Trump Sets Off Middle East Crisis With One Phone Call
The War Department officially put Scouting America on notice.
It’s time to get back to basics – and DoW is leading the charge. pic.twitter.com/EnY9mvaFLX
– Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) February 27, 2026
Scouting America will also discontinue its “citizenship in society” merit badge awarded by the DOD. press release The claims “required individuals with the rank of Life Scout to “become aware of the benefits of diversity, equity, inclusion and ethical leadership” before being allowed to advance to the rank of Eagle Scout.
The organization will be limited to allowing only male and female gender designations, and the gender listed on testing applications must match the applicant’s birth certificate. The organization will also introduce a military service merit badge and waive registration fees for children of members of the military, whether active duty, reserve or National Guard.
Hegseth warned that Scouting America must deliver on these commitments, and DOD plans to “vigorously review” the organization’s progress in six months. If it finds that Scouting America has not met its commitments, DOD will stop supporting the organization.
