope into a knot, join the ends of the rope with a taut knot with the
loop with a square knot (or a sheet bend, fisherman’s staff running through the loop. For the clove hitch, tie
two half hitches and a timber hitch, tie the rope to a
knot, or other joining knot) and passes it over his head
staff, and pull taut. For the taut-line hitch and bowline,
and down his body. He steps out of the loop, unties the
tie the knots so that the staff runs through the loop.
knot, and passes the rope to the next Scout, who
repeats the procedure, and so on down the line. Knots
Parallel file
Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins. If patrols aren’t
Patrol teams
of equal size, announce a specific number of knots to
be tied. This will mean that one or more Scouts might
KNOTTY-SILENT BALL
have to tie two knots apiece.
Equipment: A foamball, two pieces of rope, two broom-
Variation: Instead of rope, use pieces of wool yarn. If stick handles, and a Boy Scout Handbook
the yarn loop breaks, it must be tied again and the loop
Procedure: Form the Scouts in a circle. The game must
made smaller, therefore more difficult to get through.
be played in total silence. One by one, the boys toss the
Facing lines ball to anyone in the circle except to the boys beside
Knots him. If a boy misses the ball, he must go to the center
Patrol teams of the circle and tie a knot. The knot is chosen by the
51
senior patrol leader (who chooses a knot that the boy holds up a leaf, identifies it, and scores as above. If a
needs to learn). The game continues around the boy team incorrectly identifies the leaf it holds up, it scores
tying the knot. Once the knot is tied correctly, he nothing, but the other team can score 10 points if it has
returns to the game. If the boy in the center is hit, the a matching leaf and corrects the mistake. If a team can-
boy who threw the ball goes to the center. Any throw not match the opposing team’s leaf, it misses a turn and
that is too hard or that hits below the knees also means the opponent holds up another leaf for matching.
a trip to the center.
Informal
Any boy who goes to the center two times must drop
Nature
out of the game. Remember, this is played in total silence.
Patrol teams
Scoring: The last player in the game is the winner.
THE LEAKING BACKPACK
Variation: Substitute other skills in place of knot tying.
Equipment: Various pieces of camping equipment that
could have been lost from a camping or hiking pack
LADDER RELAY
(flashlight, toothbrush, soap, toothpaste, sock, spoon,
Equipment: For each patrol, six lashing ropes, two
comb, compass, map, piece of fishing line, matchbox,
poles 6 to 10 feet long and three sticks 2 to 3 feet long
etc.); paper and pencils
(all 2 inches thick)
Procedure: The game leader arranges the various articles
Procedure: The teams line up in relay formation at a dis-
not too conspicuously along one side of a path. The
tance from their equipment. On signal, the first player
whole troop passes slowly along the trail in single file.
from each patrol runs up and starts his team’s ladder by
No one is permitted to walk back once he has passed
lashing the end of one rung onto a pole. Then he runs
an article. Afterward, the patrols huddle and prepare a
back and tags the next player, who runs up and lashes
list of the articles they saw, in the correct order.
the other end to complete the first rung, and so on until
the ladder is completed. Then all players run to their Scoring: The patrol with the most complete list wins.
ladder and hold it while one Scout climbs to the top. If
Variation: Each patrol uses their judgment to arrange
a team has fewer than six players, one or more will
their list of items in order of importance—how impor-
need to make two lashings.
tant they consider the various pieces of equipment to a
Scoring: The first patrol to finish and test their camper or a lost person.
ladder wins.
Game
Testing and scoring variation: Give 20 points for the first Informal
ladder lashed, 15 for the second, 10 for the third, 5 for Patrol teams
the fourth. The teams exchange places and each player
climbs an opponent’s ladder to test the lashings. Deduct LIFELINE RELAY
10 points if a rung slips; deduct 20 points if the lashing Equipment: For each patrol, one 40-foot length of sisal,
comes undone. manila, or nylon rope (unweighted); a target made from
a 5-foot board (to represent outstretched arms)
Knots
Patrol teams Procedure: Each patrol team is about 30 feet from their
Relay target. Tie a bowline knot in one end of the rope and fit
it around the first player’s wrist. He coils the rope and,
LEAF MATCHING holding one end, tosses the coil at the target. The
Equipment: Large table (or two tables) with seating bowline loop is transferred to the second Scout’s wrist,
capacity for two patrols who recovers and recoils the rope, then throws, and so
on until all patrol members have competed.
Procedure: Send the patrols out to collect one leaf from
as many different trees as they can find in five minutes. Scoring: Score 5 points for each throw that hits the
When they return, seat one patrol on one side of the target. Add 20 points for the patrol that finishes first.
table, the other on the other side. A Scout from one
Active
team holds up a leaf, identifies it, and scores 10 points.
Outdoor
The first Scout on the other team to hold up the same
Patrol teams
kind of leaf scores 5 points for his team. This Scout then

52
LIFE’S LITTLE RIDDLES LOG-RAISING RELAY
Equipment: For each patrol, four blank index cards and Equipment: For each patrol, a crossbar, a 3-foot log
a pencil or pen about 12 inches in diameter, and a 50-foot length of
1
⁄2-inch-thick rope
Procedure: One Scout in each patrol is selected to write
the answers, but all patrol members are expected to con- Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation at the
tribute to this game. The patrols are in patrol corners. starting line, which is 25 feet from the crossbar and the
Read aloud the first item listed below. The patrols hud- log. Position the crossbar 10 feet above the ground. On
dle to list as many answers as they can on the first card. signal, the first Scout in each patrol coils the rope and
After two minutes, read the second item, and so on. throws one end of it over the crossbar. He runs forward
s .AME 3ANTAS REINDEER and ties one end of the rope around the log with a tim-
ber hitch. He then hoists the log off the ground by pull-
s .AME 3NOW 7HITES SEVEN DWARFS
ing on the free end of the rope. After the log has cleared
s .AME THE NINE PLANETS the ground, he lets it drop, unties the timber hitch, pulls
s .AME THE ORIGINAL  COLONIES the rope from the crossbar, carries one end back to the
starting line, and tags the next Scout in his patrol, who
Scoring: The patrol with the most correct answers wins.
repeats the procedure. Continue until all patrol mem-
Deduct 1 point for each incorrect answer.
bers have run the course. Any Scout failing to throw the
rope over the crossbar after five attempts disqualifies
LOG-CHOPPING RELAY
his patrol.
Equipment: For each patrol, one 3-foot log, 10 to 12
inches in diameter, held firmly in place with four Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.
stakes; one long-handle ax
Game
Object: To cut the log in half with the fewest number Parallel lines
of strokes Patrol teams
Procedure: On signal, the first Scout runs up to the log,
LOG-ROLLING RELAY
takes six strokes, sticks the ax in the log, runs back,
tags the second Scout, who runs up, takes six strokes, Equipment: For each patrol, one log, 3 feet long and
and so on until the log is cut in two. 12 inches in diameter; eight stakes

Scoring: The patrol that cuts the log in half with the Procedure: Set the stakes in the ground in a zigzag pat-
fewest strokes wins, not the patrol to finish first. Stress tern. The patrols line up in relay formation facing the
accuracy over speed. course. Two Scouts in each patrol roll the log through
the course, between the stakes, around the turning
Game point, and back through the stakes to the starting point.
Patrol teams The next two Scouts take over and repeat the process,
Various formations and so on until eight Scouts have participated.

LOG HAULING Scoring: The first patrol to roll the log four times
Equipment: For each patrol, one log, 5 to 6 feet long; through the course wins.
one rope, 100 feet long (or use a single log and rope for Game
all teams, and time the game with a stopwatch) Parallel lines
Procedure: Each patrol ties a timber hitch around the Patrol teams
log. Then each Scout ties a bowline-on-a-bight at inter-
vals along the rope (or overhand knots in a double line, LONG-LEGGED PUDDLE JUMPER
forming large loops). Then, each patrol member places No time to build a bridge, but you don’t want to get
a bight over his shoulders as a harness and together the your feet wet? All you need are three stout spars, three
Scouts drag the log 50 feet across the finish line. lengths of lashing line, and three ropes for guylines.
Lash the three poles together. Be creative in making it.
Scoring: The first patrol to cross the finish line with all
knots tied correctly wins. Active
Knots
Game
Patrol teams
Parallel file
Game
Patrol teams
53
LONG, SHORT, ROUND Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.
This is a good game to sharpen alertness, if the leader Fitness
keeps it moving fast. For each patrol you will need two Pairs
coffee cans or similar containers. Place three objects in Vigorous
a can for each patrol: a long one, such as a pencil; a
short one, such as a toothpick; and a round one, such MAP SYMBOL KIM’S GAME
as a penny. The patrols line up single file, each Scout a
Equipment: Nine flash cards, each with one map sym-
good distance behind the one in front of him. Then they
bol; blanket; pencil and paper for each patrol
sit down, feet extended, and count off so that each
Scout in the patrol has a number. There must be the Procedure: Arrange the flash cards in any fashion you
same set of numbers in each patrol, so some Scouts wish. (Keep a record of how they are arranged.) Cover
might need to take two numbers. the display with a blanket. Have the patrols gather
Set the can with the objects in it at the front of the around the display. Remove the blanket for exactly one
patrol line, and the empty can at the back end. The minute, then replace the blanket and tell the patrols to
game leader signals with his arms to indicate long or huddle. Give the patrol leaders a pencil and paper and
short or round, then calls a number. The Scouts who tell them that their patrols have two minutes to write
share that number race to their can, pick out the appro- the names and meanings of all of the map symbols they
priate object, transfer it to the can at the end of the remember and place them in the proper position
patrol line, and return to their places. as displayed.
The first Scout back in place wins 1 point for his
Scoring: Score 1 point for each symbol listed by a patrol,
patrol. Keeping track of the location of the objects soon
1 extra point for the correct meaning. If there is a tie,
gets to be a mental challenge, and, of course, if a Scout
the winning patrol is the one with the most accurate
heads for the wrong can he’s bound to lose the race.
positioning.
LOST QUIZ Variation: Use Scout badges or any objects you wish
Ask each patrol five to 10 questions about what a per- instead of map symbols.
son or a patrol should do when lost. Base your ques-
Game
tions on information from the Boy Scout Handbook and
Patrol teams
the Wilderness Survival merit badge pamphlet. Each
Quiet
patrol huddles and writes their answers. Here are some
sample questions:
MAP SYMBOL RELAY
s 7HAT IS THE MAIN THING TO DO IF YOU ARE LOST Equipment: Several identical flash cards of numbered
(Be calm and think.) map symbols, including contour lines (see the Boy
s (OW CAN YOU USE LANDMARKS TO TRAVEL A STRAIGHT LINE Scout Handbook)
(Visually align two landmarks.)
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation facing
s 7HATS THE UNIVERSAL DISTRESS SIGNAL a wall on which the map symbol flash cards (one for
(Three of any sound or sight signals.) each patrol) have been posted. On signal, the first Scout
Patrol teams from each patrol runs up, names the first symbol, runs
back, and tags the next Scout, who runs up and names
LUCK RELAY the second symbol. Continue the relay until all symbols
Procedure: In front of each patrol is a junior leader with have been named.
a coin hidden in one hand. The first Scout of each Scoring: Score 2 points for each symbol correctly named
patrol runs up and guesses which hand holds the coin. and deduct 1 point for each symbol incorrectly named.
If he is correct, he returns to his patrol and tags the next The patrol that finishes first scores 10 points.
Scout. If he’s wrong, he must return to his patrol and
run back to the leader for each guess, until he gets it Game
right. Meanwhile, the leader may transfer the coin from Informal
hand to hand at will. Continue until all Scouts have Patrol teams
participated.

54
MESSAGE RELAY Variation: Patrol Nail-Driving Relay. Each Scout is
Procedure: A leader gives a message to a Scout, using allowed only one swing of the hammer. He runs up to
sign language. The Scout must relay it to the next mem- the line, takes one swing at the nail, and then returns to
ber in his patrol, and so on until the last member of the tag the next Scout.
patrol repeats it to the leader. Game
Scoring: The patrol that reports the most correct words Patrol teams
wins.
NAME THAT FISH
MILK JUG HOCKEY Equipment: Pictures or silhouettes of several kinds of
Divide the group into two teams and set up a street game fish (bass, perch, sunfish, walleyed pike, northern
hockey goal at each end of the playing area. Give each pike, bluegill, crappie, trout, sheepshead); paper and
player a scoop made from a 1-gallon plastic milk jug pencil for each patrol
with the bottom cut out. The players must try to Procedure: Post the fish pictures on a wall of the
advance a tennis ball into the opponents’ goal, using meeting room. The patrols huddle to try to identify the
only the scoops. The ball cannot be caught or thrown fish and list them on the paper provided. Allow three
by hand. minutes.

MOW THE MAN DOWN Scoring: Score 2 points for each fish correctly named
Equipment: For each patrol, a Scout stave or broomstick and deduct 1 point for each fish incorrectly named. The
handle patrol with the highest score wins.

Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. On Nature

signal, the first two Scouts from each patrol grasp the Patrol teams
stave, one at each end. Holding the stave just below Quiet
knee level, they walk quickly to the rear of the line
while their patrol mates jump over it. At the end, NAME THE MERIT BADGE
Scout 1 stays there and Scout 2 races with the stave to Equipment: A picture of each merit badge, each picture
the head of the line. He and Scout 3 repeat the action. numbered but not identified by title (see the “Merits of
Continue until all Scouts have raced and the patrol is Scouting” poster); one sheet of paper and a pencil for
in its original order. each Scout

Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins. Procedure: Spread out the numbered merit badge pic-
tures on one or more tables. As each Scout arrives at
Active the meeting, give him a sheet of paper and a pencil.
Fitness Ask him to number his paper from one to whatever the
Patrol teams highest-numbered merit badge is. Instruct the Scouts to
study the merit badge pictures and write down the cor-
NAIL-DRIVING RELAY
rect title of each badge beside the corresponding num-
Equipment: For each patrol, a hammer; a log or a piece ber on their sheets of paper.
of 2-by-4; and one nail for each patrol member
Scoring: Have the Scouts exchange papers and score
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. Each each other’s sheets as a leader reads the correct num-
patrol’s log, nails, and hammer are placed at a turning bers and titles of the badges. The Scout who correctly
line 20 feet in front of them. The first Scout from each identifies the most badges wins.
patrol goes to the line and drives a nail into the log. He
returns and tags the second Scout, and so on until all of Informal
the patrol’s nails are hammered down. Bent nails must Quiet
be extracted, unbent, and driven in again.

Scoring: The first patrol to drive in all its nails wins.

55
NATURE ART GALLERY and place them next to those in the original display.
Equipment: Twenty pictures, each depicting a different (If time permits, try to identify the items.)
kind of bird, tree, flower, etc., numbered but not identi- Scoring: The patrol that gathers the most items within
fied; pencil and a sheet of paper for each player the time limit wins.
Procedure: Post the pictures on the walls around the
Informal
room. Allow the Scouts to move about with their pen- Nature
cils and paper and try to identify the subjects of the pic- Patrol teams
tures. Without consulting each other, they write down
the names on their sheets. After a certain time limit, all NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT
sheets are turned in for judging.
Equipment: Sealed letter for each patrol
Scoring: Add the number of correct identifications made
Procedure: Each patrol is given a sealed letter containing
by each patrol and divide by the number of patrol mem-
the following instructions:
bers to get the patrol average. The patrol with the high-
“Greetings, my friends! Your senior patrol leader has
est average wins.
contracted a terrible disease. He is suffering from acute
Variation: Nature Art Kim’s Game. Spread the pictures mogigraphia and will not get better until he drinks a
out on the floor and cover them with a cloth. Uncover dose of my patented antimogigraphia formula. For this
for one minute, after which the patrols huddle and try I shall need the items from this list within an hour from
to make a complete list of the items. The team with the the moment you read this: 12 pine needles, 6 inches of
highest number of correct items wins. sassafras branch, 14 dandelion seeds, a bit of rabbit
fluff, five dead flies . . . Good luck and good hunting!
Informal (signed) Crambambuly, Witch Doctor.”
Patrol teams The list should contain about 12 to 20 items, fitting
your locale and the season.
NATURE-GO-DOWN
Equipment: For each patrol, a nature collection of 20 or Scoring: The patrol that collects the highest number of
more items (twig, piece of bark, nest, flower, seed, leaf, items within one hour wins.
plaster track cast, feather, rock, etc.) Informal
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. A Nature
junior leader goes to the first Scout in each patrol and Patrol teams
shows him the first nature item from the collection. If
the Scout identifies it correctly, he stays in position. If NEWSPAPER CRUMPLING
he cannot identify it, he is told to “go down” to the end Equipment: A stack of old newspapers
of the line. In this manner the questioning is carried Procedure: Give each Scout two full-size sheets of news-
down the line, then back again to the head for another paper. On signal, each Scout tries to crumple the news-
round until all items have been identified. paper so that it will fit inside his hand. The Scout must
Scoring: The first patrol to identify all nature items is not let the newspaper touch anything in the process.
the winner. Scoring: The first patrol to have all of their newspaper
Nature totally within the hands of the patrol members wins.
Patrol teams Variation: Newspaper Basketball. The patrols line up
Quiet in relay formation. Place a wastebasket or bucket 15
feet in front of each patrol. The first Scout in each line
NATURE MEMORY HUNT crumples one sheet of newspaper, as above, then tries
Equipment: A nature display of about 20 items (acorn, to throw the newspaper ball into the wastebasket. If he
rock, large leaf, pine needle, broken eggshell, bird feather, succeeds, the second Scout takes his turn. If he doesn’t
local wildflower, fern frond, local wild berry or nut, etc.) succeed, he must retrieve the ball, return, and throw
until he makes it in.
Procedure: Spread out the display on a large table. Allow
the players five minutes to study the display in silence Fitness
as they try to memorize the items. After a huddle, the Patrol teams
players scatter for 10 minutes to collect matching items Relay

56
NEWSPAPER GOOD TURN Scoring: The last Scout remaining in the game is
Equipment: One copy of the same issue of a newspaper the winner.
for each patrol; pens or pencils Variation 1: On the leader’s command, “Sit in five,” the
Procedure: Give each patrol a copy of the newspaper Scouts try to sit down in groups of five (or whatever
and ask the patrol members to draw a circle around any number was called). If the leader says “Stand in five,”
article that could serve as an example of a Good Turn. nobody moves. Those who sit at that command must
(This can be used as a preopening game if the patrol drop out.
leader assigns sections of the paper to different patrol Variation 2: Whenever a number is mentioned by the
members as they arrive at the meeting.) leader in telling a story, the Scouts all sit down. The last
Scoring: Compare all of the newspapers, page by page. Scout to sit down drops out of the game. The game
Give 1 point for each article appropriately circled by a ends when only one Scout remains—the winner.
patrol, provided no other patrol circled it. Confusion
Scoring variation: Score 1 point for each article circled, Game
even though other patrols have also selected the article. Whole troop

Patrol teams OBSERVATION

Game Equipment: Pencil and paper for each Scout
Half-troop teams
Procedure: A Scoutmaster or a junior leader who is a
NIGHT EYES good storyteller tells a dramatic story to the group. It
Equipment: A set of different-sized shapes, such as should take about three to five minutes. While telling
squares, circles, and stars, cut from white paper or card- the story he will do several things, such as mop his
board; a blindfold for each Scout brow, button his shirt, walk back and forth, etc. At the
end of the story, each Scout is asked to write down not
Procedure: The patrols assemble in patrol corners. At what the storyteller said, but what he did during the
the beginning of the meeting, designate the left eye of story, in the order that he did it.
each Scout to be his “night eye” and the right eye his
“day eye.” Blindfold the night eye on each Scout and Variation: At the end of the story, send the group out of
proceed with the meeting. At game time, send the the room for a few minutes. Move things, such as
patrols out of the room. In their absence, place the chairs, pictures, patrol flags, etc., around the room into
white shapes around the meeting room about 15 feet different positions. Call the group in and have them
from a marked observation point. Turn off the lights write down any changes in the room’s appearance.
and call in the patrols one at a time. Have them identify Scoring: The Scout with the most accurate account of
as many of these objects as possible within one minute. the storyteller’s doings or changes in the room is the
Then have them remove the blindfold from their night winner.
eye and place it on their day eye. How many objects
can they identify now? Game
Individual
Scoring: The patrol with the most correct identifications Quiet
is the winner.

Game OBSTACLE RACE

Patrol corners Equipment: An obstacle course that includes a horizon-
Whole troop tal bar to climb over, a rope suspended from a tree
branch to swing over an 8-foot “river,” a low horizontal
NUMBERS bar to crawl under, a 6-foot-wide area to jump over, a
Procedure: Have the Scouts scatter throughout the room. narrow board on the ground to walk along, a row of old
Give the command, “Form fives” (or fours, or threes, or inner tubes or tires to run through, an empty barrel to
twos). The Scouts have to get into groups of whatever crawl through, etc.; a stopwatch or a watch with a
size is announced. Those who don’t get into a group of second hand
the correct size are out of the game.

57
Procedure: Line up the patrols at the starting line. If you Scoring: The patrol with the most accurate answers wins.
have laid out two parallel courses, start two patrols at
Game
the same time and make it a race. If you have only one
Patrol teams
course, time each patrol separately. On signal, the first
Quiet
Scout in line goes through the course, runs back, tags
the next in line, and so on until the whole patrol is
O’GRADY
through. If a player fails to pass the obstacle course cor-
rectly he may be called back for a second try. Procedure: Assemble the troop in a single-line forma-
tion, facing the leader who is four or five steps in front.
Scoring: The patrol with the best time wins. The leader yells commands, but the players obey com-
mands only if O’Grady says to. If the leader commands
Fitness
“O’Grady says: Arms up!” all arms go up. But if the
Half-troop teams
leader calls “Arms up!” no arms should move. Players
Vigorous
who obey that command are out of the game. As the
game progresses and few players remain, the leader
OBSTACLE RELAY RACE
speeds up his commands and a player who makes the
Equipment: One long, heavy rubber band made by cut-
slightest false move must drop out of the game.
ting an inner tube into strips and knotting the strips
into one length; sturdy stakes; one wooden or card- Scoring: The last Scout in the game is the winner.
board barrel, open at each end, for each patrol
Variation: Divide the group into two facing lines. One
Procedure: The rubber band is stretched across the field, side obeys O’Grady, the other does not. If the leader
flat on the ground about 10 feet in front of the starting yells “O’Grady says: About-face!” the obeying line does
line and held in place by the stakes. The barrels are an about-face and the other line stands still. When the
placed on their sides about halfway between the rubber leader calls “About-face!” the second line does an
band and a turning point about 50 feet away from the about-face, but the first does not. The object is to see
patrol stakes. The patrols line up in relay formation. On which line remains in the game longer.
signal, the first Scout in each patrol runs forward, lifts
Facing lines
the rubber band and crawls under, runs to his patrol’s
Game
barrel and crawls through, runs around the turning
Patrol teams
point, crawls back through the barrel, jumps over the
rubber band, and tags the next Scout in his patrol. All
OLD PLUG
Scouts in the patrol repeat the process. If there are
fewer than eight in the patrol, some Scouts will have to Equipment: Volleyball
run twice to complete eight laps for the patrol. Procedure: Four Scouts form a line by grasping each
Scoring: The first patrol to complete eight laps wins. other’s waists. The rest of the Scouts form a large circle
around them. The circle Scouts try to hit the last player
Circle in the line, “Old Plug,” with the volleyball. The other
Game three in the line try to maneuver to protect Old Plug,
Whole troop but they must not lose their holds on each other’s
waists. When Old Plug is hit, he joins the circle players
OCTAGON COMPASS COURSE and the one who hit him becomes the first player in the
Equipment: Eight stakes individually marked “A” line. The new Old Plug is the player who was previ-
through “H”; for each Scout, a compass, a pencil, and a ously third in line.
card with directions as shown below
Active
Procedure: Set up the stakes in a rather large area to Fitness
form an octagon. One Scout from each patrol is posted Patrol teams
at each stake. His card tells him to proceed to two other
stakes and return, taking bearings and measuring dis- ONE-HANDED KNOT TYING
tances as he goes. (Example: “A to F: ______ degrees, _ Equipment: Two ropes for each patrol
______ feet; F to D: _______ degrees, _______ feet; D to
A: _______ degrees, _______ feet”) Have cards with Procedure: Divide the patrols so that half-patrol teams
many combinations of letters. face each other, with the Scouts in front about 20 feet

58
apart from each other. Two ropes are placed halfway head, and so on. The ball must be passed, not thrown.
between the Scouts in front. The leader calls out a knot. The first team to regain its original order wins.
The first player from each half-team runs to the center
Variation: The first player always passes over and the
and, with one hand behind his back, ties his end of one
next under, and so on alternately.
rope to that of the other player’s. The leader checks the
knot. Then the players untie the knots, run back, and Relay
tag the next players. The rope cannot be laid on the Patrol teams
floor or the ground during tying. Teeth cannot be used.
Knots cannot be tied against any part of the players’ OVERTAKE
bodies. If a patrol has an odd number of members, one The Scouts form a circle and count off. You must have an
Scout runs twice. even number in the group. All even-numbered Scouts in
Scoring: Score 10 points for the first patrol to finish, 5 the circle form one team and all odd-numbered Scouts
for the second. form the other team. Hand a basketball to Scout 1.
Give the other ball to the even-numbered Scout on the
Variation: Add extra fun by having the players tie the exact opposite side of the circle. On signal, Scouts must
knots behind their backs. pass, not throw, the ball clockwise to members of their
team (every other Scout). Both balls will be traveling in
Active
the same direction. The object of the game is for one
Fitness
team to pass their ball faster than the other team and
Patrol teams
eventually overtake the other team’s ball.
OUTDOOR WINTER GAMES Game
Skating Race. The Scouts line up at the starting point.
On signal, they race to the finish line. PAPER-WAD TENNIS
Equipment: Masking tape; about 100 sheets of paper
Skateless Skating. Set up a course about 50 feet long.
crumpled tightly into wads
Line up the players at the starting line, without skates.
On signal, they “skate” on the soles of their shoes to the Procedure: This is a good patrol competition game that is
finish line. simple to do. Divide the meeting room in half with a
line of masking tape on the floor. Scatter the paper wads
Broom-Sled Race. Set up a 100-foot course on smooth
around the room, equally distributed on both sides of
snow. Use a broom for a sled. One Scout sits on the
the line. Each patrol takes one side of the “court,” and
bristled end and another pulls him by the handle. The
no one can cross over to the other side. The object is to
pair to finish first wins.
throw as many paper wads onto the other patrol’s court
Snowball-Rolling Contest. Before the contest starts, each as possible, throwing only one at a time. A timekeeper
Scout prepares a snowball 1 foot in diameter. On signal, facing away from the patrol calls “Go!” and the game
each Scout rolls his ball for three minutes. When the stop begins. When he yells “Stop!” the patrol with the most
signal has been given, all balls must remain in place until paper wads on their court is eliminated, and the remain-
they are measured. The largest snowball wins. ing patrol faces the next challenger.

Game PATROL CHARADES

Informal
Procedure: Each patrol prepares a pantomime of an
Patrol teams
activity required for any merit badge. (Examples: scan-
ning the sky and writing on a clipboard for Bird Study;
OVER-AND-UNDER RELAY
using a Geiger counter for Nuclear Science) In turn, the
Equipment: One volleyball, basketball, or similar object
patrols mime their merit badge activity while other
for each patrol
Scouts try to guess the badge.
Procedure: The first player has a ball—or other large
Scoring: Score 1 point for the patrol of the Scout who
object—that he passes over his head, using both hands,
first guesses correctly what another patrol is miming.
to the player behind him, and so on down the line.
When the last player gets the ball, he runs to the front Game
and passes it between his legs to the player behind him Informal
and on down the line; next time, it passes over the Patrol teams

59
PATROLO Active
Equipment: Volleyball or soccer ball, patrol flags Aquatics
Patrol teams
Procedure: Mark out a playing field, 40 feet square or
larger. Goal squares are 5 to 6 feet square. In the center PRISONER’S BASE
of each goal square, plant the patrol’s flagstaff about 3 Procedure: Mark goal lines at opposite ends of the room
inches into the ground. The object of the game is to or playing area. Behind each goal line, mark a “prison”
knock over the opposing patrol’s flag by hitting it with about 10 feet wide and 5 feet deep. The teams stand
the ball. behind the goal lines. Play starts with a player from one
Rules: team running out, daring to be tagged. One player from
the other team chases him. If the pursuer tags him
1. The ball must be passed by hand, punched, or before he returns to his own goal, he becomes a pris-
headed; no kicking and no running with the ball. oner and must go immediately to the other team’s
2. Only the goalie may be in his team’s goal square. prison. The original pursuer may now be tagged by an
opponent. A player may only be tagged by an opponent
3. Tackling, shoving, and tripping are not permitted. who has left his goal line after the player did. Prisoners
may be released by being touched by a teammate.
4. When the ball goes out of bounds, it is thrown back
in, as in soccer. Scoring: The game continues until all of the players
from one team are prisoners. Or, if using a time limit,
Scoring: Score 1 point for knocking over the opposing
the team with the least number of members imprisoned
patrol’s flag.
by the other team wins.
PONY EXPRESS RACE Active
Equipment: A 5-foot length of rope for each Scout Game
Patrol teams
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation, with
the patrol leaders in front. On signal, every Scout ties a REMEDIES
bowline knot around the waist of the boy in front of him,
Equipment: A complete first-aid kit for each patrol;
grips the free end of the rope with one hand, and raises
splints and other first-aid supplies as needed
his other hand. When all hands are up, the leader gives a
command and the patrol races to the end of the room, Procedure: The patrols sit in their patrol corners. A
turns around, and runs back across the starting line. leader thinks of a hypothetical first-aid case, then takes
from each kit the first-aid items that would be used to
Scoring: The patrol that crosses the line first wins, pro-
treat it. The patrol members carefully study the items as
vided no one lost his grip and all knots remained tied.
they are presented. The leader then replaces all of the
Knots items, and each patrol must try to figure out what the
Patrol teams injury is.
Relay
Scoring: The first patrol to come up with the correct
answer wins. If a patrol guesses wrong, it is disqualified.
PORPOISE RELAY
Equipment: Three or more inner tubes or other rings for Variation: Yes-or-No Remedies. After the leader
each patrol; other obstacles as desired replaces the first-aid items, he may answer the patrol’s
questions, but only with “yes” or “no.” Score as above,
Procedure: In chest-deep water, lay out an obstacle
or limit the number of questions.
course for each patrol, using rings to go through, buoys
to go around, Scout staves to swim under, etc. All items First Aid
are anchored to the bottom. On signal, the first Scout in Parallel file
each patrol swims (or walks) the course, going through, Patrol teams
around, and under the obstacles, and swims back to
tag the next Scout. Continue until all have covered REMOTE CLOVE-HITCH TYING
the course. Equipment: For each patrol, a tree around which a
10-foot-radius area is staked out, a 50-foot rope
Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.

