“Branding of The Tigersâ€
Tonight, we have gathered to honor our Scouts. But first, we must test these braves before this honor is given to them. I call forth the Scouts called Tigers!
NAMES OF TIGERS
Tigers, just as a fire grows in warmth and brightens when we add wood, so will our Pack grow as you now join us in spirit.
What is the motto of the Tiger Cubs?
Have you obeyed that motto?
(Picks up the “Branding Iron”) You are about to carry the Tiger Cub brand which represents your hard work. I am going to place this brand on your forward. Tomorrow when you wash it off I want you to repeat the Tiger Cub Motto to yourself, so that you may carry it in your heart.
(Now brand the Scouts saying “SSSS” each time you do a boy.)
Tigers, this patch is the emblem of your first rank in Scouting; wear it proudly. Adult Tiger, this pin is the symbol of your deeds in preparing these Tigers for their next adventure in Scouting. You should also wear it proudly.
The badge will be handed to your parents and they will have the privilege of pinning it on your left side shirt pocket, because they have helped you earn this and will be continually helping you throughout the Scouting program. You will notice that it is upside down. Later when you feel you have performed a good deed you may turn it right side up and sew it on your shirt.
WOLF
The great Eagle, bird of truth, has come to me with the name of candidates for the Wolf Badge award.
Have tried to follow the Cub Scout Promise and Law of the Pack. Have you learned from the trail of the Bobcat and Wolf?
Have you TRIED to do your best?
This is indeed a proud moment for our tribe, when we can see you advance. It symbolizes the cooperation in your pack and in your tepee. You have shared many experiences and much knowledge. Without this sharing and caring along the trail of the Wolf it would have been far more difficult. As your parents take the Wolf scarf from around your shoulders, I want you to think about the one question I asked you before. You answered Yes, that you had done your best. If this is true, after we dip your scarf into the magic potion and pass it over the flame of truth it will flame up but will not be consumed by the fire.
Welcome to the Brotherhood of the Wolf. You have indeed done your best.
AS AKELA GREW
As Akela grew in his tribe, he learned the responsibilities he had in the tribe. He learned to be honest in his dealing with the tribe. Like Akela, you learned as Bobcat and Wolf the responsibilities you must have to be in this pack. You learned to be
honest with your fellow Cub Scouts, leaders, and parents.
Now it is your time to prove your Spirit of Scouting.
These jars are filled with the Pack’s Spirit of Scouting. If you have done your best, these jars will show us all.
Akela learned to skillfully hunt squirrel and deer. He learned to find water and food where there seemed to be none. He grew to be tall and strong so that he could walk proud among his people.
Now, brave Bears, it is time for you to walk proud among your people.
AKELA’S LIFE STORY
Akela was the big chief of the Webelos tribe; tall, stalwart, straight as an arrow, swift as an antelope, brave as a lion - he was fierce to an enemy but kind to a brother. Many trophies hung in his teepee. His father was the son of the great yellow sun in the sky. He was called the “Arrow Of Light”.
His mother, from whom he learned those wondrous things that mothers know was called “Kind Eyes”. He began to understand the signs and calls of the Webelos tribe. Then he was taken on little trips to the forest among the great trees and streams. Here, from the Wolf and Bear, he learned the language of the ground; the tracks and the ways to food.
AKELA: With this light, representing the “Spirit of Akela” we will light the trail of the Webelos. From the signs along the Webelos trail, I see the following braves are ready for advancement in the Webelos Clan of Akela’s tribe.
NAMES
But before he could become a Scouting “brave” on his own, he had to prove himself by trying out new skills, performing certain tasks and passing tests of accomplishment.
And now we must test your “Spirit of Akelaâ€. If you truly have the spirit of Scouting, your light will shine.
You have proven themselves worthy to wear the “Webelos Badge”.
From the four winds, Akela hears that you braves are doing well along the trails that will lead you into Boy Scouting and the highest trail of all, that of Eagle.
LEAVING CUB SCOUTING FOREVER
Most awards here are fun, goofy or crazy. Not this one, this is a time to be serious. This is a very important day for these Scouts. They are leaving Cub Scouting forever and starting on a new trail to Boy Scouts. They are receiving the highest award in Cub Scouting, The Arrow of Light.
To earn your Arrow of Light, you had to show your knowledge of Scouting. You had to participate in Boy Scout camping. Earn an additional 5 activity badges - which is a big challenge in itself. Some of you have gone far beyond this, earning several more activity pins. You have learned new skills and acquired new knowledge you can use the rest of your life. The Arrow of Light has a special meaning. Did you notice the Indian sign for the sun over the arrow? That is why it’s called the Arrow of Light. Notice the seven rays of the sun - one for each day of the week. They will remind you to do your best every day as you follow the arrow that leads you to Boy Scouting.
This is a joyous time - and a sad time. I am happy that you are advancing but sad that you are leaving. I have watched some of you grow from Wolfs to becoming Boy Scouts. I hope you carry a part of our Pack with you as you grow and I hope that we see you back visiting our Pack.
Because Of My Son

Because of my son – I found a job to do.
I became a Scouter, tried and true.
I understand boys better – because of my son.
It happened through Scouting – Gee, what fun.
Because of my son – I can be worthwhile.
Oh what a reward, to see a boy’s smile!
‘Tis endless, the pleasures gained from Scouting.
Because of my son – I attend each meeting and outing!
Because of my son – I’ve gained friends beyond measure.
‘Tis indeed blessed to hold, such a wonderful treasure!
Hours that were idle are now filled to the brim,
Because of my son – I enjoy life with him!