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Boy Scout Troop 53
(El Paso, Texas)		  
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Order of the Arrow



The Order of the Arrow (OA) is most commonly known as the National Honor Society of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). A more clear definition would be the society was created to honor scouts that best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law. It uses American Indian-styled traditions and ceremonies to bestow recognition on Scouts selected by their peers as best exemplifying the ideals of Scouting. The society was created by E. Urner Goodman,with the assistance of Carroll A. Edson,in 1915 as a means of reinforcing the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. The goal was to establish these as life long guidelines, and to encourage continued participation in Scouting and camping.Influenced in part by camp traditions, and Indian folklore, the OA uses"safeguarded" symbols, handshakes, and ceremonies to impart a sense of community.

Inducted members, known as Arrowmen or Brothers,are organized into local youth-led lodges that harbor fellowship, promote camping, and render service to Boy Scout councils and their communities.Members wear identifying insignia on their uniforms, most notably the OA pocket flap (representing their individual lodge) and the OA sash (worn at official OA functions) and are eligible for special OA awards. The OA program sponsors several events, awards, and training functions.

Order of the Arrow Requirements



The Order of the Arrow membership requirements are: 

To become eligible for election, a Boy Scout or Varsity Scout must be registered with the Boy Scouts of America and have the approval of his unit leader prior to the election. The unit leader must certify his Scout spirit (i.e., his adherence to the Scout Oath and Law and active participation in unit activities). The unit leader must also certify that the nominee meets all specified requirements at the time of this annual election.

Youth membership qualifications. All members of, or candidates for membership in, the Order of the Arrow who are under 21 years of age shall be considered youth members or candidates for youth membership, subject to meeting the following requirements:

  • Unit leader approval.
  • Be a registered member of the Boy Scouts of America.
  •  Hold the First Class rank of the Boy Scouts of America, as a minimum.
After registration with a troop or team, have experienced 15 days and nights of Boy Scout camping during the two-year period prior to the election. 

The 15 days and nights must include one, but no more than one, long-term camp consisting of six consecutive days and five nights of resident camping, approved and under the auspices and standards of the Boy Scouts of America. The balance of the camping must be overnight, weekend, or other short-term camps.

Candidates for youth membership shall be elected by other youth members in accordance with policies set forth by the national Order of the Arrow committee.
   
 
 
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