60
Procedure: Two Scouts from each patrol grasp the rope REVERSE SOFTBALL
at either end and are not permitted to let go. The object Using a plastic ball and bat, play a game of softball,
is to tie a clove hitch around the tree without entering running the bases in reverse. If the ball field happens to
the circle. Other patrol members may help with advice be in an area with a few trees, it will make the game
and by raising the rope as needed. This is a fooler; it more interesting. Any ball caught falling out of a tree
requires lots of thinking! should be recorded as an out.
Scoring: The patrol to finish first wins.
RING BALL
RESCUE-CARRY RELAY Equipment: A volleyball or basketball
Equipment: Two poles or Scout staves, a chair Procedure: The Scouts form a circle. One Scout, chosen
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. On to be “It,” is stationed inside the circle. Play is begun by
signal, the first two Scouts from each patrol make a passing the ball to a Scout other than It. The ball is
stretcher with the poles and their shirts, and transport a passed around or across the circle from Scout to Scout,
third Scout to a turning line and back. The next two while It tries to intercept it and force it to touch the
Scouts carry another Scout with a chair carry to the floor. If It can make the ball touch the floor, the Scout
turning line and back. The seventh Scout carries the who last touched the ball before It did goes to the center
last Scout to the turning line and back with a pack-strap and the game continues. Emphasize to the players that It
(one-person) carry. See the First Aid merit badge must make the ball hit the floor. Thus, if a Scout in the
pamphlet for more about these carries. circle can catch the ball before it hits the floor, It has
failed even though he might have touched or hit the ball.
Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.
Scoring: None. This is a good preopening game because
Note: If carries are done roughly or improperly, Scouts Scouts can be added to the circle as they arrive at the
must start over. meeting place.
Outdoor Patrol teams
First aid Physical fitness
Vigorous
RESCUE RACE
Equipment: For each player, one 4-foot piece of rope RING BUOY THROW
Equipment: One or more 15-inch ring buoys (kapok
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation at a
buoy for land practice, cork buoy if playing in the
starting line, the “shore.” Each player has a piece of
water) with 60 feet of 3⁄16-inch-thick rope attached;
rope. The patrol leaders each take position 20 feet in
two markers
front of the first Scout in any patrol other than their
own. When the game begins, each patrol leader pre- Procedure: Set the two markers 5 feet apart, 30 feet from
tends he is drowning and must be rescued by having a the throwing line, to indicate the target area. Each Scout
line thrown to him. Each patrol tries to be the first to must throw the ring buoy between the markers three
get the patrol leader back to shore. On signal, all patrol times in one minute, recoil the line, and hand it to the
members tie their ropes into one long line. The first next Scout. (The buoy must go past the target area and
Scout coils the rope and throws it to the patrol leader, between the markers.)
and the whole patrol pulls him to shore. (It is best to
trade patrol leaders around so that no leader is rescued Scoring: The team that makes three targets per Scout in
by his own patrol.) the shortest time wins. If playing rounds, give 60 points
for the first patrol, 40 points for the second, and 20
Scoring: Give 100 points to the first patrol bringing the points for the third.
leader ashore, 80 points to the second, and 60 points to
the third. Check knots for correct tying. Deduct 10 Variation: Instead of using the whole patrol, select
points for every incorrect knot. patrol representatives and score for five targets in the
shortest time.
Knots
Parallel file Aquatics
Patrol teams Patrol representatives
Various

61
RINGLEADER ROOSTER FIGHT
The troop is seated in a circle. “It” leaves the room. Procedure: Each player grasps one leg by the ankle to
While he is out, the Scouts select a ringleader and begin hold it off the floor, and moves about by hopping on
copying his motions. The ringleader must change one foot. To start the game, two players face each other.
motions at least every 15 seconds. When It returns, he On signal, each tries to knock the other off balance by
tries to determine which Scout is the ringleader. The shoulder blocking. Using elbows is not permitted.
ringleader may clap his hands, rub his head, scratch his
Scoring: The first Scout to knock his opponent off bal-
leg or his arm, pat his knee or his stomach, etc. If It can
ance so that he touches the floor with both feet scores
identify the ringleader in three guesses, he can play It
1 point. Two out of three wins the game.
again for the next round. If he fails, the ringleader
becomes It. Variation: Rooster Pull. Each “rooster’s tail” is a 2-foot
length of rope tucked under the Scout’s belt at the back.
Game
Each rooster tries to pull out his opponent’s tail and at
RING ON A STRING the same time tries to protect his own. A tail pulled out
scores 1 point. Knocking one’s opponent off balance
Equipment: A ring; a string that is long enough for all
does not score any points.
players to handle at once
Active
Procedure: Have the Scouts form a circle, facing inward,
Fitness
with one Scout in the middle. Slip the string through
the ring and tie the ends together. Place the string
ROPE CIRCLE
inside the circle and have each Scout hold it with both
Tie a long 1-inch-thick (or thicker) rope to form a large
hands. The idea is to pass the ring around the circle
circle and place it on the ground. The size of the circle
from hand to hand, unnoticed by the Scout in the mid-
should allow about 2 feet per player. Have the players
dle. He tries to guess where it is by pointing to the hand
stand outside the circle with their feet about 2 feet
he thinks is holding the ring. If he is correct, the ring
apart. They pick up the rope with their hands, which
holder goes to the middle and the guesser takes his
are also about 2 feet apart. On signal, they all lean
place in the circle. The Scout in the middle must keep
backward away from the rope. On a second signal,
guessing until he locates the ring.
everyone slowly sits down, relying on the rope to sup-
Scoring: This game is not scored. It is suitable for port them. On a third signal, everyone stands back up.
preopening or just for fun. On the final signal, they take a step to the left, then a
step to the right.
Game
Informal RUBBER-BALL RELAY
Whole troop
Equipment: For each patrol, a 12-ounce soft-drink can,
a rubber ball, and a chair
ROMAN CHARIOT RACE
Equipment: For each patrol, six Scout staves and nine Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. The
pieces of sash cord for lashing first Scout in each patrol has a rubber ball in his hand.
About 25 feet in front of each patrol is a soft-drink can
Procedure: The equipment is placed in piles at a dis-
on a chair. On signal, the first two Scouts in each patrol
tance from the patrols. On signal, the patrols run up
place the ball between their foreheads, carry it in this
and lash a “chariot.” This is done by making a trestle
manner without using their hands, and deposit it on top
frame, as in building a bridge. Four staves form a
of the can. Once the ball is on the can, one of the two
square; the fifth and sixth staves are lashed diagonally
Scouts picks up the ball with his hand and runs back to
to the opposite two sides. When the frame is finished,
the starting line, giving it to the next two Scouts in line,
two Scouts pull the chariot and rider down the field
who repeat the process. If the ball is dropped, the pair
around a marker and back to the finish line.
must pick it up and return to the starting line to
Scoring: The first patrol to cross the finish line with start over.
their chariot intact wins.
Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.
Informal
Game
Knots
Patrol teams

62
SCOUTING HISTORY If he does not know the wording or if he draws the card
Equipment: Pencil and paper for each patrol with the “X,” he is out. After three outs the next team
comes to bat.
Procedure: The patrols sit in patrol corners. The
Scoutmaster or any of the leaders asks the following, Scoring: The patrol with the most runs after three
or similar, questions, based on information in the innings of play wins.
Boy Scout Handbook: Game
1. Who was the founder of the Scouting movement? Patrol corners
Patrol teams
2. What was his profession?

3. In what country was Scouting founded?

SCOUT LAW HUNT
Equipment: One copy of the same issue of a newspaper
4. When was the first American handbook for for each patrol; pencils
Boy Scouts published?
Procedure: The patrols go to patrol corners, each with a
5. When and where was the first Scout camp held? copy of the same issue of a newspaper. On signal, the
6. Who brought Scouting to America? patrols start searching for articles or news items that
illustrate some point of the Scout Law. The patrol mem-
7. When was the Boy Scouts of America founded? bers tear or cut these articles from the newspaper and
write on each clipping the point of the Scout Law
8. Who was the first Chief Scout of the Boy Scouts
involved, along with their patrol name.
of America?
Scoring: The clippings are collected by the troop lead-
9. When and where was the first world jamboree
ers, and the patrol with the most clippings in a given
held?
time wins.
10. When will Scouting celebrate its 100th birthday?
Variation 1: The patrols clip articles that illustrate
Scoring: Award 10 points for each correct answer. points of the Scout Law, either broken or kept. The first
patrol to find clippings for all 12 points wins.
Informal
Patrol teams Variation 2: The leaders select one of the more difficult
points of the Scout Law to illustrate. The first patrol to
SCOUT LAW BASEBALL find an example of that point wins.
Equipment: A set of 14 index cards—12 of them num-
Patrol teams
bered (from 1 through 12), one of them blank, and one
of them marked with an “X” SCOUT LAW RELAY
Rules: Equipment: For each patrol, a set of 12 numbered cards
(from 1 through 12)
1. The number 2 card is a double.
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. The
2. The number 6 card is a triple.
cards are placed in a pile at a turning line opposite each
3. The number 12 card is a home run. patrol. On signal, the first Scout runs up and selects a
card. He gives the Scout sign and recites that part of the
4. The blank card is a base on balls. Scout Law represented by the number on his card. The
5. The “X” card is a strikeout. Scout returns and tags the next Scout.

6. All of the other cards are singles. Scoring: Score 10 points for the first patrol to finish, 5
for the second, 3 for the third, etc.; deduct 1 point for
Procedure: Draw a miniature baseball field on the floor each error in naming a part of the Scout Law.
or ground. Line up the batting team (patrol) behind
home plate. The umpire (game leader) holds the cards Variation: Reverse Law Relay. The patrols line up in
in his hand. Each player draws a card from the umpire relay formation. Space out the numbered cards on the
and recites the point of the Scout Law indicated by floor between the patrol and the turning line. A second
the number on the card. If he knows it, he becomes a set of cards, each bearing one of the 12 points of the
base runner, going through as many bases as specified. Scout Law is placed at the turning line. On signal, the

63
first Scout runs to the line, selects a card, and places it SHALLOW-WATER GAMES
opposite the correct number. Bull in the Ring. Scouts in waist-deep water form a cir-
Game cle by joining hands. One Scout in the center is the
Informal “bull.” On signal, the bull attempts to break out of the
Patrol teams ring in any manner he desires.
Relay Balloon Ball. Divide the Scouts into two equal teams.
Various One team, standing in shallow water, gathers around to
protect an inflated balloon. The other team lines up
SCOUTS TO THE RESCUE along the shore. On signal, the attacking team moves
Equipment: First-aid equipment for each patrol from the shore and tries to burst the balloon. Each team
has three minutes to burst the balloon. The team that
Procedure: Two Scouts from each patrol go to one side of
bursts it in the shortest time wins.
the room. One of them is the message sender, and the
other is the “victim.” They are given a signal flag and a Water Poison. Have the Scouts stand in a circle in shal-
message describing the symptoms of an accident victim. low water with their hands clasped. In the center is a
The rest of the patrol members, the rescuers, assemble floating object, which is “poison.” On signal, each
on the opposite side of the room with a supply of first- Scout tries to pull another Scout into the poison but
aid equipment. The sender relays the message to the must avoid touching it himself. Anyone who touches
others in his patrol. On receipt of the message, they the poison is eliminated. Any two players who let go of
select and assemble the first-aid equipment they will their grip are both out.
need for the symptoms described. They carry only this
material over to the sender and the victim, who is then Aquatics
treated by the rescuers. No talking is permitted between Patrol representatives
the sender, the victim, and the rescuers. Various

Scoring: Score on speed and accuracy of treatment. SHIPS IN THE FOG

Deduct for first-aid supplies carried across but not The patrol members are blindfolded in single file with
needed. Deduct for any first-aid equipment that was their hands on each other’s shoulders at some distance
needed but left behind. from their patrol leader, who is not blindfolded. By
shouting orders, he tries to pilot his patrol through the
SEALED ORDERS “harbor mouth” formed by two chairs. The first patrol
Equipment: Pencil and two sheets of paper through wins.
Procedure: Divide the troop into two teams. Each team Game
chooses a captain. The two teams assemble to await
orders. Give the captain of each team a folded slip of SHIPWRECK
paper with his team’s orders written on it. The captain This game requires fast action and encourages group
returns to his team, looks at the orders, and, without cooperation. Play it in a gym or on a large field.
moving the team, determines the strategy to be used in
carrying out the orders. On signal, both teams attempt Equipment: For each patrol, a 1⁄2-inch-thick plywood
to carry out their orders. The orders given to the two circle, 3 or 4 feet in diameter (the “ship”)
teams contradict so that they work against each other. Procedure: Rasp and sand any sharp edges and splinters
For example, one message might read, “Leave the on the ships (plywood circles) and give one to each
room,” and the other might read, “Don’t let anyone patrol. The patrol members hold onto the sides as they
leave the room.” Establish a one-minute time limit for run the length of the playing area until a leader yells
each action. “Shark!” At that instant, all of the patrol members jump
Scoring: For each team, give 1 point for every player onboard their ship.
who accomplished his assignment, and, for every player Scoring: The first patrol with all members’ feet off the
who failed, 1 point goes to the opposing team. ground earns 1 point. Repeat the game several times.
Active The first patrol to reach the finish line earns 3 points.
Fitness
Patrol teams

64
SHOE HUNT opposing team across the center line. The rope may not
Each patrol can enter a team of four Scouts. Mark a be tied around players’ waists, nor can players hold
50-foot circle and a 10-foot circle in the center of it. onto posts, trees, or other stationary objects.
At the start, all players remove their shoes, place them Scoring: The first team to pull its opponents across the
in the center circle, and go to the outer circle. They may center line with its splice intact wins.
not tie their shoes together.
The judges thoroughly mix the shoes in one large Game
pile. On signal, all of the players rush to the center cir- Half-troop teams
cle, search out their own shoes, put them on, lace them
if necessary, and return to the outer circle. The winning SHUTTLE-RUN RELAY
team is the first one with all of its members standing Equipment: For each patrol, two blocks of wood about
shod and at attention around the outer circle. 2-by-2-by-4 inches

Game Procedure: Divide each patrol into two equal groups.

Patrol teams Half of the patrol members line up in relay formation,
Relay facing the other half lined up the same way on a line 30
feet away. The two blocks of wood are placed at a line
SHOOT-THE-GAP opposite the starting team’s line. On signal, the first
Procedure: Mark goal lines at each end of the playing Scout from the starting team runs to the opposite line,
area. One Scout is chosen guardian of the gap (the picks up one block, returns to his starting line with it,
space between the goal lines). The other players are and leaves it there. Then he runs back and does the
divided into two teams, one behind each goal line. The same for the second block. As soon as he finishes, the
guardian is in the center of the gap and calls the name first Scout from the other team runs across to the
of a Scout on one team. That Scout immediately shouts blocks, picks one up, and returns it to his team’s line.
the name of a Scout on the other team. These two play- Then he runs back and does the same with the second
ers must then try to change goals without being tagged block. This back-and-forth delivery of blocks continues
by the guardian. If the guardian tags one of them, he until all Scouts have run. If there are fewer than eight
changes places with the tagged player and joins the Scouts in a patrol, repeat the process until a total of
team toward which the tagged player was running. The eight block transfers have been made.
tagged Scout is the new guardian of the gap and starts
Scoring: The first patrol to complete eight transfers wins.
the next round by calling out another name. If the
guardian tends to keep calling the same name time after Fitness
time, make a rule that after a Scout has run, he steps Vigorous
back from the goal line and cannot run again until all
have participated. SIGNAL STEAL-THE-BACON
Equipment: A buzzer or signal flag for each team, a
Scoring: None—just for fun.
neckerchief (the “bacon”)
Fitness
Procedure: Half-troop teams line up in facing lines
Half-troop teams
15 feet apart. The bacon is placed halfway between the
Vigorous
two lines. The captain of each team is at one end of his
SHORT-SPLICE TUG-OF-WAR line with a signal flag or buzzer. Each Scout is assigned
a letter. Both teams must use the same set of letters, so
Equipment: For every two teams, one 4-foot and two
that each Scout on a team will share his letter with a
15-foot lengths of rope
Scout on the other team. Each captain signals a letter to
Procedure: Divide the group into two teams, each with a his team. The two Scouts who share that letter run out
15-foot rope, facing each other in single lines. Mark a to the center and try to steal the bacon. If a player is
center line between the teams to indicate their separate able to steal the bacon, he races back to his team with
territories. Place the 4-foot rope across this line, with it. At the end of each round, the Scouts rotate so that
the ends pointing toward the teams. On signal, both they have a different letter each time.
teams have four minutes to splice their long rope onto
Scoring: If a player makes it back to his team with the
the short rope. On the second signal, the players take
bacon and without being tagged by the opposing player,
hold of their ropes and start pulling, trying to drag the
he scores 1 point. If he is tagged before reaching his

65
goal, 1 point goes to the other side. The team with the SILVER TONGUE ORATOR
most points at the end of the game wins. The challenge of this game is to let Scouts see how long
Game each one of them can talk intelligently on a subject. You
Vigorous will need a stopwatch or a watch with a second hand.
Half-troop teams Appoint judges and a timekeeper, and have a box or
stump for the speakers to stand on. Print each question
SILENT SIGNALS on a flash card, boldly enough so that everyone in the
audience will be able to see them. You might want to
Procedure: The senior patrol leader gives 12 to 15 silent
write a question to fit each Scout. Some sample ques-
signals for formation and fieldwork, one after the other:
tions follow:
parallel file formation, open columns, spread out, dis-
missal, etc. The patrols are to follow each signal as s (OW DO YOU LIVE UP TO THE 3COUT ,AW
quickly as possible. s %XPLAIN loyal.
Scoring: The first patrol to get into a formation or to s 7HEN DID YOU DO YOUR LAST 'OOD 4URN
obey a field signal scores 10 points. Any patrol talking s 7HAT WAS THE BEST MEAL YOU EVER COOKED
or moving with unnecessary noise loses 5 points.
s (OW DO YOU MAKE A STRETCHER
Variation: Write the name of a silent signal on each of s $EFINE friendly.
eight slips of paper (one set for each patrol to draw
from). At the word, “Go,” the patrol leader gives the s 7HAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MERIT BADGE
signal he has drawn and his patrol obeys it. The assis- s 7HERE WAS YOUR FAVORITE CAMPOUT
tant patrol leader gives the next signal, and so on until s (OW DO YOU ACT COOL
eight signals have been given and followed.
s 7HO WAS "ADEN 0OWELL
Game
Patrol teams SKIN-DIVING CONTEST
Quiet Equipment: Plastic saucers or small plates

SILVER DOLLAR HUNT Procedure: The patrols line up on a dock or at the side
Equipment: For each player, one orienteering compass, of a pool. The game leader throws a number of saucers
one “silver dollar” (a 3-inch cardboard circle covered into the water. The Scouts dive in and retrieve the sau-
with aluminum foil), one card with distances and direc- cers, bringing them back to their starting point. Repeat
tions such as “50 steps at [X] degrees (X being less than the game three times.
120 degrees); 50 steps at [X + 120] degrees; 50 steps at Scoring: The patrol that retrieves the most saucers wins.
[X + 240] degrees”
SKIN-THE-SNAKE
Procedure: Scatter the players throughout a field of fairly
tall grass. Place a silver dollar at the feet of each Scout. The players are lined up in single file with their feet
On signal, each Scout sets his compass for the direction apart. Each player leans over, reaches back between his
indicated on his card and walks the specified distance. legs with his right hand, and grasps the left hand of the
The same is done for the second and third bearings. player behind him. On signal, the last player in line lies
When he is done, the silver dollar should be at his feet down on his back, putting his feet between the feet of
(or at least within his immediate sight). the player in front of him. The line of players walks
backward, each of them straddling the body of the
Scoring: The patrol with the most Scouts winding up player behind him. The players immediately lie down
within seven steps of their silver dollars (5 percent when they have no one else to straddle. When finished,
error) wins. all are lying on their backs. The last player to lie down
rises to his feet and strides forward up the line, the rest
Game
following as fast as their turn comes. A team that
Patrol teams
breaks its grasp is disqualified.
Informal
Game

66
SLAPJACK Scoring variation: When a patrol turns in its list, it gets
Procedure: Contestant 1 places his open palms down on a card with questions such as these: “How many boys
the upturned palms of contestant 2, who then tries to camped in the sloppy camp?” “To what troops and
pull one hand, or both, away quickly and slap the back patrols did they belong?” “What were their names?”
of his opponent’s hands. When he fails, the opponents (according to the items used).
change hand positions and contestant 1 takes his turn. Game
Scoring: The first contestant to make a given number of Informal
slaps is the winner, or the most slaps in a given length Patrol teams
of time wins.
SNAKE RACE
Game
Equipment: Eight staves and seven lashing cords for
Informal
each patrol
Patrol representatives
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation and
SLEEPING PIRATE place the staves in line between their feet. On signal,
Equipment: Two blocks of wood or matchboxes the patrol members lash the staves together into a long
(the “treasure”) “snake” with single shear lashings. When secure, the
snake is passed forward, then up and overhead to the
Procedure: A blindfolded Scout from one patrol becomes rear, and down and forward between the feet to the
the “sleeping pirate” and sits on a chair in the middle original position.
of the playing area. At his feet is the treasure that he is
defending. The Scouts form a wide circle around the Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.
pirate. On signal, they try to sneak in and pick up the
treasure without being caught. The sleeping pirate SPIES IN THE WOODS
catches Scouts who have made noise by pointing at Equipment: Several blank sheets of paper; one pencil
them. If a Scout is pointed at, he must go back and start for each player; a notebook or piece of paper (the
from the beginning. Each player has two tries. Only one “black book”) for each spy
block (or matchbox) can be captured at a time.
Procedure: Post the sheets of paper 2 or 3 feet from the
Scoring: Score 10 points for each treasure successfully ground on different trees and bushes. Two or three lead-
captured. ers become spies and roam about a given area in which
the papers are posted. (The number of spies depends on
Note: Use two pirates seated back to back, and more
the amount of space allotted to the game.) Each player
blocks, if the group is large.
tries to write his name on the different papers without
Game being seen. The players may write their names only
Patrol corners once on each paper. Of course, locating the papers is
Patrol teams part of the game. If a spy sees a player within 15 feet of
a paper, he writes the player’s name in his “black book.”
SLOPPY CAMP
Scoring: The number of names in the spies’ books is
Equipment: A simple camp setup (tent and fireplace)
deducted from the number of signatures on the papers.
with many things wrong—ax on the ground, glass jar in
The patrol with the best score wins.
the fireplace, poorly set tent pegs, wrong knots on guy-
lines, etc., and personal items such as two blankets and Game
one sleeping bag in the tent, two neckerchiefs of differ- Informal
ent colors draped over a guyline, two Scout shirts with Troop against “It”
different troop identification and name tags, etc.
SPLIT-THE-MATCH RELAY
Procedure: The patrols study the camp for five minutes
Equipment: A Scout ax and chopping block for each
without talking. The Scouts are permitted to touch what
patrol; a wooden matchstick for each Scout
they see, but must replace items exactly as they found
them. Each patrol then huddles to come up with a list Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation with a
of wrong things. chopping block and an ax in front of each. On signal,
Scoring: The patrol with the best list of “incorrect” the first Scout in each patrol walks up to the chopping
items wins. block, places his matchstick (head up) on the chopping

67
block, and takes three strokes with the ax to split the chasing an opponent who is trying to steal the
match. When he has taken three strokes (or fewer if he wrong bacon.
splits the match sooner), he walks back to his patrol
Active
and tags the next Scout in line, who repeats the proce-
Game
dure. This continues until all patrol members have had
Half-troop teams
three strokes.

Scoring: The patrol that splits the most matches wins. SPUD
This is not a race. Equipment: A soft rubber ball
Caution: Exercise safety precautions in the handling of Procedure: Have the Scouts scatter around the playing
axes and matches. area. One Scout goes to the center with the ball. The
game starts when he drops the ball and calls the name
Game
of a Scout. That Scout retrieves the ball and calls
Parallel file
“Halt!” All other players must freeze. The Scout with
Patrol teams
the ball tries to hit one of them. The targeted Scout may
duck and dodge, but he may not move his feet. If he is
SPOON RACE
hit, a “spud” is scored against him; the other players
Equipment: One tablespoon and one egg or table-tennis
scatter; he retrieves the ball, calls “Halt!” and throws at
ball for each patrol
another player. If a thrower misses, a spud is scored
Procedure: The players line up in chest-deep water (the against him.
beginners’ area at the waterfront is good). One by one,
Scoring: The Scout with the fewest spuds scored against
each player places the tablespoon handle in his mouth,
him at the end of a specified time is the winner.
puts the egg or table-tennis ball in the spoon, and
swims to a finish line about 15 yards away. If the spoon Outdoor
is dropped or the egg falls off, the player must surface-
dive and recover his equipment before continuing the STANDING LONG-JUMP RELAY
race. The spoon cannot be steadied or touched by the Procedure: The patrols line up behind a starting line on
player’s hands once the race has started. the ground. The first patrol member jumps, using the
standing long-jump method with feet together. The sec-
Scoring: Score 50 points for the first patrol to finish,
ond patrol member then jumps from the closest mark
25 for the second, and 10 for the third.
made by the first Scout (that is, from where his heels or
Variation: Swim the sidestroke and hand-carry the hands touched the ground nearest the starting line),
spoon. Usually, players must be better swimmers for and so on until all players have jumped.
this method.
Scoring: The patrol that jumps the farthest total
Active distance wins.
Fitness
Active
Patrol teams
Fitness
Individual
SPORTS TRUE-FALSE STEAL-THE-BACON
Equipment: Two rags—one red, one green (the “bacon”) STAR HUNT
Procedure: This is a variation of “Steal-the-Bacon” with Equipment: Flashlight with a strong focusing beam
two exceptions: first, two “slabs” of bacon are used,
Procedure: On a clear night, the patrols gather around a
each a different color; second, before calling a number,
leader who knows the major constellations. He shines the
the leader makes a statement about sports. If the state-
light at a constellation. Each patrol quickly huddles to
ment is true, the players should try to steal the green
come up with the name of the constellation, then gives its
bacon; if false, the red one.
patrol yell and announces the constellation’s name.
Scoring: Award 1 point for stealing the appropriate
Scoring: Award 1 point for each constellation
bacon or tagging an opponent who tries to steal it.
correctly identified.
Deduct 2 points for stealing the wrong bacon or for

68
STEAL-THE-BACON VARIATIONS Scoring: The first patrol to finish wins.

Active
BLINDFOLD STEAL-THE-BACON
Game
Equipment: Three neckerchiefs (two for blindfolds and
Patrol teams
one for the “bacon”)

Procedure: Two equal-size teams line up facing each STICK FIGHT

other about 20 feet apart. Each team counts off with the Equipment: One Scout stave per pair of players
same set of numbers so that each boy will share his
Procedure: The players are paired off, facing each other
number with a boy on the other team. The bacon is
with their feet planted in a wide, firm stance. They grip
placed midway between the teams. The leader calls out
the stick firmly with both hands, each with his left
a number. The two boys who share that number are
hand covered by his opponent’s right hand. On signal,
blindfolded, spun around three times, then headed
each tries to get the stick to touch the ground on his
toward the bacon, with their respective teammates
right side by pushing down with his right hand and
shouting directions. The two blindfolded boys also try
pulling up with his left.
to tag each other in order to be the first to get
the bacon. Scoring: The player who succeeds in two out of three
tries is the winner.
Scoring: The first player to bring home the bacon with-
out being tagged by his opponent scores 1 point for his Variation: Stick Twist. The players face one another
team. If a player is tagged by his opponent while touch- and stand about a yard apart, gripping the stick in a
ing the bacon or bringing it back, the opponent’s team manner similar to that in “Stick Fight,” with the excep-
scores 1 point. tion that they hold the stick at eye level or higher. The
object is to bring the staff straight down without bend-
HORSE-AND-RIDER STEAL-THE-BACON ing the wrist or elbows or having the stick twist while
Equipment: One neckerchief (the “bacon”) holding it.

Procedure: Two teams line up facing each other, and Fitness

count off, as above. The leader calls out two numbers. Whole troop
The two smaller boys of the four whose numbers were
called jump on the backs of the other two, who then STIFF
gallop for the bacon. Equipment: Two blocks of wood small enough to hold
in the hands
Scoring: Same as above. If a “horse” touches the bacon,
the opposite team scores 1 point. Procedure: The leader has two blocks of wood. The
Scouts move about at will within a specified area. The
Fitness
leader stands where he can observe all action. When he
Patrol teams
claps the two blocks of wood together loudly, all Scouts
Vigorous
freeze. If any Scout moves, the leader shouts his name
and immediately the rest of the Scouts catch the guilty
STEP ON IT
party. The leader is in complete control and, as soon as
Equipment: For each patrol, three large building blocks
the offender is caught, he strikes the blocks together,
or three 8-inch lengths of 2-by-4
again requiring all action to cease and Scouts to freeze.
Procedure: Lay out a course about 25 feet long. The The leader again looks for movement and shouts out
patrols line up in relay formation behind the starting the name of any Scout he sees moving. If the leader
line. Give the first player in each patrol the three blocks. doesn’t detect any movement, he says “Mill around,”
On signal, he puts two blocks on the ground and stands which permits the Scouts to move at random around
on them. He then puts down the third block and steps the meeting place until he strikes the blocks together
forward on it, picks up the vacated block, and moves it again.
ahead. In this fashion, he proceeds to the finish line,
Game
where he picks up all three blocks and runs back to his
patrol and tags the next player. If a Scout steps on the
ground at any time, he must return to the starting line
and begin again.

