Merit Badges: Part of the Proud Tradition of Scouting

Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts are an integral part of growing up, dedicated to the ideals of character development through group activities. Many American leaders have begun their path to greatness through Scouting. One of the ways Scouting recognizes achievement in its ranks is by issuing Scout patches to those who earn them. From the youngest Cub Scout through Eagle Scout and on to adulthood, those embroidered badges of merit are cherished as a sign of accomplishment.

A Scout badge is a mark of distinction for the wearer. They’re are part of a long, proud tradition of Scouting worldwide, a throwback to the heritage of the Scouting founder Robert Baden-Powell himself.

Scout patches in the United States have a distinguished century-long history dating to the founding of the Boy Scouts of America. Scouts can earn merit badges in more than 100 categories, including areas such as rifle shooting, American business, journalism, lifesaving, theater and many others. Adult Scout leaders also can earn badges when they complete their own training requirements.

Scouts and leaders can sew their badged onto uniforms, keep them in an album, or display them anyplace they choose. Many suppliers also offer the badges with iron-on backings for easy affixing. The iron-on pieces might be easier to attach, but they won’t be as durable as a sewn-on piece. One way to make a great-looking permanent application is to use the iron-on backing to hold the piece in place while sewing it onto the garment.
 
Scouts work to earn Scout patches in the areas that interest them at their own pace. Once a Scout completes the requirements, he or she receives the badge. The amount of work required varies, depending on the badge.
Many people like to collect Scout memorabilia. They often trade or sell their items at Scouting events or on Internet auction sites.

For many adults, collecting Scout badges brings back fond memories their own Scouting days. They can recall the excitement they felt when they earned their badges, and celebrate friendships they made through Scouting.

With the use of state-of-the-art computerized embroidery machines, modern patch companies can produce custom Scout pieces with ease.

Scout patches are a tradition that’s likely to continue. Another century from now, they’ll likely be as popular as they are today.