Some Complete Eagle Court of Honor Scripts

You will find here a collection of complete scripts that have been used in various Troops over the years. Here you will see many of the bits and pieces from other chapters of this handbook ordered together into a proper script.

Table of Contents

• Some Complete Eagle Court of Honor Scripts
  • Eagle Court Of Honor In Troop 30
  • Eagle Court Of Honor In Troop 57
  • Eagle Ceremony Script for Damon Drown, October 16, 1993
  • Eagle Scout Court of Honor Script for Bradley Alan Wallace
  • Eagle Scout Ceremony from Joe Ulrich
  • An Eagle Court of Honor Script by Greg Gough
  • Richard's Eagle Court of Honor -- October 6, 1996

Eagle Court Of Honor In Troop 30

This ceremony was adapted from Woods Wisdom and variations of it have been used in Troop 30 of Newark Valley, NY. One thing which should be noted is that this ceremony lists some of the actual achievements of the Eagle Scout. The list of achievements should be customized for the Scout who is being honored. The specific Scout for whom this ceremony was customized earned part of his ranks before the end of 1989 and the rest afterwards. The list of achievements reflects this because it speaks of skill awards for Tenderfoot and Second Class, but not for First Class.

CEREMONY:

SCOUTMASTER: [Welcome and introduction of minister doing the invocation] There is a guest book which we would like to have everyone present sign.

MINISTER: [Invocation]

MC: Would everyone please rise for the playing of the Star-Spangled Banner.

[Music is played on the organ.]

Color guard, post the colors.

[Pause while the color guard brings the flags forward and places them in the stands.]

Everyone please remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance.

[Recitation of Pledge of Allegiance]

Scouts, please remain standing for the Scout Oath.

[Pause for audience to resume seats.]

[Recitation of Scout Oath]

SCOUTMASTER: [Introductions]

COORDINATOR: As scouting coordinator for Troop __, it is my pleasure to declare that this Eagle court of honor for [ Scout's name ] is now officially open.

MC: Would the honor guard please escort [ Scout's name ] forward.

[Pause for honor guard to escort scout to front.]

As we begin this Eagle Court of Honor and examine the "Trail to Eagle," it is fitting that we start with the fundamental principles of Scouting: the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. We have just joined together in reciting the oath. Let us begin our ceremony by lighting candles symbolic of the three parts of the Scout Oath:

• Duty to God and country [pause for a scout to light candle]
• Duty to others [pause for a scout to light candle]
• Duty to self [pause for a scout to light candle]

MC: In Scouting, as in most activities of life, there are rules. The rules of Scouting are found in the twelve points of the Scout Law. As a candle is lit for each point of the Scout Law, let us pay careful attention to the words and re-dedicate ourselves to the principles contained in those words.

MC: A SCOUT IS TRUSTWORTHY.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout tells the truth. He keeps his promises. Honesty is a part of his code of conduct.

MC: A SCOUT IS LOYAL.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout is true to his family, friends, Scout leaders, school, nation, and world community.

MC: A SCOUT IS HELPFUL.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout is concerned about other people. He willingly volunteers to help others without expecting payment or reward.

MC: A SCOUT IS FRIENDLY.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout is a friend to all. He is a brother to other Scouts. He seeks to understand others. He respects those with ideas and customs that are different from his own.

MC: A SCOUT IS COURTEOUS.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of age or position. He knows that good manners make it easier for people to get along together.

MC: A SCOUT IS KIND.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout understands there is strength in being gentle. He treats others as he wants to be treated. He does not harm or kill anything without reason.

MC: A SCOUT IS OBEDIENT.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout follows the rules of his family, school, and troop. He obeys the laws of his community and country. If he thinks these rules and laws are unfair, he tries to have them changed in an orderly manner rather than disobey them.

MC: A SCOUT IS CHEERFUL.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout looks for the bright side of life. He cheerfully does tasks that come his way. He tries to make others happy.

MC: A SCOUT IS THRIFTY.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout works to pay his way and to help others. He saves for the future. He protects and conserves natural resources. He carefully uses time and property.

MC: A SCOUT IS BRAVE.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout can face danger even if he is afraid. He has the courage to stand for what he thinks is right even if others laugh at him or threaten him.

MC: A SCOUT IS CLEAN.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and clean. He goes around with those who believe in living by these same ideals. He helps keep his home and community clean.

MC: A SCOUT IS REVERENT.

ANOTHER SCOUT: A Scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties. He respects the beliefs of others.

MC: The pathway to Eagle can be described as a steep trail leading up to three peaks, the highest being that of Eagle Scout. Officially, the trail starts with the Tenderfoot rank and continues through Second and First Class ranks. Then, the mountain climbing begins. The path is marked with merit badges, leadership responsibilities, service projects, and the practice of Scouting skills and ideals. The first peak reached is that of Star Scout, the second is Life Scout, and, finally, Eagle Scout.

Would the honor guard please escort [ Scout's name]'s parents forward.

[Pause for honor guard to escort parents to front.]

It is my pleasure to introduce __________ and __________.

Now we shall hear the story of [ Scout's name]'s "Trail to Eagle." Each part will be told by a scout holding the respective rank.

TENDERFOOT SCOUT: To earn the rank of Tenderfoot Scout, [ Scout's name] did the following:

• He was active in the troop and his patrol for at least two months.
• He memorized the Scout Oath and Law.
• He explained the meaning of each point of the Scout Law.
• He practiced these ideals in his everyday life.
• He earned the __________ skill award and the __________ skill award.
• He had a personal growth conference and a board of review.

SECOND CLASS SCOUT: In earning the rank of Second Class Scout, [ Scout's name] did the following:

• He was active in the troop and his patrol for at least two months after earning Tenderfoot.
• He showed Scout spirit.
• He earned __________, __________, and __________ skill awards.
• He had a personal growth conference and a board of review.

FIRST CLASS SCOUT: To earn the rank of First Class Scout, [ Scout's name] did the following:

• He demonstrated basic orienteering skills.
• He participated in ten troop or patrol activities.
• He served as patrol cook on a campout.
• He discussed the rights and obligations of a citizen.
• He identified ten kinds of native plants.
• He demonstrated ability with knots and lashings.
• He demonstrated first aid skills
• He swam 100 yards.
• He showed Scout spirit.
• He had a personal growth conference and a board of review.

STAR SCOUT: In earning the rank of Star Scout, [ Scout's name] did the following:

• He was active in the troop for at least four months after earning First Class.
• He showed Scout spirit.
• He earned __________ and __________ merit badges.
• From the list of required merit badges for Eagle, he earned __________, __________, __________, and __________.
• He did at least six hours of service projects.
• He served at least four months in a troop leadership position.
• He had a personal growth conference and a board of review.

LIFE SCOUT: In order to earn the rank of Life Scout, [ Scout's name] did the following:

• He was active in the troop for at least six months after earning Star.
• He showed Scout spirit.
• He earned __________, __________, and __________ merit badges.
• From the list of required merit badges for Eagle, he earned __________ and __________.
• He did at least six hours of service projects.
• He served at least six months in a troop leadership position.
• He had a personal growth conference and a board of review.

EAGLE SCOUT: To complete the rank of Eagle Scout, __________ did the following:

• He was active in the troop for at least six months after earning Life.
• He showed Scout spirit.
• He earned __________, __________, __________, and __________ merit badges.
• From the list of required merit badges for Eagle, he earned __________, __________, __________, __________, __________, and __________.
• He served at least six months in a troop leadership position.
• He planned, developed, and gave leadership to others in a service project. His project was ____________________.

• [Describe the project to some level of detail.]
• He participated in a personal growth conference.
• He was reviewed by a board of review which included representatives from __________ District as well as members of the committee of Troop __.

MC: Would all Eagle Scouts present please come forward and stand behind __________ as he re-dedicates himself to the principles of Scouting by repeating the Scout Oath.

CANDIDATE: [Recitation of Scout Oath]

MC: I would like to introduce __________, who will deliver the Eagle charge.

[Give as much introduction as is appropriate.]

SPEAKER: [Challenge and Charge to Eagle Scout]

SCOUTMASTER: The symbol of your success is the Eagle badge which I now present to your mother. Your mother will, in turn, pin the badge over your heart

[Presentation of Eagle badge]

Eagle Scout [ Scout's name ], in recognition of the wisdom and guidance given to you by your father, will you present to him this Eagle tie tack, which he will be proud to wear in your honor.

[Presentation of Eagle tie tack]

And now, also in recognition of the many hours of patient guidance given by her in your efforts, will you pin the Eagle mother's pin on your mother.

[Presentation of Eagle mother's pin]

MC: Committee Member __________ will present letters and certificates which have been sent by people who could not attend this afternoon's ceremony and will introduce others who will make presentations in person.

COMMITTEE MEMBER: [Presentation of letters and certificates sent by people not present and introduction of others who are present]

MC: At this point in the court of honor, the new Eagle Scout, [ Scout's name ], would like to make a few remarks.

NEW EAGLE SCOUT: [Remarks by new Eagle Scout]

COORDINATOR: As scouting coordinator for Troop __, I would like to offer my congratulations to [ Scout's name ]for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. I now declare this Eagle court of honor closed.

MINISTER: [Benediction]

MC: We invite everyone present to come forward to congratulate the new Eagle Scout and his parents and to join us for refreshments. [ Scout's name ]'s project workbook and letters and certificates of congratulations will also be available for viewing at this time. I would also remind everyone to sign the guest book for this occasion. Thank you for joining us today.

