1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

This morning, NPR reported on an alleged leaked Pentagon memo that would direct the U.S. military to end its relationship with Scouting America. According to the report, the draft memo— which has not yet been submitted to Congress—states that the Secretary of War intends to discontinue support for Scouting programs for youth on military bases both in the United States and abroad, end assistance for the National Jamboree, and eliminate pay-grade increases for Eagle Scouts who enlist. For more than a century, the Scouting movement has enjoyed a strong and enduring partnership with our nation’s military. From the exceptional contributions of the West Virginia National Guard at our National Jamborees to Scout troops that provide community and stability to the children of deployed service members around the world, the military and Scouting have walked side by side for generations. A significant number of cadets at our military academies are current or former Scouts and Eagle Scouts. Our Scouts and leaders have long admired, respected, and been inspired by the men and women who serve, and many Scouts ultimately choose to wear the uniforms of our armed forces. NPR’s report also claims that the draft memo argues Scouting is “no longer a meritocracy” and fails to uphold high standards. This assertion is plainly inaccurate. Ranks and merit badges are earned through diligence, commitment, and demonstrated skill—never given. Young women and young men alike excel in Scouting. They proudly wear the American flag on their uniforms and pledge themselves to duty, service, and country. Scouting has always been a nonpartisan organization. For more than a hundred years, it has worked constructively with every presidential administration—Republican and Democrat—around the shared mission of developing future leaders grounded in integrity, responsibility, and service. We urge you to tell the Secretary of Defense that this longstanding partnership is vital and must continue for the benefit of our nation’s youth.