69
STRETCHER RELAY Scoring: The Scout who pushes his opponent over the
Equipment: Two staves, one sturdy blanket, and one goal line wins.
inflated balloon for each patrol Active
Procedure: This is not a speed relay. The patrols line up Fitness
in relay formation, with two “victims” in front of each. Patrol teams
On signal, two members of each patrol run up with the
blanket and two staves, make a stretcher, and put one SUBMARINES AND MINEFIELDS
victim on it. When the stretcher carriers are ready to lift Procedure: Half of the troop’s patrols are in extended
the stretcher, the junior leader (or judge) places the line formation with their feet apart and are blindfolded.
inflated balloon on the victim. The carriers take the vic- They are the “mines.” The other patrols are the “sub-
tim to the starting line without letting the balloon fall marines.” At the signal, “Subs,” those boys try to crawl
off. The victim may not hold onto the balloon. (The between the feet of the mines without touching them. If
balloon is to ensure care rather than speed.) At the a mine hears a sub, he “blows it up” by touching him
starting line, the carriers lift the victim off, and two with one hand. The patrols change positions when all
other Scouts run up to make a stretcher for transporting subs have crawled through or have been blown up.
the second victim.
Scoring: Score 2 points for each sub getting through the
Scoring: The patrol that most carefully transports both mines. The mines receive 2 points for each sub blown
victims (without letting the balloon fall off) to the start- up. Deduct 2 points from a team’s score for each missed
ing line wins. blow made at a sub.

Active Variation: The mines get in line formation with out-

Game stretched hands. The subs try to get around the legs or
Patrol teams arms of the mines without being blown up.
Relay
Game
Individual
STRING-BURNING RACE
Single line
Equipment: For each patrol, two 2-foot sticks, two 3-
foot lengths of twine, two matches SUBWAY
Procedure: Before the race, each patrol pushes the two Divide the group into thirds. Set two rows of chairs fac-
sticks into the ground, 24 inches apart. They tie one ing each other about 5 feet apart, as in a subway. There
length of twine between the sticks, 12 inches off the should be enough chairs for only two-thirds of the
ground, and the other one 18 inches off the ground. group. The remaining one-third, the “straphangers,”
Then, each patrol gathers native tinder and firewood. remain standing in the aisle between the two rows. As
On signal, two representatives selected by each patrol the “conductor” (senior patrol leader) calls out a stop
build a fire lay (not higher than the lower string) and (use names of cities in your area), everyone seated
light it. After being lit, the fire must not be touched, nor must switch sides. The straphangers take this opportu-
can more wood be added. nity to try to get a seat. The first player to get his
behind on a chair wins the seat. Those without a seat
Scoring: The team whose fire burns through the top become straphangers.
string first wins. After a couple of stops, the conductor yells “City Hall.
Game Everyone off!” All the players must exit one end of the
Informal subway, circle, reenter the opposite end, and find a seat.
Patrol teams After a complete loop from City Hall to the terminal,
the “express” is run. Start the whole process over,
THE STRUGGLE slowly at first, but pick up speed, spending less time at
Procedure: Two Scouts face each other about a yard each stop.
apart. A goal line is marked 5 to 10 feet behind each
Scout. They stretch their arms forward, lock fingers
with each other, lean forward until their chests touch,
and push chest to chest.

70
SWAT ’EM, OR WHIPPED-TO-THE-GAP TAGS
Equipment: Newspaper rolled up into a swatter Cross Tag. “It” must continue chasing the same Scout
until catching him, or until another Scout crosses
Procedure: The troop forms a circle, with all players fac-
between them, in which case It must catch the Scout
ing inward, hands behind their back. The first game
who crossed.
leader walks quietly around the circle and secretly
places the newspaper swatter in the hands of a player, Ankle Tag. To escape being tagged, players must grasp
who starts swatting the player to his right with it. He another Scout by the ankle. The Scout whose ankle is
continues swatting at the victim, chasing him as he grasped, however, is liable to be tagged unless he has
runs around the outside of the circle and back to his hold of someone else’s ankle. The playing area must be
place in the ring. The player with the swatter continues small enough to make the game feasible.
around the circle (his place in the ring has been taken
Chain Tag. The first Scout tagged by “It” joins hands
by the first leader) and hands the swatter to another
with him, and as each additional Scout is tagged he is
player. Continue the game as long as desired.
added to the chain. The playing area must be limited so
Note: If the troop is large, use two or three swatters. all can finally be caught.

Confusion Skunk Tag. Each player holds his nose with one hand,
Game and holds up one foot with the other. A player can only
Whole troop be tagged if he lets go with either hand.

SWIMMING RACES Game

25-Yard Swim. The racers (one from each patrol) line
TAKE THE MAT
up. On signal, they jump into the water and swim 25
Two opposing teams line up the same distance from a
yards to the goal. Continue until all have raced.
mat or a 25-square-foot area marked on the ground. On
Patrol Swim Relay. The patrols line up in relay forma- signal, they rush for the mat and try to place as many
tion on the dock. The first Scout swims to a float and players on it as possible. At the end of one minute, a
back to tag the second Scout, and so on. whistle is blown and the team with the most players on
the mat wins. Opponents can be pulled, pushed, or
Shirt Rescue. The Scouts pair off. One Scout swims out
thrown, but clothing may not be grasped.
30 feet, and remains there to be rescued. The rescuer
jumps into the water with a shirt in his mouth, swims Facing lines
out, throws one end of the shirt to the victim, and pulls Nature
him to shore. Patrol teams

Hands-up Race. The Scouts line up in the water. On TAUT-LINE HITCH RACE
signal, they swim a designated distance with both
Equipment: A rope ring around a tree; tent stakes ham-
hands above the water, using only their legs and feet for
mered in the ground around the tree in a circle; for each
propulsion. The first Scout over the line wins.
player, a rope of sufficient length to reach from the rope
Initiative Race. The Scouts race back and forth ring to a tent stake for tying a taut-line hitch
between two points a certain number of times, using a
Procedure: All ropes are lying with their ends slack on
different stroke each time: crawl stroke, breaststroke,
the ground. The Scouts line up next to the tent stakes.
backstroke, sidestroke, and so on.
On signal, each Scout grasps a rope end and ties a taut-
Towel Race. The Scouts race between two points, each line hitch. When all Scouts in the patrol have finished,
holding a dry towel in one uplifted hand. The towel the patrol gives its yell.
must be dry at the finish.
Scoring: The first patrol to yell, with all hitches tied cor-
Ball Race. Each Scout carries a table-tennis ball between rectly, wins.
his knees. If he loses it while swimming or running in
Knots
the water, he must replace it before continuing.
Patrol teams
Aquatics
Half-troop teams
Various

71
TENDERFOOT RELAY team tries to kick the ball through the goal of its oppo-
Equipment: Flash cards, each printed with one instruc- nents, using their untied legs only. After a team has
tion (such as “Give the Scout sign,” “Give the Scout scored, the ball is placed in the center and the game is
salute,” or “Recite a point of the Scout Law,” etc.) started over.

Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. On Scoring: The team with the most goals scored after five
signal, the first Scout in each patrol runs to the far end minutes of play wins.
of the room and does an about-face. The senior patrol Game
leader is facing this Scout, but has his back to the rest Patrol teams
of the troop. He shows a flash card. The Scout performs
or answers according to the instructions on the card, THREE-PERSON TUG-OF-WAR
then runs back to tag the next Scout, and so on until all
Equipment: A 12-foot rope at least 1⁄4 inch in diameter,
Scouts have run.
three neckerchiefs or hats
Scoring: Award 1 point for each correct answer. The
Procedure: Tie the ends of the rope together and arrange
patrol with the highest number of points wins.
it in the shape of a triangle on the playing field. Place a
neckerchief or hat about 6 feet from every corner on the
TENT-PITCHING CONTEST
outside of the triangle. A Scout from each patrol grasps
Equipment: For each half-patrol team, one two-person the rope at one corner with his left hand. On signal,
tent, poles, pegs, and guylines, properly packed; one or each Scout tries to pick up the neckerchief with his
two mallets right hand.
Procedure: The teams line up across from their equip- Scoring: Give 10 points for each Scout who gets a neck-
ment. On signal, each team erects their tent. When erchief. Add the total points of winners in each patrol to
completed, the guylines must be taut with the knots determine the winning patrol.
correctly tied, the tent sides smooth, the pegs properly
placed, and the tent door closed. Variation: Each of three teams is lined up along a side
of the rope triangle. The players take hold of the rope
Scoring: The first patrol finished gets 100 points, the and, on signal, start pulling. The rope may not be tied
second gets 80 points, and the third gets 60 points. around the waists of players, nor can the players hold
Deduct 5 points for every incorrectly tied knot or any onto posts, trees, or any stationary objects. The first
other fault. team to pull or drag its opponents across a designated
line wins.
TENT-STRIKING CONTEST
Equipment: Same as for “Tent-Pitching Contest” Game
(except mallets) Patrol teams
Relay
Procedure: The tent is already pitched. Each team
must take down the tent, fold it, and tie it up neatly. THURMAN THROW
The pegs are to be pulled out of the ground and placed Equipment: For each patrol, a Scout stave or broomstick
beside the folded tent. Judge for correctness and handle
teamwork.
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation, with
THREE-LEGGED FOOTBALL the patrol leader of each holding the stave about 5 feet
Equipment: A neckerchief for each pair of Scouts, four in front of them. On signal, he tosses the stave to the
chairs, a ball first Scout in line, who tosses it back to him and ducks
down. The patrol leader then tosses the stave to the
Procedure: At each end of the meeting room, place two second Scout, who catches it, tosses it back, ducks
chairs about 5 feet apart to serve as goals. Organize the down, and so on through the line. The last Scout in line
Scouts into two teams. The Scouts in each team pair catches and tosses twice, and then it’s tossed to each
up, their inside legs tied together with a neckerchief. Scout back down the line. Each Scout remains standing
One pair in each team acts as the goaltenders. Place the after this toss and catch.
ball in the center of the playing area, with both teams
taking position in front of their goals. On signal, each Scoring: The first patrol with all players standing wins.

72
TIGER IN A CAGE Fitness
Procedure: Mark a large circle on the ground or floor to Half-troop teams
represent the “cage.” One player is chosen to be the Vigorous
“tiger,” who must stay inside the cage. The other play-
ers run in and out of the cage as they please, torment- TRAIL SIGNS
ing the tiger so he will try to tag them. The tiger may Equipment: Two sets of 3-by-5 index cards for each
tag them only when they are in the cage; he cannot patrol (each of the first set bearing a drawing of a trail
leave it or reach outside it to tag them. When a player is sign; each of the second set with the definition of one
tagged inside the cage, he becomes the tiger and the of the trail signs)
former tiger joins the group of tormentors.
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. The
Scoring: None—just for fun. two sets of cards are placed about 25 feet in front of
each patrol. The cards with the pictured trail signs are
Variation: Choose two tigers to share the cage at the placed facedown; the cards with the definitions are
same time. This increases the chances of tormentors spread out faceup. On signal, the first Scout from each
being tagged. patrol runs to his set of cards and draws one of the
Active facedown cards. He places it on the correct definition
Fitness card, runs back, and tags the next Scout. Continue until
Patrol teams all cards are matched.

Scoring: The first patrol to correctly match all cards wins.

TIRE-ROLL RELAY
Equipment: For each patrol, a tire and seven stakes Game
Patrol teams
Procedure: Lay out a course with the stakes. The Scouts Quiet
line up in relay formation, facing the course. The first
Scout in each patrol rolls his tire through the course, TRAIN CHASE
around a single end marker, and back through the Procedure: The game starts with one player designated
course to the starting line. The next Scout in line repeats as “It,” who tries to tag the other players. A tagged
the process, and so on until the tire has been rolled player joins It by clasping his hands around Its waist.
through the course eight times. (Some patrol members The two then try to catch two more players until there
might have to run the course more than once.) is a “train” of four players hooked up. When this hap-
Scoring: The first patrol to complete eight trips through pens, the train splits into two pairs to do the chasing.
the course from start to finish wins. This continues with each pair capturing and adding
members, then splitting as soon as it becomes a train of
Patrol teams four. The game ends when one player is left uncaught.

TORPEDO Scoring: The uncaught player is the winner and

Equipment: Beanbags, knotted neckerchiefs, boxing becomes It to start the next round.
gloves, or other soft objects for throwing; six blindfolds Fitness
Procedure: Six Scouts are selected to be “submarines.” Pairs
They are blindfolded and seated in two facing rows
about 10 feet apart. Each submarine is provided with
TREE HUNT
several soft objects to throw, “the torpedoes.” The other The patrols are given 10 minutes (on a hike or in camp)
Scouts, the “ships,” try to pass through the submarine- to gather one leaf from as many different trees as they
infested water, but they must make a noise resembling can find. The leaves are arranged on the ground or on a
a ship’s motor as they go. The blindfolded submarines blanket. The patrol must try to identify each leaf, write
take aim by sound and launch their torpedoes, trying to the name of the tree it came from on a slip of paper,
hit one of the ships going through the line. If a ship is then place each written identification next to its leaf.
hit, he changes places with the submarine that hit him The patrol that correctly identifies the most leaves wins.
and the game continues. Nature
Scoring: None—just for fun.

73
TRIPOD LASHING Scoring: Score 1 point for the team that wins each bout.
Equipment: For each patrol, three 8-foot spars (staves or Game
saplings), one 8-foot length of lashing rope, and one 6-
foot length of rope for suspension TWIG HUNT
Procedure: On signal, the patrol members lash the three Equipment: A variety of 10 to 15 twigs
spars into a tripod, using the tripod lashing shown in
Procedure: The troop gathers around the game leader,
the Boy Scout Handbook. When finished, they set up
who shows the twigs one at a time, identifying each (or
the tripod, tie a bowline knot in one end of the short
not if you wish). The patrols are then sent out to gather
rope, and place the bowline loop over the top of the
a similar set of twigs.
tripod. Then they tie a bowline knot in the free end—
high enough that the loop cannot touch the ground. Scoring: The first patrol to return with a complete
One Scout steps up into the bowline loop and stands set wins.
there, holding his balance by hanging onto the line
Variation 1: Leaf Hunt. As part of an instruction period
coming down from the top of the tripod.
on identifying trees by their leaves, the leader shows
Scoring: The first patrol with a Scout standing in the the patrols a set of leaves. The patrols then go out to
bowline loop with the tripod supporting his weight wins. collect twigs of the same trees from which those
leaves came.
Knots
Parallel file Variation 2: Restricted Twig Hunt. Within a restricted
Patrol teams area, the patrols collect as many different twigs as they
can find. Give 1 point for each twig that is correctly
TUG-OF-WAR identified. Deduct 1 point for each error.
Equipment: One rope at least 25 feet long
Cooking
Procedure: Two teams line up single file, facing each Patrol teams
other. The players take hold of the rope, and, on signal, Quiet
start pulling. The rope may not be tied around the waist
of any player, nor can any player hold onto posts, trees, TWO-PERSON SQUARE-KNOT TYING
or any stationary objects. Equipment: A 50-foot rope for each patrol

Scoring: The first team to pull or drag its opponents Procedure: Two Scouts grasp the rope ends and, without
across a designated line wins. letting go, join the rope ends with a square knot. Other
Scouts can help with advice only.
Variation: The teams are given pieces of rope 3 to 4 feet
long. They tie the ropes together with sheet bends. The Informal
leader ties the opposing teams’ ropes together and calls Knots
“Go!” This method is not only a test of strength, but also Patrol teams
serves as a fine test of the patrol’s knot-tying ability. If
the team captain gets his players to “heave” together, the WALKING STATUES
team will have success even against superior strength. Two half-troop (or patrol) teams start from opposite
ends of a room or field, advancing on a leader who
Half-troop teams
stands halfway between them. A team can advance
Various
only while the leader is facing the opposite way. He
turns around at will, whereupon everyone he faces
TUG-OF-WAR STEAL-THE-BACON
must freeze. If he detects the slightest movement, the
Equipment: A tire or stave (the “bacon”)
guilty party is sent back to the starting line to begin
Procedure: Two equal-size teams line up facing each again. This continues until a player reaches the center
other. The players are numbered such that each player and touches the leader, thus winning for his team and
shares a number with one player on the opposing team. becoming the next leader.
Place a tire or stave in the center between the two lines.
Patrol teams
The leader shouts out a number. The Scouts who share
that number run out, grab the tire or stave, and try to
pull it back over to their side.

74
WALL STREET WATER GAMES FOR NONSWIMMERS
Equipment: Two identical decks of playing cards Ping-Pong Race. The Scouts line up at the starting
point in waist-deep water, each with a table-tennis ball
Procedure: This game works best if you have at least
floating in front of him. On signal, each Scout blows his
four patrols. Shuffle the two decks of cards together and
ball to shore.
deal them into equal stacks, one stack for each patrol.
Before giving the stacks of cards to the patrol leaders, Ocean Race. Each Scout sits in an inflated inner tube at
instruct the troop that they are to try to get a complete the starting line. The water should be waist deep. On
suit (hearts, diamonds, spades, or clubs) of cards (ace signal, each Scout paddles with his hands toward shore,
through king) by trading cards with the other patrols. which is the finish line.
Step back and watch the flurry of trading and bartering.
Backward Race. The Scouts line up parallel to the
(Watch for rules being broken or bent. This could be an
shore in waist-deep water. On signal, they run back-
opportunity to teach a Scouting ideal with the
ward to shore.
Scoutmaster’s Minute at the close of the meeting.)
Horse and Rider. The Scouts form buddy teams with
Scoring: The first patrol to collect a complete suit wins.
one as the “horse” and one as the “rider” (piggyback)
WASTEBASKET in knee-deep water. Each team tries to unseat the other
teams. The last horse and rider in the game win.
Equipment: A wastebasket, a ball
Candy Hunt. Wrap pieces of hard candy in aluminum
Procedure: Form the patrols in one large circle, facing
foil and scatter them in shallow water. Have the Scouts
the center. Place the wastebasket in the center of the
try to find them within a given time.
circle. Starting clockwise, each Scout tries to throw the
ball into the basket. Aquatics
Patrol teams
Scoring: Each successful throw by a Scout scores 1 point
Various
for his patrol. The first patrol to reach 15 points wins.
WET-WEATHER FIRE BUILDING
WATER BASKETBALL
Run as a normal fire-building contest, but first dunk all
Equipment: A large basket with the bottom cut out, a
of the wood for 10 seconds in a bucket of water. A vari-
rubber ball
ation to add fun is sprinkling the Scouts intermittently
Procedure: Fasten the basket at an end of a swimming with a garden hose to simulate rain. The first patrol to
pool or a boat landing. Divide the troop into two teams successfully build and sustain a fire wins.
of swimmers. The players must try to throw the ball
into the basket as in regular basketball. Limit the game WHAT DO I FEEL?
to five minutes. Equipment: Fifteen to 20 articles (marble, coin, pocket-
knife, hammer, etc.); paper and pencil for each patrol; a
Scoring: Each basket earns 2 points. The team with the
blindfold for each Scout
highest score wins.
Procedure: Have the patrols form a circle, face inward,
WATER DODGEBALL and put on the blindfolds. The leader hands the various
Equipment: A rubber ball articles, one by one, to a Scout in the circle. He feels
each article and passes it on to the next in line. The sec-
Procedure: Divide the troop into two teams. One team ond Scout feels the article and passes it on. This is con-
forms a circle around the other team in waist-deep water. tinued until all items have made a complete circle.
The outside team tries to hit the members of the inside Remove the blindfolds and have the patrols write down
team with the ball. A player hit by the ball is out of the the items in the order in which they were passed.
game. After a given time the teams switch positions.
Scoring: Give 10 points for each correct answer. The
Scoring: The team that stays inside the circle the patrol with the highest score wins.
longest wins.
Note: Instead of a circle, tell the patrol to form a line,
Aquatics standing or sitting on a log, without blindfolds, and
Patrol teams pass the items behind their backs. The game leader

75
feeds the items to the first Scout, and receives them pit and calls in the original track makers to repeat their
from the last Scout. actions. (Be sure to restore the pit area to its original
condition.)
Game
Informal Informal
Patrol teams Patrol teams

WHAT DO I SMELL? WHAT’S COOKING?

Equipment: Several paper bags, each holding a differ- Equipment: Paper and pencil for each patrol
ent-smelling article (licorice, onion half, coffee, orange
Procedure: The patrols gather in patrol corners. The
peels, cinnamon, etc.); paper and pencil for each patrol;
game leader gives a short talk about cooking on an
blindfolds
overnight hike. Then each patrol plans a workable
Procedure: Place the bags about 2 feet apart on a table menu for the overnighter, including breakfast, lunch,
or bench. On signal, each Scout (blindfolded) walks and dinner.
down the line and sniffs each bag for 5 seconds. When
Scoring: Have the troop leaders judge the best menu on
all members of each patrol have passed by, the patrols
the following points: cost of food, ease of preparation,
huddle and write down the names of the different arti-
and balanced diet. The patrol with the best menu wins.
cles they smelled.

Scoring: Give 10 points for each correct answer. WHAT’S WRONG?

Procedure: The game leader reads preparation instruc-
Note: Instead of bags, use 35-millimeter film containers
tions for two or three hike menus, making several errors
with the tops punctured, and fill them with cotton balls
in the contents of meals and the manner of preparing
soaked in different-smelling liquids. Or, put different-
them. The patrols go to patrol corners and make a list of
smelling articles into cups and tape foil covers over
the errors and the proper ways to prepare these meals.
them; punch holes in the covers with a fork. The Scouts
sit at a table, passing and smelling the items. Scoring: The patrol with the most correct answers wins.
Game Informal hike
Informal Nature
Patrol teams Patrol teams

WHAT HAPPENED? WHEELBARROW RELAY

Prepare a tracking pit by digging up and raking smooth Procedure: Establish a starting line and, 20 feet away, a
an area about 10 by 15 feet. Then stage a simple track- turning line. The patrols line up in relay formation at the
ing scenario to be observed and deduced. starting line. On signal, the first Scout from each patrol
places his hands on the floor and the second Scout
The Good Turn. A blind man with a cane walks into
grasps his ankles and lifts his legs. In this position, they
the tracking pit. A Scout joins him, takes his arm, and
travel to the turning line, with the first player traveling
leads him out.
on his hands. On reaching the turning line, they reverse
Table Carry. Four men carry a picnic table (with positions and return, tagging the second pair of Scouts,
benches attached) into the tracking pit. They stop, set who follow the same procedure. Continue the relay until
the table down, rest on the benches, stand, pick up the all patrol members have competed.
table, and carry it off.
Scoring: The patrol to finish first wins.
Tired Scout. A Scout stumbles into the pit, tries to
Game
climb out, gives up, and sits down. Another Scout
Parallel file
enters, picks him up, and carries him off.
Patrol teams
The patrols study the tracks for five minutes, huddle,
and then present their deduction verbally. The game
leader does not indicate right or wrong, but rakes the

76
WHIP-THE-ROPE can be asked of one person. When a player learns his
Equipment: An unwhipped lashing rope and whipping identity, he may stop or get another name and start over.
cord for each Scout Game
Procedure: The patrols line up in relay formation. The Patrol teams
ropes are placed at a turning line in front of the patrols. Relay
A leader is assigned to each patrol. On signal, the first
Scout in each line runs to the turning line, picks up a WINTER CONSTELLATIONS QUIZ
rope, whips both ends, then runs back to tag the second Equipment: None, if the night sky is clear; if overcast, a
Scout, and so on until all have run. winter constellations display as described below

Scoring: Award 5 points for the first patrol to finish, 4 Procedure: Give the patrols three minutes to study the
points for the second, 3 for the third, etc. The leaders “Evening Skies” charts for winter months, found in the
inspect the whippings. Deduct 1 point for each whip- Fieldbook. Then, if the night is clear, take the patrols
ping that slips off the rope when pulled. outside, one by one, and ask them to point out as many
constellations as they can find. (Have another activity
Variation: Splice-the-Rope. Same as above, but each scheduled for the patrols inside.)
Scout puts one end splice on the rope. Score as above If the night is overcast, use five or more homemade
for time, then score 1 to 5 additional points for neatness. projectors for your winter constellations display: Make
Game patterns of the constellations on 2 1⁄2-inch paper circles,
Informal marking the stars’ positions with a pen or dark pencil.
Patrol teams Tape each pattern on the bottom of a soup can. Use a
small nail to punch a tiny hole at each star’s position in
WHO AM I? the constellation. (Ensure that the holes are punched so
Equipment: For each player, a card or piece of paper at that the projected constellations are realistic.) Shine a
least 2 inches square, each printed with a famous name flashlight through the open end. Have each patrol write
(can be those of real people or of comic characters— down the identifications.
Dick Tracy, Joe Lewis, Queen of England, Columbus, Scoring: The patrol with the most correct identifications
Harry S. Truman, etc.) wins.
Procedure: Each player has a name card pinned on his Nature
back, but does not know what the name is. The players Patrol teams
circulate and ask yes-or-no questions such as “Am I Quiet
alive?” and “Am I an American?” Only two questions

77
 CEREMONIES
Boy Scout Investiture Ceremonies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Installation Ceremonies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Opening Ceremonies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Closing Ceremonies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Courts of Honor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Tenderfoot Rank Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Second Class Rank Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
First Class Rank Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Star Rank Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Life Rank Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Eagle Scout Court of Honor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Campfire Ceremonies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Flag Ceremonies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Webelos-to-Scout Ceremonies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Tips for Good Ceremonies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Checklist for Courts of Honor
(and Other Ceremonies) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100

79
 CEREMONIES
Immediate recognition is a powerful incentive of the Patrol leader (steps from his position behind the table,
BSA’s advancement program. A Scout should receive his picks up the lighted candle, and speaks directly to the
new badge of rank as soon as possible after his achieve- candidate): This candle represents the spirit of
ment has been certified by a board of review. A simple Scouting. As we welcome you into the fellowship of
ceremony at the conclusion of a troop meeting or dur- Troop (No.) , we want you to stop and think
ing a campout is ideal, with the Scoutmaster making about what it means to be a Boy Scout.
the award presentation. Sure, it’s a lot of fun, but more than that it’s getting
In addition, a troop should hold a court of honor along with other people. It’s doing your part, helping
every three months—a formal recognition with families, others all the time, learning to lead, too. It’s living up to
friends, and the public invited. All Scouts who have the Scout Oath and Law—and believe me, that’s a
moved up a rank, except the Eagle Scout rank, or who man’s job! It’s a Good Turn daily and the motto Be
have earned merit badges since the last court of honor Prepared. That’s what the spirit of Scouting means to us
should be recognized. in Troop (No.) . Now, listen to the Scout Law.
A special Eagle Scout court of honor should be held (The patrol leader hands the burning candle to a Scout,
after an Eagle Scout board of review has certified that a who steps up to the table.)
Scout has completed all the requirements for that rank.
Boy Scout (lights the first candle on the log and turns
The Scout and his family should be involved in the
toward the candidate): (Name) ,a
planning of the ceremony. It is the responsibility of the
Scout is trustworthy. That means everybody you live
troop committee chairperson or the advancement com-
and work with can always trust your word. (The Scout
mittee chairperson to plan the ceremony and oversee
hands the spirit of Scouting candle to the Scout next to
the program, along with other members of the troop
him, and that boy lights the second candle, turns toward
committee. See chapter 10 in the Scoutmaster Handbook
the candidate, and speaks simply but impressively about
for more details on planning a court of honor.
the meaning of loyalty. So it continues, through the 12
points of the Scout Law. Each Scout says only one or two
BOY SCOUT INVESTITURE CEREMONIES sincere, forceful sentences. There should be none of the
groping for words that so often spoils ceremonies. The
INVESTITURE CEREMONY 1 12th Scout returns the candle to the senior patrol leader.)

The notable thing about this investiture is its simplicity. Patrol leader: (Name) , you
There are many more elaborate, more impressive cere- have heard the Scout Law. Will you do your best to live
monies, but they can be unsuccessful. Many fail up to it?
because a Scout forgets his lines or the staging is too
Candidate (his face glowing in the light of 12 burning
complicated. Note how this ceremony is kept simple
candles): I will.
and natural, yet impressive from beginning to end.
(The troop is lined up along two sides of the room, Patrol leader: You will now be given the Scout Oath by
troop officers are at the front of the room, parents are our Scoutmaster, (name) .
seated. The patrol leader accompanies the candidate to Please raise your right hand in the Scout sign.
the shadowy room. Only one candle is burning.)
Scoutmaster: Repeat each part of the Scout Oath with
Patrol leader (replying to the Scoutmaster’s challenge): me, (name) , because it’s your
I bring candidate (name) , oath, your promise to live the life of a Scout. On my
who has completed his Scout work and is ready to be honor . . . . (The candidate joins in. As they recite the
received into the fellowship of our troop. (The two walk Oath, the Scoutmaster lights the three candles that repre-
together across the room and stop in front of a table sent the three parts.)
holding a rough log candelabra. The patrol leader steps (The candidate is asked to face the audience. The
back a pace and the candidate stands there, his eyes Scoutmaster steps forward, pins the badge on the candi-
gradually adjusting to the dim light, aware that there date’s shirt, and, in a few words, tells what it means to
are Scouts on either side and his parents and others be a member of the Boy Scouts of America. The assistant
in the darkness behind him. But his eyes are on the Scoutmaster then puts a new troop neckerchief around
Scoutmaster and troop leaders who face him across the candidate’s neck and says a word about what is
the burning candle’s glow.) expected of him as a member of Troop (No.)
—the best troop in town!

