Why wear a Uniform?

The Scout uniform is an emblem that distinguishes the Scout who wears it.   The uniform has become a symbol that is respected and honored by most who see it.  Dressing alike also demonstrates unity and equality to others.  Therefore, Scout uniforms should only be worn for activities that are officially sponsored and approved by the Troop Committee.   

Uniform Classes:

Troop 401, like most troops, has two classes of uniforms, the class B uniform for informal occasions and the class A uniform for more formal events and ceremonies.   Troop leaders will designate which events require class A or class B uniforms.

Class B:   The class B uniform consists of a red "401" t-shirt.   The remainder of the outfit can be chosen by the Scout but should always present a look that is clean and neat. 

Class A:   The class A uniform consists of an official Scout shirt with proper badges affixed, a Scout cap, a neckerchief and slide, and matching pants or shorts chosen by the Scout.   The uniform should be clean and worn neatly.  The Scout and his parents will be responsible for the cost of the class A uniform including the required badges.   

Official Placement of Insignia (class A):

Merit Badge Sash:

If worn, merit badges are attached to the front (and back if needed) of the sash.  

Shoulder Epaulets:

Red shoulder loops identify members of a Boy Scout Troop.   Blaze loops identify Varsity Scouting.

Left Sleeve:

Council patches, unit numbers and badge of office are worn on the left sleeve.  These insignias should be worn closely together, touching each other.  The badge of office is centered below and touches the unit number.  The veteran unit bar, if applicable, is positioned above and touching the troop number and in turn touching the council patch.

Left Pocket:

Service stars are worn above the left pocket.   If a medal or embroidered knot is worn, the service stars are raised above them.  Embroidered square knots are worn centered above the pocket in rows of three.   No more than five medals may be worn, pinned centered immediately above the pocket (above knots if any are worn).  The sequence of medals and knots are at the wearer's discretion with the lead color being to the wearers right.  Badges of rank are worn centered on the pocket above the Arrow of Light Award, if present.   The pocket flap should be buttoned.   The World Crest is worn centered horizontally over the pocket and vertically between the left shoulder seam and the top of the left pocket.

Right Sleeve:

The U.S. flag is worn at the top of the right sleeve.  A Patrol Emblem is worn centered below U.S. flag.   The most recently earned Quality Unit Award may be worn below the patrol emblem or below a Baden Powell Patrol Star.   The Musician badge, if the member is in a band or drum corps, is worn one-half inch below the patrol emblem.    

Right Pocket:

The Order of the Arrow insignia is worn on the right pocket flap.   A temporary insignia, representing the most recent activity or a special activity, may be worn centered on the pocket.   The pocket flap should be buttoned.  

Legal Protection:

The official uniforms of the Boy Scouts of America are those authorized by the organization's National Executive Board and are described in current handbooks, catalogues, and other official publications of the BSA. 

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Last modified: February 23, 2008