There’s a wealth of useful content in the numerous ceremony scripts that are available online and in hard copy publications. Troops can and do benefit when using them as resources. Bearing in mind though, if these scripts, and many more like them, were to be read verbatim, it would be difficult to keep the presentation flowing and expressive. Scouting ceremonies sometimes consist of presenters reading word for word, and when this is done, there should be ample preparation so the ceremony proceeds smoothly. A preferred approach is to use index cards serving as cues, and less obtrusive points of reference, during the presentation. (Please review Planning Ceremonies.) It’s suggested, the following scripted ceremonies can serve troops best, when they are adapted, and delivered from the heart.
TRAIL OF THE EAGLE
– Review the Eagle Scout candidate’s Scouting history, from induction all the way to the Eagle Scout rank, stressing their growth in the ideals of Scouting. As this is being read, the candidate walks from the back of the room to the front where they are to receive their Eagle Scout badge.
VOICE OF THE EAGLE CEREMONY WITH FULL COURT OF HONOR PRESENTATION
– Senior Patrol Leader: Please stand for the presentation of colors. Advance the colors.
– Color Guard Leader: (They come forward and let the color guard reach its position, then addresses the audience.) Please join us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Scouts, salute. (The troop flag is dipped. The color guard leader leads the Pledge of Allegiance.) Two! Post the colors. Color guard, reform. (They return to their seats.) The audience may be seated. (The color guard leader returns to their seat.)
– Senior Patrol Leader: I would like to welcome you to the Troop (No.) Eagle Scout court of honor. It is my pleasure to introduce Eagle Scout (name) who is master of ceremonies of this court of honor. (The senior patrol leader returns to their seat.)
– MC: I would like to invite all Eagle Scouts, including adults, to stand at this time. (Pause.) Thank you; you may be seated. It is my pleasure to introduce (name), who will lead us in our invocation. (invocation)
– The voice of the Eagle is played by a narrator who can expressively read the lines from behind the scenes, using a microphone, as appropriate.
Narrator: Scout candidate(s) (name[s]), please come forward. (Eagle candidate(s) proceed to the front of the room and face the audience.) This is the voice of the Eagle, the Eagle whose heights you have struggled hard to reach. We remember well when you first came to the base of the cliff, and how you looked up with ambition and determination. Look back for a moment; look down the cliff you have climbed; look at the experiences you have encountered in your ascent. These experiences should not be forgotten. You should profit by making sure adverse experiences do not occur again. Experience is a valuable teacher, if you heed its teachings.
– We remember when you took your first step upon the trail that leads upward. With that first step you began to grow physically, mentally, and morally. You started living the Scout Oath and Law. All the while you were on the trail, we watched you study and we saw you learn by doing. Upon joining, you were only a Scout. (A Scout steps out and takes their designated place on the stage.) At that time, you began working hard on your requirements to reach the Tenderfoot rank, the first ledge on the trail to Eagle. Before long, your fellow Scouts were calling you a Tenderfoot, and they were right. You were indeed a Tenderfoot Scout. (A Tenderfoot Scout steps out and takes their place next to the first Scout.)
– Soon you reached the second ledge, and there you were greeted by a large group of Second Class Scouts. (A Second Class Scout steps out and joins the Scout and Tenderfoot Scout.) Some, like you, stopped to catch their breath before continuing along the trail. You began to study more, you worked harder, and almost before you knew it, you came to another ledge—the ledge where the First Class Scouts dwell. (A First Class Scout steps out and takes their place.)
There you found a tempting green meadow by a crystal-clear stream bathed in the sun. There you were tempted to remain. Yes, you could have remained there to live the First Class Scout glory, but your ambition spurred you on. We remember your advancement to Star Scout. (A Star Scout steps out and takes their place.)
– The trail from First Class to Star rank was not as difficult as it had seemed. This spurred you on, and again you climbed higher. The trail was steeper and less worn. Fewer Scouts seemed to be headed in your direction. You looked down and saw the crowds below you. You looked up and saw a few above you and, with the same determination with which you started your climb, you continued up the trail. Soon, you earned the badge of Life rank. (A Life Scout steps out and takes their place.) The heart badge was then placed on your uniform. You will never forget your thoughts at that moment. This feeling has been experienced by all Scouts on reaching the ledge of Life Scout.
– Life Scout: Now I am close to the Eagle. I will carry on.
– Narrator: The trail became tougher, but more interesting. The original principles—the Scout Oath and Law—now had a fuller meaning. Your understanding of them was deeper. Yes, we have watched your character unfold and become more positive. We have watched your leadership expand into a valuable asset. We have watched your mind develop and your wisdom increase. We have watched all these things in you, and now that you are at the threshold of your goal we welcome you, for you have done your climbing in a true Scoutlike manner. This is the voice of the Eagle. (The master of ceremonies steps forward. The Scouts are seated.)