81
 That is the cue for the patrol leader to pin a patrol PATROL LEADER INSTALLATION 1
medallion on the new Boy Scout’s right sleeve and to
The troop forms a circle of its patrols. The Scoutmaster
tell him that the (name)
speaks a few words about the importance of good patrol
Patrol—the best patrol in Troop (No.)
leadership and announces the appointment of the new
—is glad to have him as a member. Then the patrol
patrol leader of the (name) Patrol.
leader takes the new Boy Scout by the arm to where the
The new patrol leader is called forward. He places
other Scouts are standing in line. They shake hands and
his left hand on the pole of the troop flag, above that of
everything is informal.)
the Scoutmaster, salutes, and gives the patrol leader’s
Nothing is memorized. A little equipment, a properly
promise: “I promise to do my best to be worthy of my
set stage, and a few Scouts and leaders speaking from
office as patrol leader, for the sake of my fellow Scouts,
the heart are all that’s needed to make this an evening
my patrol, my troop, and the world brotherhood
the new Boy Scout will remember for a long, long time.
of Scouting.”
The Scoutmaster pins the patrol leader’s badge on
INVESTITURE CEREMONY 2
the boy’s left sleeve and presents him with a copy of
(The troop is assembled in a horseshoe formation with the Patrol Leader Handbook. The youngest member of
the Scoutmaster and assistant Scoutmaster in the open- the patrol steps forward and gives him the patrol flag.
ing. The candidate and his patrol leader stand just The troop gives a cheer for the new patrol leader,
inside the formation, opposite the Scoutmaster. The who steps back to his patrol where he is congratulated
assistant Scoutmaster holds the staff and hat of the by his fellow Scouts.
candidate. When ordered to come forward by the
Scoutmaster, the patrol leader brings the candidate PATROL LEADER INSTALLATION 2
to the center.)
Scoutmaster: You have been selected to serve as a
Scoutmaster: Do you know what your honor is? patrol leader because of your work in the troop. You
have been trained by the officers of the troop to help
Candidate: Yes. It means that I can be trusted to be
you conduct patrol meetings so that your Scouts will
truthful and honest (or words to that effect).
benefit from your Scouting experience. Your work has
Scoutmaster: Do you know the Scout Law? been done well. I know this troop will serve its mem-
bers better because you are one of the patrol leaders.
Candidate: Yes. You are not paid for this service, but the satisfaction of
Scoutmaster: Can I trust you, on your honor, to do your seeing Scouts grow into strong, upright men will be far
best to live up to the Scout Promise? (The candidate greater than any other reward could be. You will now
makes the Scout sign, and so does the entire troop while recite the patrol leader’s promise.
he gives the Scout Promise.) Patrol leader: I promise to do my best to be worthy of
I trust you, on your honor, to keep this promise. You my office as patrol leader, for the sake of my fellow
are now one of the great world brotherhood of Scouts. Scouts, my patrol, my troop, and the world brotherhood
(The assistant Scoutmaster places the hat on the new of Scouting.
Scout’s head and gives him his staff. With his left hand,
the Scoutmaster shakes the candidate’s left hand. The Scoutmaster: It is now my pleasant duty to present you
new Boy Scout about-faces and salutes the troop. The with your badge of office and your patrol flag. These
troop salutes.) March quickly to your patrol. (The troop signify that you are a leader of Scouts in this troop. The
shoulders staves, and the new Boy Scout and his patrol success of the patrol is now in your hands. I know that
leader march back to their patrol.) I can depend on you to do your part.

INSTALLATION CEREMONIES OPENING CEREMONIES

Ceremonies of this nature have a variety of applications. SCOUT LAW OPENINGS

Such ceremonies add a touch of formality or “official- 1. The Scout Law can be used as 12 separate ceremo-
ness” to the occasion. They add importance to the nies. One ceremony could be devoted to the first
offices and elements of troops. point, with a reading of the explanation, as in the
It is important to tailor the ceremony to the following example:
specific event.

82
 Troop: A Scout is trustworthy. 5. The troop, in line, faces a wall where a small pulley
or ring with a flag line is fastened. The troop comes
Leader: A Scout tells the truth. He keeps his
to attention. The flag is slowly hoisted while the
promises. . . .
bugler plays “America,” “God Bless America,” or
Eleven meetings later, the subject of the ceremony “America the Beautiful.”
would be “A Scout is reverent.”
6. In your words, explain the meaning of the Pledge of
2. The Scout Law is recited by all new Scouts. Allegiance. Then call the troop to attention and give
the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. The newest Scout and the oldest Scout lead the
troop in reciting the Scout Law. 7. Call the troop to attention. Say, “Hand salute!” and
give the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the Scout
4. One point of the Scout Law is assigned to each of sign and the Scout Oath. Pause after each part and,
12 boys. Each boy, in turn, takes a step forward, in your own words, give the meaning of it.
salutes, recites his point of the Law, and steps back
in line. 8. Call the troop to attention. Salute the flag. Recite the
Pledge of Allegiance.
SCOUT OATH OPENINGS
TROOP FLAG OPENINGS
1. Call the troop to attention. All Scouts give the Scout
sign and recite together the Scout Oath and Law.
1. Salute the troop flag. Give the troop yell or sing the
2. After saying the Scout Oath, read the points of the special troop song.
Scout Law with the Scouts repeating each point,
2. The Scouts salute the troop flag and repeat after the
as below:
senior patrol leader the troop’s special pledge, such as:
Scoutmaster: A Scout is trustworthy. “As a member of Troop (No.) , I pledge that
I shall always strive to be a good member of my
Scouts: A Scout is trustworthy. patrol. I will take part in all troop activities, advance
Continue through all 12 points of the Scout Law. in Scoutcraft, and act as a Scout at all times.”

3. Form the patrols as spokes of a wheel, with the

UNITED STATES FLAG OPENINGS
troop flag in the center. The patrol leaders hold onto
the flagpole with the left hand. Behind them, their
1. The troop is in single-rank formation. The flag is Scouts place their hands on the shoulder of the boy
carried to the front; the patrol leader of the honor in front of them. The troop sings an appropriate
guard patrol leads the troop in the Pledge of Scout song, such as “Hail, Hail Scouting Spirit” or
Allegiance: “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the “Trail the Eagle.”
United States of America and to the republic for
which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, PATRIOTIC OPENINGS
with liberty and justice for all.”
There are many different kinds of patriotic ceremonies.
2. The troop is formed by patrols in two lines facing A single patriotic ceremony, no matter how good, is
each other. The flag is marched up the aisle between bound to lose some of its meaning after endless repeti-
the lines, with the Scouts saluting. The flag bearers tion, so be sure to use a variety.
halt at the head of the lines and march about,
whereupon the troop gives the Pledge of Allegiance. 1. Scout 1 (lighting a red candle): The red of my flag is
the lifeblood of brave men ready to die or worthily
3. The troop is in a horseshoe formation with the flag live for this, our country.
in the center. Each Scout in turn steps forward one
step, salutes, and steps back—or all salute together. Scout 2 (lighting a white candle): The white of my
flag is for purity; cleanliness of purpose, thought,
4. The troop is in single-rank formation. Bring the word, and deed.
Scouts to attention and turn out all lights except a
single spot or flashlight focused on the flag. A Scout Scout 3 (lighting a blue candle): The blue of my flag
from the color guard patrol recites (doesn’t sing) the is for truth and justice, like the eternal blue of the
first verse of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The troop star-filled heavens.
then sings the verse and the lights are turned on.

83
 Scout 4 (while saluting with the other three Scouts): CLOSING CEREMONIES
My flag—the flag of America, home of liberty, land
of opportunity, where people of all races and creeds 1. Close the meeting with the lights dimmed and the
live in peace and friendship together. troop singing “Taps,” unaccompanied or led by a
muffled bugle (or two bugles, one giving the call,
2. The troop salutes the flag, gives the Pledge of
the other the echo effect). Each boy slowly raises
Allegiance, then sings a verse of any of several
his outstretched hands in front of him during the
patriotic songs.
first two lines (“. . . from the sky . . .”), then lowers
3. A narrator reads from the writings of authors and them as the song is being sung.
poets who have helped us to understand what it
2. The troop is in formation. Lead the Scout benedic-
means to love our country.
tion: “Now may the great Scoutmaster . . .” (all
SPECIAL OPENING CEREMONY make a gesture toward the heavens) “. . . of all
Scouts . . .” (all make a sweeping motion from
(The equipment includes a small table covered with a right to left at shoulder height) “. . . be with us until
dark cloth, a simple candelabra with 12 candles to repre- we meet again.” (All bring their right hands to their
sent the 12 points of the Scout Law, three larger candles hearts, and bow their heads.)
to represent the three parts of the Scout Oath, and a
small one representing the spirit of Scouting. Twelve 3. The troop forms a circle. Have each boy make the
Scouts are assigned to take part. They line up, six Scout sign and with his left hand grasp the lifted
on either side of the candelabra, facing the audience, right wrist of his neighbor on the left. Then they
odd numbers on the right, even numbers on the left. recite the Scout Law or troop pledge.
The senior patrol leader stands directly behind the table. 4. Finish with the All America Yell (“A-M-E-R-I-C-A,
When all is ready, the lights are turned out.) Boy SCOUTS, BOY Scouts, B-S-A!”), followed by a
Senior patrol leader (lights the small candle representing Skyrocket Applause (“Ssss,” the hiss of the rising
the spirit of Scouting): I now light this candle which rep- rocket; the bursting, “Boom!”; the soft exclamation
resents the spirit of Scouting. On my honor I will do my as it spreads, “Ahhh”; and the terrific boy-satisfy-
best. . . . (He hands the spirit of Scouting candle to the ing yell, “Scout!”).
Scout designated to give the first point of the Scout Law.) 5. Retire the flag with proper camp ceremony using a
First Scout (lights the first candle on the right-hand bugle. If there is no bugle, whistle “To the Colors”
side, makes the Scout sign, and recites the first point of and “Retreat.”
the Scout Law): A Scout is trustworthy. (The first Scout 6. Have one round of patrol yells, then the troop yell.
steps back and hands the candle to the second Scout, The Scoutmaster says, “Good night to you.” The
who recites the second point. This continues until all 12 Scouts respond, “Good night to you, sir (ma’am).”
points have been recited. The senior patrol leader calls
the entire troop to attention and, with the spirit of 7. The troop forms a brotherhood circle, arms around
Scouting candle, lights the three candles representing the each other’s shoulders. The song leader leads the
three parts of the Scout Oath, and returns the spirit of troop in the “Scout Vespers” song or a similar
Scouting candle to its place in the candelabra.) good-night song. When the song has ended, the
Scouts leave the room in silence.
Troop (reciting in unison each promise of the Scout Oath
as the candles are lit): On my honor . . . . 8. The troop forms a circle. Each Scout crosses his
This ceremony, though simple, is extremely effective arms in front of him and grasps his neighbors’
when done well. hands. They all sing “Auld Lang Syne,” swaying
softly in rhythm.
Variation: As each main point of the Scout Law is
given, an offstage voice (a good reader) reads the 9. The troop is lined up. The Scoutmaster says, “Be
explanatory part of that point in full. He or she will prepared.” All Scouts respond in unison, “We are
need a flashlight, as this ceremony is given in darkness. prepared!”

10. All make the Scout sign and recite together the
Scout Oath or Promise.

84
11. All Scouts hum “Taps” while one boy says the 4. Be prepared—have an agenda or program for the
Scout Oath or Promise. boys and the adults who will be presenting the
award. Rehearse as needed, in the actual setting.
12. The bugler plays “Taps” while one Scout says the If scripts are required, make sure they are given
Scout Oath or Promise, stating each phrase after out well in advance of the court.
the bugler plays a phrase from “Taps.”

13. While the Scouts sing “God Bless America” very SAMPLE AGENDA
softly, the appointed leader recites slowly and The agenda provided here should be used as a guide.
clearly the Scout Oath, as outlined below. (This Variety is one key to success for courts of honor.
could also be used as an opening ceremony.) Develop your own ideas, and don’t forget to get the
boys’ opinions and consult the parents as well.
Leader: On my honor I will do my best . . .
s 4HE 3COUTS ENTER CARRYING THE TROOP AND PATROL FLAGS
Scouts (singing): God Bless America, land that
s 4HE COURT OF HONOR MEMBERS ENTER
I love . . .
s 4HE COLOR GUARD ENTERS CARRYING THE COLORS 4HE
Leader: To do my duty to God and my country . . . Scouts and audience members stand at attention.
Scouts (singing): Stand beside her and guide her . . . s 4HE PARENTS AND AUDIENCE MEMBERS JOIN THE 3COUTS IN
reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Leader: And to obey the Scout Law . . .
s !N APPROPRIATE OPENING CEREMONY IS PRESENTED
Scouts (singing): Through the night with the light s 4HE CHAIRPERSON CONVENES THE COURT OF HONOR
from above . . .
s 4HE COURT CHAIRPERSON CALLS ON MEMBERS OF THE COURT
Leader: To help other people at all times . . . to make awards presentations.
s 3PECIAL PROGRAM FEATURES ARE PRESENTEDˆ3COUT DEM-
Scouts (singing): From the mountains . . .
onstrations, a brief address, or singing.
Leader: To keep myself physically strong, mentally s 2ETIRE THE COLORS
awake, and morally straight.
s #LOSE 4HE COURT OF HONOR MAY CLOSE WITH THE TROOPS
Scouts (singing): To the prairies, to the oceans regular closing ceremony.
white with foam . . .
TENDERFOOT RANK CEREMONY
All: God bless America, my home sweet home.
God bless America, my home sweet home! The chairperson asks the senior patrol leader to call the
names of the new Tenderfoot Scouts. As he calls the
14. If a flag ceremony was used in the opening, it is names, two Scouts place a large Tenderfoot badge cut-
appropriate to retire the flag as a closing ceremony. out on the wall. This should be placed so that the spot-
Scouts could whistle the bugle call, “To the light, when trained on the Scout receiving the award,
Colors,” as the flag is retired. will cast his shadow on the badge.
The Scouts who have been called line up at one side
of the room or stage. The member of the court of honor
COURTS OF HONOR who is presenting the Tenderfoot Scout badges steps
forward and makes a few appropriate remarks about
POINTS TO CONSIDER this rank. The Scoutmaster calls the name of the first
Scout to be recognized. He steps forward onto the box
1. Conduct courts of honor frequently—once every
or raised platform. The house lights go out and the
two to three months. Do not make a Scout wait
spotlight comes on. This is a great moment for this
four months to receive his award.
Scout. Every eye is on him as he faces the audience.
2. Planning is the key to successful courts of honor. The senior patrol leader or scribe helps the Scout-
Write out your plan, then have key members master who makes the presentations by having the
rehearse their parts. badges handy. The Scoutmaster pins the Tenderfoot
badge on the left pocket and gives the Scout handshake
3. Refer to and use the checklist on pages 100–101.
with the left hand. The Scout salutes, the Scoutmaster

85
returns the salute, and the Scout steps down and Candidates: A Scout is trustworthy. . . . (They recite the
proceeds to the opposite side of the room or stage, Scout Law.)
where he stands at attention until all awards for this
Scoutmaster: Please face the audience,
rank have been made. The house lights go on. The
(name) . I present you with this
audience then gives a rousing round of applause.
badge. May you bring only credit and honor to it and
Mothers of these Boy Scouts are now called to the
to your troop.
stage, and each Scout presents his mother with the min-
iature Tenderfoot badge. Everyone applauds as mothers
FIRST CLASS RANK CEREMONY
and Scouts return to their seats. This same procedure is
repeated for other ranks, with the appropriate badge The First Class rank represents a significant step in
placed on the wall. Scouting. It represents the “complete Scout.” Special
attention should be given to the Scout earning
SECOND CLASS RANK CEREMONY the award.
Leader: When the Indian boy prepared for manhood, Leader: In the days of chivalry, after a squire had earned
he was required to go through a stern ordeal testing his the right to carry the sword and shield, it was customary
worthiness and his fitness for a place among the braves to retire to the privacy of the chapel on the evening
of the tribe. If he passed through the ordeal success- before he was to be made a knight. There, surrounded
fully, he appeared before the chief at the council fire to by his weapons, he prayed that he might live worthy of
receive the eagle feather of the brave. As the chief the honor that was his, and that he might never bring
placed in his hands the weapons of his rank, he pledged disgrace on his knighthood, either in thought or in deed.
the new brave to an oath—he bound the brave in honor Just as highly as the knights of old, we who are the
never to use his weapons in any way that would bring Scouts of today value the distinction that is ours. As a
discredit to his tribe or himself. First Class Scout, you have earned the right to demon-
Just as the Indian youth went through his ordeal to strate and abide by the code to which a true and mature
prove himself, so you have fulfilled your Second Class Scout is forever bound, the Scout Oath and Law. Do you
rank requirements to prove yourself as someone who accept this greater responsibility of First Class Scout in
can care for himself in the outdoors. Just as the Indian the spirit of service of the knights of old?
youth pledged himself to his tribe, so should you pledge
yourself to Scouting and maintain the Scout Oath and Scout: I do.
Law. In your growth toward becoming a Second Class Leader: In qualifying for First Class rank, you have
Scout, do you feel that the Scout Oath and Law have advanced from Second Class to more skillful living in
become more meaningful to you personally? the outdoors for longer periods of time. In this experi-
Scout: I do. ence, you have become a better camper, able to take
care of yourself and others, as did the knights of old.
Leader: This rank of Second Class represents to you the As we present you with your First Class badge, I charge
opportunities for service to others, as the weapons did you to continue your development so that you may
to the Indian youth. We place no weapons in your better serve your fellowmen in the spirit of chivalry.
hands, but the honor of all Scouting rests as surely on (The leader presents the First Class badge and congratu-
your shoulders. (The leader presents the Second Class lates the Scout and his parents.)
badge and congratulates the Scout and his parents.)
STAR RANK CEREMONY
Scoutmaster (to the candidates): Once before, you
stood before this court and became Tenderfoot Scouts. Star Scout: Scouts (name) ,
Time has passed since then. You have used that time (name) , and
well in pursuing Scout activities and knowledge. You (name) , you are no longer First
are now qualified to assume the title and duties of Class Scouts. Whether or not you realize it, by meeting
Second Class Scout. I know that you will wear this your Star Scout requirements, you have left the group of
Second Class badge as a shield with honor and distinc- those who merely receive Scouting. Tonight you will
tion. To prove that you know the rules by which this join a smaller and more significant group—those whose
award may be worn honorably, you will recite the Scout duty and privilege it is to give Scouting to others. As
Law. Scout sign! you receive your Star Scout badge, it must be with full
realization that you accept with that badge the giving of

86
leadership, guidance, and inspiration to younger Scouts. EAGLE SCOUT COURT OF HONOR
(He turns to address the Scouter.) These Scouts are pre-
pared to take the service pledge with the Scout Oath. POINTS TO CONSIDER
Scouter: Fellow Scouts, you have left behind what may Presentation of the rank may not be made until the
have been the receiving end of Scouting. Before you Eagle Scout credentials have been received by the BSA
stretches a worthier, more mature, part of your Scouting local council.
experience—the giving part. The merit badge trail holds Many elected officials will send a personal letter to
much for a Scout who is earnest and courageous. If you the Eagle Scout, if the request allows them sufficient
follow this trail far enough, the highest Scouting goal time. These include the president of the United States,
will be yours. Somewhere along the trail you will find members of Congress, state representatives, governors,
manhood in its finest form. Are you willing to accept mayors, etc. Request such letters using the proper for-
the responsibilities as well as the privileges that accom- mat and address as soon after the board of review as
pany the Star Scout rank? possible. Be sure to provide the Eagle Scout’s full name
and the date of his court of honor.
Candidates: I am.
The troop advancement chairperson and/or
Scouter: Then retake the Scout Oath. As you utter the Scoutmaster should call a meeting of two or three unit
words, let your heart repeat a pledge of service to the committee members, the Eagle Scout’s parents, and his
Scouts who follow where you lead. Scouts, attention! senior patrol leader (provided he is not the Eagle Scout)
Scout sign. Recite the Scout Oath. to plan the complete program. By using the suggestions
and outlines in this manual and delegating specific
Candidates: On my honor I will do my best. . . . responsibilities to specific individuals, everything
Scouter: Two! Your fellow Scouts congratulate you. You should go as planned. To avoid misunderstandings, be
will now face our audience. (The Scouter pins on the sure there is a written plan.
badges.) The star I pin on you will always be a The troop committee should establish a standard of
reminder of the star of service that will shine as a guide presentation items to be provided to the Eagle Scout at
to lead you onward. (The Scouter gives the Scout hand- the court. This standard should apply to all Eagle
shake to each.) Congratulations. Scouts on a continuing basis. Establish who should pay
for certain items—the troop, mothers’ club, Eagle
LIFE RANK CEREMONY Scout’s parents, etc. Do not set precedents that will be
an economic hardship for any family. Items to be con-
Scoutmaster: Scout (name) , you
sidered might include the Eagle Scout ring, neckerchief,
have traveled far on the trail to Eagle. Before you, two
or belt buckle, as well as an Eagle-theme cake and
lit candles shed their radiance on the heart-shaped Life
refreshments.
Scout badge. I am proud of the effort you have put forth
Secure early commitments from members of the
and of your accomplishments in Scouting. (The
court and speakers. Send them a friendly reminder or a
Scoutmaster adds any personal details that apply.) The
copy of the program about a week before the court of
heart shape of the badge is symbolic of life and cour-
honor ceremony.
age. For you, now, the Scout Oath and the Scout Law
Invitations can be purchased at the local council ser-
will mean more than ever before. You will ever strive to
vice center, or a simple but distinctive form can be pre-
make them the keynotes of your conduct. The spirit of
pared by the unit or the parents on a photocopier.
helpfulness and alertness of mind, and the mastery of
Whichever method is selected, it should be done soon
those Scout skills that make “Be Prepared” really mean
after the court date is selected for early mailing.
something—these are the inner qualities of the Scout
The planner should assist the Eagle Scout’s parents
who wears the Life Scout badge.
in composing a list of all persons who have helped the
This miniature badge is for your mother—in recogni-
boy earn his Eagle Scout rank, including Cubmasters,
tion of her love, comradeship, encouragement, and faith
Scoutmasters, fellow Scouts (past and present), parents’
in you. Take it and pin it on her proudly! (The Scout
committees, sponsors, merit badge counselors, teachers,
pins the badge on his mother’s dress, then turns and
church members and leaders (past and present), com-
faces the audience.) Mr. (Name) ,
munity leaders, school pals, and the boy’s relatives. No
will you pin the Life Scout badge on your son’s uni-
other event can win parents’ support better than a good
form? (The badge is pinned.) Attention! Scout salute!
Eagle Scout court of honor.
Two! Dismissed!

87
EAGLE SCOUT COURT OF HONOR Somewhere along the “trail,” it’s a good idea for the
SAMPLE OUTLINE Eagle Scout candidate to rededicate himself by repeat-
ing the Scout Oath.
Introduction

Call to order Troop committee chairperson THE EAGLE SCOUT AWARD

Invocation Minister/priest/rabbi Pledge of the Eagle District executive or other

adult who is an Eagle Scout
Welcome Scoutmaster
Presentation of Scoutmaster, parents, etc.
Introduction of Committee chairperson the award
honored guests
Challenge and charge Impressive Scouter or other
Presentation of Troop color guard to the Eagle Scout guest speaker holding Eagle
the colors Scout rank
Pledge of Allegiance Senior patrol leader The Eagle Scout’s Short speech by new
Court of honor opening District/unit commissioner response Eagle Scout

Scout Law presentation Two Eagle Scouts from troop Court of honor closing Commissioner

An Eagle Scout court of honor is always newsworthy, Benediction Minister/priest/rabbi

and newspapers usually like to have stories about the Retiring of the colors Troop color guard
Eagle Scout recognition ceremony. Relaying news items
to the media is important; a slip can damage the total Reception and
impact of the recognition. refreshments
The ceremony should be held in an unusual setting
so the event will be memorable for the boy and those VOICE OF THE EAGLE CEREMONY
attending. Suggested places could be around a campfire, Voice of the Eagle (VOE) ceremonies are popular nation-
aboard a naval vessel, in a church, a school auditorium, wide. Each unit seems to have its own version
a courtroom or judge’s chambers, or other place or adaptation.
of dignity.
Selection of participants depends upon the place, Senior patrol leader: Please stand for the presentation
unit preferences, and the type of ceremony. Generally of colors. Advance the colors.
the boy’s parents, chartered organization representative, Color guard leader: (He comes forward and lets the
or Scoutmaster makes the presentation. It is preferable color guard reach its position, then addresses the audi-
to have at least three people active in the presentation: ence.) Please join us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Scouts,
one to give the charge, one to make the official presen- salute. (The troop flag is dipped. The color guard leader
tation of the badge and credentials from the national leads the Pledge of Allegiance.) Two! Post the colors.
office, and one to pin on the badge. Other Eagle Scouts Color guard, retreat. (They return to their seats.) The
of the unit or district or the unit senior patrol leader audience may be seated. (The leader returns to his seat.)
may take active roles in the ceremony or act as ushers,
Eagle Scout badge pillow bearers, flag bearers, etc. Senior patrol leader: I would like to welcome you to
Printed programs add a touch of class to an Eagle the Troop (No.) Eagle Scout court of honor.
Scout court of honor. Again, these needn’t be expen- It is my pleasure to introduce (name) ,
sive; a duplicated, typed copy will be acceptable. (Eagle who is chairperson of this court of honor. (The senior
Scout program covers are available from the local coun- patrol leader returns to his seat.)
cil service center.)
Chairperson: I would like to invite all Eagle Scouts,
including adults, to stand at this time. (Pause.) Thank
TRAIL OF THE EAGLE
you; you may be seated. It is my pleasure to introduce
Review the Eagle Scout candidate’s Scouting history, (name) , who will lead us in
from induction to the Eagle Scout rank, stressing his our invocation.
growth in the ideals of Scouting. As this is being read,
Narrator: (The VOE narrator remains out of sight,
the candidate walks from the back of the room to the
using a microphone or sound system.) Will Eagle
front where he is to receive his Eagle Scout badge.

