Awards

Eagle Scouts

The fact that a boy is an Eagle Scout has always carried a special significance not only in Scouting, but also as he enters higher education, business or industry, and community service. The award is a performance-based achievement in which standards have been well-maintained over the years. Not every boy who joins a Boy Scout troop earns the Eagle Scout rank; only about 5 percent of all Boy Scouts do so. The goals of Scouting—citizenship training, character development, and personal fitness—remain important for all Scouts, whether or not they attain the Eagle Scout rank.

• Total Eagles awarded in 2008: 52,025
• Total Eagles awarded since 1911: 1,990,905

Lifesaving or Meritorious Action Awards

Recognition is given to a member of the Boy Scouts of America—Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, Venturer, or adult leader—where the evidence presented shows that he or she saved or attempted to save life under circumstances that indicate heroism and risk of his or her own life.

Honor Medal With Crossed Palms. The Honor Medal with Crossed Palms may be awarded in exceptional cases to a youth member or adult leader who has demonstrated unusual heroism and extraordinary skill or resourcefulness in saving or attempting to save life at extreme risk to self. First awarded in 1938.

• Awarded in 2008: 15
• Cumulative awards since 1938: 215

Honor Medal. The Honor Medal may be awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has demonstrated unusual heroism and skill in saving or attempting to save life at considerable risk to self. First awarded in 1923.

• Awarded in 2008: 34
• Cumulative awards since 1923: 2,205

Heroism Award. The Heroism Award may be awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has demonstrated heroism and skill in saving or attempting to save life at minimum risk to self. Recognition may be given to a youth member or adult leader. The action taken need not involve attempts of rescue or risk to self but must put into practice Scouting skills and/or ideals. First awarded in 1923.

• Awarded in 2008: 126
• Cumulative awards since 1923: 2,999

Medal of Merit. The Medal of Merit may be awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has performed some outstanding act of service of a rare or exceptional character that reflects an uncommon degree of concern for the well-being of others. First awarded in 1946.

• Awarded in 2008: 242
• Cumulative awards since 1946: 5,804

National Certificate of Merit. The National Certificate of Merit may be awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has performed a significant act of service that is deserving of special national recognition.First awarded in 1989.

• Awarded in 2008: 87
• Cumulative awards since 1989: 1,445