Whereas Scouting America, formerly known as Boy Scouts of America, was incorporated by Chicago publisher, William Boyce, on February 8, 1910, after learning of the Scouting movement during a visit to London;

Whereas, on June 21, 1910, a group of 34 national representatives met, developed organization plans, and opened a temporary national headquarters in New York;

Whereas the purpose of Scouting America is to teach America’s youth self-reliance, character, ethical decision making, and civic leadership through adherence to the Scout Oath and Law;

Whereas, by 1912, Scouts were enrolled in every State;

Whereas, in 1912, the first Eagle Scout Award was earned, and more than 2,800,000 youth have earned the Eagle Scout Award since;

Whereas, in 1916, Congress granted Scouting America a Federal charter;

Whereas, in 2025, nearly 25,000 young men and women earned the rank of Eagle Scout;

Whereas approximately 15 percent of all military academy cadets and midshipmen across the United States service academies are Eagle Scouts;

Whereas, of the 12 individuals who have walked on the surface of the Moon, 11 participated in Scouting during their youth, including 2 who earned the rank of Eagle Scout;

Whereas there are nearly 1,000,000 youth currently enrolled in Scouting who helped contribute more than 7,000,000 service hours in 2025, helping to build stronger communities across the country;

Whereas Scouting America is a proud partner of the America 250 initiative, supporting the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States of America;

Whereas more than 500,000 adult volunteer leaders serve young people in their communities through religious, civic, and other organizations chartered by Scouting America;

Whereas the patriotic men and women involved in Scouting often neither seek nor receive the thanks of the public for their contribution to the future of the country;

Whereas, on February 8, 2026, the Nation celebrates Scouting America Day in recognition of the 116th anniversary of the incorporation of this indispensable American institution; and

Whereas Scouting America endeavors to develop American citizens who are physically, mentally, and emotionally fit, have a high degree of self-reliance as evidenced in such qualities as initiative, courage, and resourcefulness, have personal values based on religious and spiritual concepts, have the desire and skills to help others, understand the principles of the American social, economic, and governmental systems, take pride in their American heritage and understand the Nation’s role in the world, have a keen respect for the basic rights of all people, and are prepared to participate in and give leadership to American society: Now, therefore, be it