Eagle Court Of Honor In Troop 57

This ceremony is used by Troop 57 of Owego, NY. The version as presented here was used at a court of honor for three Eagle Scouts. The words can be adapted for a single Eagle Scout.

CEREMONY:

SCOUTMASTER: [Step to microphone.] Senior Patrol Leader, front and center.

SPL: [Color guard is in position at the rear of room: American

flag, troop flag, four honor guards.]

[Step to microphone.]

Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the opening ceremonies.

[Wait until the audience is standing and quiet.]

Color guard, advance the colors.

[When color guard is in position]

Scout salute.

[Pledge of Allegiance]

Two. Scout Sign

[Scout Oath]

Two. Color guard, post the colors.

[Wait until colors are in place.]

Everyone, please be seated.

SCOUTMASTER: My name is __________, Scoutmaster of Troop ___. I'd like to welcome everyone and thank you for coming. Our master of ceremonies for today is __________.

MC: Good evening. I would now like to introduce our honored guests and ask them to stand. Please hold your applause until they are all standing. [Introduce guests who are present.]

MC: Will the guard of honor please escort Life Scouts __________, __________, and __________ to the stage.

[Wait until they are seated.]

At this point, I call upon __________ to ask God's blessing upon this ceremony.

MINISTER: [Invocation]

MC: I now present __________, Scouting Coordinator for Troop ___ to open this court of honor.

COORDINATOR: I now declare this court of honor in session. Today we have the honor and pleasure of recognizing three candidates for the award of Eagle Rank. This is an important and serious matter. In full awareness of the challenge of these times, the parents and leaders of these candidates have labored long and faithfully to develop them to be alert and to participate in citizenship through the Scouting program. Their efforts culminate tonight in the presentation of the Eagle Scout Badge. The success of these efforts will become evident in the way these Eagle Scouts will set their social pattern for all the lives they may touch. Democracy is a fresh conquest for each generation.

MC When a boy becomes a Boy Scout, there should be instilled within him that which we call the "Spirit of Scouting."

[Light a candle.]

This lighted candle symbolizes that spirit. Because the "Spirit of Scouting" embodies the fine principles of the Scout Oath and Law, it becomes a shining beacon of inspiration. Alone, this light may be feeble, but when multiplied by the millions of boys in Scouting, it can become very powerful indeed.

[Step out. Take candle and move to other candles.]

After a boy has entered Scouting, the Scout Law that he has promised to obey, is put into effect as occasions may demand, and so, one by one, the symbols that stand for the parts of the Scout Law are lighted. There are twelve parts, all important and all meaningful.

[Light a candle at each point of the Scout Law]

Each is an important cornerstone in the building of a strong character. A scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave. clean, and reverent.

And finally, in the three points of the Scout Oath which we heard during the opening ceremony, he promises on his honor to do his best to do his duty.

First [light candle] to God and his country.

Second [light candle] to others by helping other people at all times.

And third [light candle] to himself by keeping himself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.

You see how the light from this "Spirit of Scouting" grows and becomes stronger. These, in outline, are the basic ideals of Scouting, to which each boy subscribes when he becomes a Boy Scout.

It is, therefore, right and proper that we have made a careful review of the qualifications of these candidates. In order that all may understand the completeness of our review, __________ will report on the candidates' qualifications to First Class.

[Takes "Spirit of Scouting" candle and goes to the First Class Scout poster and candle.]

REVIEWER: [Light Scout candle]

Our candidates earned Scout by understanding and promising to live by the Scout Oath and Law. They learned the Scout Motto, Slogan, Salute, and Handclasp and understood the significance of the Scout Badge. They also took part in a personal growth agreement conference with their scoutmaster.

[Light Tenderfoot candle]

As Scout, our candidates were active in their troop and patrols for at least two months. They repeated from memory the Scout Oath and Law and demonstrated how they practices them in everyday life. They also earned Citizenship and one other skill award, and after a personal growth agreement conference with their Scoutmaster, and a Troop Leaders Council review, they became Tenderfoot Scouts.

[Light Second Class candle]

After showing Scout Spirit and being active for at least two months as Tenderfoot Scouts and earning the First Aid, Hiking, and one other skill award, they had a personal growth agreement conference with their scoutmaster and a Troop Leaders Council review and they became Second Class Scouts.

[Light First Class candle]

For at least two months as Second Class Scouts, our candidates were active in their troop and patrols and showed Scout Spirit. They earned the Camping, Cooking, and one other skill award and the First Aid merit badge. After having a person growth agreement conference with their scoutmaster and a Troop Leaders Council review, they became First Class Scouts.

Now, Senior Patrol Leader __________ will continue with our review.

SPL: [Light Star candle]

As First Class scouts for at least four months, our candidates were active and showed scout spirit in their troop and patrols. They earned five more merit badges, three of which are from the required list, and did service projects of at least six hours. They also served for four months or more in troop leadership positions and after a person growth agreement conference with their scoutmaster and a Troop Committee review, they became Star Scouts.

[Light Life candle]

Continuing along the scouting trail, our candidates were active as Star Scouts for at least six months and showed scout spirit and leadership. They earned five more merit badges, three of which were from the required list for Eagle. After doing service projects of at least six hours and having a personal growth conference with their scoutmaster, they had a Troop Committee review and became Life Scouts.

Will the honor guard please escort our candidates' parents to the stage.

[Wait for parents to reach stage and be seated.]

To attain the highest rank in Scouting, our candidates were active in the troop and their patrols for at least six months, showing scout spirit and leadership. They earned ten more merit badges for a total of twenty-one, twelve of which were from the required list. They planned, developed, and gave leadership to a service project which was helpful to their school, religious institution, or community. They passed a troop and district board of review. Tonight you will witness the presentation of their well-earned award.

Now, __________ will describe their Eagle projects.

DESCRIBER: [Give description of the Eagle service projects. This may be broken up among several speakers.]

SPEAKER: Webster's dictionary describes an eagle as a large bird of prey with sharp vision and powerful wings, famous for their strength, size, grace, and keen vision. It is the national emblem for the United States: the Bald Eagle. Though the eagle is found throughout the world, he is never found in abundance; he is always rare and he is always a superb specimen. In Scouting the eagle stands for strength of character. The eagle stands for knowledge of all phases of Scouting. The eagle represents an understanding of community and nation, and a deep respect for same. The eagle is a symbol of what a young man has done as well as what that young man will do, and will be, when he grows to manhood. The eagle is a leader. The eagle is respected, both by his peers and by his adult leaders.

MC: Eagle Scout candidates, please rise.

I would like to call upon __________ to give the Eagle Scout charge to these scouts.

CHARGER: [Eagle Charge]

MC: Would the parents of these Eagle Scout candidates please stand behind their sons.

Will __________, Scoutmaster of Troop ___, please come up and present our new Eagles with their medals.

[After he is finished and returns to his seat]

Will __________ please come up and present our new Eagles with their patches.

[After he is finished and returns to his seat]

Will __________ please come up and present our new Eagles with their certificates.

[After he is finished and returns to his seat]

Will __________ please give our new Eagles their mothers' pins. Will the new Eagles please present their mothers with the mothers' pins.

[After he is finished and returns to his seat]

Will __________ please give our new Eagles their fathers' pins. Will the new Eagles please present their fathers with the fathers' pins.

MC: The parents of the new Eagle Scouts may be seated.

[Read letters of congratulations. This may be done by someone else. If there are many to be read, excerpt should be used instead of the letters in their entirety.]

[If any of the guests have presentations to make, this is the time for them.]

[If any of the guests wish to speak, this is the time for them.]

Eagle Ceremony Script for Damon Drown, October 16, 1993

The following is an adaptation of the original Court of Honor Script. Most of the names have been replaced with position titles.

4:45 PM Ushers start

About 5 PM Scoutmaster steps to podium. Asks everyone to take their seats.

When everyone is seated:

Scoutmaster: Welcome to this Eagle Court of Honor for Damon Drown. It has been 7 months since our last Eagle Court of Honor.

Assistant Senior Patrol Ldr.: Will everyone please rise for the presentation of the colors by the Honor Guard.

The Honor Guard brings up the colors and posts them.

Please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge . . . . . .

All members of the Honor Guard can be seated except _________ who will return to the back of the Hall to line up for the candle lighting.

Scoutmaster: I would like at this time to introduce the Master of Ceremonies for tonight. [Scout master introduces MC and can be seated.]

[Have scouts line up in rank order at the back of the hall, Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class , Star, and Life. Issue each one a white candle.]

[Instruct each one to keep their hands out of their pockets, walk down the center aisle at the proper time and move to each side with their lighted candles until the Eagle Escort has finished bringing the candidate to the front. They may then be seated, after blowing out the candles.]

MC: Thank you. And now, let us begin. [The MC removes and lights a large candle, lights it and leaves it on top of or near the podium. Lights are then dimmed. (Turn off flourescents)]

MC: Our theme tonight is "The Trail to Eagle". The pathway to Eagle can be described as a steep trail, leading to the peak of Eagle rank.

Along that trail are 6 steps, the ranks of Scouting that you had to pass on the trail. Damon, it is fitting that you look back before you go on to other challenges to see what you have accomplished. These experiences should not be forgotten - You should benefit from them. Cherish the valuable ones, and make sure the bad ones do not happen again.

Remember your first trip along that steep trail? At first, you were called Scout by your brothers.

A Scout marches slowly down the aisle with an unlighted candle, steps up to the podium and lights his candle. He then walks solemnly to the left side of the stage and waits.

