Uniform

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The Boy Scouts of America has always been a uniformed body. Its uniforms help to create a sense of belonging. They symbolize character development, citizenship training, and personal fitness. Wearing a uniform gives youth and adult members a sense of identification and commitment.

The uniform makes the Scout Troop visible as a force of good and creates a positive youth image in the community. Scouts in uniform are conscious of their rank and make a greater effort to advance. The uniform provides a place for display of badges - important symbols of achievement.

Scout Field Uniform (aka Class "A")

Official Tan Scout shirt (long or short sleeve)
Tan/Green/Khaki pants or shorts (optional but strongly recommended)
Troop Neckerchief and slide
Closed toe and heel shoes (no sandals)
Scout hat (optional)
Boy Scout Handbook

Scout Activities Uniform (aka Class "B")

Red knit T-shirt with Troop logo or scout camp T-shirt
Tan/Green/Khaki pants or shorts (optional but highly recommended)
Closed toe and heel shoes (no sandals)
Scout hat (optional)
Boy Scout Handbook

Merit Badges and Badge Sash

Merit badges are worn in three columns on the merit badge sash
The sash is worn over the right shoulder with the BSA uniform
The sash is worn only on formal occasions
It should not be worn with the Order of the Arrow sash
Additionally, up to six merit badges may be worn on the official long sleeve shirt in rows of two starting 3 inches above the bottom edge of the sleeve cuff
No merit badges may be worn on a short sleeve shirt

What Type to Wear and When to Wear it

The type of uniform (Class A or Class B) to be worn for activities and meetings will be determined by the Scoutmaster.

In general:

The Class A Uniform is required for all Troop meetings and at formal Scouting occasions such as Court of Honor, recognition events or similar functions
The Class B Uniform is used when there will be a high level of physical activity such work details, hikes and other outings

At the discretion of the Scoutmaster, a uniform may not be required for certain activities.

Where to Get Your Uniform

The purchase of the uniform is the responsibility of the Scout. The Troop will provide the BSA and Troop Neckerchiefs and a Troop Numeral Patch (577).

The uniform and additional patches/insignia can be purchased at the Scout store in Seattle (click here for directions) or online at Scoutstuff.org.

Uniform Patches and Insignia Placement

A visual and narrative depiction of patch placement on both sleeves and pockets is available on the BSA Uniform Inspection Sheets/Official Placement of Insignia (see links below).

Scouts click here
Adult Leaders click here