The legacy of Boy Scouts is woven into the fabric of American achievement. Six presidents once wore the uniform, and eleven of the twelve men who walked on the moon were Scouts. For generations, the organization instilled values of citizenship, leadership, and unwavering patriotism – a bedrock for building character and fostering self-reliance.
But something shifted after 2012. A once-unshakeable foundation began to crumble as the organization embraced ideologies that fundamentally altered its core principles. The introduction of “diversity, equity, and inclusion” initiatives, a name change, and the acceptance of girls marked a departure from its original mission.
The erosion continued with a dilution of its spiritual focus, opening the door to beliefs that strayed from its traditional emphasis on faith. More concerningly, the organization began to accommodate concepts of gender fluidity and transgenderism, fundamentally challenging the very definition of boyhood it once championed.
The consequences were swift and devastating. Membership plummeted from a peak of 10 million in 1970 to less than 1 million today. Community support evaporated, and the organization was ultimately forced to file for bankruptcy – a stark illustration of its decline.
This downward spiral threatened a long-standing relationship with the Department of War, prompting serious consideration of withdrawing all support. The Department’s commitment was, and is, to protecting its own interests, and the new direction of Scouting America directly conflicted with President Trump’s Executive Order 14173, focused on merit and non-discrimination.
However, before severing ties, a direct conversation was initiated with Scouting America’s leadership. This dialogue revealed a willingness to address the concerns and begin a process of significant reform, offering a potential path forward.
The first critical step was a commitment to full compliance with Executive Order 14173, demanding the removal of politicized and divisive language from all organizational materials. The era of DEI within Scouting America was, unequivocally, over.
A specific example of this shift was the immediate discontinuation of the “Citizen in Society” merit badge, which had subtly promoted activism around sensitive social issues under the guise of civic engagement. The badge’s underlying agenda was exposed and swiftly removed.
Perhaps most importantly, Scouting America agreed to define membership based on biological sex at birth, as indicated on a birth certificate. This policy also ensures that intimate spaces – restrooms, showers, and camping areas – remain separated by biological sex, restoring a fundamental aspect of the organization’s original structure.
Recognizing the sacrifices of military families, Scouting America also committed to waiving registration fees for the children of active duty, guard, and reserve personnel – a long-overdue gesture of gratitude and support. A new merit badge focused on military service will be introduced, further strengthening the connection between the two organizations.
These changes represent a potential rededication to the core values that defined Scouting for generations: duty to God and country, leadership, character, and service. But, echoing President Reagan, the Department of War will “trust, but verify.”
The Department’s continued support is contingent upon demonstrable progress within the next six months. A rigorous review will determine whether Scouting America is truly committed to these reforms, and whether further support is warranted. The onus is entirely on the organization to deliver on its promises.
Ultimately, the hope is that Scouting America will return to its roots, focusing on developing boys into strong, capable men. The Department is also exploring support for other organizations, like Trail Life USA and Awana Clubs, that already align with the principles outlined in Executive Order 14173.
The Department of War is watching closely, and will provide updates following the six-month review. The future of Scouting America hangs in the balance, dependent on its commitment to a return to its foundational ideals.
