The Boy Scout Oath

On my honor,
I will do my best
To do my duty to God
and my country
and to obey the Scout Law;
To keep myself
physically strong,
mentally awake and
morally straight.

The Boy Scout Law

A Scout Is...

A Scout tells the truth. He keeps his promises. Honesty is part of his code of conduct. People can depend on him.

A Scout is true to his family, Scout leaders, friends, school, and nation.

A Scout is concerned about other people. He does things willingly for others without pay or reward.

A Scout is a friend to all. He is a brother to other Scouts. He seeks to understand others. He respects those with ideas and customs other than his own.

A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of age or position. He knows good manners make it easier for people to get along together.

A Scout understands there is strength in being gentle. He treats others as he wants to be treated. He does not hurt or kill harmless things without reason.

A Scout looks for the bright side of things. He cheerfully does tasks that come his way. He tries to make others happy.

A Scout works to pay his way and to help others. He saves for unforeseen needs. He protects and conserves natural resources. He carefully uses time and property.

A Scout can face danger even if he is afraid. He has the courage to stand for what he thinks is right even if others laugh at or threaten him.

A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and clean. He goes around with those who believe in living by these same ideals. He helps keep his home and community clean.

A Scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties. He respects the beliefs of others.

The Boy Scout Motto Be Prepared! "Be prepared for what?" someone once asked Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, "Why, for any old thing." said Baden-Powell.  The training you receive in your Troop will help you live up to the Scout motto.  When someone has an accident, you are prepared because of your first aid instruction.  Because of lifesaving practice, you might be able to save a non-swimmer who has fallen into deep water. But Baden-Powell wasn't thinking just of being ready for emergencies.  His idea was that all Scouts should prepare themselves to become productive citizens and to give happiness to other people.  He wanted each Scout to be ready in mind and body for any struggles, and to meet with a strong heart whatever challenges might lie ahead. Be prepared for life - to live happily and without regret, knowing that you have done your best.  That's what the Scout motto means.

The Boy Scout Slogan Do A Good Turn Daily!   Some Good Turns are big - saving a life, helping out after floods or other disasters, recycling community trash, working with your Patrol on conservation projects. But Good Turns are often small, thoughtful acts - helping a child cross a busy street, going to the store for an elderly neighbor, cutting back brush that is blocking a sign, doing something special for a brother or sister, welcoming a new student to your school.  A Good Turn is more than simple good manners.  It is a special act of kindness.

The Outdoor Code