MC: Remember when you received the Scout Badge? You learned the trefoil or Fleur-de-lis shape was to resemble the Mariner compass as it would always point you along the true path towards tonight. It had three points which you learned like the three fingers of the Scout Sign were for the three points of the Scout Oath.

Remember when you took those first steps up the long scouting trail? You began to build yourself physically, mentally, and morally by learning the Scout Oath and Law. Before you knew it you were a Tenderfoot Scout.

[A Tenderfoot Scout marches slowly down the aisle with an unlighted candle, steps up to the podium and lights his candle. He then walks solemnly to the left side of the stage and waits. The Scout waits next to Tenderfoot.]

MC: Your Scout Badge was replaced by the badge of a Tenderfoot. It still pointed you in the right direction but added were the two stars which represented the truth and knowledge you had gained in Scouting. Also was the bald eagle, our national symbol. You learned from the shield on the eagle's breast that the freedom of America is not without cost that it must be defended.

Soon, you set out for another ledge. There you were greeted by a larger group of second class scouts.

[A Second Class Scout marches slowly down the aisle with an unlighted candle, steps up to the podium and lights his candle. He then walks solemnly to the left side of the stage and waits. The Second Class Scout waits next to Tenderfoot and Scout.]

MC: The second class badge showed you a scroll with your motto "Be Prepared". It's ends were turned up in a smile and that is what you were to do as the bottom knot reminded you to "Do a Good Turn Daily" which is the Scout slogan.

You found that some second class scouts had been there for a long time and were content with their achievement. You continued onward. You studied and before you realized it, you had come to a new ledge, one where First Class Scouts dwell.

[A First Class marches slowly down the aisle with an unlighted candle, steps up to the podium and lights his candle. He then walks solemnly to the right side of the stage and waits. The First Class Scout waits next to Second Class, Tenderfoot and Scout.]

MC: Your First Class badge showed you that it was time to put everything you had learned thus far together and this is what you did. You found that the trail to Fist Class had not been all that difficult. You wanted to learn more in Scouting so you continued onward, earning specific skills through merit badges.

Your next step was to be come a Star Scout.

[A Star Scout marches slowly down the aisle with an unlighted candle, steps up to the podium and lights his candle. He then walks solemnly to the right side of the stage and waits next to the First Class Scout.]

MC: The Star badge, a golden star was to symbolize your new role as a leader. You were called upon to be a guiding light in the darkness for those who were to follow. No longer were you receiving Scouting but now you were expected to teach new skills to others.

Now the Trail was steeper. Leadership was challenging and also hard work. But you persevered, climbing the steep trail. Soon it led you to Life Rank.

[A Life Scout marches slowly down the aisle with an unlighted candle, steps up to the podium and lights his candle. He then walks solemnly to the right side of the stage and waits next to First Class and Star Scouts.

MC: The Badge of Life, a pure red heart on a golden field was to show all the world the path you had chosen. True to the ideals of Scouting you had gained an inner confidence that was to prepare you for the rest of your life. The trail became even tougher, but more interesting. You thought, now I am close to the Eagle. I will carry on.

[The Eagle escort should be ready in the back of the Hall with Damon between them. A Scout should lead the escort with a single lit candle.]

MC: We in Troop 39 have watched you as you have worked towards your Eagle. We have watched your mind develop and your knowledge increase. We have seen you grow in many ways and now that you are on the threshold of your goal, we welcome you, for you have done your climbing in a Scout-like manner

Would the Eagle Escort please bring the candidate forward.

[Pause while the Eagle escort brings Damon to the front. After escorting him to the front, the lead Scout gives the lit candle to Damon. The Eagle Escort then returns to the back of the hall. The other Scouts with lit candles, blow out their candles and take their seats. The lights can now be turned back on.]

MC: Will the Scoutmaster please come forward?

[The Scoutmaster comes to the front.]

MC: [ Scoutmaster's name ], as Scoutmaster of this troop, is it your judgment that he has fulfilled the requirements to become an Eagle and exemplifies the idea of Scouting?

Scoutmaster: I am proud to say he has.

MC: Could you now give some of Damon's background?

[Scoutmaster reads the biography.]

Scoutmaster: Damon, I now ask you to repeat the Scout Oath rededicating yourself to it's principles.

[Two Scouts, the First Class and Star, should be ready to come forward to light candles for the Law. Using the candles from the previous part of the ceremony, light their candles from Damon's.]

Scoutmaster: The law of the Eagle is the Scout Law. I would now like to have the Scouts stand and repeat the Scout Law as Damon lights the candles representing each Law. Would _______ and ________ assist by lighting the candles which represent the Laws?

First Class and Star should now come forward and light their candles from Damon's.

[Scouts should repeat Law slowly, giving time to light the12 candles. Scoutmaster stays at front to assist with awards.]

MC: Your conduct along the trail of has been excellent. You have rededicated yourself to the principles of Scouting. You have heard the Law of the Eagle, but one more thing is important - your future.

As an Eagle you become a guiding light to other Scouts below you. You become an example to your community. Remember that people expect more of you.

To falter in your duties would not only reflect on you, but your fellow Eagles. The torch you carry is not only yours, but theirs.

MC: Would [ name of Charger ] please come forward to give the Eagle Charge?

Charger: This is not the end of the trail but rather the beginning of a new era in your life. You are now entering a brotherhood of boys and men who have not only achieved the Eagle Scout rank but have made a commitment to the Scout Oath and Law. You will always be an Eagle Scout and will be expected to conduct yourself accordingly.

Would the Eagle Scouts in the Audience please stand.

Damon Drown, I charge you to enter this Eagle Scout Brotherhood holding, without reservation, the ideals of honor and service. Repeating the Eagle Scout promise before your fellow members, you will be sealing your eternal loyalty to the code of the Eagle Scout.

Scout Sign, Repeat the Charge after me: I reaffirm my allegiance to the three promises of the Scout Oath.

I thoughtfully recognize and take upon myself the obligations and responsibilities of the Eagle Scout.

On my honor, I will do me best to make my training an example, my rank and my influence count strongly for better Scouting and for better citizenship, in my Troop, in my community, and in my contacts with other people.

To this I pledge my sacred honor.

MC: Would you now light the candle representing the rank of Eagle?

[The Eagle Honor guard should now be ready to escort the parents to the front and retire to the rear of the Hall. Pause while the last candle is lit. Damon's candle can be put out.]

Charger: Congratulations. I would now like to present you with the Eagle neckerchief.

[Charger removes Troop neckerchief and places Eagle neckerchief on, shakes Damon's hand. Charger can now retire to the back of the Hall to join the Eagle Honor Guard.]

MC: The Scoutmaster will now present the Certificate. [Certificate presented.]

MC: Will the Eagle Scout Honor Guard please escort Damon's parents to the front. [Pause while Guard comes to front and the returns to the rear.]

MC: What Damon has accomplished is with your support and guidance. It is fitting that you present the Eagle award to him.

Scoutmaster takes the badge from the bearer's box and hands it to the father who pins it on the candidate. [Scoutmaster will hand the candidate the mother's and father's pin when needed.]

MC: In recognition of the many hours of patient guidance given by her to you in your efforts, will you present this pin to your mother. [Pause for pinning.]

MC: And will you give your father the Eagle Tie pin? [Pause. When done, parents can be seated.]

MC: I would now like to ask Damon's grandfather, [ name ], to come forward to say a few words and read some letters of congratulations. [Pause for words and reading.]

[Eagle Honor Guard comes to front, congratulates the candidate and escorts him to the rear. Color guard should be ready.]

MC: Will the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader please lead us in the closing ceremony? [Pause while ASPL comes to front.]

Adam: Please rise. Color guard, prepare to retire the colors

Retire the colors. Please salute.

Adam: At Ease. This concludes our ceremony. Thank you for coming. We hope that you will join us for some refreshments. [Scouts should allow adults to line up for refreshments first.]

-- Thanks to Scott Drown, SM Troop 39, Maltby, Mt. Baker Council, Everett Wa.

Eagle Scout Court of Honor Script for Bradley Alan Wallace

This is an adaptation of the original Eagle Court of Honor Script. Most of the names have been replaced with position titles.

As the guests enter the Sanctuary, Boy Scouts of Troop 82 hand out programs and usher guests to their seats. All speakers, participants, and their spouses are seated in a special area prior to the opening.

Opening Ceremony:

SPL: (Proceeds to the center front of Communion Rail and turns to face the audience) "Would everyone please stand for the presentation of our Colors and the Pledge of Allegiance."

(Boy Scout Troop and Cub Scout Pack march in and take their places)

SPL: (calls the Color Guard -- Cobra & Trailblazer Webelos Scouts -- to present the colors. Once the Color Guard reaches the front of the Sanctuary and is in place, he calls "Hand Salute" and leads the Pledge of Allegiance. The colors are posted; he asks the audience to "Please be seated". He then dismisses the Color Guard "Color Guard, dismissed", and follows them to the back of the Sanctuary where they then quietly proceed to their seats.

Assistant Scoutmaster: "Scouts, Scouters, and friends of Scouting, I would like to welcome you to this Eagle Court of Honor. This is an occasion for pride and joy, as well as a time for serious reflection. The Eagle is the highest recognition that Scouting offers to Scouts. It is earned through the advancement program, and only a small percentage of boys who begin in Scouting receive this honor. The wearer of the Eagle award is the epitome of Scouting's best efforts and beliefs. Tonight, we have the pleasure of seeing Bradley Wallace climax his Scouting efforts when he joins the company of Eagle Scouts. Before we begin, the Reverend Jim McWhinnie, Pastor of Grace United Methodist Church, will deliver the Invocation."

