First Class (Boy Scouts of America)

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First Class badge

First Class is a rank attainable by a Scout in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), and ranks above Second Class and below Star. A Scout can work on the requirements for the Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class ranks at the same time, but must earn them in sequence. The badge is awarded when the Scout completes requirements in the areas of Scoutcraft, physical fitness, citizenship, personal growth and Scout Spirit.^[1]

Originally, First Class was the all around Scout and the final and highest rank. Later ranks were originally recognitions of earning merit badges beyond First Class, and not properly ranks. Now these additional ranks form a second tier where Scouts can further develop leadership skills and explore potential vocations and avocations through the merit badge program.

Although Eagle is the highest rank and one all Scouts should strive for, the number of Scouts achieving First Class within one year of joining is still one of the key measures of unit effectiveness. Studies have shown that if a Scout achieves First Class within a year of joining, he typically stays in the Scout program for at least three years. Scouts who do so are more likely to retain Scout values as an adult and achieve the BSA primary mission of "producing useful citizens".

The First Class badge combines the emblems for Tenderfoot and Second Class. The two white stars represent truth and knowledge. The motto is printed on the scroll, which has its ends turned up in a smile, as a reminder that a Scout is cheerful as he does his work. The knot on the bottom represents the slogan. The trefoil shows that a Scout can point his way in life as truly as a compass, as well as the three parts of the Scout oath, duty to God and Country, duty to others, and duty to self. The eagle symbolizes freedom, and the shield, willingness to defend it.