Printable Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation Template

What is an Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation?

An Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation is a document written in support of a Scout applying for the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest achievement attainable in the Boy Scouts of America program. This letter provides the Eagle Scout Board of Review with insights into the Scout's character, achievements, and readiness to assume the responsibilities and honor of becoming an Eagle Scout. It is usually written by adults who know the Scout well but are not family members.

Who should write the Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation?

The Eagle Scout Candidate should seek recommendations from:

• Teachers or school administrators
• Coaches or club leaders
• Community or religious leaders
• Employers or professional acquaintances

It's essential to choose individuals who can provide thorough and honest accounts of the Scout's leadership, service, and character.

How can you submit an Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation?

The submission process varies by local council, but generally, the recommendations can be submitted in two ways:

1. By direct submission to the local Boy Scouts of America council office by the recommender. The Scout should provide the office's address to the individuals writing the letters.
2. By sealed envelope given to the Scoutmaster or designated committee member, to be submitted unopened to the board of review. This method ensures confidentiality and integrity in the review process.

Scouts should verify the preferred method with their Scoutmaster or local council.

What should be included in the letter?

The writer should aim to include the following:

• A brief introduction of their relationship to the Scout and how long they have known the Scout.
• Specific examples of the Scout's leadership qualities, service projects, or instances where they demonstrated the Scout Oath and Law in their daily life.
• Any personal qualities, such as integrity, perseverance, and kindness, that make the Scout a good candidate for the rank of Eagle Scout.
• A closing statement summarizing the recommendation and expressing confidence in the Scout's ability to represent the values and responsibilities of an Eagle Scout.

This information helps the board gain a well-rounded view of the Scout's character and contributions, supporting their consideration for the Eagle rank.

Filling out an Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation requires careful attention to detail and a deep understanding of the candidate's achievements and character. A common mistake is overlooking the candidate's individual accomplishments, which can weaken the impact of the recommendation. Instead of providing generic praise, recommenders should offer specific examples of the candidate's leadership, dedication, and service that distinguish them as an exceptional Scout.

Another frequent oversight is failing to adhere to the form's instructions regarding length and format. This can lead to either excessively brief or overly verbose submissions, both of which fail to convey the necessary information effectively. The Eagle Scout application process is competitive, and a well-structured letter that concisely captures the essence of the candidate's achievements and personal qualities can significantly support their case.

Additionally, some recommenders might not fully understand the Scout's impact on their community or the broader scope of their scouting activities. This lack of insight can result in a recommendation that doesn't fully capture the breadth of the candidate's contributions. A thorough discussion with the Scout or a review of their Scouting resume can provide a more comprehensive view of their accomplishments and community involvement.

Not proofreading the document is another common error. Typos, grammatical errors, or unclear sentences can detract from the professionalism of the letter and potentially undermine its credibility. Taking the time to review the letter for errors or having a second set of eyes examine it can improve its overall quality.

Some recommenders might also inadvertently include personal biases or irrelevant information, which can detract from the focus of the letter. It's important to maintain an objective tone and concentrate solely on the attributes and achievements that are pertinent to the Eagle Scout candidacy.

There's also a tendency to delay the submission of the recommendation letter, which can hinder the application process. Timeliness is crucial, as late submissions can reflect poorly on the Scout and complicate the scheduling of the Eagle Scout Board of Review. Setting reminders and prioritizing the completion of the letter can mitigate this risk.

A significant mistake is failing to personalize the letter. Using a generic template without customization to the individual Scout suggests a lack of genuine endorsement and can diminish the effectiveness of the recommendation. Tailoring the letter to reflect the unique qualities of the Scout demonstrates a sincere support for their achievement.

Moreover, not directly addressing the candidate's potential for future success is a missed opportunity. The Eagle Scout rank is not only about recognizing past accomplishments but also about identifying Scouts who possess the character and skills to be leaders in the future. Highlighting the candidate's leadership potential and ongoing commitment to Scouting values can add a powerful dimension to the recommendation.

Finally, neglecting to express confidence in the Scout's ability to uphold the principles of the Eagle Scout rank can leave the recommendation feeling incomplete. A strong closing statement that reaffirms the recommender's belief in the Scout's merits and their capacity to excel as an Eagle Scout can leave a lasting impression on the review committee.

