ADVANCEMENT
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Advancement is one of the tools scouting uses to build character. The program sets goals and teaches boys to work hard to obtain those goals. It teaches them that the ultimate goal, Eagle Scout, is based upon completing many small steps and that hard work is necessary to obtain such a goal.
Advancement begins with the Tiger Cubs earning their beads. Cub Scouts are given various tasks which they must complete to advance from Wolf to Bear to Webelos. They are exposed to the basic skills which they will learn in great detail once they become a Boy Scout. Once a cub bridges over into Boy Scouts he becomes a Tenderfoot and must learn in detail the basic skills necessary to participate in the program. Once he becomes a First Class Scout he is ready to tackle the various merit badges. Completion of merit badges advances him through the ranks of Star and Life. He is then ready to complete the rank of Eagle.
In addition to merit badges each rank requires that the boy take an active role in leadership and provide service to his community.
To obtain the rank of Eagle a boy must have completed 21 merit badges, served in a senior leadership capacity, and have lead a major service project for his community. The rank of Eagle is the highest honor in the Boy Scouts of America and fewer than 2% of scouts ever obtain it.
Age Requirement Eligibility
Merit badges, badges of rank, and Eagle Palms are for boys who are registered Boy Scouts or Varsity Scouts. Any registered Boy Scout or Varsity Scout may earn these awards until his 18th birthday. Any Explorer who achieved the First Class rank as a Boy Scout or Varsity Scout in a troop may continue working for the Star, Life, and Eagle ranks and Eagle Palms while registered as an Explorer up to his 18 birthday.
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