– MC: The presentation of the Eagle Scout badge is an important and serious event, the climax and the goal for which a Scout works many years, an occasion for pride and joy, a time for serious contemplation. It is the culmination of efforts of the various leaders of this (these) Scout(s). The Eagle Scout Award is the highest and most coveted rank in Scouting—the last major step in the advancement program. Fewer than 4 percent of all Scouts in the United States reach the Eagle Scout rank. At this point, we trust you have achieved our purpose in the building of character, training of leadership, and the practice of serving.
– The requirements for the Eagle Scout rank are as follows:
1. Be active in your troop and patrol for at least six months as a Life Scout.
2. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath and Law in your everyday life.
3. Earn 21 merit badges, including the 13 that are required—First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, Communication, Cooking, Personal Fitness, Emergency Preparedness or Lifesaving, Environmental Science or Sustainability, Personal Management, Swimming or Hiking or Cycling, Camping, and Family Life.
4. Serve actively in an approved position of responsibility for a period of six months after becoming a Life Scout.
5. Plan, develop, and lead others in carrying out a service project worthy of an Eagle Scout.
6. Take part in a Scoutmaster conference.
7. Appear before a board of review of prominent persons, and satisfy them that you have done your best to understand and live up to the Scout Oath and Law and, in all ways, qualify for the Eagle Scout Award.
– Scoutmaster or Advancement Chairperson: Careful examination has been made by the court as to the qualifications of this (these) applicant(s) for the Eagle Scout Award. Proficiency in the various crafts and skills prescribed for the Eagle Scout rank has been checked, and the records of merit badges earned by the Scout(s) have been approved and certified by the counselors appointed by the court.
– Scout candidate(s) (name[s]) has (have) demonstrated their capacity and willingness to exert leadership in activities that are constructive and worthwhile in this community. The record has been checked in troop leadership, school affairs, and in other fields of work and service. They have demonstrated loyalty and duty to God and country. We believe that they are qualified to receive the rank of Eagle Scout.
– Narrator: (from behind the scenes) This is the voice of the Eagle. I speak for the Eagle Scouts of this council. We challenge this (these) Scout(s) to accept the responsibilities as well as the honor of the Eagle Scout Award. These responsibilities are as follows: An Eagle Scout is to live with honor. Their honor is sacred; it is the foundation of all character. An Eagle Scout will live so that they reflect credit upon their home, place of worship, school, friends, and self. May the white of your badge remind you to live with honor.
– An Eagle Scout is to be loyal . “To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any person.” Neither pain nor profit, pride nor personal loss shall sway their loyalty. The blue on your badge is the emblem of loyalty.
– An Eagle Scout is to be courageous. Courage gives all character force and strength. With trust in God and faith in their fellowman, they face each day unafraid and seeks their share of the world’s work to do. Let the red of your badge remind you of courage.
– Finally, an Eagle Scout is service oriented. Extend a helping hand to those who toil along the Scouting trail you have completed, just as others have aided you. The daily Good Turn must take on a new meaning and better the life pattern of service. Protect and defend the weak and helpless; comfort the unfortunate and oppressed. Uphold the rights of others as well as your own. Remember, real leadership is founded upon real service.
– MC: In recognition of these obligations, I ask you to reaffirm the Scout Oath or Promise. (They give the Scout Oath.)
– Eagle Scout applicant(s), please escort your parents to the front. Fellow Eagle Scout(s), we now proclaim to all the world your accomplishments. The symbol of your success is the Eagle Scout badge and neckerchief, which will now be presented to your parents by (name). Your parents will, in turn, pin the badge over your heart and place the neckerchief around your neck. (The badge[s] is [are] presented.) Eagle Scout(s), in recognition of the wisdom and guidance given to you by your father(s), please present to them this Eagle tie bar, which they will be proud to wear in your honor. (Pause.) And now, also in recognition of the many hours of patient guidance given by her in your efforts, will you pin the Eagle mother’s pin over your mother’s heart? (Pause.) Eagle Scout(s), please escort your parents back to their seats, then return to the front. I would like to read the following letters. (Any congratulatory letters, are read.) I now have the honor to present to you this gift (if any) from Troop (No.) in recognition of your outstanding service to this troop and of becoming an Eagle Scout. I would like to introduce (name), who will now give the Eagle Scout charge.
– Speaker: (invites all Eagle Scouts in attendance to come forward) I have the honor of giving you the Eagle Scout charge on the occasion of your elevation to the highest rank in Scouting. (The speaker presents a selected Eagle Scout charge.)
