Bobcat Badge

The Bobcat rank was introduced in 1938 as the entry-level rank for every new Cub. The badge was a pin that was to be worn on civilian clothing and was not officially approved to be worn on the uniform shirt until 1959. In late 1972, the Bobcat pin was replaced with an embroidered rank patch and the Wolf and Bear rank badges were updated to the designs currently in use. No matter what age or grade a boy joins Cub Scouting, he must earn his Bobcat Badge before he can advance to the rank of Tiger, Wolf, Bear, or Webelos. A boy must complete the Bobcat requirements, which include demonstrating his understanding of Scouting's core values.

He must be able to recite the Scout Oath, Scout Law, and Cub Scout Motto and demonstrate the Cub Scout Sign, Cub Scout Handshake, and Cub Scout Salute. He must also explain what each of these ideals means, in addition to demonstrating his understanding of the core values of honesty and trustworthiness, and explaining their importance in the scouting program. The requirements for Bobcat can be found in the beginning of each rank handbook.

To earn the Bobcat rank the new Cub Scout must do the following:

1. Learn and say the Scout Oath, with help if needed.

"On my honor, I will do my best

To do my duty to God and my country,

To obey the Scout Law,

To help other people at all times,

To keep myself physically strong,

mentally awake and morally straight "

2. Learn and say the Scout Law,with help if needed.

A Scout is . . .

trustworthy, loyal, helpful,

friendly, courteous, kind,

obedient, cheerful, thrifty,

brave, clean, and reverent.

3. Show the Cub Scout sign.Tell what it means.

• Webelos: Make the SCOUT SIGN. Tell what it means.