Invocation

Significance of the Eagle Badge

Presenter 1: "The presentation of the Eagle Scout Award is an important and serious matter. For the Eagle candidate, this is the climax in his Scouting efforts. The attainment of this award is made possible through the assistance of those with the candidate tonight -- his Scoutmasters, Troop leaders, fellow Scouts, parents, family, friends, and members of the community. This is an occasion for pride and joy, as well as a time for serious reflection."

The Eagle is the highest recognition offered in Scouting. It is earned through the advancement program. The wearer of the Eagle award is the embodiment of Scouting's best efforts and beliefs. Bradley Wallace has distinguished himself through his continued performance of active service in Scouting. He is trained and practiced in his leadership abilities. And, he is marked by the character gained through an understanding of his citizenship and religious beliefs. It is important that each of us understands the meaning of the Eagle Badge."

(Lights are dimmed)

[The Eagle Honor Guard speaks from the rear of the sanctuary:]

Scout 1: "The appeal of the majestic eagle has been felt by every great people from prehistoric times to the present day. To the Egyptians, the eagle was the messenger of the gods and the sun, a symbol of eternal life. To the Romans, he was the carrier of Jupiter's thunderbolts and a sign of power. To American Indians he stood as the incentive to valor and the pledge of victory. For us today, the eagle is the living symbol of all courageous and freedom-aspiring Americans. When the Eagle Scout badge was designed in 1912, it was decided that a small silver eagle would be suspended from a tricolor ribbon of red, white, and blue. So it remains today."

(The Eagle is lit.)

Scout 2: "The foremost responsibility of an Eagle Scout is to live with honor. To an Eagle Scout, honor is the foundation of all character. He knows that 'a Scout is trustworthy' is the very first point of the Scout Law for a good reason. An Eagle Scout lives honorably, not only because honor is important to him, but because of the vital significance of the example he sets for other scouts. Living honorably reflects credit on his home, his church, his troop, and his community. May the white of the Eagle Badge remind you to always live with honor."

(The white ribbon is lit.)

Scout 3: "The second obligation of an Eagle Scout is loyalty. A Scout is true to his family, scout leaders, friends, school, and nation. His loyalty to his troop and brother scouts makes him pitch in and carry his share of the load. All of these help to build the loyalty which means devotion to community, to country, to one's own ideals, and to God. Let the blue of the Eagle Badge always inspire your loyalty."

(The blue ribbon is lit.)

Scout 4: "The third obligation of an Eagle Scout is to be courageous. Courage has always been a quality by which men measure themselves and others. To a scout, bravery means not only the courage to face physical danger, but the determination to stand up for the right. Trusting in God, with faith in his fellow man, he looks forward to each day, seeking his share of the world's work to do. Let the red of the Eagle Badge remind you always of courage."

(The red ribbon is lit.)

Scout 5: The fourth obligation of an Eagle Scout is to be cheerful. To remind the Eagle Scout to always wear a smile, the red, white, and blue ribbon is attached to the scroll of the Second Class Scout award, which has its ends turned up in a smile."

(The Scroll is lit.)

Scout 6: "The final responsibility of an Eagle Scout is service. The Eagle Scout is service. The Eagle Scout extends a helping hand to those who still toil up Scouting's trail, just as others helped him in his climb to the Eagle. The performance of the daily good turn takes on a new meaning when he enters a more adult life of continuing service to others. The Eagle stands as protector of the weak and helpless. He aids and comforts the unfortunate and the oppressed. He upholds the rights of others while defending his own. He will always 'be prepared' to put forth his best."

Scout 7: "You are deserving of much credit in having achieved Scouting's highest award. However, wear your award with humility, ever mindful that the Eagle Scout is looked up to as an example. May the Scout Oath and the Scout Law be your guide for tomorrow and onward."

(Lights are turned up)

Musician: (soloist -- music "The Lord's Prayer")

MC: "I would now like to introduce Deputy [ name ]. He has been with the Lee County Sheriff's Office for 1-1/2 years, and is currently serving as a correctional officer in Fort Myers. He was a Cub Scout and a Boy Scout as a youth, and believes in the importance of programs such as Scouting for our young people. Ladies and Gentlemen, [ name ]."

Keynote Address

MC: "[ name ], Calusa District Committee Chairman for SW Florida Council, will now convene the National Court of Honor."

Convening of the National Court of Honor:

Councilperson: "By the authority vested in me as a representative of the Southwest Florida Council and the National Council, Boy Scouts of America, I declare this Court of Honor to be convened."

Master of Ceremonies: "The Scouting movement constitutes one of the most wholesome and significant influences in the world today. Many successful, well-known persons are Eagle Scouts -- a former President of the United States, a film director whose films have won world-wide acclaim, most of the original astronauts, and several outstanding sports personalities. The Eagle candidate whose efforts culminate this evening in the presentation of the Eagle badge, has labored long to enter this brotherhood. He will assume even greater responsibilities to the ideals of honor and service. When he pledges himself on his sacred honor, he will be sealing his loyalty to the code of the Eagle Scout with the words which closed the Declaration of Independence."

"Honor Guard, please escort before this Court of Honor Life Scout Bradley Alan Wallace, where he will be prepared to receive the Eagle Scout Award."

(After the Honor Guard returns to their seats, MC continues)

Reaffirmation of Candidate to the Scout Oath Principles, Master of Ceremonies:

"All along the trail of achievement, your scoutmasters have given you advice and encouragement. I call upon your Scoutmaster to vouch for you tonight. (Scoutmaster steps forward, Councilperson addresses him.) "Sir, before presenting your Scout the Eagle Award, we would like to have your assurance that Bradley has been faithful in serving his troop, in giving leadership to its scouts, in practicing the principles of the Scout Oath and Law, and in practicing the good turn in his daily life. Based upon these qualifications, is your Scout entitled to the honor the Eagle badge represents?"

Scoutmaster: "Yes, sir, he is."

MC: "Eagle candidate Bradley Wallace, what promise did you take when you became a Tenderfoot Scout?"

Bradley Wallace: "The Scout Oath, sir."

MC: "Is there any reason why you should not renew that promise now?"

Bradley Wallace: "There is not, sir."

MC: "Then I ask you to now give the Scout Oath as you rededicate yourself to its principles."

Bradley Wallace: (Gives the Scout Sign and repeats the Scout Oath)

MC: "You have just recommitted yourself to the principles of the Scout Oath. You now have a new, more intense obligation to your church, your community, and your troop. The knowledge you have gained in all areas of scouting will better enable you to be prepared for the future and its challenges. The Scout Motto of 'be prepared' now takes on special meaning."

"Before the Eagle Award is bestowed upon you, I am going to ask the Honor Guard to escort your father to your side."

(After his father is in position on the candidate's right and the Honor Guard has returned to their seats, continue with...)

"Eagle Candidate Bradley, your father has undoubtedly been a primary source of help in your Scout work. He will help you carry the standards of your award to the highest peak of attainment, since the very best is expected of an Eagle Scout in exemplary conduct, character, achievement, and leadership ability. I am going to ask your father, who has stood by you so loyally to pledge his willingness to continue to help you. Mr. Wallace, do you agree to continue to help Bradley so that he may grow in character and those leadership qualities that an Eagle Scout should have?"

Mr. Wallace: "I will."

MC: "Your mother has undoubtedly been your greatest source of inspiration in your quest for the Eagle Award. I am going to ask that she please rise and allow the Honor Guard to escort her to your side."

(The Honor Guard escorts the mother to the candidate's left. Presenter moves to microphone as mom is escorted to Bradley's side.)

Presenter: (Give a brief history of Bradley's Scouting career - see attached. When completed, he continues ...)

"Eagle Candidate Bradley Wallace, it is now my pleasure to introduce Eagle Scout [ name of Charger ] to deliver to you the Eagle Charge."

Eagle Charge:

[ name of Charger ]: "Scouts of all nations make up one of the most wholesome and significant movements in the world's history. You have been judged by the Boy Scouts of America as being worthy of this honor. All who know you rejoice in your achievement. This award, as you will know, is one of honor and responsibility. You are a marked man. As an Eagle Scout, you have assumed a solemn obligation to do your duty to God, to Country, to your fellow Scouts, and to mankind in general. This is a great undertaking. As you live up to your obligations you bring honor to yourself and to your brother Scouts."

"America has many good things to give you and your children after you; but these good things depend for the most part on the quality of her citizens. Our country has had a great past. You can help make the future even greater."

"I charge you to undertake your citizenship with a solemn dedication. Be a leader, but lead only toward the best. Lift up every task you do and every office you hold to the highest level of service to God and to your fellow man."

"So live and serve, that those who know you will be inspired to finer living. I charge you to be among those who dedicate their hearts, hands, skills, and abilities to the common good. Help to build America's future by continuing to set an example of clean living, honest work, unselfish citizenship and reverence for God, whatever others may do. You will leave behind you a record of which you may be justly proud."

"Eagle Candidate Bradley, I charge you to enter this Eagle Scout brotherhood holding without reservation and ever before you the ideals of honor and service. By the repetition of the Eagle Scout promise before your fellow members, you will become an Eagle Scout. When you pledge yourself on your sacred honor, you will be sealing your eternal loyalty to the code of the Eagle Scout with the same words which closed the Declaration of Independence."