Applying for the rank of Eagle Scout involves a comprehensive process that includes the submission of several important forms and documents in addition to the Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation form. These documents are crucial for showcasing a candidate's achievements, character, and preparedness for achieving the highest rank in Scouting. Below is a list of documents often used alongside the Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation form, each serving a distinct purpose in supporting the candidate's application.

• Eagle Scout Rank Application: This is the official form used to apply for the Eagle Scout rank. It requires detailed information about the Scout's merit badges, leadership roles, and scouting history.
• Project Workbook: The Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook is where Scouts plan, describe, and report on their Eagle project. This document outlines the project's impact, leadership provided, and reflections on the service performed.
• Scoutmaster Conference Report: This report is a summary of the Scout's final conference with their Scoutmaster. It discusses readiness for the Eagle rank, reflecting on the Scout's growth and accomplishments.
• Unit Advancement Report: Submitted by the Scout's troop, this report documents all advancements, including merit badges and ranks achieved leading up to the Eagle Scout application.
• Statement of Ambitions and Life Purpose: This written statement outlines the Scout's future goals, aspirations, and how they plan to continue contributing to their community.
• Membership Card and Rank Advancement Cards: Copies of the Scout's current membership card and cards for rank advancements provide proof of registration and progression within Scouts BSA.
• Merit Badge Blue Cards: These cards are the official records for each merit badge earned. They document when the badge was started, requirements were completed, and when it was approved by a counselor.
• Letters of Recommendation: Additional letters may be required from individuals who know the Scout well, providing insights into the Scout’s character, leadership, and impact beyond those collected specifically for the Eagle Scout recommendation.

Together, these documents form a comprehensive package that helps the Eagle Scout Board of Review understand not only the candidate's accomplishments within the Scouts BSA program but also their personal growth, character, and readiness to take on the responsibilities of an Eagle Scout. It is important for each candidate to thoroughly compile and review these documents to ensure a smooth review process.

The Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation form shares similarities with college recommendation letters. Both serve the purpose of endorsing an individual, highlighting their strengths, character, and potential. They are tailored to showcase the applicant’s achievements and suitability for a new opportunity, whether it be entrance into a higher education institution or attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. These documents require the author to provide a personal account of the individual’s capabilities and to give an authoritative backing to their application.

Reference letters for job applications bear resemblance to the Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation form in that they both support the candidate's application by providing a testament to their skills, work ethic, and character. Employers look for corroborative statements from these letters, similar to how scout leaders or community members vouch for a Scout’s readiness and qualifications for the rank of Eagle Scout. The emphasis is on validating the candidate’s preparedness and suitability for the position or rank they aspire to.

Another related document is the character witness letter used in legal contexts, which provides a judge or jury with insight into the defendant's moral and personal qualities. Like the Eagle Scout recommendation, it seeks to present the individual in a positive light, often aiming to influence the outcome in their favor by highlighting redeeming qualities or demonstrating their good character and contributions to the community.

Letters of recommendation for volunteer positions are also akin to the Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation form. They both assess the individual’s contributions to community service projects and their ability to work as part of a team. These documents often underline the person’s dedication, reliability, and positive impact on the community, serving to bolster the individual's application by providing concrete examples of their civic engagement and leadership skills.

Grant application letters of support can be compared to the Eagle Scout recommendation because they both seek to secure an opportunity based on the applicant's past achievements and potential for future success. In grant applications, the letters of support play a crucial role in persuading the grantmakers of the worthiness and viability of the project, similar to how the Eagle Scout recommendation persuades the review board of the candidate’s merit and leadership potential.

Scholarship recommendation letters, much like those for Eagle Scouts, are critical in helping candidates stand out. These endorsements provide the selection committee with insights into the applicant’s academic and personal attributes, emphasizing their eligibility and fit for the scholarship. Both types of letters must articulate the candidate’s distinct qualities and contributions, aiming to secure a benefit that will aid in their development and future endeavors.

Military letters of recommendation operate in a parallel manner to the Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation by supporting an individual’s application, in this case for military academies, officer candidate schools, or special programs. They emphasize leadership, integrity, and the ability to perform under pressure, which are key attributes both in scouting and military contexts. The goal is to outline the candidate’s readiness and potential for growth within a structured and demanding environment.