88
Scout candidate(s) (name[s]) , reaching the ledge of Life Scout: “Now I am close to the
please come forward? This is the voice of the Eagle, the Eagle. I will carry on.” The trail became tougher, but
Eagle whose heights you have struggled hard to reach. more interesting. The original principles—the Scout
We remember well when you first came to the base of Oath and Law—now had a fuller meaning. Your under-
the cliff, and how you looked up with ambition and standing of them was deeper.
determination. Look back for a moment; look down the Yes, we have watched your character unfold and
cliff you have climbed; look at the experiences you have become more manly. We have watched your leadership
encountered in your ascent. These experiences should expand into a valuable asset. We have watched your
not be forgotten. You should profit by making sure mind develop and your wisdom increase. We have
adverse experiences do not occur again. Experience is a watched all these things in you, and now that you are
valuable teacher, if you heed its teachings. at the threshold of your goal we welcome you, for you
We remember when you took your first step upon have done your climbing in a true Scoutlike manner.
the trail that leads upward. With that first step you This is the voice of the Eagle. (The chairperson steps
began to grow physically, mentally, and morally. You forward. The Scouts are seated.)
started living the Scout Oath and Law.
Chairperson: The presentation of the Eagle Scout badge
All the while you were on the trail, we watched you
is an important and serious event, the climax and the
study and we saw you learn by doing. Upon joining,
goal for which a Scout works many years, an occasion
you were only a Scout. (A Scout steps out and takes his
for pride and joy, a time for serious contemplation. It is
designated place on the stage.) At that time, you began
the culmination of efforts of the various leaders of this
working hard on your requirements to reach the
(these) Scout(s). The Eagle Scout Award is the highest
Tenderfoot rank, the first ledge on the trail to Eagle.
and most coveted rank in Scouting; the last major step
Before long, your brother Scouts were calling you a
in the advancement program. Fewer than 4 percent of
Tenderfoot, and they were right. You were indeed a
all Scouts in the United States reach the Eagle Scout
Tenderfoot Scout. (A Tenderfoot Scout steps out and
rank. At this point, we trust you have achieved our pur-
takes his place next to the first Scout.)
pose in the building of character, training of leadership,
Soon you reached the second ledge, and there you
and the practice of serving.
were greeted by a large group of Second Class Scouts.
The requirements for the Eagle Scout rank are
(A Second Class Scout steps out and joins the Scout and
as follows:
Tenderfoot Scout.)
Some, like you, stopped to catch their breath before 1. Be active in your troop and patrol for at least six
continuing along the trail. You began to study more, months as a Life Scout.
you worked harder, and almost before you knew it you
came to another ledge—the ledge where the First Class 2. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath
Scouts dwell. (A First Class Scout steps out and takes and Law in your everyday life.
his place.) 3. Earn 21 merit badges, including the 12 that are
There you found a tempting green meadow by a required—First Aid, Citizenship in the Community,
crystal-clear stream bathed in the sun. There you were Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World,
tempted to remain. Yes, you could have remained there Communications, Personal Fitness, Emergency
to live the First Class Scout glory, but your ambition Preparedness or Lifesaving, Environmental Science,
spurred you on. We remember your advancement to Personal Management, Swimming or Hiking or
Star Scout. (A Star Scout steps out and takes his place.) Cycling, Camping, and Family Life.
The trail from First Class to Star rank was not as dif-
ficult as it had seemed. This spurred you on, and again 4. Serve actively in an approved position of responsi-
you climbed higher. The trail was steeper and less bility for a period of six months after becoming a
worn. Fewer Scouts seemed to be headed in your direc- Life Scout.
tion. You looked down and saw the crowds below you. 5. Plan, develop, and lead others in carrying out a
You looked up and saw a few above you and, with the service project worthy of an Eagle Scout.
same determination with which you started your climb,
you continued up the trail. Soon, you earned the badge 6. Take part in a Scoutmaster conference.
of Life rank. (A Life Scout steps out and takes his place.)
7. Appear before a board of review of prominent per-
The heart badge was then placed on your uniform.
sons, and satisfy them that you have done your best
You will never forget your thoughts at that moment.
to understand and live up to the Scout Oath and Law
This feeling has been experienced by all Scouts on
and, in all ways, qualify for the Eagle Scout Award.
89
 Careful examination has been made by the court as Chairperson: In recognition of these obligations, I ask
to the qualifications of this (these) applicant(s) for the you to reaffirm the Scout Oath or Promise. (He [they]
Eagle Scout Award. give the Scout Oath.) Will Mr. (Ms.) ______
(Name) , proficiency in the (name) __ come forward as a representative
various crafts and skills prescribed for the Eagle Scout of the National Council, Boy Scouts of America, and
rank has been checked, and the records of merit badges administer the Eagle Scout pledge? (He or she reads
earned by the Scout(s) have been approved and certi- the National Council letter.)
fied by the counselors appointed by the court. The
Chairperson: Eagle Scout applicant(s), please escort
Scout(s) has (have) qualified on the basis of merit
your parents to the front. Fellow Eagle Scout(s), we
badge achievement. Eagle Scout candidate ___________
now proclaim to all the world your accomplishments.
(name) has earned (No.) merit
The symbol of your success is the Eagle Scout badge
badges. (The chairperson includes others as applicable.)
and neckerchief, which will now be presented to your
(Name) , the applicant(s) has
parents by (name) . Your parents
(have) demonstrated his (their) capacity and willing-
will, in turn, pin the badge over your heart and place
ness to exert leadership in activities that are construc-
the neckerchief around your neck. (The badge[s] is [are]
tive and worthwhile in this community. The record has
presented.) Eagle Scout(s), in recognition of the wisdom
been checked in troop leadership, school affairs, and in
and guidance given to you by your father(s), please
other fields of work and service. He (they) has (have)
present to him this Eagle tie bar, which he will be proud
demonstrated loyalty and duty to God and country. We
to wear in your honor. (Pause.) And now, also in recog-
believe that he (they) is (are) qualified to receive the
nition of the many hours of patient guidance given by
rank of Eagle Scout.
her in your efforts, will you pin the Eagle mother’s pin
(Name) , the following is a
over your mother’s heart? (Pause.) Eagle Scout(s),
résumé of (name) ’s personal and
please escort your parents back to their seats, then
Scouting history (The chairperson reads the résumé,
return to the front.
and others’ names and résumés as applicable.)
Now, Eagle Scout(s) (name[s]) ,
Narrator: This is the voice of the Eagle. I speak for the please advance your name on our board to the Eagle
Eagle Scouts of this council. We challenge this (these) Scout rank. (Pause.) As you see (holding up the Eagle
Scout(s) to accept the responsibilities as well as the Scout plaque), your name(s) has (have) been placed on
honor of the Eagle Scout Award. These responsibilities our permanent Eagle Scout plaque for all time.
are as follows: An Eagle Scout is to live with honor. His
Chairperson: I would like to read the following letters.
honor is sacred; it is the foundation of all character. An
(He or she reads any congratulatory letters, etc.) I now
Eagle Scout will live so that he reflects credit upon his
have the honor to present to you this gift (if any) from
home, church, school, friends, and self. May the white
Troop (No.) in recognition of your outstanding
of your badge remind you to live with honor.
service to this troop and of becoming an Eagle Scout. I
An Eagle Scout is to be loyal. “To thine own self be
would like to introduce (name) ,
true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst
who will now give the Eagle Scout charge.
not then be false to any man.” Neither pain nor profit,
pride nor personal loss shall sway his loyalty. The blue Speaker: (Name) , I have the honor
on your badge is the emblem of loyalty. of giving you the Eagle Scout charge on the occasion of
An Eagle Scout is to be courageous. Courage gives all your elevation to the highest rank in Scouting.
character force and strength. With trust in God and (The speaker may use his or her own text of the Eagle
faith in his fellowman, he faces each day unafraid and Scout charge, if desired): The Boy Scouts of all nations
seeks his share of the world’s work to do. Let the red of constitute one of the most meaningful and significant
your badge remind you of courage. movements in the world’s history, and you have been
Finally, an Eagle Scout is service oriented. Extend a counted worthy of high rank in its membership. All
helping hand to those who toil along the Scouting trail who know you rejoice in your achievement. Your posi-
you have completed, just as others have aided you. The tion, as you well know, is one of honor and responsibil-
daily Good Turn must take on a new meaning and bet- ity. You are (a) marked men (man). As (an) Eagle
ter the life pattern of service. Protect and defend the Scout(s), you have assumed a solemn obligation to do
weak and helpless; comfort the unfortunate and your duty to God, to country, to fellow Scouts, and to
oppressed. Uphold the rights of others as well as your humanity. This is a great undertaking. As you live up
own. Remember, real leadership is founded upon to your obligations, you bring honor to yourself
real service.
90
(yourselves) and your brother Scouts. When you fail, this is to allow more troop participation in the Eagle
you bring down by so much the good name of all true Scout court of honor.)
and worthy Scouts.
Master of ceremonies: Now we are proud to present
Your responsibility goes beyond your fellow Scouts.
our Eagle Scout candidates, (names) ,
It extends to your country and to God. America has
who will be guided by their escorts to the base of the
many good things to give you and your children after
trail to Eagle. (The candidates and escorts, who have
you, but these good things depend, for the most part,
been seated in the front row on either side of the center
on the character and leadership abilities of the nation’s
aisle, walk slowly to the rear of the auditorium, turn,
citizens. You are to help America in all that is needed
and face the stage, with all escorts on the right side.)
most. Your country has a great past; you are here to
help make the future even greater. Adult 1: We who speak to you now are Eagle Scouts.
I charge you to undertake your citizenship with a We have earned the Eagle Scout badge. Now, back to
solemn dedication. Be a leader, but lead only toward the time when you first became Scouts.
the best. Lift up every task you do and every office you
hold, to the highest level of service to God and your fel- Youth 1: The first thing we learned as new members of
low citizens. So live and serve, that those who know our troop was the Oath by which Scouts do their best to
you will be inspired to the finest living. We have too live. Although we easily learned to repeat the words, we
many who use their strength and their knowledge to soon found that living by the meaning of it presented us
exploit others and to gain selfish ends. I charge you to with a real challenge. To be a good citizen, to do the
be among those who dedicate their skills and abilities right thing, not for fear of punishment, but because we
to the common good. felt the obligation to live up to the best within our-
Build America on the solid foundation of clean liv- selves, to keep our minds and bodies healthy—in all
ing, honest work, unselfish citizenship, and reverence these things we have tried to do our best. So has each
for God, and whatever others may do, you will leave of you—and this is why you stand here tonight.
behind a record of which every Scout may be proud. (The Eagle Scout candidates and escorts move to the
Tenderfoot sign.)
Chairperson: (He or she gives closing remarks as
desired, followed by a benediction.) You are invited to Youth 2: On my honor, I will do my best . . . (The first
remain for the reception for Eagle Scout(s) ___________ escort lights the Tenderfoot candle at the top of the sign.)
(name[s]) , following our benediction Adult 2: Let us look at the phrase, “Scout’s honor.”
by (name) . (The benediction is When a Scout stands before his fellow Scouts and
given.) This Eagle Scout court of honor stands adjourned. pledges, “On my honor, I will do my best,” he should
not take those words lightly. That phrase should help
SCOUT OATH EAGLE CEREMONY him focus on his personal integrity, so that his earnest
This ceremony is based on the Scout Oath and relates desire to do his best is strengthened and reinforced.
each phrase to the ranks required to attain the Eagle
Youth 3: As Tenderfoot Scouts we said to ourselves,
Scout rank. It can be used with the sample outline pro-
“These are my rules. I believe in them and accept
vided earlier, with the exception that the Scout Law cer-
them.” We became Scouts on the Eagle trail, taking
emony has been incorporated into the “trail” rather
a bearing on our future and moving toward honor.
than occurring separately.
Behind us, on that same trail, came each of you.
The ceremony can be taped ahead of time, with
(The Eagle Scout candidates and escorts move to the
background music added where appropriate. For most
Second Class sign.)
troops it is simpler to present it “live” with the speakers
hidden from the audience but where they can be heard Youth 2: To do my duty to God and my country . . .
well (using a microphone if necessary). All speakers (The first escort lights the Second Class candle at the top
should be boy or adult Eagle Scouts. If few are avail- of the sign.)
able, speakers can double up on parts, though some
Adult 1: And your duty to your country? There is an old
effectiveness will be lost. As given here, the script
Chinese saying that each generation builds a road for the
requires two adult and three older-boy Eagle Scouts.
next. The road has been well built for you. It is incum-
Use a patrol as a guard of honor for each Eagle Scout
bent upon you to build your road even better for the
candidate (in addition to the Eagle Scout’s escort) at the
next generation. We hope you will never be called upon
end of the “trail” ceremony, with the patrol leader
to die for your country, but you will be expected, and
reading the Eagle Scout’s biography. (The purpose of
America has every right to expect, that you live for it.
91
Youth 1: When we became Second Class Scouts, we Youth 3: As we served our community and assisted fel-
began to develop an increasing awareness of the mean- low Scouts, we also discovered something else—the
ing of this part of the Scout Oath. We began to learn the importance of the example we set to those who
importance of good citizenship, its privileges and, more watched us, who would later be more likely to accept
importantly, its responsibilities. The time we spent hik- such responsibilities in their turn because of our atti-
ing and camping with the troop made us more apprecia- tude and actions.
tive of the beautiful world God created for us. We began As we did our best to set the example, so has each of
to see that doing our best to live as God and our coun- you. (The Eagle Scout candidates and escorts move to
try expected us to live not only made each of us a better the Life sign.)
person, but helped our fellow Scouts. As this awareness
Youth 2: To keep myself physically strong, mentally
grew in each of us, it developed in each of you. (The
awake, and morally straight.
Eagle Scout candidates and escorts move to the First
Class sign.) Adult 1: When a Scout makes a pledge to keep himself
physically strong, he does not think of bulging muscles,
Youth 2: To obey the Scout Law . . . (The first escort
but of physical fitness in its most complete sense—fit-
lights the First Class candle at the top of the sign.)
ness to be able to enjoy life to the fullest, fitness so that
Adult 1: Many times since you first became Scouts you he can fulfill his finest possible role in life with confi-
have recited the 12 points of the Scout Law. When you dence in his own abilities.
were inducted as the newest members of the troop, you
Adult 2: The phrase, “to keep myself mentally awake,”
found these points impressive. Later, as you advanced
sets a goal of mental health and vitality, initiative, and
in Scouting, you probably recited them at various cere-
keenness of mind—an expanding concept that grows as a
monies without always giving thought to the implica-
boy matures. The mentally awake person finds many
tions behind the words. Now, as you relive with us your
pathways to growth. He thinks the people who stimulate
progress in Scouting and in personal maturity, we
him are curious, alert, and creative. He uses all the avail-
would like you to hear them again. (Conduct the Scout
able resources to help him understand the world in which
Law ceremony, using two Eagle Scouts or older boy lead-
he lives and to which he hopes to contribute his share.
ers on stage. The Eagle Scout candidates and escorts
remain in place.) Adult 1: “To keep myself morally straight” means to
keep clean in mind and body, whether you are alone or
Youth 3: As First Class Scouts, we tried to demonstrate
in a crowd. Many times you will be alone when the
the points of the Scout Law by the way we lived. We
decision for right or wrong will rest solely on you, and
gained some understanding of these 12 goals of per-
it might test your honor and your strength. Such battles
sonal conduct, and we found that as we moved farther
could be the most gallant of your life, for in them you
up the trail to Eagle, living up to these goals became
will win without praise and lose without blame.
increasingly demanding and rewarding. Just as we were
challenged, so were you. (The Eagle Scout candidates Youth 1: In many ways we found this part of the Scout
and escorts move to the Star sign.) Oath to be the most challenging of all. As Life Scouts in
the leadership roles to which we were appointed or
Youth 2: To help other people at all times . . . (The first
elected, we found that more was expected of us than
escort lights the Star candle at the top of the sign.)
ever before. It was assumed that as troop leaders we
Adult 2: This should remind you of the Scout slogan, would accept responsibilities and see them through,
“Do a Good Turn Daily.” If we do something regularly, and that we would set an example of physical, mental,
it becomes a habit. That is the aim of this part of the and moral fitness for our fellow Scouts. We did our best
Scout Oath. Doing individual Good Turns and commu- to meet the challenge, and so has each of you.
nity service is an important part of Scouting.
Adult 1: Have you done—and been—all that you could
Youth 1: To become Star Scouts and earn the next rank, have? Only you can answer that question, but because
the heart badge of Life, we were required to do commu- you stand here tonight we know that you have tried.
nity service work. Sometimes we worked under the (Pause.) On my honor I will do my best. . . .
leadership of an older Scout whose immediate goal was
Adult 2: You have nearly completed your journey, and
the Eagle Scout rank, but we also planned and carried
there is one final thought we would like to share with
out projects of our own. We became increasingly aware
you. (Pause.) The word “leadership” does not appear
of the value of the work we did and the personal satis-
in the Scout Oath but is implied in every phrase.
faction we gained from making that work succeed.

92
Give thought now to your responsibility as leaders. A s #ONDUCT A GOOD COURT OF HONOR
leader is a person who is going somewhere, but not —Use a printed agenda.
alone. He takes others with him as he goes. Where will
you lead those who follow you? —Ensure that speakers know what to say.
We challenge you to take pride in what you have —Ensure that presenters know when to do it.
learned so that through your leadership, as you move —Practice (walk through).
with purpose toward your goals, the principles of the
—Include all elements.
Scout Oath become a living thing for those who follow.
—Be professional.
Adult 1: And now, candidates, with those who have
served as escorts on your journey, please turn and face s (AVE A RECEPTION WITH REFRESHMENTSˆAN %AGLE THEME
your fellow Scouts. (The Scout Eagle candidates and cake is appropriate.
their escorts turn and face the audience. The Scoutmaster s 3EE THE CHECKLIST ON PAGES n
or assistant Scoutmaster rises and stands behind the can-
dle log.) Join in spirit with the thousands of young men
who have attained the goal you have now achieved. CAMPFIRE CEREMONIES
Pledge yourselves once again to citizenship and service
by reciting the Scout Oath. (The Eagle Scout candidates RECOGNITION CEREMONY
and escorts give the Scout sign and recite the Scout Oath. This simple ceremony welcomes new campers to their
The Scoutmaster or assistant Scoutmaster lights three first council fire so that they will have a sense of
candles at the appropriate time.) belonging to the group as a whole. The master of the
Adult 2: Those around you—your Scoutmaster, parents, campfire says, “We will now recognize and welcome a
and friends—have watched your character mature, your new group of campers. Some of you others might
mind develop, and your leadership abilities expand into a remember the campfire when you received a similar
valuable asset. This is a proud moment for each of you, welcome. As I call your names, new campers, please
but remember that the badge you are about to receive is come forward and place a small stick on the fire, show-
not only yours, but ours. For what you do in the future ing that you are now members of your council fire
reflects not only upon yourselves, but also upon your fel- brotherhood. Then face the group and raise your right
low Eagle Scouts. (Pause.) You have walked the Eagle arm in greeting.”
trail with honor, and we welcome you. (The house lights As each Scout raises his arm, the rest of the troop
are turned up. The master of ceremonies stands by the calls out, “Welcome!” Then the Scout resumes his seat
podium to continue the court of honor.) in the campfire circle.

SUMMARY OF EAGLE SCOUT COURT SCOUT LAW CAMPFIRE CEREMONY

OF HONOR (For this ceremony you will need four small fires and
s 0LAN WELL IN ADVANCE MAKE SURE THE %AGLE 3COUT four warriors or buckskin pioneers to light them.)
court of honor is a special event. First warrior: I have lit the fire of truth to remind us
s )NVOLVE THE %AGLE 3COUT AND HIS PARENTS that we must be trustworthy, loyal, and reverent.
s 2EQUEST LETTERS FROM PROMINENT PEOPLE PRESIDENT OF Second warrior: I have lit the fire of friendship to
the United States, senator, state representative, gover- remind us that we must be helpful, friendly, and kind.
nor, mayor, etc.).
Third warrior: I have lit the fire of citizenship to
s 3END INVITATIONS TO FRIENDS AND ALL PARENTS IN
remind us that we must be clean, cheerful, and thrifty.
the troop.
s )NVITE COMMUNITY CHURCH AND SCHOOL LEADERS Fourth warrior: I have lit the fire of courage to remind
us that we must be brave, courteous, and obedient.
s 0RINT PROGRAMS
(The master of the campfire asks all to stand and recite
s /BTAIN LOCAL NEWSPAPER COVERAGE together the 12 points of the Scout Law in the proper
s #ONSIDER PRESENTING A SPECIAL %AGLE 3COUT NECKER- order. He or she then declares the council fire to
chief, ring, belt buckle, or plaque. be open.)

93
FIRE-LIGHTING INVOCATION SILENT PRAYER
This variation on “Hiawatha” may be changed to fit the All campers bow their heads and the leader says, “A
name and location of the camp. If your master of the Scout is reverent. He is faithful in his religious duties,
campfire can memorize this, it will be quite an impres- and respects the convictions of others in matters of cus-
sive ceremony, especially if accompanied by a trick tom and religion. Amen.”
method of lighting the fire.
TATTOO WITH ECHO
On the shore of Old Lake (name)
By the brightly shining water, Have the camp bugler stand some distance from the
Stand the wigwams of our campers. council fire area and play “Tattoo.” Then have him
Dark behind it stands the forest, repeat this quite softly. By using two buglers, the echo
Stand the chestnut, oak, and hemlock, will be heightened.
Stand the firs with cones upon them.
Many things they learn and do here: SPECIAL CAMPFIRE CEREMONY
How Wakonda, the Great Spirit, FIRST CAMPFIRE
Cares for all his faithful children, (Ashes from the last campfire of the previous year are
Cares for all the forest people; kept and used in a ceremony for new campers. The boys
Learn they of the stars in heaven, are called forward.)
Of the birds that fly and nest here,
Learn the language of all creatures, Scoutmaster: Scouts, you have now been in camp one
Call them friends whene’er we meet them. day and have attended part of our first campfire. Earlier
Oh Great Spirit, then, in heaven, in the evening you listened to the traditions of our troop
Send us flame to light our campfire and responsibilities of every Scout. Will you help us
That we may for this be thankful; keep these traditions as good campers should?
Oh Great Spirit, this we ask thee, Scouts: I will.
Send us fire and we shall praise thee!
(Following this invocation, possibly by a staff member in Scoutmaster: I hold in this vessel some of the ashes
Indian attire, the fire is lit.) from last year’s campfire. The ashes stand for all that
we enjoyed in our past. I now place some of the ashes
CAMPFIRE CLOSING CEREMONIES on the right shoulder of each of you and pronounce you
campers in good standing, entitled to the rights and
As the glowing campfire embers fade and die, the obligations of our camp.
campfire should be closed on a note of quiet inspira-
tion, with reference to the value of the Scouting ideals
in our daily lives. FLAG CEREMONIES
THE SCOUT OATH SILENT PLEDGE OPENING CEREMONY
Have all Scouts give the Scout sign and recite together
(The leader stands at the front of the room, facing the
the Scout Oath. Do not follow this with the Scout Law,
United States flag. The reader stands at the side of the
which may be repeated so much that it can lose much
room and uses a penlight to read by. Another person
of its meaning.
shines a flashlight or spotlight on the flag. The house
lights are out. All stand.)
THE SCOUT LAW
For a closing ceremony, recite one point of the Scout Leader: As I say the words of the Pledge of Allegiance,
Law in its entirety. The leader in charge states the head- repeat them silently to yourselves. Hand salute.
ing of this point and another leader responds with the (All hand salute throughout the pledge.) I pledge
explanatory portion of the point. allegiance . . .

THE SCOUT BENEDICTION Reader: As our founding fathers pledged their lives,
their fortunes, and their sacred honor to a new nation,
Have all stand, bow their heads, and recite together:
so do we pledge our devotion and our loyalty.
“Now may the great Scoutmaster of all Scouts be with
us until we meet again.” Then the Scouts leave the Leader: To the flag of the United States of America . . .
area quietly.

94
Reader: An honored symbol of a nation’s unity, its and post the colors so the United States flag is on the
hopes, achievements, glory, and high resolve—red for speaker’s right. They remain standing by their flags.)
courage, white for purity, and blue for vigilance, perse- Troop, present yourselves. (Each Scout, beginning
verance, and justice. with the first one in line in the left-hand column, then
the first one in the right-hand column, and continuing
Leader: And to the republic for which it stands . . .
with alternating Scouts in each column, steps one pace
Reader: Where sovereign power resides in a body out of line toward the audience, salutes the flag, and
elected by, representative of, and responsible to this states his name. After all of the Scouts in both columns
nation’s citizens. have saluted the flag and given their names, the two
members of the color guard do the same, followed by
Leader: One nation under God . . . the Scoutmaster and the senior patrol leader, who
Reader: From the Atlantic to the Pacific; from the north- then addresses the audience.) Please join us in the
ern border to the southern; from the tops of the highest Pledge of Allegiance.
mountains across the wide prairies; from the greatest
cities to the tiniest villages—we are united as one under OUR FLAG—A SYMBOL OF US
the one to whom we turn for guidance, whose blessings (The troop is lined up and stands at attention. The flag
we ask, and who watches over us—as individual citi- bearer stands at the front with a spotlight or flashlight
zens, and collectively as a nation—for in his spirit focused on the troop flag.)
America was founded.
Narrator (off to the side): Franklin K. Lane, in The
Leader: Indivisible . . . Makers of the Flag, has the flag say to us, “I am what-
ever you make me, nothing more. I am your belief in
Reader: The citizens of this great country come from
yourself, your dream of what a troop may become. I
different racial backgrounds, have different traditions,
live a changing life, a life of moods and passions, of
and many worship in different ways. Because the
heartaches and tired muscles. Sometimes I am strong
people of America are so varied, so diverse, and so rich
with pride, when boys do an honest work, fitting the
in heritage, the whole of this nation is far greater than
rails together truly. Sometimes I am loud, garish, and
the sum of its parts—and we stand together to face
full of ego that blasts judgment. But always, I am all
the world.
that you hope to be, and have the courage to try for.”
Leader: With liberty and justice for all. Our flag is a symbol of us. To some people our flag is
just a piece of cloth. To others it is just a flag. But to me
Reader: We have both the right of freedom and the
it represents more than I could say here tonight in such
responsibility to respect and protect the freedom of
short time.
others. From Revolutionary times to the present day,
It represents what happened at camp one time—one
American citizens have defended our flag with their
of our boys cut his foot and had to be taken to the
blood and with their lives. Our flag is a symbol of the
hospital.
people. All of the people. Us. The people of the United
It represents the time I was invested as a Tenderfoot
States of America.
Scout; the times I helped invest others.
It represents a lot of cold nights in tents and a lot of
FLAG CEREMONY FOR A COURT OF HONOR
joyous days in the sun.
(The troop lines up outside the meeting room in two col- It represents every first night at camp when we get
umns, with a flag bearer at the head of each. The two little sleep.
columns march in, one down each side of the room. It represents the long trail from Tenderfoot to Eagle
They stop. The leader of each column is at the end of the and the joys and satisfactions that come from attaining
front row of seats. The Scoutmaster and the senior patrol those ranks.
leader stand at the front of the room between the two I believe our troop flags are neglected too much.
flag stands.) Our troop flag represents the Scoutmaster, assistant
Scoutmaster, our committee members, our chartered
Senior patrol leader: Color guard, post the colors. (The
organization representative, and many others.
leader of the left-hand column carries the United States
I think we could say that our troop flags are the
flag, and the leader of the right-hand column carries the
hearts of our troops. We should fly our troop flag at
troop flag; they advance to the front of the room below
every opportunity and especially when we go camping.
the stage, cross each other’s path to the opposite side,
So, guys, let’s keep our troop flags flying!

95
I AM YOUR FLAG Arrangement: The bridge is set up on an auditorium
stage or on the ground. If indoors, the room should be
I was born on July 4, 1777.
darkened. The graduating Webelos Scout is with his
I am more than just cloth shaped into a design.
parents at one end of the bridge; the Boy Scouts and
I am refuge for the world’s oppressed people.
Scoutmaster are at the opposite end. Both groups are
I am the silent sentinel of freedom.
seated around their respective campfires. The Webelos
I am the emblem of the greatest sovereign nation
den leader asks the Webelos Scout to stand and recite
on earth.
the Cub Scout Promise.
I am the inspiration for which American patriots gave
their lives and fortunes. Webelos den leader (calls across the bridge): Hello,
I have led your loved ones into battle from Valley Forge Scouts of (name of Scout camp) .
to the steaming, treacherous jungles of Vietnam.
Scoutmaster (answers): Hello, Webelos Scouts of
I walk in silence with each of your honored dead, to
Akela, what do you desire?
their final resting place beneath the silent white
crosses—row upon row. Webelos den leader: We have a Webelos Scout of
I have flown through peace and war, strife and prosper- Akela’s council ring who has prepared himself for
ity, and amidst it all I have been respected. entrance into the council ring of (name of
My red stripes symbolize the blood spilled in defense of Scout camp) .
this glorious nation.
My white stripes signify the burning tears shed by Scoutmaster: Bring him forward to the bridge that joins
Americans who lost their loved ones. our two council rings. (The Webelos den leader leads
My blue field is indicative of God’s heaven under the graduating Webelos Scout and his parents to the
which I fly. bridge. The Scoutmaster crosses the bridge and is intro-
My stars, clustered together, unify 50 states as one, duced to the Webelos Scout and his parents.)
for God and country. Webelos den leader: (Name) , you
“Old Glory” is my nickname, and proudly I wave have contributed much to your den and pack, and we
on high. shall miss you and your parents. Now you are leaving
Honor me, respect me, defend me with your lives and us to enter the Scout troop of your choice. There, we
your fortunes. are sure, you will continue to grow in Scouting skills
Never let my enemies tear me down from my lofty and friendships. An important part of your Webelos
position, lest I never return. Scout uniform is your neckerchief. Now that you are
Keep alight the fires of patriotism. Strive earnestly for leaving our pack and Cub Scouting, will you remove
the spirit of democracy. your neckerchief and give it to me? Soon, your new
Worship eternal God and keep his commandments, and Scoutmaster will place around your neck the necker-
I shall remain the bulwark of peace and freedom for chief of the troop you are to join. (The Webelos Scout
all people. removes his neckerchief and gives it to the Webelos den
leader. The Scoutmaster now beckons the graduate to
follow him across the bridge.)
WEBELOS-TO-SCOUT CEREMONIES
Scoutmaster (standing before the Scout campfire): As
BRIDGE TO SCOUTING Scoutmaster of Troop (No.) , I welcome you
and your parents. There are many traditions in Troop
This impressive ceremony for Webelos Scouts can be
(No.) —so many that I would not attempt to
used indoors or outdoors. Advancement recognition cer-
relate them all to you now. (The Scoutmaster may explain
emonies for the lower ranks may precede it.
one or two traditions and tell of important troop activities
Personnel: Webelos den leader (Akela), Scoutmaster, planned for the near future.) It is now my pleasure to pres-
den chief as torchbearer, Scouts from troop, graduating ent you with the neckerchief of our troop. (He places the
Webelos Scout and his parents, senior patrol leader neckerchief around the neck of the incoming Scout.) Wear
it with pride as many have done before you. Your senior
Equipment: A rustic bridge with a railing made of dead
patrol leader, (name) , now
tree branches and floored with scrap lumber; two camp-
wishes to express the troop’s happiness in having you as a
fires (artificial ones for indoors); camp candle lantern;
member. (The senior patrol leader leads the troop in a
troop neckerchief
cheer for the new Scout.)

96
CROSSING THE BRIDGE Cubmaster (addressing the audience): Cub Scouting is
the great Scouting movement’s program for younger
Personnel: Webelos den leader, Scoutmaster, a Boy
boys. In the final months of his Cub Scouting experi-
Scout, graduating Webelos Scout and his parents
ence, a boy learns the requirements for the Scout badge.
Equipment: A rustic bridge; troop neckerchief He decides which troop he will join, and, with his par-
ents, arranges for his entrance into Scouting upon his
Arrangement: The rustic bridge is set up on an audito- 11th birthday. Tonight our pack has the privilege of
rium stage or at the front of the pack meeting room. bringing another Webelos Scout to this significant
The Webelos den leader stands on one end of the milepost. (He or she turns to address the den chief.) Den
bridge with the graduating Webelos Scout and his par- Chief (name) , please escort Webelos
ents. On the other end is the Scoutmaster with a Scout Scout (name) and his parents
holding a rolled troop neckerchief. forward. (The Cubmaster greets them, then addresses
Webelos den leader (to the parents): During the years the audience.) Webelos Scout (name)
you and your son have been in Cub Scouting, we have has chosen Troop (No.) . Mr. (Ms.)(chartered
had many opportunities to work together along the trail. organization representative’s name) is here. We will ask
Now (name) has reached age 11 and is him (her) to come forward with his (her) aides. (The
leaving the pack to enter Boy Scouting. I am sure you Cubmaster introduces the chartered organization repre-
will find the same satisfactions there that you found in sentative and his or her aides to the Webelos Scout, his
Cub Scouting. As a symbol of your son’s growth and parents, and the audience.)
his entrance into Scouting, I ask that he stand before We will now relive the Cub Scout experiences of
me where I will divest him of his Webelos Scout (name) , who is ready to cross the
neckerchief. You and he will then cross over the bridge bridge into Boy Scouting. You started your Cub Scout
into Scouting, to be welcomed by Scoutmaster career on the Bobcat trail. You had to learn the Cub
(name) of Troop (No.) . Scout Promise; the Law of the Pack; and the Cub Scout
(After the Webelos den leader has removed the Webelos sign, handshake, motto, and salute. You had to explain
Scout’s neckerchief and saluted him, the Webelos Scout the meaning of Webelos and complete the exercises in
and his parents cross the bridge and stand before the Parent’s Guide. And then you looked ahead and saw
the Scoutmaster.) that the trail went through a comparatively level Wolf
Valley. (The boy and his parents move to the Wolf Valley
Scoutmaster (greets the Webelos Scout and his sign, led by the Cubmaster.)
parents with a handshake): As Scoutmaster of Troop As you went through Wolf Valley, you worked on
(No.) , it is indeed a pleasure for me to your physical and mental skills until you had passed
welcome you into the troop. We meet each week on 12 achievements. You passed these achievements with
(day) , at (time) , at (place) . your parents or at your den meetings. You were grow-
We shall look forward to welcoming you at our next ing; you mastered Wolf Valley. Raise your heads and
meeting. (He turns to the boy.) And now I present you look where the trail leads now—up and up. Your next
with this Scout neckerchief. (The Scoutmaster places goal was Bear Mountain. (The boy and his parents are
the rolled neckerchief around the boy’s neck.) May led by the Cubmaster to the Bear Mountain sign.)
you wear it with pride; its colors are those of Troop As you progressed up the trail toward Bear
(No.) , which welcomes you as its newest Mountain, you found the achievements a little more
member. (All exit.) difficult because you were growing both physically and
mentally, and more was expected of you. You passed
THE MILEPOST your 12 required achievements and were encouraged
Personnel: Cubmaster, Webelos den chief, chartered to work on both Wolf and Bear electives. A year passed
organization representative and aides, graduating and you reached the top of Bear Mountain. You could
Webelos Scout and his parents, Scoutmaster, and two see ahead of you the lodge of the Webelos. Your guides
Scout aides on the trail now changed. (The boy and his parents are
led to the Webelos Lodge sign or the council fire.)
Equipment: Troop neckerchief (and other recognition, You were a member of the Webelos den. Now it was
if desired) for the graduate; “Wolf Valley” sign; “Bear strictly between you and your leaders whether you
Mountain” sign; “Webelos Lodge” sign or a council fire wanted to work for the Arrow of Light Award or just be
(artificial one for indoors); bridge; Webelos advance- a member. You remained a Webelos Scout until you
ment board reached age 11, when you became eligible to join a Boy

97
Scout troop. You have worked hard in the Webelos den SPOTLIGHTS
and are now ready to take your next step on the Scouting Spotlighting should be used anytime a boy is recognized
trail by crossing the bridge to further adventure. before an audience, such as in a court of honor, etc.
(The Cubmaster calls the Webelos Scout and his par- A flashlight can serve as a spotlight. A 35-millimeter
ents forward to the foot of the bridge. The mother is pre- slide projector can be an effective spotlight. Try it first
sented with the advancement board. The Cubmaster to be sure of the distances. Masks in front of the lens
points out the awards and achievements, then escorts will reduce the size of the spot.
the Webelos Scout and his parents across the bridge. The
Scoutmaster should be prepared to make a welcoming DECORATIONS
speech to the boy and his parents, plus other recognition
A few appropriate decorations can transform a room
as desired.)
into a special place for ceremonies:
Scoutmaster: (Name) , it is a privilege s #REPE PAPER
to welcome you into Troop (No.) . As a
Scout you will hike and camp. You will learn many use- s "OY 3COUT NECKERCHIEFS
ful things. You will have an opportunity to continue to s 0OSTERSˆ"OY 3COUT AND OTHER
grow into a useful citizen because you will participate in s #OLORED LIGHTS
civic activities and learn the thrill of helping other people
by practicing the habit of doing a Good Turn every day. s 3COUT SKILL DISPLAYS MERIT BADGE DISPLAYS KNOT
And now, Scouts (name) and boards, etc.
(name) will exchange your Webelos
AUDIOVISUALS
Scout neckerchief for our troop neckerchief, symbolic of
your graduation into Scouting. (The aides replace the Many commercial and BSA movies and slide programs
Webelos Scout neckerchief with a Scout neckerchief, give are available and appropriate for more formal ceremo-
the Scout handshake, step back, and salute. The Webelos nies. Good sound equipment and carefully selected
den chief leads the pack in a yell for the graduate.) music will enhance any court of honor or other special
ceremony.

