When Baden-Powell started the Scouting movement, he felt that any Scout who took the time and trouble to master skills should be rewarded for his effort. He gave to each Scout who passed a certain test a badge to wear on his uniform. It recognized the importance of what the Scout had done and let others know of his achievement.

Active Scout participation and advancement go together. Troop meetings and outdoor activities are often centered around structured events that not only teach Scout skills, but also allow individual Scouts to be “counseled” or “signed-off” as they meet various requirements along the way. Your help at Troop meetings is needed to ensure this valuable part of Scouting is done correctly.

Award Recognition

A Court of Honor is held several times a year, which includes a ceremony for recognition of achievement. This would include recognition for rank advancement and merit badges earned. Generally, the Courts of Honor are as follows:
• Spring – Order of the Arrow Tapout (an older Scout camping honor society)
- New Scout recognition
- New Troop leader recognition
• Fall – recognition of summer camp, high adventure, or other activity achievement
• Winter – New Troop leader recognition
• Misc. – additional Courts of Honor as needed (e.g., Eagle awards, etc.)

Rank Advancement

The Scouting program provides many opportunities for you to learn skills and take part in many adventures. It also recognizes your achievement by awarding badges of rank. The following requirements apply:

1. Have a registered adult leader (not your parent) sign in your book upon completion of each requirement.

2. When you have completed all requirements, tell your Patrol Leader and/or Scoutmaster. The Scoutmaster will arrange for a “Scoutmaster Conference.” This is an opportunity for the Scoutmaster to let you know what is expected of you in relationship to the Troop as a whole. It is also an opportunity for your to bring up any concerns you have about the Troop, individuals, or the program as a whole.

3. After the Scoutmaster Conference, the Scoutmaster will arrange for a Board of Review. At least two registered adult leaders and a senior Scout interested in your progress as a Scout conduct this Review. They will make sure you have met the level of advancement and progress expected for a Scout of that rank, and hopefully suggest ways you can get more out of Scouting.

4. After the members of the Board of Review have signed your Scout handbook, see the Advancement Chair or Scoutmaster so that the proper paperwork can be submitted to the Council office for proper national tracking. The Scout will be presented his rank patch as soon as possible, hopefully at that meeting or campout.

Merit Badges

Merit badges represent advanced skills covering over 100 areas of activity. The Scout may earn them, regardless of the rank he holds. To earn a merit badge a Scout must present satisfactory evidence that he has sufficient knowledge to meet the badge requirements at a level acceptable to the counselor.