
The first rank of Boy Scouting can be earned as
soon as a boy joins a troop, especially if he has earned his Arrow
of Light as a Webelos scout. This first rank is earned by applying
and memorizing some important scouting basics. Some troops have
Webelos scouts bridge over from the pack to the troop in February at
their Cub Scout pack Blue and Gold dinner and then have a court of
honor in March or April where they are presented with their Scout
badge.

Tenderfoot is the first rank earned as a Boy Scout. The requirements
of becoming a Tenderfoot provide basic skills to begin preparing the
scout for higher adventure outings. Earning badges and receiving
recognition can be very satisfying to boys. However, keep in mind
that the badge is only a representation of a valuable set of skills
that a scout has learned and demonstrated. The skills, wisdom, and
experience gained through the activities of the scouting program are
of much more value than a small badge.
2010 Tenderfoot Requirements

Second Class scouts work on building their outdoor survival and
camping skills. Compass work, nature observation, camp tools, and
swimming are areas where new skills are mastered and demonstrated. A
second class scout, having completed all the requirements, should be
able to lead a hike, care for his own equipment, set up a campsite,
and perform basic first aid.
2010 2nd Class Requirements

When the First Class rank is attained, a scout
has learned all the basic camping and outdoors skills of a scout. He
can fend for himself in the wild, lead others on a hike or campout,
set up a camp site, plan and properly prepare meals, and provide
first aid for most situations he may encounter. A First Class scout
is prepared.
2010 1st Class Requirements

Up through First Class rank, a scout was busy
learning skills and becoming a self-sufficient scout. He now moves
from being a learner to being a leader. The Star rank is attained
with participation, leadership, service, and self-directed
advancement through merit badges.
2010 Star Requirements

Continuing to develop leadership skills, the Life Scout rank is
earned by fulfilling additional leadership positions, service hours,
and merit badges. A Life Scout is expected to be a role model and
leader in the troop, providing guidance to new scouts and helping
the troop however he can. Being a good leader can only be learned by
doing and troop leadership positions allow the scout to make
decisions, lead discussions, and encourage others.
2010 Life Requirements

Attaining the Eagle rank is often the end goal of a scout and his
parents. It looks good on a resume and shows commitment to a program
over an extended span of time. But, just like each rank advancement
before it, the Eagle rank is a major advancement milestone, but not
the culmination of scouting.
2010 Eagle Requirements