"Will all Eagle Scouts here tonight please stand and renew your Eagle Scout promise as Bradley joins our brotherhood? (Pause) Scout sign; repeat after me;"

"I reaffirm my allegiance .... to the three promises of the Scout Oath .... I thoughtfully recognize .... and take upon myself .... the obligations and responsibilities .... of an Eagle Scout. .... On my honor, I will do my best .... to make my training an example .... and my status and my influence .... count strongly for better Scouting .... and for better citizenship .... in my troop, .... in my community, .... and in my contacts with other people. .... To this I pledge my sacred honor."

Two. Please be seated"

"Bradley, your conduct along the trail has been excellent. You have rededicated yourself to the principles of Scouting. But one more thing is important ... your future."

"As an Eagle Scout, you become a guide to other Scouts. You become an example in your community. Remember that your actions are now a little more conspicuous and people will expect more of you. To falter in your responsibility would reflect not only on you, but on your fellow Eagles and all of Scouting. The torch you carry is not only yours, but it is also ours."

Presentation of Award:

Presenter 2: "Life Scout Bradley Wallace, we are finally at that point you have been waiting for. Having confirmed all readiness for the reception of this award, it is now time to formally present this high badge of accomplishment."

"By the authority vested in me by the National Court of Honor of the Boy Scouts of America, it is my privilege an pleasure to pronounce you an Eagle Scout. May the Oath you have taken always remain with you."

"No words of this Court of Honor could do justice to the devotion and patient perseverance with which your Scoutmaster has helped you towards worthy manhood. Only from his hands could you receive your Eagle award at this moment. Will Scoutmaster [ name ] pin the badge on this new Eagle Scout?"

In recognition of fatherly advice and guidance along the trail to Eagle, I will ask this Eagle Scout's father now to present to his son the Eagle Scout certificate and personal letter of commendation from the Chief Scout Executive, Boy Scouts of America." (Hand certificate to father for presenting. Letter should be read before presenting.)

"No one will ever know the unnumbered acts of self-sacrifice and helpfulness from the mother of this Eagle Scout which have led us to this night. As the symbol of what his mother has made possible, the court will now ask this Eagle to present his mother with a miniature Eagle pin." (Son pins on miniature Eagle pin. When all the insignia have been presented, speaker gives the new Eagle Scout the Scout handclasp with the left hand. Right handshake should be used for each of the parents.)

"May I congratulate you again, and may I remind you that Scouting should now become an even greater tie between son and parents, binding you even more closely as a family. To you, Eagle Scout Bradley Wallace, I express confidence that you will honor Scouting with your life and service as tonight Scouting honors you. That God may bless you and make you a blessing is our prayer."

"Honor Guard, please escort Bradley's parents to their seats."

(As the Honor Guard is seating the parents, Scoutmaster moves to the microphone and continues ...)

Special Recognition:

Scoutmaster: "It gives me great pleasure to introduce [ name ], Chartered Organization Representative for the Scouting units here at Grace UMC, who will present those with special recognition's for the new Eagle Scout."

Chartered Organization Representative : (says a few words on behalf of the sponsoring organization, and introduces the following people:)

[ name ], Committee Chairman, Troop 82 (plaque)

[ name ], Kiwanis, (plaque +)

[ name ], Optimist, (plaque +)

(When presentations are complete, Scoutmaster moves back to the microphone for the closing.)

Closing

Scoutmaster: "Now Bradley, before you leave this ceremony, will you kneel where you are and in true Scout fashion, silently ask your God to give you strength and courage to wear with distinction and honor the award which you now hold."

( A moment of silent prayer)

"I congratulate you as an Eagle Scout. The eagle soars high and seeks to rest only upon the lofty peaks. As an Eagle Scout, you too must soar high. You must not swerve from the path of duty. Your ideals must be lofty. You must strive to obtain that which is the highest and noblest in life."

"I hereby close this Eagle Court of Honor and present to you Eagle Scout Bradley A. Wallace."

Bradley Wallace: (After applause, Bradley says a few words of thanks)

Benediction

SPL: (Leads closing, colors recess.)

Honor Guard: Escorts parents out. All remaining Boy Scouts follow, then Cub Scouts. Receiving line is formed in Fellowship Hall.

-- Thanks to Scott Drown, SM Troop 39, Maltby, Mt. Baker Council, Everett Wa.

Eagle Scout Ceremony from Joe Ulrich

Here is a copy of the Eagle ceremony that my troop has done for many years. -- Joe Ulrich, julrich@cdcj089.cnp.cldx.com

Program

Welcome : Scoutmaster

Invocation : Clergyman or Scoutmaster

Dinner (Cleanup by Scouts): Dinner Committee

Opening Ceremony: Senior Patrol

Scoutmaster Messages: Scoutmaster

Court of Awards: Scoutmaster

Eagle Court of Honor

Opening candle Ceremony: Scoutmaster

Trail of the Eagle: Scoutmaster

Eagle Poem : Scoutmaster

Eagle Charge: Selected Eagle Scout

Eagle Oath: Scoutmaster

Eagle Presentations: Mother, Scout

Speakers: Scoutmasters, Dignitaries

Acceptance: New Eagle Scout

Benediction : Clergyman or Scoutmaster

Refreshments: Dinner Committee

Note: While guests are arriving, talk to each dignitary to determine if they have a presentation to make, and if the care to speak. Ask them how they prefer to be introduced, and put them on the schedule of speakers. Ask if they have any special scheduling needs.

Ask the SPL if he has the Trail of the Eagle participants arranged. If not, do it NOW!!

Welcome

SM On behalf of the [ Scout's name ] family, I'd like to welcome all of you to this banquet. Many scouts set out on the trail to Eagle, but few have the perseverance to follow it to the end. [ Scout's name ]is one of those few and we are here tonight to honor his great achievement.

{ Minister's name ] will now perform the invocation.

Invocation (if needed): Lord, you bring us together this evening to honor the Eagle scout. We thank you for the food we are about to eat. We acknowledge your guidance in helping boys and adults work together to build leadership and appreciation of the outdoors. Lord, continue to watch over these boys as they grow into young men, and give the adults the patience and wisdom to guide them. Amen.

SM: Please remain seated until I call your table. Thank you and enjoy your meal.

Dinner

[Note: Get scouts to pick up trash near end of meal. Don't neglect to recognize the kitchen staff!!]

Opening Ceremony

SM: Will the color guard please perform the opening ceremony.

SPL: Pledge, Oath, Law.

Scoutmaster Messages

[Note: Use this time for any important messages that MUST be done this night. Keep it short!!]

Slide Show

[Note: If this is the first family activity of the year, do a slide show of the past years activities. Keep it short!!]

Court of Awards

[Note: Recognize those scouts who are working on advancement, but try not to take the time to hand out patches. When the awards are completed, instruct the Trail of the Eagle participants to file out and get organized.]

Eagle Court of Honor

SM: We would now like to begin the Eagle Court of Honor for [ Scout's name ]. [Name] will perform the Opening Candle Ceremony.

Candle Ceremony

[Note: The scout spirit candle must be lit prior to starting ceremony.]

SM: Will the honor guard please take their positions. (Honor guard (preferably 2 Eagle Scouts) files into position)

Will the honor guard please escort Mr. & Mrs. [ Scout's name ] to the Eagle Court of Honor. (Parents escorted and seated at the front of the room)

Will the Honor guard please escort Eagle Candidate [ Scout's name ] to the Eagle Court of Honor. (Candidate escorted to the Candle Ceremony. It should be located to allow enough room to move from ceremony to the beginning of the Trail of the Eagle.)

Please turn out the lights. (The large Scout spirit candle is to be the only light in the room.)

The candle aflame represents the spirit of Scouting. [ Scout's name ], it is in fact your demonstration of scout spirit that has brought you to where you are tonight. As a symbol of the spirit in you, [ Scout's name ] , will you at this time light your candle from the scout spirit candle and take your position behind the table.

This evening, [ Scout's name ] , as you prepare to receive Scouting's highest honor, the Eagle Scout Award, let's pause and reflect on the oath and the law which are the essence of the scout spirit in you.

Would you now recite the scout oath to this audience and pause to light a candle for each of the three parts of the oath.

Scout: On my honor, I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the scout law. (Lights red candle.)

SM: As a Boy Scout of America, I believe that America's strength lies in her trust in God and in the courage and strength of her people. I will, therefore, be faithful in my religious duties and will maintain a personal sense of honor in my own life. I will treasure my American heritage and will do all I can to preserve and enrich it. I will hold the values of the scout law in highest regard.

Scout: To help other people at all times. (Lights the white candle.)

SM: I recognize the dignity and worth of my fellow men and will use fair play and goodwill in dealing with them.

Scout To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. (Lights blue candle.)

SM: I will acquire the attitude that seeks truth, strength, and uprightness, first in myself and then in all situations I encounter throughout my life.

The scout law is a set of guiding values that you have adopted for your life. ___________, recite the scout law and light a candle for each point as we pause to reflect on its meaning.

Scout : A scout is trustworthy. (Lights a candle on one side.)

SM: A scout tells the truth. He keeps his promises. Honesty is a part of his code of conduct. People can always depend on him.

Scout: Loyal. (Lights a candle on the other side. Continues to light candles after each point alternating sides.)

SM: A scout is true to his family, friends, scout leaders, school, nation, and community.

Scout Helpful.

SM: A scout is concerned about other people. He willingly volunteers to help others without expecting payment or reward.

Scout: Friendly.

SM: A scout is a friend to all. He is a brother to other scouts. He seeks to understand others. He respects those with ideas and customs that are different from his own.

