Independence Day: How It’s Significant to Scouts and Scouters

On the Fourth of July, the Scouting nation will celebrate one of the most revered and celebrated days in American history: Independence Day. A time for appreciating our nation’s freedom, Independence Day is a special holiday for Scouts and Scouters to commemorate America’s adoption of the Declaration of Independence. And as citizens of this great nation, Scouts learn the importance of honoring the significant day. Read on to hear first-hand about Scouters’ celebrations (both past and present) of the country’s independence.

Independence Day Scouting Memories

“In the summer of 1997, I visited my son at the National Jamboree at Fort AP Hill. During the recorded playing of Lee Greenwood’s “Proud to Be An American,” the jamboree finale fireworks show began. I was sitting center stage with my son and his jamboree troop mates. About halfway through the show, they started shooting fireworks from a second location at the same time. We all stood up in amazement and the sky was lit so brightly that you could recognize faces hundreds of feet away. It is one of those special moments with my son that I’ll never forget, and I frequently speak about it when discussing the key benefits of Scouting with prospective new families. A personal story always makes the connection, especially for newer parents looking to the future with their son.” – Rex Starr of Eugene, OR

“Cub Scout Pack 405 Wolf and Webelos will be honoring our country as the color guard in the annual Fourth of July parade and kicking off festivities for the city by leading the community in the Pledge of Allegiance immediately following the parade. The Scouts are drilling twice proceeding to have a crisp presentation. Scouts will spend the day together concluding with the city fireworks show.” – Shawn Banfield of Georgetown, TX

How Do You Celebrate Independence Day?

Whether you’re planning a patriotic service project, having a Scout barbecue or watching fireworks with your troop, we encourage Scouts and Scouters to share how you honor Independence Day in the comments below.