1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

As a former Eagle Scout and the current Cub Master of my son’s Pack 324, I am writing to express my deep concern and frustration over reports that the Department of Defense may discontinue its support for Scouting. This decision, influenced by the current Secretary of Defense, would be a devastating setback for an organization that has just begun to grow again and turn the corner after years of challenges. Scouting has always stood for timeless values: leadership, service, integrity, and community. These core principles have not changed. The only change we have made is opening the program to girls, ensuring that all youth have the opportunity to benefit from the same mission of character-building and citizenship. That inclusion strengthens—not weakens—our movement. The military’s partnership with Scouting has been vital in reinforcing these values and providing young people with role models who embody service and sacrifice. To withdraw that support now would not only harm Scouting but also diminish the shared mission of preparing the next generation to lead with honor and responsibility. I urge you to stand firmly with Scouting. Please apply every measure of influence and pressure available to ensure that the military continues its support. Our Pack, and thousands like it across the nation, depend on this partnership to thrive. We do not need to be dragged back into another fight when we are finally regaining momentum. Scouting is not a partisan issue—it is about investing in the future of our children and our communities. I ask you to defend this tradition and ensure that Scouting receives the full support it needs to continue shaping tomorrow’s leaders.