Scout: Courteous.

SM: A scout is polite to everyone regardless of age or position. He knows that good manners make it easier for people to get along together.

Scout: Kind.

SM: A scout understands that there is strength in being gentile. He treats others as he wants to be treated. He does not harm or kill anything without reason.

Scout : Obedient.

SM: A scout follows the rules of his family, school, and troop. He obeys the laws of his community and country. If he thinks these rules and laws are unfair, he tries to have them changed in an orderly manner rather than disobey them.

Scout: Cheerful.

SM: A scout looks for the bright side of life. He cheerfully does tasks that come his way. He tries to make others happy.

Scout : Thrifty.

SM: A scout works to pay his own way and to help others. He saves for the future. He protects and conserves natural resources. He carefully uses time and property.

Scout: Brave.

SM: A scout can face danger even if he is afraid. He has the courage to stand for what he thinks is right even if others laugh at him or threaten him.

Scout: Clean.

SM A scout keeps his body and mind fit and clean. He goes around with those who believe in living by these same ideals. He helps keep his home and community clean.

Scout: Reverent.

SM: A scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties. He respects the beliefs of others.

[ Scout's name ], you have thoughtfully prepared yourself for the Trail of the Eagle. Your journey now is only beginning.

Trail of the Eagle

SM: Please post the Trail of the Eagle. (Participants file in and take their positions.)

At this time, your Eagle Scout escorts will conduct you through the Trail of the Eagle. (Candidate is escorted to start of the trail.)

Mr. [Name] will now tell us of [ Scout's name ]'s, Trail to Eagle.

[Note: A slide show and talk of the scout's activities and dates of advancement. As each rank is presented on the screen, the candidate lights the candles of the scouts along the trail representing that rank.]

Eagle Poem

SM: Mr. [Name] will now recite the Eagle Poem.

Fond parents watch their boy where he stands

apart from his friends tonight

as the y place on his camp-battered tunic, a badge

an eagle, the emblem of right

It seems just a few short months have passed

since he joined with the youngsters next door

how proud he was the of his new scout badge

as he told them the message it bore.

But the years have gone as he struggled along

to learn what the scout law's all about

he practiced them daily, the oath and the law

until now he's an Eagle Scout.

You may smile in your worldly old wisdom at this

and say, "Why it's only a pin."

But I tell you, no honors he'll gain as a man

will mean as much to him.

The red, white, and blue of the ribbon you see

are the symbols of honor and truth

he has learned how to value these fine attributes

in the glorious days of his youth.

And the outflinging wings of the eagle scout badge

on the breast of this knight of today

are the things which will lift him above petty deeds

and guide him along the right way.

Yes, it's only a pin, just an eagle scout badge

but the heart that's beneath it beats true

and will throb to the last for the things which are good

a lesson ......for me....... and for you.

[Note: 15 second pause, then raise the lights.]

Eagle Charge

SM: [ Scout's name ], having completed the requirements for Eagle, are you prepared to accept the challenge of the Eagle Scout and rededicate yourself to the Scout Oath and Scout Law?

Scout: I am.

SM: [ Scout's name ],, please join your parents for the Eagle Charge. The honor guard may be seated.

The Eagle Charge will be given by Eagle Scout [Name].

Eagle: Eagle Candidate, [ Scout's name ], I charge you:

Enter the Eagle Scout Brotherhood holding, without reservation, ever before you the ideals of honor and service. I further charge you to remember that this entry into the Eagle Brotherhood is not an end to your commitment to these ideals but rather, just the beginning of the commitment. By repetition of the Eagle Scout Oath before your parents, leaders, and fellow scouts you acknowledge your acceptance of the challenge and become an Eagle Scout. Though these words are similar to those by which you joined scouting, tonight they have a special significance as you pledge, on your sacred word of honor your eternal loyalty to this code.

[Note: Eagle scout giving oath replaces Scout neckerchief with Eagle scarf and slide.]

SM: Thank you [Name].

Eagle Oath

SM: [Scout's name], give the scout sign and repeat after me:

I, [Scout's name], reaffirm my allegiance to the three promises of the Scout Oath.

I thoughtfully recognize

and take upon myself

the obligations and responsibilities

of an Eagle Scout.

With the help of God,

I will do my best

to make my training an example.

My influence and my opportunities

strongly count for physical fitness,

for wholesome character

and for devoted citizenship,

in Scouting,

and in my community.

To this I pledge my sacred honor.

SM: By the authority vested in me by the National Court of Honor of the Boy Scouts of America, it is my privilege to pronounce you, [Scout's name], an Eagle Scout. Let's have a round of applause for this fine young man.

Mrs. [Mother of Scout's name], will you please pin the Eagle badge on [Scout's name].

As a symbol of the advice and council provided you by your mother as you advanced along the Eagle trail, I now ask you, [Scout's name], to pin the miniature Eagle pin on your mother.

As a symbol of the fatherly guidance provided as advanced along the Eagle trail, I now ask you, [Scout's name], to present this token to your father.

Eagle Scout [Scout's name], you and your parents may be seated.

Speakers and Presentations

Acceptance Speech

SM: Would our new Eagle scout like to say a few words?

Scout Gives speech.

SM: Thank you [Scout's name],. I would like to join the [Scout's name], family in thanking the Eagle Banquet committee and everyone else who helped make this celebration such a success.

Benediction

SM: Now I'd like to ask [ Minister's name ] to close these proceedings with the benediction.

SM: Thank you. Please join us in congratulating [Scout's name], and enjoy some cake and refreshments.

An Eagle Court of Honor Script by Greg Gough

(SETTING: MC is stage right; fire in center lit; scout rank cards are in semi-circle behind the fire, with Eagle rank nearest to podium; flags placed beside, but behind speaker)

(LIGHTS: all lights are turned off)

(SPOTLIGHTER: follow flags coming in)

OPENING CEREMONY:

Master of Ceremonies (MC): Everyone please stand

Color Guards advance

Post the Colors

Post the troop flag

Please follow me in the Pledge of Allegiance

Color Guards dismissed

Please be seated

(conduct opening flag ceremony; Smudgee carries troop flag and 2 OA members in full costume, carry the American flag)

(SPOTLIGHTER: light should move to MC)

MC: Welcome everyone. I'm __________ with __________ and will be your MC for tonight's ceremony. We have several individuals who are active in the scouting program here with us tonight. (recognize various leaders, i.e., Troop leaders, etc.) If we have any Eagle Scouts with us, young or not so young, would you please stand for a moment and be recognized. (Pause) You may be seated. Tonight we gather to honor one of our own. A scout who has proven himself worthy of Scouting's highest honor. Eagle Scout is not earned by the timid or the undedicated. Nor is it earned by the dispassionate. Eagle scout is earned by only those who work hard, exhibit virtue, and have ignited the passion of the scouting spirit in their soul. For that reason, only 2% of the boys who join boy scouts will ever become Eagle. The few that do, are seen as leaders among men. Tonight, [ Scout's name ] will join those few, known as Eagle Scout. Please join me in silence as we observe a Native American ceremony of smudging. The smudging ritual is done to purify the ceremonial area and its participants, and to ask for a blessing from our creator.

(SPOTLIGHTER: shines light on smudger, and each person as he smudges)

(SMUDGER is positioned center stage close to audience; Smudger blesses the four winds and the sky and the earth. **As each person is smudged, he is to gather the smoke in his arms, and imitate pouring the smoke over their heads.)

(ENTER YOUNG SMUDGER: he is smudged by smudgee)

(ENTER 2 OA TEAM: they are smudged by young smudger)

(OA TEAM exits to retrieve Eagle Scout and bring him forward to Young Smudger)

(OA TEAM then escorts Eagle Scout to fire where he is sat down on right side of fire, sideways to audience.)

(OA TEAM: return to podium to wait for signal)

(MC: starts tape **VOICE OF THE EAGLE****)

VOICE OF THE EAGLE

This is the voice of the Eagle, the Eagle whose heights you struggled to reach. We remember well when you first came to the base of the cliff, and how you looked up with ambition and determination.

Look back for a moment, look back over the cliff you have climbed; look back at the experience you have encountered in your ascent. These experiences should not be forgotten, and you should profit by making sure that the adverse ones do not occur again. Experience is a valuable teacher if you heed its teachings.

(SPOT TENDERFOOT)

We remember when you took your first step upon the trail that leads upward. With your first step, you began living the Scout Oath and Law. While you were on the trail, we watched you study and then we watched you learn by doing. First you were only a candidate, building yourself physically, mentally, and morally. Then your brother Scouts called you a Tenderfoot and they were right, you were indeed a Tenderfoot.

(SPOT OFF)

(SPOT SECOND CLASS)

But not for long, for soon you reached the first ledge where you were greeted by a group of Second Class Scouts.

Some, like yourself, were stopping to catch their breath before continuing along the Eagle trail.

(SPOT OFF)

(SPOT FIRST CLASS)

You began to study more, you worked harder, and almost before you knew it, you came to another ledge, the ledge where First Class Scouts dwell.

(SPOT OFF)

(SPOT STAR)

There you found a tempting green meadow by a crystal clear stream, bathed by the sun. Here you were tempted to remain. Yes, you could have remained there to live in First Class glory, but your ambition stirred you on. We next remember your progress when you became a Star Scout. You found the trail from First Class had been an optical illusion. It was not as difficult as it had seemed. This spurred you on and again you climbed further.