When filling out the Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation form, it's important to follow specific guidelines to ensure the recommendation supports the candidate effectively. Below are key dos and don’ts to consider:

1. Read the instructions carefully before starting to ensure you understand the requirements.

2. Highlight the candidate's strengths, providing specific examples of their leadership, character, and service.

3. Keep your remarks focused and relevant to the qualities the Eagle Scout award seeks to honor.

4. Be honest in your assessment, acknowledging areas of growth alongside achievements.

5. Proofread your submission for any grammatical or spelling errors to maintain professionalism.

6. Respect the confidentiality of the form, discussing your recommendation with the candidate only if explicitly permitted.

7. Ensure you submit the form by the deadline, allowing ample time for processing and review.

1. Start without having all the necessary information about the candidate's Eagle Scout projects and leadership experiences.

2. Use vague or generic descriptions; specific instances and qualities make a stronger impact.

3. Exaggerate or overstate the candidate's abilities—keep your assessment realistic and truthful.

4. Focus solely on academic or extracurricular achievements unless they directly demonstrate traits relevant to the Eagle Scout criteria.

5. Forget to relate personal experiences or observations that showcase the candidate's character and values.

6. Overlook the opportunity to discuss the candidate’s potential for future growth and contributions to the community.

7. Delay submitting your form, as it could disadvantage the candidate's application process.

When it comes to the Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation form, several misconceptions could lead to confusion or mistakes. Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure that scouts, their mentors, and recommenders navigate the process more effectively.

• It's solely the Scout's responsibility to complete the form. In reality, the Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation is intended to be completed by a person familiar with the Scout, not by the Scout themselves. This person is often a teacher, coach, religious leader, or other significant adult in the Scout's life.

• The form needs to be submitted directly by the recommender to the Scout. Actually, the correct process involves the recommender sending the form directly to the Boy Scouts of America council office, not to the Scout or their family. This maintains the confidentiality and integrity of the evaluation.

• Any adult acquaintance can complete the form. While any adult who knows the Scout well can technically complete the form, it is recommended that the recommender be someone who has observed the Scout demonstrating leadership, service, and ethical behavior, in line with the values of Scouting.

• There's no deadline for the submission. Each Boy Scouts of America council may have specific deadlines by which all parts of the Eagle Scout Rank application, including the Letters of Recommendation, must be submitted. It's essential to verify these deadlines well in advance to ensure timely submission.

• The content of the letter is less important than having a high-profile recommender. The quality and sincerity of the recommendation carry far more weight than the status of the recommender. Letters should provide specific examples of the Scout's achievements and character, rather than simply stating their support.

• Digital submissions are always acceptable. While some councils might accept digital or emailed forms, others require physical letters. It's crucial to confirm the preferred submission method with the local council to avoid any complications.

Correcting these misconceptions ensures that the process runs smoothly and that the focus remains on celebrating the Scout's achievements and character development.

Filling out and using the Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation form is an important step in the process of achieving the Eagle Scout rank, one of the most prestigious honors in Scouting. Attention to detail and understanding the form's requirements are crucial to ensuring a successful application. Here are key takeaways to keep in mind:

1. Understand the purpose of the letter. The Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation serves as a character reference for the Scout, highlighting their leadership abilities, character strengths, and personal virtues.

2. Identify appropriate recommenders. Scouts should choose individuals who know them well and can speak to their character and achievements in detail. These can include teachers, coaches, community leaders, and members of their troop.

3. Request letters early. Allow recommenders ample time to complete their letters thoughtfully. Approaching deadlines can cause unnecessary stress for both the Scout and the recommender.

4. Provide recommenders with guidance. Though the individuals writing recommendations will have a good understanding of the Scout's character, providing them with specific examples or achievements to mention can enhance the letter's impact.

5. Ensure completeness of the form. Each section of the form should be filled out accurately and entirely. Incomplete forms may delay the review process or negatively impact the application.

6. Respect privacy requests. Some recommenders may wish to submit their letters directly to the review committee rather than giving them to the Scout. This should be honored and facilitated according to the procedures outlined in Scouting guidelines.

7. Follow up with recommenders. A polite reminder or thank-you note can ensure letters are submitted on time and show appreciation for the recommender's support.

8. Review submission guidelines. Before submitting, review the application packet and the specific requirements for the Eagle Scout Letter of Recommendation. Ensure all parts of the application are complete and adhere to the guidelines provided by the Boy Scouts of America or the local council.

By adhering to these guidelines, Scouts can streamline the process of gathering letters of recommendation, which is a vital component of their Eagle Scout application. Focusing on clear communication and respectful interactions with recommenders can greatly improve the quality and effectiveness of the letters received.