Scout badges are worn on the uniforms of members of Scouting organisations across the world in order to signify membership and achievements. There is a great variety of badges, not only between the different national Scouting organisations, but within the programme sections, as well.
Almost all badges are now made from cloth and are sewn on to the uniform shirt. In general, there are four types of badges worn by members of Scouting
- Group identity - Scouts belong to sub-divisions within their national organisations, and wear badges which identify which Scout Groups, Scout Districts, Scout Councils, or other divisions;
- Progressive awards - each section of Scouting has a number of long-term award programmes which reward the core principles of Scoutcraft, service, and adventure
- Activity or proficiency awards - Scouts are able to undertake a large number of activities and, on completion of set criteria, are awarded recognition for these activities
- Special/event badges - from time to time, Scouts are able to wear special event badges, for example, to celebrate the Scouting 2007 Centenary
Famous quotes containing the words scout and/or badge:
“Simone Clouseau: Jacques would make a wonderful father. He has many redeeming qualities, you know.
Sir Charles: Name one.
Simone Clouseau: Oh, he’s kind, loyal, faithful, obedient.
Sir Charles: You’re either married to a boy scout or a dachshund.”
—Blake Edwards (b. 1922)
“It would much conduce to the public benefit, if, instead of discouraging free-thinking, there was erected in the midst of this free country a dianoetic academy, or seminary for free-thinkers, provided with retired chambers, and galleries, and shady walks and groves, where, after seven years spent in silence and meditation, a man might commence a genuine free-thinker, and from that time forward, have license to think what he pleased, and a badge to distinguish him from counterfeits.”
—George Berkeley (1685–1753)