The foremost responsibility of
an Eagle Scout is to live with honor. To an Eagle
Scout,
honor is the foundation of all character. He knows that "A
Scout is trustworthy" is the very first point of the Scout
Law for good reason. An Eagle Scout lives honorably, not only
because honor is important to him but because of the vital
significance of the example he sets for other Scouts. Living
honorably reflects credit on his home, his church, his troop, and
his community. May the white of the Eagle badge remind you to
always live with honor.
The second obligation of an
Eagle Scout is loyalty. A Scout is true to his family, Scout
leaders, friends, school, and nation. His loyalty to his troop and
brother Scouts makes him pitch in and carry his share of the load.
All of these help to build the loyalty which means devotion to
community, to country, to one's own ideals, and to God. Let the
blue of the Eagle badge always inspire your loyalty.
The third obligation of the
Eagle Scout is to be courageous. Courage has always been a quality
by which men measure themselves and others. To a Scout, bravery
means not only the courage to face physical danger, but the
determination to stand up for the right. Trusting in God, with
faith in his fellowman, he looks forward to each day, seeking his
share of the world's work to do. Let the red in the Eagle badge
remind you always of courage.
The fourth obligation of an
Eagle Scout is to be cheerful. To remind the Eagle Scout to always
wear a smile, the red, white, and blue ribbon is attached to the
scroll of the Second Class Scout award, which has its ends turned
up in a smile.
The final responsibility of
an Eagle Scout is service. The Eagle Scout extends a helping hand
to those who still toil up Scouting's trail, just as others helped
him in his climb to the Eagle. The performance of the daily Good
Turn takes on a new meaning when he enters a more adult life
continuing service to others. The Eagle stands as protector of the
weak and helpless. He aids and comforts the unfortunate and the
oppressed. He upholds the rights of others while defending his
own. He will always "Be Prepared" to put forth his best.
You deserve much credit for having
achieved Scouting's highest award. But wear your award with
humility, ever mindful that the Eagle Scout is looked up to as an
example. May the Scout Oath and the Scout Law be your guide for
tomorrow and onward.
