Recognitions
Several uniform insignia and awards are available to show
a Scout's involvement in the world Scouting movement:
Insignia
Awards
Most international insignia items are available through local councils and the
International Division. A list of items, including item numbers, is provided
at the bottom of this page.
An emblem of the World Organization of the Scout Movement, the
World Crest may be worn by all registered youth
members and adult leaders as a symbol of their membership in a worldwide
Scouting brotherhood. A small amount from the sale of each emblem is
sent to the World Scout Foundation to help extend Scouting in developing
nations throughout the world. This adds an opportunity for each Scout to
personally share indirectly in the activities of brother Scouts in other
lands.
Over the years, each member national Scout organization has made use
of the badge in a different manner. In 1988 the World Organization of the
Scout Movement requested that every national Scout association authorize
this emblem to be worn by all members to signify membership in a worldwide
movement.
The emblem is worn as a permanent patch centered horizontally over the
left pocket and vertically between the left shoulder seam and the top of
the pocket.
For youth and adult leaders, the International Activity
patch is worn as a temporary patch centered on the right uniform pocket.
Specific requirements are developed by the local council or its districts
with council approval.
A Scout wearing the interpreter strip must be able
to carry on a conversation in a foreign language or in sign language, write
a letter in the foreign language (not required for signing), and translate
orally and in writing from one language to another.
The BSA may present the Silver World Award for
distinguished service to youth on an international basis, to individuals
who are or are not members of associations of the World Organization of
the Scout Movement. The award is in recognition of service of exceptional
character to the youth of one country, or on an international basis.
United States citizens may be considered for the Silver World Award only
if they are not registered members of the Boy Scouts of America.
Nominations should be submitted to the International Division for
consideration of a special selection committee.
Scouts are eligible to receive the World Conservation
Award after completing the requirements for the following merit badges:
Environmental Science, Citizenship in the World, and either Soil and Water
Conservation or Fish and Wildlife Management.
The Citizenship in the World merit badge requires
Scouts to learn about global issues and international organizations, as
well as take part in an international event. The official requirements
can be found in Boy Scout Requirements, No. 33215, or in the
Citizenship in the World merit badge pamphlet, No. 33260.
Where to obtain these items:
International insignia available through the local council:
- International Representative patch, No. 00141
- World Crest, No. 00143
- International Activity patch, No. 00144
- International neckerchief, No. 00746