Resources

Think of advancement like leveling up in a video game. You start out as a new Scout, and as you learn new skills, complete challenges, and take on leadership roles, you earn ranks — moving from Scout all the way up to Eagle. Along the way, you also earn merit badges, which are like side quests that let you dive deeper into topics you're interested in, from camping and hiking to robotics and personal finance.

Each rank has a set of requirements you need to complete — things like learning first aid, going on campouts, serving in a leadership position, or completing service projects. Once you've checked everything off, you'll meet with your Scoutmaster and then go before a Board of Review to talk about what you've learned and experienced. After that, you've officially leveled up!

Advancement is up to you. Your Scoutmaster, advancement coordinator, and fellow Scouts are here to help, but it's your responsibility to take the initiative and keep moving forward.

Completed your Scoutmaster Conference and ready for the next step? Here's what to do:

1. Request a Board of Review (BOR). Call the Advancement Coordinator to schedule your BOR. Follow up with a short text message that includes your full name and the rank you're advancing to.

2. Prepare for your Board of Review. Complete this BOR template with a focus on your recent accomplishments. Print and bring 3 copies.

3. Attend your Board of Review. Come in your full Class A uniform with your 3 printed copies in hand. The BOR is not a test — it's a conversation with members of the troop committee about your Scouting experience and how you've grown.

A flag retirement ceremony is a dignified way to honor flags that are no longer fit for display — and a meaningful service Troop 29 offers to the community. Rather than discarding worn or damaged flags, we retire them through a solemn ceremony that reflects the reverence every American flag deserves. Download our Flag Retirement Script.