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The Eagle Charge:
[Usually all Eagle Scouts in attendance are asked
to stand and join the Scout being honored when the Eagle Charge is
administered.]
I have the honor of giving you the Eagle Scout charge
on the occasion of the elevation to the highest award in Scouting.
The Scouts of all nations constitute one of the most
meaningful and significant movements in the world's history. You have been
judged by the Boy Scouts of America as being worthy of this honor. All who know
you rejoice in your achievement.
Your position, as you well know, is one of honor and
responsibility. You are a marked man. As an Eagle Scout, you have assumed a
solemn obligation to do your duty to God, to country, to your fellow Scouts,
and to mankind in general. This is a great undertaking. As you live up to your
obligations, you bring honor to yourself and to your brother Scouts.
America has many good things to give you and your
children after you; but these good things depend for the most part on the
quality of her citizens. Our country has had a great past. You can help make
the future even greater.
I charge you to undertake your citizenship with solemn
dedication. Be a leader, but lead only toward the best. Lift up every task you
do and every office your hold to the highest level of service to God and to
your fellow man. So live and serve that those who know you will be inspired to
finer living. We have too many who use their strength and their brains to
exploit others and to gain selfish ends. I charge you to be among those who
dedicate their skills and ability to the common good.
Build American on the solid foundation of clean
living, honest work, unselfish citizenship, and reverence for God; and,
whatever others may do, you will leave behind you record of which every other
Scout my be justly proud.
I will now ask you to make the Scout sign and repeat
alter me;
[Salute.]
"I realize my obligation -
to my fellow men, my
home -
my country, and my God, -
I will at all times do my best -
to assist others -
to live with honor, loyalty, -
courage and
service -
and to be a living example -
of the Scout Oath and Law -
to the best of my ability."
[Two.]
Your conduct along the trail has been excellent. But
one more thing is important- your future.
As an Eagle Scout, you become a guide to other Scouts.
You become an example in your community. Remember that your actions are now a
little more conspicuous and people will expect more of you. To falter in your
responsibility would reflect no only on you, but on your fellow Eagles and all
of Scouting. The torch you carry is not only yours, but is also ours. |