(SPOT OFF)

Now the trail was steeper, it was less worn. Fewer Scouts seemed to be heading in your direction. You looked back and saw the crowds below you. You looked up and saw the few above you. With the same determination with which you started your climb, you continued on the trail.

(SPOT LIFE)

So on it was the badge of Life Scout, the heart badge that was placed on your uniform. You will never forget the thoughts in your heart. It has been experienced by most Scouts on reaching the ledge of Life. "Now I am close to Eagle. I will carry on." The trail became tougher, but more interesting. The original simple principles, the Scout Oath and Law, now had a fuller meaning. Your understanding of them was greater.

(SPOT OFF)

(OA TEAM: When the Voice of the Eagle reaches the Eagle rank, the OA Team escorts the Eagle Scout to the Eagle rank card)

(SPOT FOLLOWS SCOUT & OA TEAM TO EAGLE)

Yes, we have watched your character unfold and become manly. We have watched your leadership ability expand into a valuable asset. We have watched your mind develop and your wisdom increase. We have watched all of these things in you. Now that you are at the threshold of your goal, we welcome you. For you have done your climbing in a true Scout-like-manner.

(OA TEAM: When the tape is finished, the OA Team wraps a blanket decorated with Scouting awards over the Eagle Scout)

MC: As this blanket clothes you in the spirit of scouting, let it be a reminder of your continued journey through scouting.

(OA team takes their place to the Eagles right )

(LIGHTS: all lights are turned on)

(MC may turn and congratulate scout on his journey)

(SPOT OFF)

MC: In a moment, the Scoutmaster of Troop ____, will bestow upon you the award of Eagle Scout. However, I am sure you will agree that some special people should be accorded the privilege of standing beside you, as they have throughout your journey in scouting. Color Guards (OA Team), please escort the parents of this Eagle to his side.

(OA TEAM: escorts Parents to Scout and has them stand on each side of the Eagle candidate.)

(OA TEAM then takes their place sitting beside fire)

MC: Both the parents and the Scout leaders of this Eagle Candidate have labored long and faithfully to guide and prepare this young man for his journey in life, through the help of the Boy Scout program. Their efforts culminate this evening in the presentation of the Eagle Award. The success of these efforts, however, will only be manifested in the way this Eagle Scout sets a pattern for those whose lives he touches. At this time, I would like to introduce the __________ (introduce your speaker(s).

SPEAKER: ************

MC: The Scoutmaster of Troop____, (SM name) will now present the highest award presented by the Boy Scouts of America. That of Eagle Scout.

SCOUTMASTER:(present Eagle Award)*******

MC: It is tradition of the Eagle ceremony, for the Scout to be given a charge. (***explain purpose/meaning of charge) The Scoutmaster will now present the Eagle with his charge.

SCOUTMASTER: (Eagle Charge) Eagle candidate, (Scouts name), I charge you to enter the Eagle Scout brotherhood, holding the ideals of honor and service. By the repetition of the Eagle Scout promise, you will become an Eagle Scout. When you pledge yourself on your sacred honor, you will be sealing your loyalty to the code of the Eagle Scout with the words that closed the Declaration of Independence. Make the Scout sign and repeat after me:

I reaffirm my allegiance* to the three promises of the Scout Oath * I thoughtfully recognize and take upon myself * the obligations and responsibilities* of the rank of Eagle Scout. * On my honor, I will do my best* to make my training an example * my rank and influence count strongly* for better Scouting and for better citizenship* in my unit * in my community * and in my contacts with other people.* To this I pledge my sacred honor.*

CLOSING CEREMONY:

MC: We will conclude our ceremony by retiring the colors and the presentation of the flag. You will notice that our Troop flag is decorated with 10 gold stars, representing each Scout who has attained the rank of Eagle in this troop. This flag will be presented to the Eagles parents to add their sons star to the Troop flag, as he joins those who have attained the Eagle rank before him.

The American flag , which was raised over the US capital in honor of this Eagle Scout, will be presented to him to keep as a daily reminder of his duty to serve God, his Country, and others.

We hope this ceremony has inspired other Scouts to reach this honorable rank. We are anxious to see many more Eagles pass through our troop. On behalf of [ Eagle Scout's name ] and his parents, we wish to thank everyone for coming and invite you stay for refreshments immediately following the closing ceremony.

(CLOSING CEREMONY)

MC:

Attention Color Guards (OA team, still sitting by fire, stands up; Young Smudger joins the OA TEAM at the fire)

Color Guards Advance

(all advance towards flag & stop)

Color Guards, retire the colors

(Young Smudger & OA Team retire Troop flag & fold it)

(OA team: removes the American flag from pole and fold it)

Color Guards advance

(OA Team & Young Smudger: advance to center and deliver folded

American flag to Eagle Scout; then deliver folded Troop flag to parents)

Color Guards dismissed

Thank you. Goodnight

-- Thanks to Greg Gough, SM Troop 201, Ozark, MO. "I used to be an Owl but I will always be an Eagle!"

Richard's Eagle Court of Honor -- October 6, 1996

Call to Order -- Brad Etherton, Troop 869 Committee Chairman

On behalf of the Scouts, Scoutmasters, Troop Committee and all the Troop 869 family, I would like to welcome you to this Eagle Court of Honor, convened to honor Richard.

Troop 869 is sponsored by the Clear Lake Presbyterian Church. It was first chartered in 1970 and has been providing the boys of Clear Lake City with the opportunity to participate in the Boy Scout program continuously for over 26 years.

The Eagle Court of Honor is an event of great importance in a boy's life. In order to achieve this high honor, a Scout has to fulfill many requirements, earn 21 merit badges, serve his troop in a leadership position, and plan and carry out a substantial service project for his community. This afternoon we gather to celebrate Richard's achievement and to recognize his hard work and dedication.

As Troop Committee Chairman I declare this Eagle Court of Honor to be in session.

Andrew, our Chaplain's Aide, will now lead us in the Invocation.

Invocation -- Andrew, Chaplain's Aide

Heavenly Father, we ask that you bless this gathering of family and friends from near and far who have come together today to honor and celebrate with Richard his earning of the highest rank in Scouting, that of Eagle. Father, we also ask your blessing on Richard's family, Scout leaders and fellow scouts who have guided and supported Richard along the path to Eagle.

The Eagle Honor Guard is made up of the original members of Richard's first patrol, the Seagulls. They are Jonathan, Jack and Grant.

Presentation of the Colors -- Jonathan, leader, Jack and Grant

Welcome -- John Cross, Scoutmaster

(Scoutmaster Cross will provide his own remarks.)

I now call upon Mr. Jim Keith, Troop 869's Chartered Organization Representative, to tell you about the 100 Scouts.

One Hundred Scouts -- Jim Keith, Chartered Organization Representative

Of any one hundred boys who become Scouts, it must be confessed that thirty will drop out in their first year. Perhaps this may be regarded as a failure, but in later life all of these will remember that they had been Scouts and will speak well of the program.

Of the one hundred, only rarely will one ever appear before a juvenile court judge. Twelve of the one hundred will be from families that belong to no church. Through Scouting, these twelve and many of their families will be brought into contact with a church and will continue to be active all their lives. Six of the one hundred will become pastors.

Each of the one hundred will learn something from scouting. Almost all will develop hobbies that will add interest throughout the rest of their lives. Approximately one-half will serve in the military, and in varying degrees profit from their Scout training. At least one will use it to save another person's life and many will credit it with saving their own.

Two of the one hundred will reach Eagle rank, and one will later say that he valued his Eagle above his college degree. Many will find their future vocation through merit badge work and Scouting contacts. Seventeen of the one hundred boys will later become Scout leaders and will give leadership to thousands of additional boys.

Only one in four boys in America will become Scouts, but it is interesting to know that of the leaders of this nation in business, religion and politics, three out of four were Scouts.

I now call upon Paul Buras to describe Richard's Trail to Eagle.

Trail of the Eagle -- Paul Buras, Assistant Scoutmaster

Good afternoon. I am Paul Buras, and I have had the good fortune to know Richard for his entire Scouting career. I will briefly recount Richard's Trail to Eagle.

Richard began his trail to Eagle in the fall of 1987 in Pack 956 at Armand Bayou Elementary School. He received his first Scout award, the Tiger Cub pin, in October 1987 and completed the Tiger Cub badge in February 1988.

Christopher is a Tiger Cub in Pack 956. (as each scout is called, he joins a line in front of the room, at the end you have a line of boys which represents the Eagle's growth during his scouting career.)

In his second year of Cub Scouts, Richard completed the Bobcat Badge in October 1988 and his Wolf Badge in November of 1988. During the remainder of this Scouting year, he completed one gold and six silver arrow points.

Nickie is a Wolf Scout in Pack 956.

Next on the trail to Eagle was the Bear Badge, which Richard earned in September of 1989. He also continued to advance and collected one gold arrow point and six silver arrow points.

Patrick is a Bear Scout in Pack 956

Richard's Webelos years were very busy for him. He completed the Webelos Badge in December 1990 and the Arrow of Light Award, Cub Scouting's highest award, in February 1992. During this time he also earned 12 Webelos activity badges and completed the Parvuli Dei Award, the Cub Scout religious award for the Roman Catholic faith. His Webelos years also introduced him to summer camp, attending Webelos resident camp at Camp Strake in the summers of 1990 and 1991.

David is a Webelos Scout in Pack 956

Richard crossed the bridge into Boy Scouts in March of 1992 and continued on his climb to Eagle. His first badge was the Scout award which he received in March 1992. This award recognizes the boy's acceptance of the Scout Oath and Scout Law and his willingness to start learning the skills in Scouting.

