Rank Advancements and Merit Badges

Four Steps of Advancement

A Boy Scout advances from Tenderfoot to Eagle by doing things with his patrol and his troop, with his leaders, and on his own. It's easy for him to advance if the following four opportunities are provided for him.

1. The Boy Scout learns. A Scout learns by doing. As he learns, he grows in ability to do his part as a member of the patrol and the troop. As he develops knowledge and skill, he is asked to teach others; and in this way he begins to develop leadership.

2. The Boy Scout is tested. A Scout may be tested on rank requirements by his patrol leader, Scoutmaster, assistant Scoutmaster, a troop committee member, or a member of his troop. The Scoutmaster maintains a list of those qualified to give tests and to pass candidates. The person testing the Scout signs off in the back of the Boy Scout handbook with the date and their initials. The Scout's merit badge counselor teaches and tests on the requirements for merit badges. After the Scout has completed all of the requirements for his rank, he contacts the Scoutmaster for a Scoutmaster conference.

3. The Boy Scout is reviewed. After a Scout has had his Scoutmaster conference, he contacts the Board of Review chair so he can complete a board of review. For Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle Palms, the review is conducted by members of the troop committee. The Eagle Scout board of review is conducted in accordance with local council procedures.

4. The Boy Scout is recognized. When the board of review has certified a boy's advancement, he deserves to receive recognition as soon as possible. Troop 139 presents rank awards at Courts of Honor held quarterly.