1. The Scout learns. A Scout learns by doing. As they learn, a Scout grows in their ability to do their part as a member of the patrol and the troop. As they develop knowledge and skill, they are asked to teach others and in this way they begin to develop leadership.
2. The Scout is tested. A Scout may be tested on rank requirements by their patrol leader, Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster, a troop committee member, or another member of the troop. The Scout’s merit badge counselor teaches and tests them on the requirements for merit badges.
3. The Scout is reviewed. After a Scout has completed all requirements for a rank, they have a Board of Review. For the first several ranks, the review is conducted by members of the troop committee, chaired by the Advancement Chairperson. The Eagle Scout Board of Review is conducted in accordance with Council procedures.
4. The Scout is recognized. When the Board of Review has certified a Scout's advancement, they deserve to receive recognition as soon as possible. This will be done at the troop's Court of Honor where the Scout receives acknowledgement for the merit badges and ranks they've earned.
Merit Badges
There are over one hundred merit badges recognized by the Scouts organization. The Scout has to take the first step by deciding that he wants to work on a merit badge. The Scoutmaster will delegate the responsibility for selecting Counselors to the Assistant Scoutmaster of Merit Badges. To earn a merit badge, the Scout must complete all of the tasks that are presented in the merit badge booklet. Blue cards are pieces of paper that are used to keep track of merit badge progress. Scouts should keep these with them whenever they are working on merit badges.
Ranks and Awards
Two times every year, Troop 551 KOP holds a Court of Honor, an award ceremony recognizing the advancement of the scouts. The completion of merit badges and the advancement in rank are awarded. After completing each rank, the scout is awarded a patch (to wear on their uniform) and something to be used on future outings, like a walking stick or first aid kit. After completing a merit badge, scouts are awarded a patch to wear on their sash (the patches are important, so don't lose them). To reach the Eagle rank, scouts must complete a service project (approved by Scoutmaster), complete the requirements listed in the Scout Handbook, and earn the required merit badges.
List of Ranks
Scouts aren't required to get the Eagle rank, but it is strongly encourage. The following ranks must be achieved in order. To receive a rank, Scouts must complete all of the requirements listed in the Scout Handbook under that rank. You can find a complete list of the requirements needed for each rank in the Scout Handbook.
1. Scout. The first rank that Scouts can earn is the Scout rank. The Scout must recite the values of a troop (like the Scout Law and Outdoor Code). The Scout is required to demonstrate their knowledge of the ranks of Scouting, the leadership roles, the merit badge meanings, and staying safe online. They must also demonstrate safety with blades and learn basic knots.
2. Tenderfoot. This is the second rank that Scouts can earn. The scout must record their time spent on troop outings, help cook meals camping trips and perform basic first aid. They must also record their time spent hiking and demonstrate their knowledge of the buddy system. The Scout must stay physically active and show that they can teach others.
3. Second Class. The Second Class rank is the third rank that scouts can achieve. Using a knife, ax, and saw, Scouts must prepare tinder and kindling and start a fire (the fire must last for at least two minutes). The Scout is required to use tools to demonstrate their ability to orient a map and lead the troop on a five-mile hike. The Scout must perform first aid for more serious situations and demonstrate water rescue methods. The Scout must stay physically active for at least thirty days (this must be recorded) and show their Scout spirit.
4. First Class. This rank is the fourth achievable by Scouts. To earn this rank, Scouts must participate in ten troop outings, prepare a meal on a campout, demonstrate procedures to follow in the storage of foods, and tie more complex knots and lashings. The Scout is also required to identify different types of poisonous plants, show first aid transport, and discuss with an elected official the obligations of a U.S. citizen.
5. Star. The Star rank is the fifth rank that Scouts can achieve. The Scout must serve in a leadership position for at least six months and earn six merit badges (four Eagle-required, two of choice).
6. Life. The Life rank is the sixth rank that Scouts can earn. The Scout must demonstrate their knowledge of the EDGE method and serve in a leadership position for at least six months. The Scout must also complete five merit badges (three Eagle-required, two of choice).
7. Eagle. This is the seventh and highest rank that Scouts can earn. The Scout must have a total of twenty one merit badges (including Eagle-required merit badges). The Scout must also organize and participate in a service project (approved by Scoutmaster) and serve in a leadership position for at least six months.