BSA Scout

A BSA Scout, formerly known as a Boy Scout, is a youth member of the Scouts BSA program of the Boy Scouts of America. The Scouts BSA program is available to youth who are at least 11 years old, or who have completed the fifth grade, or who are at least 10 years old and have earned the Arrow of Light Award, and are under 18 years of age.

The BSA Scout program focuses on developing character, citizenship, and fitness through outdoor activities, community service, and leadership opportunities. Scouts advance through a series of ranks, starting with Scout and progressing through Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and ultimately, Eagle Scout. Each rank requires the completion of specific requirements, including merit badges, service projects, and demonstrating scout skills.

The Scout Oath and Law serve as guiding principles for BSA Scouts, emphasizing ethical conduct, respect for others, and a commitment to service. The Scout Oath states: "On my honor, I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight." The Scout Law outlines twelve traits a Scout should strive to embody: trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.

BSA Scouts participate in a variety of activities, including camping, hiking, backpacking, pioneering, first aid, and conservation projects. They learn valuable skills that promote self-reliance, teamwork, and leadership. The program also encourages Scouts to explore their interests through the pursuit of merit badges, which cover a wide range of topics from citizenship to wilderness survival. Adult leaders, often volunteers, guide and mentor Scouts, providing support and encouragement as they progress through the program.