The Eagle Scout rank is the highest achievement attainable in the Scouts BSA program. A crucial part of a Scout’s journey is gathering strong recommendation letters that attest to their character, leadership skills, and commitment to the Scout Oath and Law. These letters carry significant weight during the Eagle Scout Board of Review, providing valuable insights into the candidate’s impact on their troop, community, and beyond. This guide provides several sample recommendation letters you can use as templates or inspiration to write a impactful letter. Remember to personalize each letter with specific examples and anecdotes relevant to the Scout you are recommending.
When crafting an Eagle Scout recommendation letter, focus on highlighting the Scout’s key attributes. Demonstrate how they have exemplified leadership, responsibility, and service. Consider their involvement in troop activities, community service projects, and any unique contributions they have made. Quantifiable examples are particularly impactful. For instance, instead of saying “He is a good leader,” state “He successfully led a team of ten Scouts in building a playground at the local park, coordinating materials and ensuring project completion on time.” Be genuine and sincere in your recommendation, reflecting the true impact the Scout has had.
Remember to tailor your letter to your relationship with the Scout. A Scoutmaster’s letter will naturally focus on their performance within the troop, while a teacher or community leader might emphasize their academic achievements or contributions to community service. Regardless of your relationship, honesty and specificity are paramount. Address the letter to the “Eagle Scout Board of Review” and clearly state your support for the candidate’s advancement. End with a contact information (phone or email) if the board needs to contact you for any further assistance or questions.
Sample Eagle Scout Recommendation Letters
Sample 1: From Scoutmaster
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Scout’s Name] for the rank of Eagle Scout. [He/She] has been an active and dedicated member of Troop [Troop Number] for the past [Number] years. [He/She] consistently demonstrates the principles of the Scout Oath and Law.
I witnessed him leading a project that required detailed planning and execution, he stepped up without a doubt to the challenge.
I wholeheartedly endorse [Scout’s Name]’s application for Eagle Scout.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Scoutmaster, Troop [Troop Number]
Sample 2: From Teacher
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
I am writing to recommend [Scout’s Name] for the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. As [His/Her] teacher for [Subject] at [School Name], I have been consistently impressed by [His/Her] dedication and work ethic.
He is a model student and one to admire.
[He/She] is a truly exceptional young man/woman.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title], [School Name]
Sample 3: From Community Leader
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
I am writing to express my strong support for [Scout’s Name]’s candidacy for the Eagle Scout rank. I have known [Him/Her] for [Number] years through [Organization Name], where [He/She] has volunteered [Brief description of volunteer work].
During the event, he has shown true leadership ability to lead the crew and successfully complete the tasks.
I am confident that [Scout’s Name] will continue to make a positive impact on our community.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title], [Organization Name]
Sample 4: Focusing on Leadership
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
It is my distinct pleasure to recommend [Scout’s Name] for the rank of Eagle Scout. [He/She] has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities throughout [His/Her] time in Troop [Troop Number]. [Provide specific example of leadership, e.g., “As Senior Patrol Leader, he effectively managed troop activities, resolving conflicts and motivating other Scouts”].
His communication skills are exceptional, and he is always respectful of others’ opinions.
I have no hesitation in recommending him.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Assistant Scoutmaster, Troop [Troop Number]
Sample 5: Highlighting Service
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
I enthusiastically support [Scout’s Name]’s application for Eagle Scout. [His/Her] commitment to service is truly commendable. [Describe a specific service project the Scout participated in and their contribution, e.g., “He spearheaded the effort to collect and distribute food to the local food bank, exceeding our initial goal by 50%”].
I am very impressed to see a young kid to be so generous.
[He/She] embodies the spirit of service that is central to Scouting.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title], [Organization Name]
Sample 6: Emphasizing Character
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
I am pleased to recommend [Scout’s Name] for the rank of Eagle Scout. Throughout my acquaintance with [Him/Her], I have been consistently impressed by [His/Her] strong moral character. [Provide a specific example, e.g., “During a challenging hike, he insisted on helping a fellow Scout who was struggling, demonstrating empathy and selflessness”].
His honesty and integrity are unwavering, and he always strives to do what is right.
[He/She] is a young man/woman of exceptional character.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Relationship to the Scout]
Sample 7: From a Project Beneficiary
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
I am writing to strongly support [Scout’s Name]’s candidacy for Eagle Scout. [He/She] recently completed [His/Her] Eagle Scout project at [Location of Project] for the benefit of [Organization/Group Benefitting]. [Describe the project and its impact in detail. Focus on the positive outcomes and how the Scout’s leadership made it possible].
I am very grateful for his efforts and his dedication to make this happen.
This project would not have been possible without [His/Her] leadership and dedication.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Title/Representative of Benefitting Organization]
Sample 8: Focusing on Perseverance
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Scout’s Name] for the rank of Eagle Scout. His journey to this point has been marked by significant challenges, but he has consistently demonstrated remarkable perseverance. [Describe a specific instance where the Scout overcame an obstacle related to Scouting or personal life. Focus on the effort and determination they showed].
Many would’ve gave up but he didn’t, he is a model student and member of the scout.
[He/She] is a testament to the power of resilience and dedication.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Relationship to the Scout]
Sample 9: Addressing a Specific Skill
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
I am writing to recommend [Scout’s Name] for Eagle Scout, particularly highlighting [His/Her] exceptional skill in [Specific skill, e.g., wilderness survival, first aid, public speaking]. [Provide specific examples of how the Scout has demonstrated this skill, e.g., “During a recent camping trip, he expertly navigated the troop through a difficult terrain using his orienteering skills”].
I was very impressed with his ability to navigate the terrains.
[He/She] is a valuable asset to the troop due to [His/Her] expertise in this area.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Troop [Troop Number] Committee Member
Sample 10: Mentioning a Specific Merit Badge
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
I am pleased to recommend [Scout’s Name] for the rank of Eagle Scout. As the merit badge counselor for [Merit Badge Name], I had the opportunity to witness [His/Her] dedication and mastery of the subject matter. [Provide specific examples of the Scout’s performance while earning the merit badge, e.g., “He demonstrated a thorough understanding of emergency preparedness and first aid techniques”].
I was very impressed by his abilities.
[He/She] approached the challenge with diligence and a genuine desire to learn.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Merit Badge Counselor for [Merit Badge Name]]
Sample 11: Short and Concise Recommendation
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
I strongly recommend [Scout’s Name] for the rank of Eagle Scout. He is a dedicated, responsible, and highly motivated young man who embodies the values of Scouting. I have no doubt he will continue to be a valuable asset to his community.
[He/She] is an exceptional candidate and is ready for his Eagle Scout rank!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
Sample 12: Focus on Initiative
To the Eagle Scout Board of Review,
I am writing to support [Scout’s Name]’s application for Eagle Scout. One of [His/Her] most impressive qualities is [His/Her] initiative. [Describe a specific situation where the Scout took initiative, identified a problem, and proactively found a solution, e.g., “Seeing that the troop’s camping gear was disorganized, he independently created a system for inventory and maintenance”].
This showed me that he has the drive and determination to tackle any project.
[He/She] consistently goes above and beyond what is expected.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Relationship to the Scout]
Writing a strong Eagle Scout recommendation letter is crucial to supporting a deserving candidate’s advancement. By using these samples as inspiration and tailoring your letter with specific examples and anecdotes, you can create a compelling testament to the Scout’s character, leadership, and service. Remember to be genuine and sincere, reflecting the true impact the Scout has had on their troop, community, and beyond. Good luck!