U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is proposing a significant shift in military policy by recommending the termination of the long-standing partnership with Scouting America. This proposed change centers around concerns regarding the organization’s adoption of gender ideology and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. If implemented, the proposal would end military support for the National Jamboree and restrict Scout troops from using military facilities for meetings.
The military has supported Scouting America for over a century, formalizing this relationship in 1937. Hegseth’s proposal calls for the Pentagon to cease medical and logistical aid to the National Jamboree, which draws thousands of Scouts to West Virginia every three to four years. According to reports, Hegseth has stated that the organization has strayed from its original mission of cultivating traditional masculine values, leading to the assertion that Scouting America is now creating “gender confusion.”
In internal communications, Hegseth has cited national security concerns as justification for withdrawing support. He argues that the diversion of military resources for the ten-day youth event could undermine security efforts. The Secretary of War has a history of vocal criticism towards Scouting America, particularly following its decision to allow girls to join the organization in 2018. He has previously described the changes as detrimental to the institution’s core values.
Despite the proposed changes, Scouting America has expressed its commitment to maintaining its affiliation with the military. In a statement, the organization emphasized its nonpartisan stance and its history of collaboration with various U.S. presidential administrations. “Our focus has always been on building future leaders grounded in integrity, responsibility, and community service,” the statement read.
Congress mandates military support for the Jamboree, which includes providing vehicles, medical teams, and demonstration events at no cost to the Scouts. Notably, the Pentagon’s chief spokesman, Sean Parnell, indicated that Hegseth and his team routinely assess partnerships to ensure they align with the current administration’s agenda and the military’s mission.
The proposal also raises concerns about its potential impact on military recruitment. Reports suggest that as many as 20 percent of cadets and midshipmen at U.S. service academies are Eagle Scouts, a designation that offers enlistees advanced military rank and enhanced pay. Should Hegseth’s proposal come to fruition, these benefits may be at risk.
Some military officials have expressed reservations about Hegseth’s plan. Navy Secretary John Phelan reportedly stated in a memo that cutting ties with Scouting America could be “too restrictive.” He emphasized that access to military installations serves as a vital recruitment and community engagement tool.
The path forward remains uncertain as Congress deliberates on Hegseth’s proposal. The law invoked by Hegseth requires a timely report on the matter, with planning for the upcoming Jamboree already underway. As discussions unfold, a draft letter to Scouting America’s leadership has reportedly been prepared, indicating that the Department of Defense (DoD) personnel and resources will not be available for the event.
This unfolding situation represents a pivotal moment for both the military and Scouting America, as the implications of severing a partnership that has lasted over a century will likely resonate within both organizations and their respective communities for years to come.
