A quiet battle for the soul of an American institution has reached a decisive turning point. Scouting America, formerly known as the Boy Scouts, faced a stark ultimatum: realign with its core principles or risk losing the vital support of the Department of War.
The Department, concerned by what it termed “radical, woke ideology,” threatened to withdraw access to military bases and logistical support – including jeopardizing the massive 2026 National Jamboree. The stakes were immense, potentially crippling the organization’s ability to function and connect with a key demographic: future service members.
An agreement has now been forged. Scouting America will immediately dismantle its diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, adhering to Executive Order 14173. Membership will be defined by biological sex at birth, and intimate spaces will be segregated accordingly. This isn’t simply a policy shift; it’s a fundamental recalibration of identity.
The deal isn’t solely about restrictions. A significant concession includes waived registration fees for children of active-duty military families and the introduction of a new military-service merit badge, developed in partnership with the Department of War. This signals a renewed commitment to serving those who serve our nation.
For now, Scouting America retains its name and will continue to admit girls, but the Department’s support remains contingent. Secretary of War Hegseth made it clear: substantial progress over the next six months is crucial, with the ultimate goal of returning the organization to its original focus – developing boys into strong, capable men.
Scouting America has long boasted a strong connection to the armed forces. Historically, Scouts are more likely to serve in uniform, and Eagle Scouts consistently populate ROTC programs, service academies, and military leadership positions. This partnership isn’t just symbolic; it’s a pipeline of future leaders.
The organization frames this agreement as a strengthening of that historic bond, emphasizing a shared commitment to leadership, character, duty to God, and duty to country. While acknowledging past changes, they maintain that youth have always joined based on biological sex, and existing policies will continue to accommodate transgender youth.
But the truth is, modern Scouting is a fraction of its former self. In 1972, at its peak, the organization boasted 6.5 million members, with over 31 percent of American boys between 10 and 19 participating. The “Golden Age” was fueled by a post-war surge in civic engagement and a powerful recruitment drive.
Today, with the “Boy” removed from its name, Scouting America reports approximately 1 million youth members, including girls. Only around 800,000 of those are boys. The numbers tell a story of decline, a slow erosion of relevance in a changing cultural landscape.
Parents across the country have voiced concerns, lamenting a perceived abandonment of the original mission. The consensus is that Scouting lost its way, prioritizing social agendas over the core principles that once defined it. The Scout Oath – a pledge to duty, honor, and service – seemed to fade in importance.
The original intent was to forge young men through challenging outdoor experiences, building resilience and character. The Eagle Scout award, once a symbol of extraordinary achievement, required rigorous dedication and earned the recipient a letter from the President. Military recruits who earned the rank entered service as private first class.
Now, many argue that standards have slipped, with the award often granted through pressure or leniency. The “participation trophy” mentality has diluted its meaning, diminishing its value in the eyes of employers seeking discipline and perseverance. A culture of victimhood, they say, has replaced the spirit of overcoming adversity.
The very notion of “boys will be boys” – a recognition of youthful energy and risk-taking – has been stifled. Activities that once fostered toughness, teamwork, and confidence have been restricted or eliminated due to fears of liability and complaints. The pursuit of inclusivity, some argue, came at the cost of core values.
By attempting to be everything to everyone, Scouting America nearly succumbed to organizational suicide. Secretary Hegseth’s firm stance represents a return to the tough love that once defined the movement, a demand for a return to excellence and a renewed focus on its original mission.