TIPS FOR GOOD CEREMONIES SPECIAL PROPS

Specially designed and developed props become tradi-
A few props and techniques can spice up any ceremony.
tion and add special flair to ceremonies:
These can range from the simple to the elaborate,
depending on need and budget. A few ideas are given
ADVANCEMENT BOARD
here, but use your imagination to develop your own.
Develop your own. The board can be arranged by rank
LIGHTING or by patrol. Have each boy’s name on an individual
card that is punched for hanging. Move the card as the
Lighting is important to most ceremonies. Techniques boy advances.
range from performing the ceremony behind a campfire
so that the fire illuminates the participants to spotlight- EAGLE SCOUT PLAQUE
ing award recipients in a court of honor. An impressive plaque is available from the BSA’s Supply
Division. It bears the troop number and an attractive
ROOM LIGHTS
eagle emblem. Engrave the new Eagle Scout’s name on
Inspect the lighting control and be sure you know what one of the nameplates and add it to the plaque at the
to switch on and off, and when. Know and plan the Eagle Scout court of honor.
effects.
CANDLE LOG
STAGE LIGHTS
Simply drill holes in a log and use it as a candleholder.
Floodlighting can be accomplished using anything from Use your imagination to come up with a design. Candle
yard reflector lights to desk lamps. A regular table lamp logs are especially useful for Scout Law, Oath, and rank
can be used simply by removing the shade and direct- ceremonies.
ing the light from the bulb with cardboard.

98
ARTIFICIAL CAMPFIRE FLAGS
This can be made with a flashlight or an electric or bat- The use of troop, church, state, and United States flags
tery-operated light bulb fixture, logs, and sheets of red is appropriate in ceremonies. Be certain you display and
and orange plastic or cellophane. Be careful not to cre- carry flags correctly. A spotlight on the flag(s) is a nice
ate a fire hazard. highlight.

BADGE HOLDER TROOP SCRAPBOOK

Create a device to hold your advancement badges, pins,
and cards during the ceremony. This could be a felt- Display your scrapbook at special ceremonies.
covered tray or a large cutout of the Boy Scout emblem
covered with cork, etc. Divide all items by each recipi-
ent’s name, and be sure the presenter knows how to
remove them.

99
CHECKLIST FOR COURTS OF HONOR (AND OTHER CEREMONIES)

Eagle Scout Regular Planning Phase

Court of Honor Court of Honor

________________________ _______________________ Schedule the date.

________________________ _______________________ Reserve the facility.

________________________ _______________________ Meet with the Eagle Scout, committee, and parents.

________________________ _______________________ Request letters from dignitaries, etc.

________________________ _______________________ Secure the speaker/court commitments.

________________________ _______________________ Send invitations.

________________________ _______________________ Print programs.

________________________ _______________________ Prepare/distribute news releases.

________________________ _______________________ Mail programs to participants.

________________________ _______________________ Order refreshments.

Physical Arrangements

________________________ _______________________ Seating for audience

________________________ _______________________ Seating for platform

________________________ _______________________ Lighting

________________________ _______________________ Heat and ventilation

________________________ _______________________ Public address system

________________________ _______________________ Special equipment (such as movie equipment, if used)

________________________ _______________________ Custodian’s cooperation secured

________________________ _______________________ Refreshments

________________________ _______________________ Parking

Awards Presentation

________________________ _______________________ Badges and certificates are in individually marked envelopes.

________________________ _______________________ Clasps on mothers’ pins and metal badges are open and
ready to be pinned on.

________________________ _______________________ All other awards and recognitions are arranged

and marked.

100
CHECKLIST FOR COURTS OF HONOR (AND OTHER CEREMONIES) (cont’d.)

Eagle Scout Regular Planning Phase

Court of Honor Court of Honor

Presenter’s Briefing

________________________ _______________________ One Scout at a time receives his award.

________________________ _______________________ The Scout faces the audience.

________________________ _______________________ The Scout is on a box or raised platform.

________________________ _______________________ The Scout is spotlighted, if possible.

________________________ _______________________ The presenter knows where to pin the badge.

________________________ _______________________ The presenter knows how to give the Scout handshake
using the left hand.

General Program

________________________ _______________________ Who is to be introduced?

________________________ _______________________ Make speakers aware of the time limit.

________________________ _______________________ Prepare notes for people who are not familiar with
the activities.

________________________ _______________________ Encourage parents’ participation.

________________________ _______________________ Recognize the Scoutmaster and other leaders.

________________________ _______________________ Have any demonstration or special program materials

on hand.

________________________ _______________________ Plan the entrance for court of honor officials.

________________________ _______________________ Start on time and end on time.

________________________ _______________________ Set up and staff refreshments and reception tables.

Follow-up Details

________________________ _______________________ Make arrangements for returning equipment and cleanup.

________________________ _______________________ Send a note of thanks to program participants, the

custodian, and any others who helped.

101
 INTERFAITH WORSHIP SERVICE

RESPECT OF OTHERS’ BELIEFS 7. Lord, bless our Scouting leaders who spend so much
time and energy to help us grow up well. Guide
The Scout Law teaches, “A Scout is reverent. A Scout is them in their work; give them patience and wisdom,
reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious and reward them in this life and the next. Amen.
duties. He respects the beliefs of others.” It is important
that Scouts be taught to recognize the beliefs of other 8. As our campfire fades, we thank You for the joys and
Scouts and to respect those beliefs. blessings of this day. We lift our minds and hearts to
Scout outings and activities that span weekends You in gratitude for life, happiness, and the Scouting
should include an opportunity for members to meet movement. Lord, protect our camp this night; may
their religious obligations. At times there might be we rise refreshed and ready to serve You. Amen.
Scouts of different faiths. If services for each faith group 9. May the Great Scoutmaster of all Scouts be with us
are not available, an interfaith worship service is recom- until we meet again.
mended. However, some religions have specific require-
ments based on their own beliefs that would not be AT CAMP
fulfilled through an interfaith service, and this also
needs to be considered in conducting a weekend outing. Since troops often camp on weekends, Scouts and lead-
When planning an interfaith service, it is recommended ers may not be able to attend their regular worship ser-
that scripture, prayers, hymns, and all other parts of the vices. A troop worship service should be conducted and
worship be considerate of everyone present—respectful all encouraged to attend. The troop chaplain aide and
of all religions. the troop chaplain (or other designated adult) should
conduct these services. Several interfaith services are
included in the appendix of this publication.
TROOP WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
SCOUT FUNERAL SERVICES
PRAYING IN A GROUP
On occasion, a troop may experience the loss of a Scout
When present, members of the clergy or chaplain aides or leader. It is a difficult time for everyone. At the request
may be asked to lead the troop or other Scouting groups of the family, or with the permission of the family and
in prayer. If the group consists of mixed beliefs, or if religious leader, Scouts may participate in the funeral or
the beliefs of the group are unknown, then prayers memorial service to celebrate the life of the Scout or
should be of an interfaith content. However, if the leader. Some things that may be appropriate include:
group is of like belief, then it is entirely appropriate
s !TTEND IN UNIFORM
to offer belief-specific prayer.
s 3IT TOGETHER AS A UNIT
SAMPLES OF INTERFAITH PRAYERS AND s 3ERVE AS HONORARY PALLBEARERS OR USHERS
BENEDICTIONS s 3ERVE DURING THE SERVICE DOING SUCH THINGS AS RECITING
the Scout Oath or Law.
1. For health, strength, and daily food, we give You
thanks, O Lord. The primary concern is for the family and its prefer-
ences. The involvement of the troops or Scouts in a troop
2. For this and all Your mercies, Lord, make us is at the discretion of the family and its religious leaders.
truly grateful.

3. For food, health, friendship, we give You thanks,

O Lord. A SAMPLE INTERFAITH
WORSHIP SERVICE
4. For food, for raiment, for life, for opportunity, for
CALL TO WORSHIP
friendship and fellowship, we thank You, O Lord.
(Philmont grace) PSALM 100
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the lands!
5. Come, O Lord, be our guest, and bless what You
Serve the Lord with gladness!
have bestowed on us.
Come into his presence with singing!
6. Gracious Giver of all good, we thank You for food Know that the Lord is God!
and rest. Grant all we say or do pleases You. It is he who made us, and we are his!
We are his people and the sheep of his pasture.

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Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, Leader: Kindness is the way people show respect
and his courts with praise! for others.
Give thanks to him; bless his name! Scouts: A Scout is kind.
For the Lord is good;
Leader: Life is filled with things that we must do
his steadfast love endures forever,
whether we like them or not. One of the marks of
and his faithfulness to all generations.
growing up is to willingly accept responsibilities.
INVOCATION Scouts: A Scout is obedient.
O Lord, our Heavenly father, we lift our hearts to thee at Leader: Our moods make our days. If we are grouchy, our
the beginning of this new day. We come to this time and day is gloomy. If we are happy, the day is always happier.
place of worship with thy beauty all about us; in the Scouts: A Scout is cheerful.
sky, in the trees, in the earth, and in all thy creation. We
Leader: The world offers many gifts. A wise man uses
praise thee, and come to worship thee. Blessed art thou,
them with care.
O Lord our God, who gives us each new day. Amen.
Scouts: A Scout is thrifty.
HYMN: AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL Leader: To each of us comes danger, difficult tasks, and
O beautiful for spacious skies, temptations. When faced with a choice between courage
For amber waves of grain, and cowardice, we must be brave.
For purple mountain majesties Scouts: A Scout is brave.
Above the fruited plain. Leader: Cleanliness is next to godliness. To have a
America! America! clean body, a clean mind, and a clean record is a
God shed his grace on thee, rewarding achievement.
And crown thy good with brotherhood
Scouts: A Scout is clean.
From sea to shining sea.
Leader: Character is determined by the things we worship.
O beautiful for pilgrim feet If we respect ourselves and our fellowmen, and see them
Whose stern impassion’d stress as gifts of goodness from God, we live on a high plane.
A thorough-fare for freedom beat
Scouts: A Scout is reverent.
Across the wilderness.
America! America!
A WOOD BADGE PRAYER
God mend thine ev’ry flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self control, Father Creator of Heaven and Earth, as a new day
Thy liberty in law. dawns on our endeavor, we ask you to open our hearts
and minds to the knowledge and vales being presented
RESPONSIVE READING to us. Make us aware of the talents of others and the
Leader: A true and worthy person recognizes his strengths that lie in our differences. Provide for us the
obligations and does them without being watched wisdom to work our tickets well, for the benefit of oth-
or compelled. ers and ourselves. Help us to build teams to ensure the
future and vitality of Scouting. Bring us back to Gilwell,
Scouts: A Scout is trustworthy.
making it genuine in our hearts and minds, in order to
Leader: We owe much to many—to home, school, revitalize us for the tasks ahead. And above all, keep all
community, nation, and to God. Beavers, Bobwhites, Eagles, Foxes, Owls, Bears, Buffalo,
Scouts: A Scout is loyal. Antelopes, and Ravens eager for the challenges that we
have been presented. Amen.
Leader: The Good Samaritan showed the spirit of
doing a Good Turn.
BENEDICTION
Scouts: A Scout is helpful.
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Leader: A real friend is one who remains loyal in
victory and in defeat. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be
gracious unto you.
Scouts: A Scout is friendly.
Leader: Courtesy is the mark of a true gentleman. It is May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and
shown in thoughtful acts and kindly respect for everyone. grant you peace.

Scouts: A Scout is courteous.

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 GLOSSARY OF SCOUTING TERMS
activities and civic service committee. The council or Boy Scout. A registered youth member of a Boy Scout
district committee responsible for planning, promoting troop or one registered as a Lone Scout. Must have
and operating activities. completed the fifth grade and be 11 years old, or have
earned the Arrow of Light Award but not yet be 18
advanced training. In-depth training for experienced
years old.
adult leaders, such as Wood Badge.
Boy Scouts of America (BSA). A nationwide organiza-
advancement. The process by which a Boy Scout meets
tion founded February 8, 1910, and chartered by the
certain requirements and earns recognition.
U.S. Congress June 15, 1916.
Alpha Phi Omega (APO). A coeducational service
Boys’ Life magazine. The magazine for all boys,
fraternity organized in many colleges and universities.
published by the Boy Scouts of America.
It was founded on the principles of the Scout Oath
and Law. Bronze Palm. An Eagle Scout may receive this recogni-
tion by earning five additional merit badges and com-
Aquatics Instructor, BSA. A five-year certification
pleting certain other requirements.
awarded to an adult who satisfactorily completes the
aquatics section at a BSA National Camping School. Brotherhood membership. The second and final induc-
tion phase of membership in the Order of the Arrow.
area director. A professional Scouter on a regional
staff who relates to and works with an area president in BSA Lifeguard. A three-year certification awarded
giving direct service to local councils. to Boy Scouts who meet prescribed requirements in
aquatics skills.
area president. The ranking elected volunteer officer in
an area who heads the area committee. BSA Mission Statement. The mission of the Boy Scouts
of America is to prepare young people to make ethical
Arrowhead Honor. A recognition given to commis-
and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in
sioners who have completed specific training projects.
them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.
Arrow of Light Award. Highest rank in Cub Scouting.
buddy system. One part of the Safe Swim Defense plan.
The only Cub Scout badge that may be worn on the Boy
Swimmers of like ability are paired, check in and out of
Scout uniform.
the water together, and stay within 10 feet of each other
assistant district commissioner (ADC). A Scouter who during a swim. The buddy system is also used in other
helps the district commissioner. Scouting activities for safety reasons.

assistant patrol leader (APL). A Boy Scout in the budget plan. A method used by a troop to develop
patrol appointed by the patrol leader to help him and to thrift habits. A yearly budget is established and weekly
take his place in his absence. dues are agreed upon.

assistant Scoutmaster (ASM). A commissioned volun- bugler. An appointed youth position in a

teer Scouter, 18 or older, who helps the Scoutmaster by Boy Scout troop.
working with the troop and with a new-Scout patrol,
camping director. The Scouter responsible for develop-
Varsity Scout team, or Venture patrol.
ment of the year-round camping program of the council.
assistant senior patrol leader (ASPL). A troop youth
camporee. A district or council troop activity to demon-
leader, usually in larger troops, who helps the senior
strate the techniques of living in camp.
patrol leader with details of his role.
campsite. A troop or patrol outdoor home for an over-
Baden-Powell, Robert Stephenson Smyth. Founder
night or long-term camp.
of the worldwide Scouting movement. Known as Lord
Baden-Powell of Gilwell, Chief Scout of the World, captain. The youth leader of a Varsity Scout team.
and B-P.
Center for Professional Development (CPD). The train-
Be Prepared. The motto of Boy Scouting. ing center for all professional Scouters. Located 15 miles
west of the national office.
board of review. A review held to determine if a Boy
Scout has satisfactorily completed rank requirements.

105
charter. The Boy Scouts of America was granted a fed- density. Percentage of the total available youth who
eral charter in 1916 to provide a program of character are members.
development, citizenship training, and mental and
director of field service (DFS). A professional Scouter
physical fitness for all boys. The BSA issues charters
who supervises two or more field directors in a council.
annually to approved community organizations to
operate Scouting units. Direct Service Council. The national office center
through which U.S. citizens in other parts of the world
chartered organization. A religious, civic, fraternal,
retain membership and affiliation with the Boy Scouts
educational, or other community organization that
of America.
has applied for and received a charter to operate a
Scouting unit. Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. A recognition
bestowed upon a man who received the Eagle Scout
chartered organization representative (COR).
Award 25 or more years ago and has made an unusual
A manager of Scouting in a chartered organization
contribution to his community.
who also represents the organization in the local
council and district. Distinguished Service Award. Presented to Order of
the Arrow members who have rendered outstanding
charter presentation. A formal ceremony at which the
service to the Order on a section, area, regional, or
charter, Scouter commissions, and membership certifi-
national basis.
cates are presented to organization authorities and
members of the unit. distribution center. The warehouse from which BSA
equipment, literature, uniforms, and other supplies are
charter renewal. An annual meeting attended by the
dispensed. Located in Charlotte, North Carolina.
chartered organization representative, head of the char-
tered organization, troop leaders, and unit commissioner district. A geographic administrative unit within
for the purpose of completing the charter application a council.
and making plans for the charter presentation.
District Award of Merit. A recognition for Scouters
Chief Scout Executive (CSE). The top-ranking profes- who give noteworthy service to youth at the district
sional Scouter of the Boy Scouts of America. level.
Coach. The adult leader of a Varsity Scout team. district committee. A group of key volunteer Scouters
who, through the chartered organization, work to
cocaptain. An assistant youth leader of a
ensure the success of the units.
Varsity Scout team.
district committee chairman. The executive officer of
commissioner. A volunteer Scouter who works with
the district committee.
troops to help them succeed. In addition to the council
commissioner, there are district commissioners, assis- district executive. A professional Scouter who works
tant district commissioners, roundtable commissioners, under the direction of the council Scout executive to
and unit commissioners. support the units and act as an adviser to the volunteer
leaders in the district.
council. An administrative body chartered to be respon-
sible for Scouting in a designated geographic territory. Eagle Scout. The highest rank for Scouts.
council president. The elected volunteer Scouter who Eagle Scout Award. The highest recognition for Scouts.
heads the council and chairs the executive board.
Eagletter. A periodical published for members of the
council service center. The business center for the National Eagle Scout Association.
local administration of Scouting.
executive board. The National Executive Board is the
court of honor. A recognition ceremony for those who governing body of the Boy Scouts of America. There is
have met the requirements of any one of the Boy Scout an executive board in each council which is the policy-
ranks, merit badges, or other awards. making body at the local level.
den chief. A Boy Scout or Varsity Scout who helps field director (FD). A professional Scouter who is
direct the activities of a Cub Scout den. responsible for three or more district executives.

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Fifty-Miler Award. A recognition given to Scouts Hornaday Awards. William T. Hornaday Awards are
who have taken part in a wilderness trip of at least 50 given to Scouts, units, and Scouters for distinguished
consecutive miles over at least five consecutive days, service in conservation.
and fulfill requirements for group service projects on
instructor. A person who can instruct others on parts of
the trip.
the Scouting program.
Firem’n Chit. A recognition given to Scouts who know
investiture. A ceremony placing the responsibilities of
and understand fire safety rules.
an office or a rank upon an individual.
First Class rank. The rank above Second Class and
jamboree. A term chosen by Baden-Powell to describe
below Star in Boy Scout advancement.
the first international gathering of Scouts camping
Friends of Scouting (FOS). An annual opportunity for together in London in 1920. The term is restricted to
Scouters and interested people in the community to be indicate a national or world jamboree.
identified with the local council through their financial
junior assistant Scoutmaster (JASM). An appointed
support and influence in the expansion of the council
office open to Scouts 16 years of age and older. There is
program. Enrollees are known as “Friends.”
no limit to the number of junior assistant Scoutmasters
Gilwell Park. The training center of the British Scout a troop may have.
Association and the original homesite of Wood Badge
Key 3. (1) The council Key 3: the council president,
training. Located in Epping Forest, England.
council commissioner, and Scout executive; (2) the dis-
God and Country program series. A series of religious trict Key 3: the district chairman, district commissioner,
emblems presented to Scouts of the Protestant faiths. and district executive.

Gold Palm. An Eagle Scout who holds the Bronze Klondike derby. A competitive event conducted by
Palm may receive this recognition by earning five patrols to demonstrate proficiency in Scouting skills,
additional merit badges and completing certain traditionally conducted in the winter.
other requirements.
Leave No Trace. A commonsense set of guidelines that
Good Turn. A single act of service to others. A distinc- allows Scouts to camp, hike, and take part in related
tive feature of Scouting is its emphasis on service to outdoor activities in ways that are environmentally
others. The Good Turn habit is one that all Scouts sound and considerate to others using the same areas.
endeavor to acquire. A Leave No Trace Awareness Award is available to
Scouts who fulfill certain requirements.
Heroism Award. A lifesaving award presented to a reg-
istered youth member or adult leader who has demon- Life Scout rank. The rank above Star and below Eagle
strated heroism and skill in saving or attempting to save Scout in Boy Scout advancement.
life at minimum risk to self.
lodge. A local council Order of the Arrow group char-
high adventure. Refers to National Council or local tered annually by the National Council.
council high-adventure activities or programs for older
Lone Scout. A Boy Scout who, unable to join a troop
Scouts. Most of the programs are listed in the publica-
because of unusual conditions, follows the program as
tion Passport to High Adventure.
an individual under the leadership of a Lone Scout
Historic Trails Award. An award that may be earned by friend and counselor.
members of a troop for hiking a trail listed in Nationally
long-term camping. A camping experience consisting
Approved Historic Trails and completing a project
of five or more consecutive days and nights in
related to the trail.
the outdoors.
Honor Medal. A lifesaving award presented to Scouts
Medal of Merit. An award presented to Scouts who put
and Scouters who have shown heroism, resourceful-
into practice the skills and ideals of Scouting through
ness, and skill in saving or attempting to save life at
some great act of service; need not involve a rescue or
great risk of their own. May be presented with crossed
risk to self.
palms in cases of exceptional skill or resourcefulness
and extreme risk to self. Presented by the National
Court of Honor.

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membership inventory. Part of the charter renewal National President’s Scoutmaster Award of Merit.
process when the activity of a unit during the past Awarded by the National Eagle Scout Association to
year is reviewed; usually held along with a uniform Scoutmasters who make a significant contribution to
inspection. boys’ achievement of the Eagle Scout rank.

merit badge. A recognition given to a Scout for com- National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT). A six-day
pleting the requirements for the badge. training course for youth leaders conducted at the
council level.
merit badge counselor. A registered adult volunteer
who is expert in a merit badge field, has the ability to National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience
work effectively with Scouts, and certifies that require- (NAYLE). A weeklong training experience conducted
ments are met. at Philmont Scout Ranch using the skills taught at
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT).
Mile Swim, BSA. A recognition given to Scouts to
encourage their development of physical fitness and new-Scout conference. The Scoutmaster meets with
stamina through swimming. each new Scout in the troop to get acquainted, discuss
Scouting, and welcome the boy into the troop. Held as
National Camping Award. A recognition awarded to a
soon as possible after the boy joins.
Boy Scout troop or Varsity Scout team for completing a
certain number of days and nights of camping on either Okpik. The winter camping program offered by the
an annual or a cumulative basis. The award also recog- Northern Tier National High Adventure Program.
nizes cumulative achievement in number of campouts
Ordeal membership. The induction phase of
by individual Scouts and Scouters.
membership in the Order of the Arrow.
National Camping School. A training experience for
Order of the Arrow (OA). Scouting’s national honor
key summer camp staff of council camps.
society, the members of which have been chosen by
National Council. The corporate membership chartered their peers for their Scouting spirit and camping ability.
by the United States Congress to operate the program
orienteering. A cross-country race to reach a destina-
of the Boy Scouts of America; made up of all elected
tion and certain checkpoints along the way with the use
members of the National Executive Board, members of
of a map and compass.
regional executive committees, elected local council
representatives, elected members at large, and elected patrol. A group of five to eight boys who belong to a
(nonvoting) honorary members. troop and work together in and out of troop meetings.
There are usually several patrols in one troop.
National Court of Honor. A committee of the BSA that
is responsible for administering lifesaving awards, meri- patrol leader (PL). The youth leader of the patrol,
torious action awards, and distinguished service awards. elected by its members.
National Eagle Scout Association (NESA). This group patrol leaders’ council (PLC). Each patrol leader,
provides an opportunity for all Eagle Scouts to retain representing his patrol, meets with the other patrol
identification with Scouting through service to the local leaders and the senior patrol leader to plan their troop
council in which they live. program. The Scoutmaster acts as an adviser.
national office. The administrative offices of the Paul Bunyan Woodsman. A recognition given to
Boy Scouts of America. Address is 1325 West Walnut a Scout who safely demonstrates skill with a
Hill Lane, P.O. Box 152079, Irving, TX 75015-2079. long-handled ax.
Phone number is 972-580-2000. Web page address is
http://www.scouting.org. Pedro. The long-eared, four-footed mailburro of the
Often improperly referred to as “home office.” “Hitchin’ Rack” column in Boys’ Life magazine.

national Order of the Arrow conference. A biennial Philmont Scout Ranch. National high-adventure base
conference designed to improve program and leadership covering over 137,000 acres in northern New Mexico.
skills of all Arrowmen. Includes a center for volunteer training. Address is
Cimarron, NM 87714.

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professional. A registered, full-time employee of the Boy Scouting magazine. The official magazine for all
Scouts of America who has successfully completed formal Scouters. It helps interpret the program, stimulate
training at the Center for Professional Development. action, and strengthen a desire to serve.

Quality Unit Award. Recognition given each charter Scouting movement. An idea started by Lord Baden-
year to troops that commit to and meet specified Powell, based on the conviction that boys can live up to
national standards pertaining to leader training, service, a code of conduct and can develop themselves physi-
advancement, camping, and membership growth. cally, mentally, and spiritually through a program of
activities and advancement challenges in association
rank. There are six ranks for Boy Scouts: Tenderfoot,
with other boys under the leadership of adults.
Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle Scout.
Scoutmaster. The commissioned volunteer leader, 21 or
region. One of four large geographical administrative
older, of a Boy Scout troop; appointed by the chartered
units of the BSA: Central Region, Southern Region,
organization.
Western Region, and Northeast Region.
Scoutmaster conference. A distinctive feature of the
registration. The payment of an annual registration fee;
troop advancement plan in which a Scoutmaster helps
one of the requirements for membership in the Boy
a Scout accept responsibility for his own growth toward
Scouts of America.
each rank.
roundtable. A monthly program-planning and morale-
Scoutmaster’s Minute. A part of the closing ceremony
building meeting for adult leaders.
of a troop meeting or campfire in which the Scout-
roundup. A program to stimulate member-to-nonmember master uses a brief story to inspire Scoutlike conduct.
invitation to join a Scout troop.
scribe. An appointed officer in the troop or patrol who
Safe Swim Defense. A plan with eight defenses for keeps the troop or patrol records.
safe swimming.
Second Class rank. The rank above Tenderfoot in Boy
Safety Afloat. Guidelines for safe troop activity afloat Scout advancement.
in craft less than 26 feet long.
senior patrol leader (SPL). The elected boy leader who
School Night for Scouting. A one-night event in a runs the troop meetings and the patrol leaders’ council
neighborhood school, church, or other community meetings, with the guidance of the Scoutmaster.
center where boys and parents gather to hear and
service patrol. The name given to a patrol that has
see how Scouting operates and how they can join.
accepted an extra work assignment for the good of
Scouter. A registered adult member of the BSA who the troop.
serves in a volunteer or professional capacity.
service star. An insignia worn over the left shirt pocket
Scouter’s Key. Recognition given to a troop leader or of the uniform to denote number of years of service.
commissioner for completing training, tenure, and
Silver Antelope Award. A recognition given by the
performance requirements.
National Court of Honor to a Scouter for distinguished
Scouter’s Training Award. A recognition for adults service to youth within the region.
who hold positions other than that of Scoutmaster or
Silver Beaver Award. A recognition given by the
commissioner, who are trained, and who give service
National Court of Honor for distinguished service to
to Scouting.
youth within the council.
Scout executive (SE). The professional staff leader
Silver Buffalo Award. A recognition given by the
and secretary of a local council.
National Court of Honor for distinguished service to
Scouting Anniversary Week. The week, beginning youth on a national level.
on Sunday, that includes February 8, Scouting
Silver Palm. An Eagle Scout who holds the Gold Palm
Anniversary Day.
may receive this recognition by earning five additional
Scouting distributor. A firm licensed by the merit badges and completing certain other requirements.
national BSA Supply Division to stock and sell
official Scouting merchandise.