– MC: (closing remarks as desired) You are invited to remain for the reception for Eagle Scout(s) ___________(name[s]), following our benediction by (name). (The benediction is given.) This Eagle Scout court of honor stands adjourned.
EAGLE SCOUT OBLIGATIONS CEREMONY
Each of the following obligations can be presented by a different individual.
– The foremost responsibility of an Eagle Scout is to live with honor. To an Eagle Scout, honor is the foundation of all character. They know that “A Scout is trustworthy” is the very first point of the Scout Law for a good reason.
1. The first obligation of the Eagle Scout is to live honorably, not only because honor is important to them, but because of the vital significance of the example they set for other Scouts. Living honorably reflects credit on their home, their place of worship, their troop, and their community. May the white of the Eagle badge remind you to always live with honor.
2. The second obligation of an Eagle Scout is loyalty. A Scout is true to their family, Scout leaders, friends, school, and nation. Their loyalty to their troop and fellow Scouts makes them pitch in and carry their 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.
3. The third obligation of an Eagle Scout is to be courageous. Courage has always been a quality by which individuals 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 their fellowman, they look forward to each day, seeking their share of the world’s work to do. Let the red of the Eagle badge remind you always of courage.
4. 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.
5. The final obligation 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 them in their climb to the Eagle. The performance of the daily Good Turn takes on a new meaning when they enter a more adult life of continuing service to others. The Eagle stands as protector of the weak and helpless. They aid and comfort the unfortunate and the oppressed. They uphold the rights of others while defending their own. They will always “Be Prepared” to put forth their 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. (At this time, the Scout Oath and Law may be recited by all Scouts.)
EAGLE PLEDGE SCRIPT
– Scoutmaster or other Leader: Awarding the Eagle is an important and serious matter. It is the climax and goal toward which (name of honoree) has been working for several years. It is the culmination of the efforts of their parents and leaders. It is an occasion for pride and for joy, but, it is also a time for serious contemplation. Eagle is the highest and most coveted award in all Scouting, and it is the last major step in the advancement program. These thoughts, which are in effect the basic code of Scouting, are well summed up in a pledge which is taken by every Scout in the council upon advancement to Eagle rank. I will read the pledge to you so that you will know that which you are about to promise.
– “I, (states name) believe in Scouting America as a movement which has as its aim and purpose, character building and citizenship training, I believe it to be a movement that helps a Scout become master of their own powers, helps them get along with other people, and helps them find a worthy use for their powers. I therefore believe it is my duty to do my best to obey the Scout Oath and Law. I hereby renew my faith in Scouting and promise to do what I can in service to other Scouts who have not come thus far along the Eagle trail.”
– Before you repeat this pledge, will all Eagle Scouts in attendance please come forward and repeat the pledge with us.
– I, (states name)… believe in Scouting America … as a movement which has as its aim and purpose, … character building and citizenship training. … I believe it to be a movement … that helps a Scout become master of their own powers, … helps them get along with other people, … and helps them find a worthy use for their powers. … I therefore believe it is my duty to do my best … to obey the Scout Oath and Law. … I hereby renew my faith in Scouting … and promise to do what I can … in service to other Scouts … who have not come thus far along the Eagle trail. …
CHALLENGE CEREMONY
– MC: We come now to that part of our court of honor where we are to give recognition to our candidate for the rank of Eagle Scout.
– Aid: (from the audience) Sir, I have the honor to present Life Scout (name of candidate) for the award of Eagle Scout. (escorts candidate to the front)
– MC: Awarding the Eagle is an important and serious matter. It is the climax and goal toward which this Scout has been working for several years. It is the culmination of the efforts of the parents and leaders of this Scout. It is an occasion for pride and for joy, but, it is also a time for serious contemplation. Eagle is the highest and most coveted award in all Scouting, and it is the last major step in the advancement program. If, at this point, Scouting has not achieved its purpose in the building of character, in the training for leadership, in the practice of service, then it probably never shall. These thoughts, which are in effect the basic code of Scouting, are well summed up in a pledge which is taken by every Scout in the council upon advancement to Eagle rank. (to candidate) I will read the pledge to you so that you will know that which you are about to promise, and then I will ask you to repeat it after me.
– I, (states name) believe in Scouting America as a movement which has as its aim and purpose, character building and citizenship training, I believe it to be a movement that helps a Scout become master of their own powers, helps them get along with other people, and helps them find a worthy use for their powers. I therefore believe it is my duty to do my best to obey the Scout Oath and Law. I hereby renew my faith in Scouting and promise to do what I can in service to other Scouts who have not come thus far along the Eagle trail. Having heard the Eagle pledge, are you willing to adopt it?
– Candidate: I am.
– MC: Raise your hand in the Scout sign and repeat after me. (At this point, Life Scout interrupts)
– Life Scout: (from the audience) Stop! I challenge the right of this Scout to be awarded the rank of Eagle!
