UNIFORMING: WHY DO WE DO IT? SET THE EXAMPLE

UNIFORMING The uniform is one of the eight Methods of Scouting. The uniform makes the Scout troop visible as a force for good and creates a positive youth image in the community. Boy Scouting is an action program, and wearing the uniform is an action that shows each Scout’s commitment to the aims and purposes of Scouting. The uniform gives the Scout identity in a world brotherhood of youth who believe in the same ideals. The uniform is practical attire for Scout activities and provides a way for Scouts to wear the badges that show what they have accomplished. Our founder, Lord Baden-Powell, said: “Show me a poorly uniformed troop and I’ll show you a poorly uniformed leader.

UNIFORMING What does a full adult uniform include? Shirt Pants or shorts Web belt Belt buckle Cap Socks

UNIFORMING What does a fully uniformed Scouting youth look like? Shirt Pants or Shorts Cap Socks Belt Neckerchief Slide Neckerchief

UNIFORMING – Why this matters: Unlike many other activities, such as sports, Scouting will let a youth who lacks a uniform participate without penalty. However, adult and youth participants can be shown that the investment in uniforming is both economical and a source of pride. Pride in wearing a full uniform enhances participation, and participation enhances the desire to wear the complete and correct uniform. Scouts and Scouters behave better and live up to the example when they are in full uniform.

Inspections (troop/patrols) Inspection Sheets UNIFORMING Inspections (troop/patrols) Inspection Sheets

Resources The Aims and Methods of Scouting - www.scouting.org/ filestore/hispanic/pdf/521-042.pdf BSA Uniforms website - bsauniforms.org Guide to Awards and Insignia - www.scouting.org/ scoutsource/Media/InsigniaGuide.aspx Official BSA retail website - www.scoutstuff.org Scout Store

UNIFORMING Lord Baden-Powell also said, “The uniform makes for brotherhood, since when universally adopted it covers up all differences of class and country.” In other words, wearing the uniform erases the lines that define and separate us. We become “one,” all of us on the same playing field.