109
Snorkeling, BSA. A recognition given to Scouts to Venture patrol. An optional older-boy patrol (ages 13
encourage the development of aquatics skills that through 17) within a Scout troop.
promote fitness and recreation.
Venturing. A stand-alone program of the BSA for
squad. A Varsity Scout team subdivision that consists young men and women ages 14 through 20 who have
of four to eight members. completed the eighth grade and who subscribe to the
Venturing Oath and Code.
Star rank. The rank above First Class and below Life
in Boy Scout advancement. Venturing crew. The unit that conducts Venturing
for the chartered organization; its members are
Supply Division. The arm of the Boy Scouts of America
called Venturers.
that supplies official uniforms, equipment, and literature
to the field. veteran. A recognition status accorded to members of
Scouting who have served five years or more. Troops
swimmer test. A specific set of tests to ascertain a
can also achieve veteran status and may display veteran
minimum level of swimming ability required for
insignia on their flag.
deep-water swimming.
Vigil Honor. A recognition for distinguished service in
team. The unit that conducts Varsity Scouting for
the Order of the Arrow.
the chartered organization.
volunteer. A registered individual who donates service,
Tenderfoot rank. The first rank in the Boy Scout
time, and/or funds to support the program of the Boy
advancement program.
Scouts of America.
tenure. A term used to describe the length of service
Webelos den chief. An older Scout who has been
and membership in Scouting.
appointed to help direct the activities of a Webelos den.
Totin’ Chip. A recognition given to Scouts who sub-
Webelos-to-Scout plan. The preparation and passage of
scribe to the Outdoor Code and understand and can
a boy from Cub Scouting to Boy Scouting.
demonstrate the proper handling, care, and use of
woods tools. whole Scouting family. When an organization is char-
tered to operate a Cub Scout pack, a Boy Scout troop,
tour permit. Permit designed to assist troops in planning
a Varsity Scout team, and a Venturing crew.
safe, healthful, and enjoyable trips and to ensure that
proper procedures will be followed in case of emergency. Wilderness Use Policy. An official plan that outlines
the size limit, skill level, and conduct of any Scouting
training course. A series of training experiences
group going into backcountry or wilderness areas.
designed to help a leader understand his or her position.
World Conservation Award. An award emphasizing
troop. The unit that conducts Boy Scouting for the
the importance of our natural resources and our
chartered organization.
interdependence with other countries in fulfilling
troop committee. The committee appointed by the our mutual needs.
chartered organization to administer the affairs of
World Friendship Fund. The means by which Scouts
the troop.
and Scouters in the United States can provide material
troop instructor. An older troop member proficient and equipment to help Scouts and Scouting around
both in a Scouting skill and in the ability to teach the world.
that skill to others.
World Scout Bureau. The secretariat that carries out
uniform. Distinctive clothing worn by Scouts the instructions of the World Scout Conference and the
and Scouters. World Scout Committee. The head office is in Geneva,
Switzerland.
unit. Term used to designate any one of the following:
patrol, troop, squad, or team. World Scout Crest. An international award earned by
participating in a meaningful international Scouting
Varsity Scout. A registered youth member of a Varsity experience. May be obtained through the local council.
Scout team who is at least 14 but not yet 18 years
of age.

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 PEARLS OF WISDOM—QUOTES FROM BADEN-POWELL
“We must change boys from a ‘what can I get’ to a
‘what can I give’ attitude.”

“The code of the knight is still the code of the

gentleman today.”

“The real way to gain happiness is to give

it to others.”

“In Scouting you are combating the brooding

of selfishness.”

“Scoutmasters deal with the individual boy rather

than with the mass.”
“A boy on joining wants to begin Scouting
right away.” “Can we not interpret our adult wisdom into the lan-
guage of boyhood?”
“A fisherman does not bait his hook with food he
likes. He uses food the fish likes. So with boys.” “It is only when you know a boy’s environment that
you can know what influences to bring to bear.”
“Scouting is a man’s job cut down to a boy’s size.”
“It’s the spirit within, not the veneer without, that
“Scouting is a game for boys under the leadership of makes a man.”
boys under the direction of a man.”
“It is risky to order a boy not to do something; it
“Where is there a boy to whom the call of the wild immediately opens to him the adventure of doing it.”
and the open road does not appeal?”
“You can only get discipline in the mass by discipline
“It is important to arrange games and competition so in the individual.”
that all Scouts of the troop take part.”
“The Scoutmaster must be alert to check badge hunt-
“We are not a club or a Sunday school class, but a ing as compared to badge earning.”
school of the woods.”
“The Scout Oath and Law are our binding
“Fun, fighting, and feeding! These are the three disciplinary force.”
indispensable elements of the boy’s world.”
“A week of camp life is worth six months of
“Scoutmasters need to enter into boys’ ambitions.” theoretical teaching in the meeting room.”

“A boy is supremely confident of his own power, and “A boy is not a sitting-down animal.”
dislikes being treated as a child.”
“Vigorous Scout games are the best form of
“Boys can see adventure in a dirty old duck puddle, physical education because most of them bring in
and if the Scoutmaster is a boys’ man he can see it, too.” moral education.”

“A boy can see the smoke rising from Sioux villages “An invaluable step in character training is to put
under the shadow of the Albert memorial.” responsibility on the individual.”

“Teach Scouts not how to get a living, “When a boy finds someone who takes an interest in
but how to live.” him, he responds and follows.”

111
 “The sport in Scouting is to find the good in every “Loyalty is a feature in a boy’s character that inspires
boy and develop it.” boundless hope.”

“Success in training the boy depends largely on the “See things from the boy’s point of view.”
Scoutmaster’s own personal example.”
“The boy is not governed by don’t, but is led by do.”
“Correcting bad habits cannot be done by forbidding
or punishment.” “The object of the patrol method is not so much
saving the Scoutmaster trouble as to give responsibility
“Show me a poorly uniformed troop and I’ll show to the boy.”
you a poorly uniformed leader.”
“The most important object in Boy Scout training is
“The more responsibility the Scoutmaster gives his to educate, not instruct.”
patrol leaders, the more they will respond.”
“Scoutmasters need the capacity to enjoy the
“It should be the thing never to mention unfairness out-of-doors.”
of judging when defeated in a contest.”
“A boy is naturally full of humor.”
“The Scoutmaster teaches boys to play the game by
doing so himself.” “If you make listening and observation your occupa-
tion you will gain much more than you can by talk.”
“O God, help me to win, but in thy wisdom if
thou willest me not to win, then O God, make me a “A boy carries out suggestions more wholeheartedly
good loser.” when he understands their aim.”

“There is no teaching to compare with example.” “The Scoutmaster guides the boy in the spirit of an
older brother.”
“We do not want to make Scout training too soft.”
“To get a hold on boys you must be their friend.”
“The Good Turn will educate the boy out of the
groove of selfishness.” “In Scouting, a boy is encouraged to educate himself
instead of being instructed.”
“When you want a thing done, ‘Don’t do it yourself’
is a good motto for Scoutmasters.” “The spirit is there in every boy; it has to be discov-
ered and brought to light.”

112
 FOUNDERS OF THE BSA

ROBERT S. S. BADEN-POWELL
As a youth, Robert Baden-Powell greatly enjoyed the outdoors, learning about nature and
how to live in the wilderness. After returning as a military hero from service in Africa, Baden-
Powell discovered that English boys were reading the manual on stalking and survival in the
wilderness he had written for his military regiment. Gathering ideas from Ernest Thompson
Seton, Daniel Carter Beard, and others, he rewrote the manual as a nonmilitary nature skill
book and called it Scouting for Boys. To test his ideas, Baden-Powell brought together 22 boys
to camp at Brownsea Island, off the coast of England. This historic campout was a success
and resulted in the advent of Scouting. Thus, the imagination and inspiration of Baden-Powell,
later proclaimed Chief Scout of the World, brought Scouting to youth the world over.

ERNEST THOMPSON SETON

Born in Scotland, Ernest Thompson Seton immigrated to America as a youth in the 1880s.
His fascination with the wilderness led him to become a naturalist, an artist, and an
author, and through his works he influenced both youth and adults. Seton established a
youth organization called the Woodcraft Indians, and his background of outdoor skills
and interest in youth made him a logical choice for the position of first Chief Scout of the
BSA in 1910. His many volumes of Scoutcraft became an integral part of Scouting, and his
intelligence and enthusiasm helped turn an idea into reality.

DANIEL CARTER BEARD

Woodsman, illustrator, and naturalist, Daniel Carter Beard was a pioneering spirit of the
Boy Scouts of America. Already 60 years old when the Boy Scouts of America was formed,
he became a founder and merged it with his own boys’ organization, the Sons of Daniel
Boone. As the first national Scout commissioner, Beard helped design the original Scout
uniform and introduced the elements of the First Class Scout badge. ‘‘Uncle Dan,’’ as he
was known to boys and leaders, will be remembered as a colorful figure dressed in
buckskin who helped form Scouting in the United States.

WILLIAM D. BOYCE
In 1909, Chicago publisher William D. Boyce lost his way in a dense London fog. A boy
came to his aid and, after guiding the man, refused a tip, explaining that as a Scout he
would not take a tip for doing a Good Turn. This gesture by an unknown Scout inspired
a meeting with Robert Baden-Powell, the British founder of the Boy Scouts. As a result,
William Boyce incorporated the Boy Scouts of America on February 8, 1910. He also
created the Lone Scouts, which merged with the Boy Scouts of America in 1924.

JAMES E. WEST
James E. West was appointed the first Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America in
1911. Although orphaned and physically handicapped, he had the perseverance to graduate
from law school and become a successful attorney. This same determination provided the
impetus to help build Scouting into the largest and most effective youth organization in
the world. When he retired in 1943, Dr. West was recognized throughout the country as
the true architect of the Boy Scouts of America.
113
 TALE OF THE UNKNOWN SCOUT

Scouting was brought to America by William D. Boyce, The youth’s gesture impressed Boyce, who later
a Chicago publisher, and the way Boyce discovered visited with Lord Baden-Powell himself. Boyce was so
Scouting is one of the movement’s most colorful stories. taken with Baden-Powell and the Scouting idea that
Boyce, it seems, was in London in the fall of 1909 and back in America he and other men interested in youth
was out in a famed London fog looking for an office in development founded the Boy Scouts of America in
the center of the city. Washington, D.C., on February 8th, 1910.
Nearly at his wit’s end, Boyce stopped a young man No one knows who the Scout was who performed
and asked directions. Not only did the youth tell Boyce his Good Turn for Boyce, but he has not been forgotten.
how to reach his destination, he actually led Boyce In Gilwell Park in London, American Scouts had a
there to make certain the American found his way with- statue erected in his honor. A large-scale representation
out becoming lost again. of the Silver Buffalo Award, the statue bears the inscrip-
Boyce, to show his gratitude, offered the youth a tip, tion, “To the Unknown Scout Whose Faithfulness in the
but the youth would not accept it. When asked why, Performance of the Daily Good Turn Brought the Scout
the young man told Boyce he was a Boy Scout and Movement to the United States of America.”
taking a tip would negate the good deed he had done
and violate his Scouting code.

114
 FORMS
Troop Meeting Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
The Campfire Program Planner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Local Tour Permit Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Troop Resource Survey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Individual Scout Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
First Class—First Year Tracking Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Personal Health and
Medical Record Form—Class 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Leadership Transfer Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Transfer Form (Youth Member) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130
The 50-Miler Program/50-Miler Award Application . .131
The Historic Trails Program/
Historic Trails Award Application . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
National President’s Scoutmaster
Award of Merit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Scoutmaster Award of Merit Nomination . . . . . . . . 134
Advancement Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Outdoor Program Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Eagle Scout Rank Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
World Friendship Fund Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141
Rank Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

115
 (Program Feature)

TROOP MEETING PLAN

Date ______________________ Week __________

ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION RUN BY TIME

Preopening

______ minutes

Opening Ceremony

______ minutes

Skills Instruction s .EW 3COUT PATROL

s 2EGULAR PATROL
______ minutes
s 6ENTURE PATROL

Patrol Meetings

______ minutes

Interpatrol Activity

______ minutes

Closing s 3COUTMASTERS -INUTE SM

______ minutes

Total 90 minutes of meeting

After the Meeting

116
117
118
119
120
TROOP RESOURCE SURVEY
Boy Scouting is for adults as well as boys. We invite you to share your skills and interests so the best
possible program can be developed for the Boy Scouts in this troop. In making this survey, the com-
mittee wishes to find ways you can enjoy using your talents to help our Scouts. Your cooperation is
greatly appreciated.

Welcome to the Scout family of Troop No.________ in the __________________________Council.

Please return this survey to__________________________________________________________

(Please print)

Name __________________________________________________________________________

Street address ____________________________________________________________________

City __________________________________________ State _____________ Zip ____________

Home phone __________________________ Mobile phone _______________________________

Business phone _________________________ E-mail address _____________________________

1. What is your favorite hobby? ________________________ Occupation ___________________

2. In what sports do you take an active part? __________________________________________

3. Would you be willing to assist the troop leaders and committee members occasionally? ______

4. Please check the areas in which you would be willing to help:

General Activities Special Program Assistance

 Campouts  I can participate in boards of review.
 Hikes  I have a minivan or ________ truck.
 Outdoor activities  I have a workshop.
 Troop meetings  I have family camping gear.
 Swimming supervision  I have access to camping property.
 Bookkeeping  I can make contacts for special trips and activities.
 Typing  I can help with troop equipment.
 Drawing/art  Other ____________________
(please print)
 Transportation of Scouts
 Transportation of equipment
 Other ____________________
(please print)

5. Please check any Scouting skills you would be willing to teach:

 Ropework (knots and lashings)  Conservation
 Outdoor cooking  Aquatics
 First aid  Knife and ax handling
 Star study  Citizenship
 Map and compass use  Camping

Check the merit badges on the other side of this sheet that you are willing to help Boy Scouts earn.
No. 34437 121
 MERIT BADGES
Check the merit badges that you can help Boy Scouts earn.

 American Business  Crime Prevention  Insect Study  Reading

best
 American Cultures  Cycling  Journalism  Reptile and Amphibian Study
om-
n is  American Heritage  Dentistry  Landscape Architecture  Rifle Shooting
 American Labor  Disabilities Awareness  Law  Rowing
 Animal Science  Dog Care  Leatherwork  Safety
ncil.  Archaeology  Drafting  Lifesaving  Salesmanship
___
 Archery  Electricity  Mammal Study  Scholarship
 Architecture  Electronics  Medicine  Sculpture
 Art  Emergency Preparedness  Metalwork  Shotgun Shooting
 Astronomy  Energy  Model Design and Building  Skating
___
 Athletics  Engineering  Motorboating  Small-Boat Sailing
___  Auto Mechanics  Entrepreneurship  Music and Bugling  Snow Sports
 Aviation  Environmental Science  Nature  Soil and Water Conservation
___  Backpacking  Family Life  Nuclear Science  Space Exploration
 Basketry  Farm Mechanics  Oceanography  Sports
___
 Bird Study  Fingerprinting  Orienteering  Stamp Collecting
___  Bugling (See Music)  Fire Safety  Painting  Surveying
 Camping  First Aid  Personal Fitness  Swimming
___  Canoeing  Fish and Wildlife Management  Personal Management  Textile
 Chemistry  Fishing  Pets  Theater
 Cinematography  Fly-Fishing  Photography  Traffic Safety
___  Citizenship in the Community  Forestry  Pioneering  Truck Transportation
 Citizenship in the Nation  Gardening  Plant Science  Veterinary Medicine
 Citizenship in the World  Genealogy  Plumbing  Waterskiing
 Climbing  Geology  Pottery  Weather
 Coin Collecting  Golf  Public Health  Whitewater
 Collections  Graphic Arts  Public Speaking  Wilderness Survival
 Communications  Hiking  Pulp and Paper  Wood Carving
 Composite Materials  Home Repairs  Radio  Woodwork
 Computers  Horsemanship  Railroading
 Cooking  Indian Lore

Other skills and activities I could assist in for the older-Scout program:
 Backpacking  Freestyle biking  Rappelling  Survival
 Basketball  Golf  Sailing  Swimming
 Bowling  Hockey  Scuba diving  Tennis
 Business  Kayaking  Shooting sports  Video/photography
 Cross-country skiing  Mechanics  Slow-pitch softball  Volleyball
 Cycling  Mountain man  Snow camping  Whitewater canoeing
 Downhill skiing  Orienteering  Soccer  Windsurfing
 Fishing  Rafting  Spelunking

rn.

122
123
 ADVANCEMENT 9a.
9b.
Safe trip afloat
BSA swimmer test
____
____
Scout’s last name REQUIREMENTS 9c. Line rescue ____
TROOP POSITIONS OF Enter date earned for each
10.
11.
Scout spirit
Inviting a friend
____
____
RESPONSIBILITY merit badge, rank, and 12. Scoutmaster conference ____
From (Date) To (Date)
individual requirement. 13. Board of review ____

Den chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ Indicate specific skills and

merit badges earned for
STAR RANK
Librarian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ Date
each rank. 1. Participation ____
Quartermaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ 2. Scout spirit ____
Scribe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ BOY SCOUT 3. _______ merit badge* ____
Date _______ merit badge* ____
Historian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ 1. Joining requirements ____ _______ merit badge* ____
Instructor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ 2. Scoutmaster conference ____ _______ merit badge* ____
Varsity program manager . . . . . . ____________ ____________ _______ merit badge ____
Chaplain aide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________
TENDERFOOT RANK _______ merit badge ____
Date 4. Service projects ____
Varsity team captain . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ 1. Preparing to camp ____ 5. Leadership ____
Varsity team co-captain . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ 2. Overnight camp ____ 6. Scoutmaster conference ____
3. Preparing a meal ____ 7. Board of review ____
Varsity team secretary . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ 4a. Whipping and *Total of 6 merit badges, includ-
Patrol leader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ fusing rope ____ ing any 4 from required list for
Squad leader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ 4b. Tying hitches ____ Eagle.
5. Safe hiking rules ____
Assistant senior patrol leader . . . ____________ ____________ 6. Care of the flag ____ LIFE RANK
Senior patrol leader . . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ 7. Scouting principles ____ Date
8. Patrol knowledge ____ 1. Participation ____
Troop guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ____________ ____________ 9. Buddy system ____ 2. Scout spirit ____
Junior assistant Scoutmaster . . . . ____________ ____________ 10a. Physical test ____ _______ merit badge* ____
Note: Each of the positions of responsibility listed above can help fulfill requirements for the 10b. Physical improvement ____ _______ merit badge* ____
Eagle Scout Award. 11. Poisonous plants ____ _______ merit badge* ____
MERIT BADGE LIST 12a.
12b.
Heimlich maneuver
First aid
____
____
_______ merit badge
_______ merit badge
____
____
13. Scout spirit ____ 4. Service projects ____
1. Camping 38. Cooking 83. Photography 14. Scoutmaster conference ____ 5. Leadership ____
2. Citizenship in the 131. Crime Prevention 84. Pioneering 15. Board of review ____
Community 6. Scoutmaster conference ____
40. Dentistry 85. Plant Science
7. Board of review ____
3. Citizenship in the
Nation
60. Disabilities
Awareness
86. Plumbing SECOND CLASS RANK *Total of 11 merit badges, includ-
87. Pottery Date
4. Citizenship in the 41. Dog Care ing any 3 more from required
89. Public Health 1a. Map and compass use ____
World 42. Drafting list for Eagle.
90. Public Speaking 1b. Map and compass hike ____
5. Communications 43. Electricity 91. Pulp and Paper
39. Cycling 44. Electronics 93. Radio
2a. Troop/patrol activities ____ EAGLE SCOUT AWARD
6. Emergency 2b. Tent pitching ____ Date
45. Energy 94. Railroading
Preparedness 2c. Wood tools ____ 1. Participation ____
46. Engineering 95. Reading
7. Environmental 2d. Cooking fire ____ 2. Scout spirit ____
134. Entrepreneurship 96. Reptile and
Science 2e. Lightweight stoves ____ 3. _______ merit badge* ____
48. Farm Mechanics Amphibian Study
129. Family Life 2f. Lighting a fire _______ merit badge* ____
49. Fingerprinting 123. Rifle Shooting
8. First Aid and stove ____ _______ merit badge* ____
50. Fire Safety 98. Rowing
61. Hiking 2g. Preparing a meal ____ _______ merit badge* ____
51. Fish and Wildlife 12. Safety
9. Lifesaving Management
3. Care of the flag ____ _______ merit badge* ____
99. Salesmanship
10. Personal Fitness 52. Fishing
4. Service project ____ _______ merit badge ____
100. Scholarship
11. Personal 136. Fly-Fishing
5. Animal identification ____ _______ merit badge ____
101. Sculpture
Management 54. Forestry
6a. “Hurry” cases ____ _______ merit badge ____
124. Shotgun
14. Swimming 55. Gardening Shooting
6b. First-aid kit ____ _______ merit badge ____
15. American Business 56. Genealogy 103. Skating
6c. First aid ____ _______ merit badge ____
17. American Cultures 58. Geology 105. Small-Boat
7a. Safe swimming ____ 4. Leadership ____
16. American Heritage 59. Golf Sailing 7b. Swimming skills ____ 5. Service project leader ____
121. American Labor 122. Graphic Arts 135. Snow Sports 7c. Water rescue methods ____ 6. Scoutmaster conference ____
18. Animal Science 62. Home Repairs 106. Soil and Water 8. Health programs ____ 7. Board of review ____
132. Archaeology 63. Horsemanship Conservation 9. Scout spirit ____ *Total of 21 merit badges, includ-
19. Archery 64. Indian Lore 107. Space 10. Scoutmaster conference ____ ing 12 (at least one in each cate-
20. Architecture 65. Insect Study Exploration 11. Board of review ____ gory) from the required list for
21. Art 66. Journalism 13. Sports Eagle. See Boy Scout Require-
22. Astronomy 67. Landscape 108. Stamp Collecting FIRST CLASS RANK ments for categories.
23. Athletics Architecture 109. Surveying Date
127. Auto Mechanics 68. Law 110. Textile 1. Finding your way ____ BRONZE PALM
25. Aviation 69. Leatherwork 111. Theater 2. Orienteering ____
26. Backpacking 71. Mammal Study 112. Traffic Safety 3. Troop/patrol activities ____ ________________________________
27. Basketry 130. Medicine 113. Truck 4a. Planning a menu ____ Date
29. Bird Study 74. Metalwork Transportation 4b. Purchasing food ____
32. Bugling 75. Model Design 114. Veterinary 4c. Cooking gear ____ GOLD PALM
33. Canoeing and Building Medicine 4d. Safe handling of food ____
34. Chemistry 76. Motorboating 115. Waterskiing 4e. Camp cooking ____ ________________________________
126. Cinematography 77. Music 116. Weather 5. Citizenship ____ Date
78. Nature 125. Whitewater 6. Plant identification ____
133. Climbing
117. Wilderness 7a. Appropriate use
35. Coin Collecting 24.
79.
Nuclear Science
Oceanography
Survival of lashings ____
SILVER PALM
137. Composite
118. Wood Carving 7b. Hitches and lashings ____
Materials 80. Orienteering ________________________________
119. Woodwork 7c. Camp gadget ____
128. Collections 81. Painting Date
36. Computers 82. Pets 8a. Bowline knot ____
8b. Bandages ____
8c. Transporting a victim ____
Merit badges on required list for Eagle are in boldface. 8d. CPR ____
34518B 2006 Boy Scouts of America

124
 FIRST CLASS—FIRST YEAR
TRACKING SHEET
Date ________________________

Name _________________________________________ Date joined________________________________ Class goal ______________________________

(Date)

Category Goal Attainment* Requirements Date Date

Trp Out Own Rank Number Scheduled Completed

Outdoor
x x T 1 ____________ ____________
x T 2 ____________ ____________
x T 3 ____________ ____________
x x T 4a ____________ ____________
x x T 4b ____________ ____________
x x T 5 ____________ ____________
x x T 11 ____________ ____________
x S 1a ____________ ____________
x S 1b ____________ ____________
x S 2a ____________ ____________
x S 2b ____________ ____________
x S 2c ____________ ____________
x S 2d ____________ ____________
x x S 2e ____________ ____________
x S 2f ____________ ____________
x S 2g ____________ ____________
x x S 5 ____________ ____________
x x F 1 ____________ ____________
x F 2 ____________ ____________
x F 3 ____________ ____________
x x F 4a ____________ ____________
x x F 4b ____________ ____________
x x F 4c ____________ ____________
x x F 4d ____________ ____________
x F 4e ____________ ____________
x x F 6 ____________ ____________
x x F 7a ____________ ____________
x x F 7b ____________ ____________
x x F 7c ____________ ____________

Physical fitness
x x x T 10a ____________ ____________
x x x T 10b ____________ ____________
x x S 7a ____________ ____________
x x S 7b ____________ ____________
x x S 7c ____________ ____________
x x S 8 ____________ ____________
x x F 9a ____________ ____________
x x F 9b ____________ ____________
x x F 9c ____________ ____________

*Goal attainment—locations where Scout may work on his rank requirements:

Trp — Troop meetings
Out — Outings
Own — On his own

125
Category Goal Attainment* Requirements Date Date
Trp Out Own Rank Number Scheduled Completed

Citizenship
x x T 6 ____________ ____________
x x T 12a ____________ ____________
x x T 12b ____________ ____________
x x x S 3 ____________ ____________
x x x S 4 ____________ ____________
x x S 6a ____________ ____________
x x S 6b ____________ ____________
x x S 6c ____________ ____________
x x x F 5 ____________ ____________
x x F 8a ____________ ____________
x x F 8b ____________ ____________
x x F 8c ____________ ____________
x x F 8d ____________ ____________

Patrol/troop
participation
x T 8 ____________ ____________
x S 9 ____________ ____________
x F 10 ____________ ____________

Personal
development
x x T 7 ____________ ____________
x x T 9 ____________ ____________
x T 13 ____________ ____________
x S 10 ____________ ____________
x F 11 ____________ ____________

Completed
Tenderfoot ____________ ____________
Second Class ____________ ____________
First Class ____________ ____________

*Goal attainment—locations where Scout may work on his rank requirements:

Trp — Troop meetings
Out — Outings
Own — On his own

34118B
2002 Printing

126
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IN HEALTH STATUS SINCE LAST COMPLETE PHYSICAL EXAMINATION N .O N 9ES s 2EVIEW IMMUNIZATIONS FOR YOUTH  OR YOUNGER TETANUS AND DIPHTHERIA TOXOIDS MEASLES MUMPS AND
'IVE DATES AND FULL DETAILS BELOW FOR ANY hYESv ANSWERS RUBELLA VACCINES AND TRIVALENT ORAL POLIO VACCINE ARE REQUIRED YOUTHS AND ADULTS MUST HAVE HAD TETANUS
BOOSTER WITHIN  YEARS ! MEASLES BOOSTER IS RECOMMENDED AT AGE 
)3 4(%2% $)3%!3% /& s !FTER COMPLETING SECTION 6)) SUMMARIZE ANY RESTRICTIONS ANDOR RECOMMENDATIONS IN SECTIONS )) AND 6
/2 0!34 /2 02%3%.4 ABOVE AND SIGN
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3ERIOUS ILLNESS N N ????????
$ATE??????????????????????????????? .ORMAL?????????????? .ORMAL ??????????????
3ERIOUS INJURY N N ????????
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3KIN GLANDS N N ???????? #HECK BOX IF NORMAL CIRCLE IF ABNORMAL AND GIVE DETAILS BELOW
%ARS EYES N N ????????
N 'ROWTH DEVELOPMENT N 4EETH TONSILS N 'ENITOURINARY
.OSE SINUS N N ???????? N 3KIN GLANDS HAIR N 2ESPIRATORY N 3KELETOMUSCULAR
4EETH TONSILS N N ???????? N (EAD NECK THYROID N #ARDIOVASCULAR N .EUROPSYCHIATRIC
$ENTURES N N ???????? N %YES EARS NOSE N !BDOMEN HERNIA RINGS N /THER SPECIFY
"RIDGE N N ????????
#/--%.43 ???????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
#HEST LUNGS N N ????????
(EART N N ???????? ??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
-URMUR N N ???????? ??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
2HEUMATIC FEVER N N ????????
3TOMACH BOWELS N N ???????? ??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
!PPENDICITIS N N ???????? ??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
+IDNEYS OR URINE N N ???????? ??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
!LBUMIN N N ????????
3UGAR N N ????????
)NFECTION N N ???????? 0LEASE LIST !,, MEDICATIONS TAKEN &/2 4(/3% !44%.$).' 0(),-/.4 /2 .!4)/.!, ()'( !$6%.452% "!3%3
"ED WETTING N N ???????? IN THE  DAYS PRIOR TO ARRIVAL AT THE
4HE MINIMUM AGE FOR ALL PARTICIPANTS IS  BY *ANUARY  OF THE YEAR OF PARTICIPATION OR HAVE COMPLETED
3COUTING ACTIVITY WHERE THIS FORM IS THE SEVENTH GRADE .O EXCEPTIONS
-ENSTRUAL PROBLEMS N N ????????
TO BE USED o 4RAIL FOOD IS BY NECESSITY A HIGH CARBOHYDRATE HIGH CALORIE DIET )T IS HIGH IN WHEAT MILK PRODUCTS SUGAR
(ERNIA RUPTURE N N ????????
CORN SYRUP AND ARTIFICIAL COLORINGFLAVORING $INNER MEALS CONTAIN MEAT )F THESE FOOD PRODUCTS CAUSE A
"ACK LIMBS JOINTS N N ???????? PROBLEM IN YOUR DIET YOU NEED TO BRING APPROPRIATE SUBSTITUTIONS WITH YOU AND SO ADVISE BASE PERSONNEL
3LEEPWALKING N N ???????? .OTE ,ICENSED HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONERS REPRESENTING HIGH ADVENTURE BASES RESERVE THE RIGHT TO DENY
.ERVOUS CONDITION N N ???????? ACCESS TO THE TRAILS OR OTHER PROGRAM ACTIVITY ON THE BASIS OF A MEDICAL EVALUATION PERFORMED AT THE
/THER EXPLAIN N N ???????? BASE AFTER ARRIVAL

"  0RINTING

127
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128
129
130
 THE 50-MILER PROGRAM
The primary objective of this Award Requirements
program is to stimulate Boy
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(local council camp excepted) or crosses national boundaries
in the unit’s home area. (There should be no unauthorized cut-
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 with the local council service center.

Detach and send the report below to your local council service center.

50-MILER AWARD APPLICATION

"2-8
3___________ Tour Permit No._________

Provision group ____________________ (check)

(Note: This award does not apply if any other award is available for this trip.)
District___________________________________

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131
132
 BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S
SCOUTMASTER AWARD OF MERIT
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 that could be earned by all Scoutmasters. His rationale was that there is a need for
recognizing Scoutmasters relatively early in their work in that position, before they qualify for the
Scouter’s Key.