– MC: Who are you and by what right do you challenge?
– Life Scout: I am a Life Scout, and my esteem for the Eagle rank gives me the right to so challenge.
– MC: On what grounds do you challenge?
– Life Scout: Has this Scout achieved the requirements in Scoutcraft and life interest?
– MC: Their application has been verified and indicates that they have satisfactorily completed the required 21 merit badges in the various fields of endeavor. Are you now satisfied?
– Life Scout: I am.
– First Class Scout: (from the audience) I, too, challenge the right of this Scout to be awarded the rank of Eagle.
– MC: Who are you and by what right do you challenge?
– First Class Scout: I am a First Class Scout, and the respect that I have for the uniform which I wear gives me the right to so challenge.
– MC: On what grounds do you challenge?
– First Class Scout: Does their Scoutmaster certify that this Scout has actively participated in Scouting in their troop, demonstrated leadership, and done their best to help in their home, school, church, and community?
– Scoutmaster: As Scoutmaster of Troop (number) I certify that for more than six months since attaining the Life rank, this Scout has held leadership positions in their troop, and has been active in school, church, and community activities.
– MC: Are you now satisfied?
– First Class Scout: I am.
– Eagle #1: (from the audience) I, too challenge the right of this Scout to be awarded the rank of Eagle.
– Chairman: Who are you and by what right do you challenge?
– Eagle #1: I am an Eagle Scout. The pride I have in this badge, which I wear over my heart, gives me the right to so challenge.
– MC: On what grounds do you challenge?
– Eagle #1: Has this Scout, now nearing the end of the Eagle trail, demonstrated their willingness and ability to live and act in accordance with the ideals of Scouting, as exemplified by the Scout Oath, Law, motto, and slogan?
– Eagle #2: (from audience, recites the Scout Oath)
– Eagle #3: (from audience, recites Scout Law)
– Eagle #4: (from the audience) Be Prepared.
– Eagle #5: (from the audience) Do a Good Turn Daily.
– Board of Review Chairman: As a chairman of the board which reviewed this Scout, I certify that, after investigation interview and examination, the board is of the opinion that this Scout has demonstrated that they have held to the spirit of Scouting in their daily living. The board recommends their advancement to Eagle.
– MC: Are you now satisfied?
– Eagle #1: Still I am not satisfied. I believe that this candidate should understand that the Eagle is a responsibility as well as an honor, and I respectfully ask that this candidate be informed of the responsibilities of an Eagle Scout before continuing further.
– MC: Thank you, Eagle Scout. I agree with your feelings and suggest that none are more qualified to impart this than those who wear the Eagle. I invite you and your fellow Eagles to the platform.
– Eagle #2: The first responsibility of an Eagle Scout is to live with honor, which to an Eagle is sacred. Honor is the foundation of character. Character is what a person really is down inside, not what someone may think they are. An Eagle will live so as to reflect credit upon their home, their place of worship, theirs school, their friends, upon Scouting, and upon themselves. May the white of your Eagle badge always remind you to live with honor.
– Eagle #3: The second obligation of an Eagle Scout is loyalty, without loyalty, all character lacks direction. An Eagle is loyal to their ideals. May the blue of your Eagle badge always remind you to be loyal.
– Eagle #4: The third obligation of an Eagle Scout is courage. Courage gives all character force and strength. Trusting in God and with faith in their fellowman, the Eagle faces each day unafraid, and seeks their share of the world’s work to do. May the red of your Eagle badge always remind you of courage.
– Eagle #5: The final obligation of an Eagle Scout is service. They extend a helping hand to those who toil up the Scouting trail they have completed, just as others helped them in their achievement of the Eagle rank. The habit of the daily Good Turn must take on new meaning and blossom forth into a life of service. The Eagle protects and defends the weak and the helpless. They aid and comfort the oppressed and the unfortunate. They uphold the rights of others while defending their own. Their code of honor is based upon the belief that real leadership must be founded upon real service.
Eagle #1: Mr. Chairman, if this candidate is willing and eager to accept the mantle of responsibility as well as the honor of the badge, then I will be satisfied and request that you proceed to administer the Eagle pledge.
– MC: (to candidate) Are you ready and willing to accept these responsibilities and to adopt the Eagle pledge which I read to you at the beginning of this ceremony?
Candidate: I am.
– MC: Raise your hand in the Scout sign and repeat after me. (Repeats the Eagle pledge, line by line)
– MC: Now, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the National Council of Scouting America, I hereby award the rank of Eagle Scout to you. Since the parents of this Scout and their Scoutmaster have been so instrumental in their attaining the Eagle rank, I will ask that they come to the platform. (Proceed with presentation of award, certificate, and parents pins.)