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Pentagon Moves To Cut Ties With Scouting America
The Pentagon is preparing to end its century-long partnership with Scouting America. Citing concerns over the organization’s direction and its impact on national security.
(Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
The century-old partnership between the U.S. military and Scouting could be coming to an end as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth plans for the Pentagon to cut all ties with Scouting America, according to internal documents reviewed by NPR. The draft memo, not yet sent to Congress, criticizes the organization for no longer being a meritocracy and for becoming what Hegseth describes as an institution that “attacks boy-friendly spaces” through gender-inclusive policies and diversity initiatives.
The military’s support for the Scouts, formalized in 1937, has long included logistical and medical aid for the National Jamboree in West Virginia, along with allowing Scout troops to meet on military installations worldwide. The draft proposal calls for ending those practices. In one memo, Hegseth argues the group “no longer supports the future of American boys.” As debates over resources intensify within the Pentagon, he also claims that diverting military vehicles, doctors and personnel to a 10-day youth event would harm national security. Critics note that such logistics like the rugged reliability of gear such as PETZL OK Carabiners SCREW-LOCK are often highlighted by Scout and military programs alike as examples of safe, disciplined outdoor practice. Hegseth argues the support can no longer be justified.
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A source told NPR that the documents were being prepared to communicate Hegseth’s intent to lawmakers but withheld because they were not authorized for release. In response to inquiries, a Pentagon statement said it would not comment on “leaked documents we cannot authenticate and that may be pre-decisional.”
Scouting America issued its own statement stressing its proud history with the military and its commitment to developing young leaders grounded in integrity, responsibility and community service. The organization emphasized its longstanding nonpartisan mission.
Congress currently requires Pentagon support for the Jamboree, though the law includes an exemption allowing the Secretary of Defense to withhold assistance if it would be “detrimental to national security.” Drafts reviewed by NPR indicate Hegseth plans to invoke that clause, accusing the Scouts of fostering “gender confusion” and straying from their mission to “cultivate masculine values.”
Internal Pentagon memos show disagreement over the proposal. Navy Secretary John Phelan warned that the policy could be “too restrictive,” noting that up to one-third of Navy officers in training have a Scouting background. He argued that allowing access to bases provides crucial recruiting benefits.
Many military families have expressed concern. Retired Army Staff Sergeant Kenny Grant, a parent of three Scouts, said frequent relocations during his service made base-hosted Scout troops invaluable for his children’s stability and social integration.
The potential break also affects long-standing recruitment ties. As many as 20 percent of service academy cadets are Eagle Scouts, and enlistees who earn the rank receive advanced standing and higher pay. Those benefits would end under the draft proposals.
Whether Hegseth’s argument that supporting Scouting America weakens national security will satisfy Congress remains uncertain. Planning for next summer’s Jamboree is already underway, and draft documents include a letter informing Scouting America’s leadership that the Secretary has disapproved the use of Department of Defense personnel and equipment for the event. The letter closes by offering “best wishes for a safe and successful National Scout Jamboree.
Editor’s Note:
This article is based exclusively on documents, statements, and reporting referenced in the source material. It reflects the ongoing discussions within the Pentagon and reactions from involved parties without offering analysis or opinion.
