Re: Eagle BOR Appearance
Amick Robert (amick@SPOT.COLORADO.EDU)
Mon, 24 Nov 1997 12:13:28 -0700
Linda, et al
Certainly it is appropriate to expect that a Scout will show up for an
Eagle Board of review with appropriate uniforming. However, it is
incumbent upon the Scoutmaster/Advancement Chair/et al, to ensure that
such expectations are made known to the Scout *prior* to the event. Many
times "assumptions" are made that such information is "always" passed on
to Eagle candidates, and as we all know, it doesn't always happen.
Those who counsel Eagle Scout candidates have an obligation to ensure
that the candidate is prepared for the board, in terms of appropriate
handling of paperwork and forms, and with some idea of what is expected
from the candidate by the board; and conversely, what the candidate can
reasonably expect of the board.
If it comes to the point of the Scout showing up somewhat unkempt, and he
has not been informed of the expectation, surely the board would have the
courtesy to overlook that issue, and concentrate on the real importance of
his being there, which is to examine his qualifications and merit to be an
Eagle Scout. Outward appearances are important, but not nearly so
important as the more intangibles of character, honor, and principles
which have brought him that far along the Scouting trail. Corrections can
be made privately with the Scoutmaster after the event to avoid a similar
future occurrence.
Humiliating and embarrasing an Eagle Scout candidate over trivialities
such as an unpressed uniform shirt, by sending him home, would seem to be
unconscionable; Moreover, such actions may result in irreparable
damage to what should be a memorable and positive experience to be savored
both by the Scout and by the Board conducting the review.
It is highly likely that any possibilty of such an occurrence can be
avoided by simply ensuring that the candidate is informed well in advance
of his board, both verbally an in writing, that he is expected to appear
in clean, pressed and appropriately configured uniform, with sash. If
there is some reason that this cannot occur, then the Scoutmaster should
so inform the board and allowances should be made.
Bob Amick, Explorer Advisor, High Adventure Explorer Post 72, Boulder, CO
Longs Peak Council Exploring Training Chair
On Mon, 24 Nov 1997, Linda Heinz wrote:
> A question has been asked of our District Committee: What should happen if
> a Scout shows up for his Eagle Board of Review and his uniform does not meet
> the expectations of the Review Board -- such as baggy pants, no merit badge
> sash, wrinkles in the shirt or some other problem. Can he be asked to
> return with his shirt ironed, etc.?
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City |
