A vital part of the BSA's advancement plan, the merit badge program is one of Scouting's basic character-building tools. Through participation in the program, which may begin immediately upon registration in a troop or team, a Scout acquires the self-confidence that comes from overcoming obstacles to achieve a goal. Instruction is offered in everything from animal science and public speaking to swimming and communications, providing a young man with invaluable career, physical, and interpersonal skills.
Merit Badge Pamphlets
Each merit badge subject is outlined and explained in a pamphlet that contains short, introductory information written for Boy Scouts by recognized authorities. These pamphlets can be checked out from the Troop 1519 librarian, Daniel Rogers. They can sometimes also be found at the public library. You can also purchase them from the Scout Shop in Bethesda, MD or order them through the Scout catalogue. Requirements for all merit badges may also be found at BSA's Index to Merit Badge Requirements.
Merit Badge Counselors
People who are knowledgeable in the various merit badge subjects are selected, approved, and trained by council and district advancement committees to serve as merit badge counselors. For example, a dentist might be asked to serve as a counselor for the Dentistry merit badge. A counselor must not only possess the necessary technical knowledge but also have a solid understanding of the needs, interests, and abilities of Scouts. A counselor must also be an adult registered with the BSA. A list of registered Merit Badge Counselors can be obtained from your Patrol Advisor, Troop Merit Badge Coordinator (Ms. Debbie Rogers), the Scoutmaster, or the troop's website. Merit badge counselors should see BSA's Guide for Merit Badge Counseling for more information.
When a Scout has an interest in earning a particular merit badge, he obtains a signed merit badge application (blue card) from the Merit Badge Coordinator or Scoutmaster and finds a buddy who can attend the merit badge counselor meetings with him. The Scout is then directed to an approved merit badge counselor. The counselor reviews the badge requirements with the young men and decides with them what projects should be undertaken and when they should be completed. After the counselor has certified that the Scouts have qualified for the merit badge, the Scoutmaster signs the blue card indicating his approval. The blue card is turned in to the advancement chairperson, who records it in the TroopMaster software database. The badge is presented to the Scout at a court of honor, and can be applied toward rank advancement.
Merit badges signify the mastery of certain Scoutcraft skills, as well as help boys increase their skill in an area of personal interest. Of the more than 100 merit badges available, 21 must be earned to qualify for Eagle Scout. Of this group, 12 badges are required, including First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, Communications, Environmental Science, Personal Fitness, Personal Management, Camping, and Family Life. In addition, a Scout has a choice between earning the Emergency Preparedness and Lifesaving merit badges, and a choice among Cycling, Hiking, or Swimming merit badges.