Rank Advancements
The Path from Scout to Eagle
BSA's rank advancement program is a structured journey of skill-building, leadership, and service. Every rank earned is a milestone — and Eagle Scout is the summit.
How Advancement Works
Advancement is one of the eight methods of Scouting. It gives scouts a series of goals to work toward and a way to demonstrate their growth. Ranks are earned — not given — through demonstrated skills, service, and leadership. Troop 1887 celebrates rank advancements at our Court of Honor ceremonies held throughout the year.
Click any rank to expand its requirements. Full requirements are published by the Boy Scouts of America.
Merit Badges
Merit badges are a core part of the advancement program. Scouts earn merit badges by demonstrating knowledge and skills in a specific subject area, working with an approved merit badge counselor. There are over 135 merit badges available — covering everything from First Aid and Cooking to Robotics, Aviation, and Personal Finance.
Eagle-required merit badges
Eagle Scouts must earn 21 merit badges total, including 13 specific required badges: First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, Citizenship in Society, Communication, Cooking, Personal Fitness, Emergency Preparedness or Lifesaving, Environmental Science or Sustainability, Personal Management, Swimming or Hiking or Cycling, and Camping.
Court of Honor
Troop 1887 holds Court of Honor ceremonies throughout the year to formally recognize rank advancements and merit badge completions. These ceremonies are a proud tradition — scouts receive their ranks in front of their families, fellow scouts, and adult leaders. Eagle Scout Courts of Honor are special ceremonies planned by the Eagle Scout and their family.
Schedule
Held multiple times per year — typically in November, March, and May.
Eagle Scout
Scouting's Highest Honor
Fewer than 4% of all scouts earn the Eagle Scout rank. It requires years of dedication, leadership, and service — and it is a distinction that follows scouts for the rest of their lives. Troop 1887 has produced over 20 Eagle Scouts and is committed to supporting every scout who pursues this goal.
20+
Eagle Scouts produced
21
Merit badges required
13
Required merit badges
Age 18
Must earn before
Questions About Advancement?
Our Scoutmaster and advancement committee are happy to answer questions about the rank advancement process, merit badge counselors, or Eagle Scout requirements.