Requirements The nominee need not be an Eagle Scout but must:

1. Be a currently registered Scoutmaster who has served in that position for at least 18 months.
2. Have achieved the Quality Unit Award at least once during the period of service.
3. Have completed Boy Scout Leader Fast Start Orientation, New Leader Essentials, Scoutmaster and
Assistant Scoutmaster Leader Specific Training, and Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills.
4. Have a record of proper use of the Boy Scout advancement program, resulting in a majority of
Boy Scouts in the troop attaining the First Class rank.
5. Have a record of
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Procedure The chair 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.
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at the national of fice.

Award A full-color certificate will be provided by NESA free of charge. A cost of $1.50 per certificate will be
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A full-color, 6-inch jacket patch, No. 00147, is available through the Supply Division.
A square knot (white on tan) for the uniform, No. 05001, is available through the Supply Division.

Presentations The award may be presented at an appropriate chartered organization or unit function with acknowl-
edgment at a district or council event or at a district or council recognition event.

Note: Nominees may earn the Scoutmaster Award of Merit one time only.

133
 SCOUTMASTER AWARD OF MERIT NOMINATION
Submit to your local council service center.

Nominee’s name as it is to appear on certificate

Address

City State Zip

Inclusive dates of service as Scoutmaster (include month and year)

The nominee is a currently registered Scoutmaster with troop No. ,

with a commission that expires on , 20 .

Date(s) troop received Quality Unit Award

Date nominee completed Boy Scout Leader Fast Start Orientation

Date nominee completed New Leader Essentials

Date nominee completed Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster Leader Specific Training

Date nominee completed Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills

Attach the following:

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58-413B 2004 Boy Scouts of America

134
 ADVANCEMENT REPORT FOR COUNCIL SERVICE CENTER USE ONLY


 ? 

4>
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2+7/)' (PACK, TROOP, TEAM, CREW, SHIP) Report received
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

     No. District Certificates issued

Pack Troop Team Crew Ship
Leader Address Mailed or issued to

City State Zip Date mailed

Expiration date of unit Date awards needed Record posted

Date this report forwarded to council service center

1. Advancement procedures:
Packs. After Den Advancement Reports, No 33847, are received from den leaders, this form is completed for the entire pack.

Troops/Teams. All Boy Scouts or Varsity Scouts ready for advancement must appear personally before a board of review composed of at least three members. An advancement report must
be sent to the council service center immediately following each board of review. This report must be signed by at least three members of the board of review, including its chairman.
Crews/Ships. Venturers/Sea Scouts should give their advancement applications to their Advisor or Skipper who, in turn, takes them to the crew/ship committee for approval, then prepares,
signs, and forwards this advancement report to the council service center.
2. Only MEMBERS with unexpired membership certificates can be credited with advancement. Awards are not available to members of units whose charters have expired.
3. Fill in name and only one advancement award or merit badge on each line, but list all of one member’s advancement consecutively.
4. Please attach applications for the Eagle Scout Award and the Venturing Gold, Silver, and Quartermaster awards to this report.
5. The pack, troop, team, or crew advancement committee member should interview youth members who are not advancing. List these individuals’ names on bottom of form.

6. No Boy Scout advancement may be earned by female Venturers or by a Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or male Venturer who has reached the age of 18.
7. Venturers may earn Venturing advancement through age 20.
8. Each merit badge counselor must be registered as a merit badge counselor with the BSA.

To: Council Advancement Committee For Boards of Review. Two additional signatures are required, plus the date the
board of review was held.
I certify that the following record of advancement is correct and that it meets Board of Review
the standards and requirements of the Boy Scouts of America, and that merit Date
badge counselors are registered adult members of the BSA.

Signed Title

Date Award Badge of Rank, Date Award Badge of Rank,

Name Earned Merit Badge, or Award Name Earned Merit Badge, or Award

1. 19.

2. 20.

3. 21.

4. 22.

5. 23.

6. 24.

7. 25.

8. 26.

9. 27.

10. 28.

11. 29.

12. 30.

13. 31.

14. 32.

15. Youth interviewed who are not advancing

16.

17.

18.
#34403B
Total different youth __________ Qualified for ____________ awards
Forward white and yellow copies to council service center. Keep pink copy for unit files.
7 30176 34403 4

135
136
 OUTDOOR PROGRAM CHECKLIST

Date of Program ______________________ Location ________________________________

I. Administration

( ) Tour permits ( ) Licenses (fishing, boats, etc.)

( ) Parents’ permission/information ( ) Camp cost

( ) Insurance ( ) Local requirements

( ) Budget done ( ) Permits/reservations

( ) Personal health histories ( ) __________________________________________

II. Leadership

( ) Second leader _____________________________ ( ) Third leader ______________________________

III. Transportation

( ) Driver ___________________________________ ( ) Driver ___________________________________

( ) Driver ___________________________________ ( ) Driver ___________________________________

( ) Equipment hauled by ______________________

IV. Location

( ) Maps to and from _________________________ ( ) Arrival time ______________________________

( ) Driver time _______________________________ ( ) Departure time ____________________________

( ) Special gear needed _______________________

137
 V. Equipment

( ) Personal _________________________________ ( ) Program__________________________________

( ) Troop ____________________________________ ( ) Emergency ________________________________

( ) First-aid supplies __________________________

VI. Feeding

( ) Menu planned ____________________________ ( ) Patrol duties roster ________________________

( ) Who buys food ___________________________ ( ) Food storage _____________________________

( ) Fuel supply _______________________________

VII. Sanitation

( ) Drinking water ____________________________ ( ) Human waste _____________________________

( ) Dishwashing _____________________________ ( ) Garbage disposal __________________________

VIII. Safety

( ) Nearest medical facility_____________________ ( ) Emergency no. ___________________________

( ) Nearest town _____________________________ ( ) First-aid provider in group _________________

( ) Ranger contact ____________________________ ( ) Police no. ________________________________

IX. Program

( ) Program planned ( ) Long-term

( ) Short-term ( ) Rainy-day activities

( ) Special program equipment _________________

( ) Patrol assignments
138
PID No. ______________________________
(Required)

EAGLE SCOUT RANK APPLICATION

FOR COUNCIL USE ONLY
COUNCIL NO. TYPE OF UNIT

TO THE EAGLE SCOUT RANK APPLICANT. This application is to be completed after you
REGION NATIONAL NO.
have completed all requirements for the Eagle Scout rank. Print in ink or type all informa-
tion. List the month, day, and year for all dates. When using computer date blocks list the C, N, S, W
date: July 8, 1970, as 07 (for July) 08 (for day) 70 (for year). When you have completed this
application, sign it and submit it to your unit leader. NAME ON OFFICIAL REGISTRATION

LIST YOUR FULL LEGAL NAME (UP TO 30 CHARACTERS ONLY).

Month Day Year

__________________________________________________ Date joined a Boy Scout troop
Street or R.F.D. Address
Date became a Varsity Scout
__________________________________________________ Date became a Venturer
City, State, Zip
Date of First Class Scout board of review
__________________________________________________ Date of Star Scout board of review
Telephone (Including area code)
Were you a Cub Scout?
Yes
No
__________________________________________________
Troop, Team, Crew, or Ship Local No. Were you a Webelos Scout?
Yes
No
Did you earn the Arrow of Light Award?
Yes
No
__________________________________________________
City, State, Zip Had you completed fifth grade upon joining?
Yes
No

AGE REQUIREMENT ELIGIBILITY. Merit badges, badges of rank, and Eagle Palms may be earned by a registered Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturer. He may earn these
awards until his 18th birthday. Any Venturer who achieved the First Class rank as a Boy Scout in a troop or Varsity Scout in a team may continue working for the Star, Life,
and Eagle Scout ranks and Eagle Palms while registered as a Venturer up to his 18th birthday. Scouts and Venturers who have completed all requirements prior to their
18th birthday may be reviewed within three months after that date with no explanation. Boards of review conducted between three and six months after the candidate’s
18th birthday must be preapproved by the local council. A statement by an adult explaining the reason for the delay must be attached to the Eagle Scout Rank Application
when it is submitted to the Eagle Scout Service. The Boy Scout Division at the national office must be contacted for procedures to follow if a board of review is to be
conducted more than six months after a candidate’s 18th birthday.
A Scout or Venturer with a disability may work toward rank advancement after he is 18 years of
age. See Advancement Committee Policies and Procedures for details. Date of birth
Month Day Year

REQUIREMENT 1. Be active in your troop, team, crew, or ship for a period of at least six months Date of Life Scout
after you have achieved the rank of Life Scout. board of review
Month Day Year

REQUIREMENT 2. Demonstrate that you live by the principles of the Scout Oath and Law in your daily life. List the names of individuals who know you personally and would
be willing to provide a recommendation on your behalf.

Name Address Telephone

Parents/guardians ______________________________ ________________________________ _________________

Religious ______________________________ ________________________________ _________________
Educational ______________________________ ________________________________ _________________
Employer (if any) ______________________________ ________________________________ _________________
Two other references ______________________________ ________________________________ _________________
______________________________ ________________________________ _________________
REQUIREMENT 3. Earn a total of 21 merit badges (required badges are listed). List the month, day, and year the merit badge was earned.

DATE UNIT DATE UNIT DATE UNIT

MERIT BADGE EARNED NO. MERIT BADGE EARNED NO. MERIT BADGE EARNED NO.
1 CAMPING 8 FIRST AID 15

2 CITIZENSHIP IN *†9 CYCLING OR HIKING 16

THE COMMUNITY OR SWIMMING
3 CITIZENSHIP IN 10 PERSONAL 17
THE NATION MANAGEMENT
4 CITIZENSHIP IN †11 PERSONAL FITNESS 18
THE WORLD
5 COMMUNICATIONS 12 FAMILY LIFE 19

*6 EMERGENCY PREPARED- 13 20
NESS OR LIFESAVING
7 ENVIRONMENTAL 14 21
SCIENCE
*Cross out badges not earned. If a crossed-out badge was earned, it may be reentered in 13 through 21.
Four of these required merit badges were earned for the Star Scout rank and three more were earned for the Life Scout rank.
†Effective April 1, 1999.

139
REQUIREMENT 4. While a Life Scout, serve actively for a period of six months in one or more of the following positions of responsibility. List only those positions served
after Life board of review date.
Boy Scout troop. Patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, senior patrol leader, troop guide, Order of the Arrow troop representative, den chief, scribe, librarian, quarter-
master, junior assistant Scoutmaster, chaplain aide, instructor, historian, Venture patrol leader
Varsity Scout team. Captain, cocaptain, program manager, squad leader, team secretary, librarian, quartermaster, chaplain aide, instructor, den chief, Order of the Arrow
team representative
Venturing crew/ship. President, vice president, secretary, treasurer, boatswain, boatswain’s mate, yeoman, purser, storekeeper

Date of Life Scout

board of review
Month Day Year

Position _________________________________________________________ FROM TO

Month Day Year Month Day Year

Position _________________________________________________________ FROM TO

Month Day Year Month Day Year

REQUIREMENT 5. While a Life Scout, plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project helpful to any religious institution, any school, or your community.
The project idea must be approved by your Scoutmaster and troop committee and by the council or district before you start. You must use the Eagle Scout Leadership
Service Project Workbook, No. 18-927, in meeting this requirement.

Date project was completed

Month Day Year

REQUIREMENT 6. Attach to this application a statement of your ambitions and life purpose and a listing of positions held in your religious institution, school, camp, community,
or other organizations during which you demonstrated leadership skills. Include honors and awards received during this service. Take part in a Scoutmaster conference with
your unit leader.

Date conference was held

Month Day Year

CERTIFICATION BY APPLICANT. On my honor as a Scout/Venturer, all statements on this application are true and correct. All requirements were completed prior to my
18th birthday.

Signature of applicant ________________________________________ Telephone__________________ Date

Month Day Year

UNIT APPROVAL (personal signatures required)

Signature of unit leader ____________________________________________ Telephone__________________ Date

Month Day Year

Signature of unit committee chair ____________________________________ Telephone__________________ Date

Month Day Year

BSA LOCAL COUNCIL CERTIFICATION. According to the records of this council, the applicant is a registered member of this unit and all dates listed are correct.

Signed __________________________________ Position_________________________________ Date

Month Day Year

ACTIONS BY EAGLE SCOUT BOARD OF REVIEW. The applicant appeared before the Eagle Scout board of review on this date and this application was approved.

Review date This date will be used on the Eagle Scout credentials.
Month Day Year

_________________________________________ _________________________________________
Signature of board chairman Signature of council/district board representative (if applicable)

I certify that all procedures, as outlined in Advancement Committee Policies and Procedures, have been followed. I approve this application.

Scout Executive _________________________________________________________________________ Date

Month Day Year

Presentation of the rank may not be made until the Eagle Scout credentials are received by
EAGLE SCOUT SERVICE VALIDATION
the BSA local council.

NATIONAL EAGLE SCOUT ASSOCIATION. The National Eagle Scout

Association is a fellowship of men who have achieved the Eagle Scout rank.
Membership embraces the top achievers of the Boy Scouts of America.
Benefits include a subscription to Eagletter. The journal keeps NESA members
informed on Scouting in general and Eagle Scouting in particular.

Applications are available at your local council service center.

Regular five-year memberships are $25. Life memberships are $180.

EDITIONS OF THIS APPLICATION PREVIOUS TO THE 2000 REVISION SHOULD NOT BE USED.

58-728A 140 2006 Boy Scouts of America

 WORLD FRIENDSHIP FUND

D ate: ________________

TO: International Division

Boy Scouts of A m e rica
1325 West Walnut Hill Lane
P.O. Box 152079
Irving, TX 75015-2079

The members of the Scoutmastership Fundamentals (The Outdoor Program) have made a
contribution to extend world friendship in a personal way.

*A check to World Friendship Fund in the amount of $ is enclosed.

Council name _____________________________________________________________ N o.__________________

Council address __________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Signed) _______________________________________.
Course director

*(Request separate check from that for fees and supplies).

(Send direct to International Division).

141
 TENDERFOOT RANK
REQUIREMENTS
1. Present yourself to your leader, properly dressed, before going on
an overnight camping trip. Show the camping gear you will use.
Show the right way to pack and carry it.

2. Spend at least one night on a patrol or troop campout. Sleep in a

tent you have helped pitch.

3. On the campout, assist in preparing and cooking one of your

patrol’s meals. Tell why it is important for each patrol member to
share in meal preparation and cleanup, and explain the importance
of eating together.

4a. Demonstrate how to whip and fuse the ends of a rope.

4b. Demonstrate that you know how to tie the following knots and
tell what their uses are: two half hitches and the taut-line hitch.

5. Explain the rules of safe hiking, both on the highway and cross-
country, during the day and at night. Explain what to do if you
are lost.

6. Demonstrate how to display, raise, lower, and fold the

American flag.

7. Repeat from memory and explain in your own words the Scout
Oath, Law, motto, and slogan.

8. Know your patrol name, give the patrol yell, and describe your
patrol flag.

9. Explain why we use the buddy system in Scouting.

10a. Record your best in the following tests: (Page 57)

Current results 30 days later
Push-ups ___________________ Push-ups ________________
Pull-ups ____________________ Pull-ups _________________
Sit-ups _____________________ Sit-ups __________________
Standing long jump Standing long jump
(______ feet ______ inches) (______ feet ______ inches)
1
⁄4-mile walk/run ____________ 1
⁄4-mile walk/run _________

10b. Show improvement in the activities listed in requirement 10a after

practicing for 30 days.

142
 TENDERFOOT RANK
REQUIREMENTS
11. Identify local poisonous plants; tell how to treat for exposure
to them.

12a. Demonstrate the Heimlich maneuver and tell when it is used.

12b. Show first aid for the following:

% Simple cuts and scratches
% Blisters on the hand and foot
% Minor burns or scalds (first-degree)
% Bites or stings of insects and ticks
% Venomous snakebite
% Nosebleed
% Frostbite and sunburn
13. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath (Promise) and
Scout Law in your everyday life.

14. Participate in a Scoutmaster conference.

15. Complete your board of review.

NOTE: Alternate requirements for the Tenderfoot rank are available for
Scouts with physical or mental disabilities if they meet the criteria listed in
the Boy Scout Requirements book, No. 33215.

143
 SECOND CLASS
RANK REQUIREMENTS
1a. Demonstrate how a compass works and how to orient a map.
Explain what map symbols mean.

1b. Using a compass and a map together, take a 5-mile hike (or 10
miles by bike) approved by your adult leader and your parent
or guardian.*

2a. Since joining, have participated in five separate troop/patrol

activities (other than troop/patrol meetings), two of which
included camping overnight.

2b. On one of these campouts, select your patrol site and sleep in a
tent that you pitched.

2c. On one campout, demonstrate proper care, sharpening, and use

of the knife, saw, and ax, and describe when they should be
used.

2d. Use the tools listed in requirement 2c to prepare tinder, kindling,

and fuel for a cooking fire.

2e. Discuss when it is appropriate to use a cooking fire and a

lightweight stove. Discuss the safety procedures for using both.

2f. Demonstrate how to light a fire and a lightweight stove.

2g. On one campout, plan and cook over an open fire one hot break-
fast or lunch for yourself, selecting foods from the food pyramid.
Explain the importance of good nutrition. Tell how to transport,
store, and prepare the foods you selected.

3. Participate in a flag ceremony for your school, religious institution,

chartered organization, community, or troop activity.

4. Participate in an approved (minimum of one hour) service project.

5. Identify or show evidence of at least ten kinds of wild

animals (birds, mammals, reptiles, fish, mollusks) found in
your community.

6a. Show what to do for “hurry” cases of stopped breathing, serious

bleeding, and internal poisoning.

6b. Prepare a personal first-aid kit to take with you on a hike.

*If you use a wheelchair or crutches, or if it is difficult for you to get around,
you may substitute “trip” for “hike.”

144
 SECOND CLASS
RANK REQUIREMENTS
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NOTE: Alternate requirements for the Second Class rank are available for
Scouts with physical or mental disabilities if they meet the criteria listed in
the Boy Scout Requirements book, No. 33215.

145
 FIRST CLASS
RANK REQUIREMENTS
1. Demonstrate how to find directions during the day and at night
without using a compass.

2. Using a compass, complete an orienteering course that covers at

least one mile and requires measuring the height and/or width of
designated items (tree, tower, canyon, ditch, etc.).

3. Since joining, have participated in ten separate troop/patrol

activities (other than troop/patrol meetings), three of which
included camping overnight.

4a. Help plan a patrol menu for one campout that includes at least
one breakfast, one lunch, and one dinner, and that requires
cooking at least two of the meals. Tell how the menu includes
the foods from the food pyramid and meets nutritional needs.

4b. Using the menu planned in requirement 4a, make a list showing
the cost and food amounts needed to feed three or more boys
and secure the ingredients.

4c. Tell which pans, utensils, and other gear will be needed to cook
and serve these meals.

4d. Explain the procedures to follow in the safe handling and storage
of fresh meats, dairy products, eggs, vegetables, and other perish-
able food products. Tell how to properly dispose of camp garbage,
cans, plastic containers, and other rubbish.

4e. On one campout, serve as your patrol’s cook. Supervise your

assistant(s) in using a stove or building a cooking fire. Prepare
the breakfast, lunch, and dinner planned in requirement 4a. Lead
your patrol in saying grace at the meals and supervise cleanup.

5. Visit and discuss with a selected individual approved by your

leader (elected official, judge, attorney, civil servant, principal,
teacher) your Constitutional rights and obligations as a U.S. citizen.

6. Identify or show evidence of at least ten kinds of native plants

found in your community.

7a. Discuss when you should and should not use lashings.

7b. Demonstrate tying the timber hitch and clove hitch and their use
in square, shear, and diagonal lashings by joining two or more
poles or staves together.

146
 FIRST CLASS
RANK REQUIREMENTS
FIRST CLASS
RANK
7c. Use lashing REQUIREMENTS
to make a useful camp gadget.

8a. Demonstrate tying the bowline knot and describe several ways it
7c. Use lashing
can be used.to make a useful camp gadget.
8a. Demonstrate bandages
8b. tying the bowline knot and
for a sprained describe
ankle several
and for ways
injuries on it
can be used.
the head, the upper arm, and the collarbone.
8b. Demonstrate
8c. Show how to bandages
transport for a sprained
by yourself, andankle
withand
onefor injuries
other on
person,
the head,
a person the upper arm, and the collarbone.

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9b. Successfully complete the BSA swimmer test.
9a. Tell what precautions must be taken for a safe trip afloat.
9c. (3'

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and
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in your shore in life.
deep water.)

10.
11. Demonstrate
Tell someone Scout
who isspirit by living
eligible to jointhe
BoyScout Oath
Scouts, or (Promise)
an inactiveand
Boy
Scout Law
Scout, aboutinyour
yourtroop’s
everyday life. Invite him to a troop outing,
activities.
activity, service project, or meeting. Tell him how to join, or
11. Tell someone who is eligible to join Boy Scouts, or an inactive Boy
encourage the inactive Boy Scout to become active.
Scout, about your troop’s activities. Invite him to a troop outing,
activity, service
12. Participate project, or meeting.
in a Scoutmaster Tell him how to join, or
conference.
encourage the inactive Boy Scout to become active.
13. Complete your board of review.
12. Participate in a Scoutmaster conference.
13. Complete your board of review.

NOTE: Alternate requirements for the First Class rank are available for Scouts
with physical or mental disabilities if they meet the criteria listed in the Boy Scout
Requirements book, No. 33215.
NOTE: Alternate requirements for the First Class rank are available for Scouts
withAsphysical
you complete eachdisabilities
or mental requirement, askmeet
if they your the
Scoutmaster or someone
criteria listed in the Boy Scout
designated by your Scoutmaster to initial his or her approval.
Requirements book, No. 33215.
As you complete each requirement, ask your Scoutmaster or someone
designated by your Scoutmaster to initial his or her approval.

147
 STAR SCOUT RANK
REQUIREMENTS
1. Be active in your troop and patrol for at least four months as a First
Class Scout.

2. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath (Promise) and

Scout Law in your everyday life.

3. Earn six merit badges, including any four from the required list
for Eagle.

Name of Merit Badge

__________________________________________ (required for Eagle)*
__________________________________________ (required for Eagle)*
__________________________________________ (required for Eagle)*
__________________________________________ (required for Eagle)*
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
4. While a First Class Scout, take part in service projects totaling at
least six hours of work. These projects must be approved by your
Scoutmaster.

5. While a First Class Scout, serve actively for four months in one or
more of the following positions of responsibility (or carry out a Scout-
master-assigned leadership project to help the troop):
Boy Scout troop. Patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, senior
patrol leader, troop guide, Order of the Arrow troop representative,
den chief, scribe, librarian, historian, quartermaster, bugler, junior
assistant Scoutmaster, chaplain aide, or instructor.
Varsity Scout team. Captain, cocaptain, program manager, squad
leader, team secretary, Order of the Arrow team representative, librar-
ian, historian, quartermaster, chaplain aide, instructor, or den chief.
Venturing crew/Sea Scout ship. President, vice president, secretary,
treasurer, boatswain, boatswain’s mate, yeoman, purser, or storekeeper.

6. Take part in a Scoutmaster conference.

7. Complete your board of review.

*A Scout may choose any of the 15 required merit badges in the 12 categories
to fulfill requirement 3. See page 180 of this book for a complete list of
required badges for Eagle.

148
 LIFE SCOUT RANK
REQUIREMENTS
1. Be active in your troop and patrol for at least six months as a
Star Scout.

2. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath (Promise) and

Scout Law in your everyday life.

3. Earn five more merit badges (so that you have 11 in all), including
any three more from the required list for Eagle.
Name of Merit Badge

__________________________________________ (required for Eagle)*

__________________________________________ (required for Eagle)*
__________________________________________ (required for Eagle)*

_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________

4. While a Star Scout, take part in service projects totaling at

least six hours of work. These projects must be approved by
your Scoutmaster.

5. While a Star Scout, serve actively for six months in one or more of
the positions of responsibility listed in requirement 5 for Star Scout
(or carry out a Scoutmaster-assigned leadership project to help
the troop).

6. Take part in a Scoutmaster conference.

7. Complete your board of review.

*A Scout may choose any of the 15 required merit badges in the 12 categories
to fulfill requirement 3. See page 180 of this book for a complete list of
required badges for Eagle.

149
 EAGLE SCOUT RANK
REQUIREMENTS
1. Be active in your troop, team, crew, or shop for at least six months as
a Life Scout.

2. Demonstrate that you live by the principles of the Scout Oath and
Law in your daily life. List the names of individuals who know you
personally and would be willing to provide a recommendation on
your behalf, including parents/guardians, religious, educational, and
employer references.

3. Earn a total of 21 merit badges (10 more than you already have),
including the following: (a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the
Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the
World, (e) Communications, (f) Personal Fitness, (g) Emergency
Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (h) Environmental Science, (i) Personal
Management, (j) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (k) Camping,
and (l) Family Life.*

Name of Merit Badge

____________________________________________ (required for Eagle)
____________________________________________ (required for Eagle)
____________________________________________ (required for Eagle)
____________________________________________ (required for Eagle)
____________________________________________ (required for Eagle)
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________

*You must choose only one merit badge listed in items g and j. If you have
earned more than one of the badges listed in items g and j, choose one
and list the remaining badges to make your total of 21.

150
 EAGLE SCOUT RANK
REQUIREMENTS
4. While a Life Scout, serve actively for a period of six months in one
or more of the following positions of responsibility:

Boy Scout troop. Patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, senior
patrol leader, troop guide, Order of the Arrow troop representative,
historian, den chief, scribe, librarian, historian, quartermaster, junior
assistant Scoutmaster, chaplain aide, or instructor.

Varsity Scout team. Captain, cocaptain, program manager, squad

leader, team secretary, Order of the Arrow team representative, histo-
rian, librarian, quartermaster, chaplian aide, instructor, or den chief.
Venturing crew/Sea Scout ship. President, vice president, secretary,
treasurer, boatswain, boatswain’s mate, yeoman, purser, or storekeeper.

5. While a Life Scout, plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a

service project helpful to any religious institution, any school, or your
community. (The project should benefit an organization other than
Boy Scouting.) The project idea must be approved by the organiza-
tion benefiting from the effort, your Scoutmaster and troop commit-
tee, and the council or district before you start. You must use the
Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook, BSA publication
No. 18-927, in meeting this requirement.

6. Take part in a Scoutmaster conference.

7. Successfully complete an Eagle Scout board of review.

AGE REQUIREMENT ELIGIBILITY. Merit badges, badges of rank, and Eagle

Palms may be earned by a registered Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturer.
He may earn these awards until his 18th birthday. Any Venturer who
achieved the First Class rank as a Boy Scout in a troop or Varsity Scout in
a team may continue working for the Star, Life, and Eagle Scout ranks
and Eagle Palms while registered as a Venturer up to his 18th birthday.
Scouts and Venturers who have completed all requirements prior to their
18th birthday may be reviewed within three months after that date with
no explanation. Boards of review conducted between three and six months
after the candidate’s 18th birthday must be preapproved by the local council.

151
A statement by an adult explaining the reason for the delay must be attached
to the Eagle Scout Rank Application when it is submitted to the Eagle Scout
Service. The Boy Scout Division at the national office must be contacted for
procedures to follow if a board of review is to be conducted more than six
months after a candidate’s 18th birthday.
If you have a permanent physical or mental disability, you may become
an Eagle Scout by qualifying for as many required merit badges as you can
and qualifying for alternative merit badges for the rest. If you seek to
become an Eagle Scout under this procedure, you must submit a special
application to your local council service center. Your application must be
approved by your council advancement committee before you can work on
alternative merit badges.
A Scout or Venturer with a disability may work toward rank advancement
after he is 18 years of age. See Advancement Committee Policies and
Procedures for details.

152
 EAGLE PALM
REQUIREMENTS
After becoming an Eagle Scout, you may earn Palms by completing the
following requirements:

1. Be active in your troop and patrol for at least three months after
becoming an Eagle Scout or after award of last Palm.

2. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath (Promise) and

Scout Law in your everyday life.

3. Make a satisfactory effort to develop and demonstrate leadership

ability.

4. Earn five additional merit badges beyond those required for Eagle or
last Palm.*

5. Take part in a Scoutmaster conference.

6. Complete a board of review.

You may wear only the proper combination of Palms for the number of
merit badges you earned beyond the rank of Eagle. The Bronze Palm
represents five merit badges, the Gold Palm 10, and the Silver Palm 15.

*Merit badges earned any time since becoming a Boy Scout may be used to
meet this requirement.

153
 CLIP ART: Troop Program Resources
The following clip art is provided in support of the HOW TO DOWNLOAD
Troop Program Resources, No. 33588A. The clip art AND USE THESE IMAGES
can be found on the CD that comes with this manual.
Images are provided in the following file format. To download an image, click the name of the format
you wish to download. If you are not prompted for
EPS AND TIF a location to place the file on your computer, the
EPS and TIF format are large, high-resolution files image will be placed on your hard drive in the
used by professional printing/publishing systems. download folder you have designated.
Most printing companies will require one of these To optimize transfer, all files have been zipped
formats to produce high-quality output. (.zip file format). You must unzip these files before
using them. Your browser may be rigged to unzip
BMP AND GIF downloaded files automatically, or you may need to
manually unzip them using decompression software.
These file formats are smaller, low-resolution files that Once the files have been received and decompressed,
are recognized by most desktop publishing software they are ready to use. To learn how to place/import
packages. These formats should be suitable for news- these files using your particular software, please refer
letters, calendars, fliers, presentations, and other to the documentation provided by the manufacturer.
materials produced on your computer.

NOTICE

The following images and indicia are the exclusive property of the
Boy Scouts of America and are protected by the copyright laws of the
United States 17 U.S.C. et seq. The indicia and images are licensed
for BSA communications and educational purposes only. This limited
license is intended for, and restricted to only, BSA local councils,
national and regional BSA offices and personnel, and chartered
organizations of the BSA. No additional licenses or permissions are
required for uses that fall within the scope and within accepted BSA
editorial and content standards. Resale of the images and indicia, in
whole or in part, in any form is strictly prohibited.

154
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155
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156
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157
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158
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159
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160
 TROOP PROGRAM RESOURCES
FOR SCOUT TROOPS AND VARSITY TEAMS

The Scoutmaster’s Minute

Games
Ceremonies
Interfaith Worship Service
Glossary of Scouting Terms
Pearls of Wisdom—Quotes from Baden-Powell
Founders of the BSA
Forms
Clip Art

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

1325 West Walnut Hill Lane
P.O. Box 152079
Irving, TX 75015-2079
http://www.scouting.org

#33588A