Scouting America Launches New Merit Badge Honoring Military Service on Veterans Day

Scouting America has unveiled a new merit badge focused on military service and veterans to commemorate Veterans Day. The initiative aims to educate scouts about the history of U.S. armed forces and foster appreciation for those who have served their country. This development marks a significant milestone in Scouting America's ongoing efforts to engage young people with military traditions.

The Military Service and Veterans merit badge was conceived by former Secretary of State and Eagle Scout Rex Tillerson, according to Michael Ramsey, chief spokesman for Scouting America. The requirements for earning this badge were meticulously crafted with input from current military personnel and veterans, ensuring that the content is both educational and respectful of those who have dedicated their lives to national defense.

"This new merit badge gives scouts a tangible way to connect with the sacrifices made by service members," Ramsey stated in an interview with Military Times. "It helps them understand the values of dedication and selflessness."

Scouting America has a long-standing relationship with the U.S. military, which dates back to its founding as the Boy Scouts of America in 1910. This partnership is evident in the high percentage of Eagle Scouts who matriculate into service academies like West Point, the Naval Academy, and the Air Force Academy. According to statistics provided by Scouting America, approximately 17% of students at these institutions have some scouting background.

The new merit badge includes ten requirements that cover a wide range of topics related to military history and culture. Scouts must study the impact of war on society, research different branches of the U.S. military, understand the significance of medals like the Medal of Honor and Purple Heart, and engage in conversations with veterans or active-duty service members.

The introduction of this badge is part of Scouting America's broader strategy to revitalize its programs and attract new members. In 2018 and 2019, the organization began admitting girls into previously male-only programs, a move that led to significant changes in its name and structure. Originally known as the Boy Scouts of America, it rebranded as Scouting America in 2024 to reflect its commitment to inclusivity.

Despite these efforts, Scouting America has faced challenges with declining membership numbers since at least 2020, when the organization filed for bankruptcy protection amid allegations of sexual abuse. As of 2025, Scouting America reported having approximately 908,000 members across all its programs, a decrease of about 29% from nearly 1.3 million in 2020.

In addition to addressing membership issues, Scouting America has also navigated political challenges, particularly after President Donald Trump's executive order that prohibited federal funding for organizations with diversity initiatives. The organization agreed to make several program changes, including the introduction of the new Military Service and Veterans merit badge, as part of its agreement with the Defense Department.

With this latest addition, Scouting America now offers 142 different merit badges, each designed to help scouts develop specific skills and knowledge areas. To achieve Eagle Scout status, one of the highest ranks in scouting, a scout must earn at least 21 merit badges, including both mandatory and elective options.

The new Military Service and Veterans merit badge is expected to provide scouts with valuable insights into military life and history, potentially inspiring some to pursue careers or service in the armed forces. As Roger Krone, president and CEO of Scouting America, noted, "Veterans Day serves as a reminder that our freedoms are protected by those who have answered the call to serve.