Chris is a Scout in Troop 869.

Next on the trail to Eagle was the Tenderfoot Award which was earned in May, 1992. This award recognizes the Scout's first experiences and learning while camping in the outdoors. He is also introduced to the patrol method of the Boy Scouts.

Kevin is a Tenderfoot Scout in Troop 869.

Second Class was the next step. Richard completed this rank in July,1992. To achieve this award the Scout must demonstrate skills in compass, cooking, nature and first aid. He must also participate in a service project.

Tyler is a Second Class Scout in Troop 869.

Richard completed his First Class award in September 1992. To achieve this rank he had to demonstrate competence in orienteering, hiking, knots, lashings and more advanced first aid. Additionally, he needed to learn about civics and participate in another service project.

Andrew is a First Class Scout in Troop 869

To achieve the rank of Star, Richard started to make some choices. He had to complete six merit badges including four that are required for Eagle, serve in a leadership capacity and participate in six hours of service projects. He served as a Den Chief for Pack 956. He completed the Star rank in February, 1993.

Robert is a Star Scout in Troop 869.

The Life rank is very similar to Star. He earned five additional merit badges, worked on more service projects and continued to serve in a leadership capacity. Richard continued to serve as a Den Chief and he completed the requirements for Life in January of 1994.

Jack is a Life Scout in Troop 869

Richard completed his trail to Eagle in April of 1996. During his efforts to complete the award, which included earning ten additional merit badges, planning and executing a significant service project and continuing to serve in a leadership capacity as Scribe and Patrol Leader, Richard also continued to broaden his Scouting experience. He attended the Junior Leader Training Conference in June 1995, completed the Den Chief award in December 1995 and earned the World Conservation award.

Jonathan is an Eagle Scout in Troop 869.

In addition, Richard has at least 139 nights of camping, he attended the 1993 National Jamboree and has served on Camp Strake staff. He has earned a total of 66 merit badges, the BSA lifeguard certification and the mile swim and Snorkeling BSA awards.

Scouts, you may return to your seats.

Sam McJunkin, Troop 869 Eagle Advisor, will now continue the ceremony with the Pledge of the Eagle.

Pledge of the Eagle -- Sam McJunkin, Eagle Advisor

Would all the Eagle Scouts in the audience please join me up here as we prepare to administer the Pledge of the Eagle.

(Take a moment to arrange the Eagles so things look nice)

Would Jonathan our most recently honored Eagle Scout, please escort Richard to the stage.

(take a moment to be sure Richard is comfortable in the center of the stage so all can see him plainly)

Will all the Eagles and Richard now make the Scout sign and join me in the Pledge of the Eagle.

"I (state you name) reaffirm my allegiance (pause)
to the three promises of the Scout Oath. (pause)
I thoughtfully recognize and take upon myself (pause)
the obligations and responsibilities of the rank of Eagle Scout.
(pause)
On my honor, I will do my best (pause)
to make my training an example of my rank (pause)
and my influence count strongly and for better citizenship, (pause)
in my home, in my community and in my contacts with other people.
(pause)
To this I pledge my sacred honor. (pause)"
TWO.

Would the Eagles please return to their seats. Richard please remain on stage. (pause to let commotion pass)

I now call upon Mr. Bruce Wadley, Troop 869 Advancement Chairman, to present the Eagle Award to Richard.

Presentation of the Eagle Award -- Bruce Wadley, Troop 869 Advancement Chairman.

Would Jonathan please escort Mr. and Mrs. Cross to the front to join Richard.

(Jonathan offers his arm to Mrs. Cross and Scoutmaster Cross follows to the front)

Richard, your parents have been constant source of support for the eight and a half years you have spent on your trail to Eagle. They are very proud of you, as are all of us in Troop 869.

Your mother has given you love, encouragement and support for many years, not only in Scouting, but also in your many other activities. It is with great pleasure that I ask her to pin the Eagle medal on your uniform.

(Mr. Wadley hands medal to Mrs. Cross then she pins it on Richard)

Over the years, Richard, you have had the chance to pin many mother's pins on your mother. This afternoon you have the honor of pinning the Eagle pin on her dress and thanking her one more time for all that she has done for you.

(Mr. Wadley gives the mother's pin to Richard).

Richard, I now call upon your father to place the Eagle neckerchief around your neck.

(Mr. Wadley gives the neckerchief and slide to Scoutmaster Cross)

Richard, you father, too, has helped you along the Eagle trail and in all other aspects of your life. He has always been there for you when you needed help and he has always encouraged you to achieve and learn in your endeavors. Please pin this Eagle tie tack on his pocket next to his Eagle Medal.

(Mr. Wadley gives the tie tack to Richard)

It gives me great pleasure to present to you Troop 869's newest Eagle Scout, Richard Cross.

(Leads the audience in applause)

Will Jonathan please escort Richard's parents back to their seats.

(After Richard's parents are seated, continue)

In case you are not aware of it, there are awards to be earned after the Eagle. This afternoon I am also pleased to present Richard with the bronze palm which he has earned by completing 5 additional merit badges, participating fully in the Troop's activities and continuing to develop his leadership skills.

(Mr. Wadley presents the palm to Richard.)

I now call upon Mr. Bob Miller, Assistant Scoutmaster, to administer the Challenge and Charge to the Eagle.

Challenge and Charge to the Eagle -- Bob Miller, Assistant Scoutmaster

Richard, as one Eagle Scout to another, I want to personally recognize your hard work and congratulate you on your significant achievement.

I would like to read to you and this Court of Honor the Eagle Scout Challenge:

The Boy Scouts of all nations constitute one of the most wholesome and significant influences in the world's history. You have been declared worthy of the high rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. All who know you rejoice in your achievement.

Your position, as you well know, is one of honor and responsibility. You are a marked man. As an Eagle Scout, you are expected to exemplify in your daily life the high principles and values expressed in the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. You have assumed a solemn obligation to do your duty to God, to your country, to your fellow scouts, and to all other human beings. This is a great undertaking which you are now just beginning. As you live up to your obligations you bring honor to yourself and to your brother scouts.

As an Eagle Scout, you will be a champion to other scouts and be an example to your community. Remember, your actions will be more conspicuous. People will expect more of you. It is your responsibility to help maintain the high regard that all Americans have for Eagle Scouts. To falter would bring discredit, not only to you, but to your fellow Eagles. Keep your ideals high and your honor bright.

Your responsibilities, however, go beyond your fellow scouts. They extend to your country and to your God. America has many good things to give you, and to give your children after you; but these good things depend, for the most part, on the quality of her citizens. Our country has had a great past. You can help make the future even greater.

I challenge you to undertake your citizenship with solemn dedication. Be a leader, but lead only toward the best. Lift up every task you do, and every office you hold, with a high level of service to God and to your fellow human beings. Live and serve so that those who know you will be inspired to the highest ideals of life.

I challenge you to be among those who dedicate their hearts and hands to the common good. Build America on the solid foundations of clean living, honest work, unselfish citizenship, and reverence to God. Then, whatever others may do, you will leave behind you a record of which you may be justly proud.

(Mr. Miller walks over to Richard and shakes his hand, adding a personal private comment if desired)

It is traditional for our newest Eagle Scouts to say a few words about their Scouting experience. So now, please hear from Eagle Scout Richard.

The Eagle's Response -- Richard Cross

My trail to Eagle has been very long and hard, but it would have been more so if I had not received help from many people. I feel that attaining this rank would be impossible to do alone.

First of all, I would like to thank all of you who helped me on my Eagle project. The workers and I accumulated over 230 hours of service. In particular, I would like to thank Mr. Cooper and Brian Cooper for the use of their truck to haul supplies and over 28 hours of service that they put in. I also would like to thank Mrs. Swartwout for her help in lining up the project for me.

Next, I would like to thank Mr. McJunkin, Mrs. Hamilton, Sister Betty, and Mr. Buras for sending Letters of Recommendation in. I chose these people because of their great influence they have had on me. They all made a difference in my life in one way or another.

Third, I would thank all my previous boy scout and cub scout leaders. My father, Mr. Snodgrass, Mr. Carey, and Jim O'Donnell were my den leaders, and Mr. O'Donnell and Mr. Buras were my Cubmasters. In boy scouts, Mr. Chandler and my father lead the troop. Good leaders influenced me to want to go further in scouting.

Finally, I would like to thank my parents for all their assistance and encouragement. My father kept me moving whenever I felt like slacking. He also helped build the troop into what it is today. He was at my side when I planned and carried out my Eagle project. My mother was eager to pick up food and drinks for the project workers. She also wrote a letter of recommendation for me. In addition, they both put together my Court of Honor.

Now that I have received my eagle, I've made plans to give back to the troop and community. I will stay with the troop up until I leave for college. I will finish this term as SPL and hopefully become a Junior assistant scoutmaster when I turn sixteen. I am also going to stay on Camp Strake as long as they have Boy Scout camp, and as long as I don't have a full time job. Also, I plan to staff winter camp this year and for years to come.

Thank you all for coming.

(After Richard completes his remarks, he returns to the pew with his parents)

Mr. Etherton returns to the front to introduce Sister Betty

It is my pleasure to introduce Sister Betty who will lead us in the closing benediction.

Benediction -- Sr. Betty, St. Bernadette Catholic Church

Sister Betty will present her own remarks.

Retiring of the Colors -- Jonathan, leader, Jack, Grant

-- Thanks to John P. Cross