Do Eagle Scouts Receive Letters from the President?

The question of whether Eagle Scouts receive letters from the President is a common one among Scout families. While it might seem like a straightforward answer, the reality is a bit more nuanced. This article will explore the different ways in which Eagle Scouts can receive presidential letters, the process involved, and what these letters typically contain.

Understanding the Eagle Court of Honor

The Eagle Court of Honor is a special ceremony in which a Scout is recognized for achieving the rank of Eagle, the highest rank in the Boy Scouts of America. This ceremony can generate various forms of recognition, including letters from notable figures. However, these letters are not automatically sent by the President or the White House.

Who Can Send a Letter?

Boys and Girls Scouts who have achieved the rank of Eagle can request various forms of recognition, including letters from distinguished individuals. While the President could theoretically send a letter, this is not a common occurrence, and it is more likely that letters come from other sources such as:

Members of Congress State leaders Local leaders and celebrities

These letters can be a precious memento for the Scout and their family. The process of obtaining such letters usually involves the Scout's family reaching out to the respective individuals or organizations to make a request.

Personal Accounts of Letters from the President

Personal experiences shared by Eagle Scout parents and Scouts themselves provide insights into this topic. Here are a few accounts:

Account One: When three sons achieved their Eagle Scout rank, one parent wrote to the sitting President and received a response. Additionally, the parent contacted several celebrities who also sent congratulatory letters. A total of eight or nine famous people wrote letters, and they also received flags flown over the Capitol.

Account Two: Another Eagle Scout parent believes that the President does send letters, but they are usually sent through an official letterhead and may be preprinted. Despite this, the President is not often directly involved.

Account Three: Notably, one Eagle Scout remembers receiving no presidential letter when they earned their Eagle rank in 1965. However, if a letter from a President like Lyndon B. Johnson had been sent, they would have certainly kept it.

Account Four: Many Eagle Scouts can indeed receive letters from the President, but these are typically form letters sent in response to official applications. The letter is similar to a post card and includes a few lines of congratulations followed by the printed signature of the President. It is sent in a White House envelope.

Account Five: Another perspective is that if an Eagle Scout sends an invitation to the White House, they might receive a letter. However, the process of obtaining a presidential letter involves applying and being recognized for the achievement.

The Process of Requesting a Presidential Letter

While not automatic, Eagle Scouts can request a letter from the White House by following a specific procedure. Here are the steps involved:

Application: The Eagle Scout or their parents must formally apply for the form letter. Email: The application can be submitted via email to the White House. Recognition: Upon receiving the application, the White House will ensure that the Scout has indeed achieved the rank of Eagle. Letter Sent: If the requirements are met, the White House will send a letter in a White House envelope, featuring a few lines of congratulations followed by the printed signature of the President. Timing: The process can take a few weeks to complete, depending on the White House's schedule and response times.

Conclusion

While the idea of receiving a letter from the President may seem exciting to Eagle Scouts, it is important to understand that these interactions typically require active participation from the Scout or their family. Letters from the President are valuable mementos, reflecting the dedication and hard work of the Scout and their achievements within the Boy Scouts of America.