This listing of "Abbreviations and Acronyms Used in Scouting" grew out of a long series of questions asked by new Scouters and new Scouts alike. The abbreviations we used were confusing people and not leading to the clarity of purpose we need. Also, it almost began to sound like technical jargon, designed to keep new people out rather than include and welcome them into the Brotherhood of Scouting.
        After four years in Scouting as an SA, I had the opportunity to participate in Boy Scout Leader Wood Badge Training. Upon completion of weekend course C-36-94 (Viking Council, Mpls. MN), I undertook the difficult task of "writing my ticket". I wanted to do something to help the Scouts and Scouters of my local council (Twin Valley Council, Mankato, MN). So, among other things, this list is provided to be included in pack, troop, and post policy booklets to aid understanding of the language of Scouting.
        This list is NOT exhaustive; there are many other terms used for programs and offices and titles that are not included. Some of the acronyms and abbreviations in this list may not be used in your local council. Some are not "official" and were abbreviated to fit this list. What this list is, is a primer to help get started on "Scoutspeak". Add your own, remove the ones you don't use. Scouters are pointed toward the resources below.
        My resources and references include: current applications for each program division and the abbreviations used in each; the adult leader application, the booklet "The Language of Scouting" © 1976 BSA, Irving TX, second 1991 printing, publication #3000; Scouting friends on the Internet Listserv Mail Lists Scouts-L and Arrow-L; including, but not limited to: Maj. Mike Walton (Settumanque, The Blackeagle), Gary Hendra (The MacScouter), Jerry Christianson (SA T-25, New Ulm, MN) and others; Rich Koechlein (Viking Council), my WB Coach-Counselor, and Mr. Ron Willet, Scout Executive, Twin Valley Council, Mankato, MN.
        This list may be copied freely for Scouting purposes. It is organized into sections that, roughly, correspond to each program division and an alphabetical listing of all abbreviations. Be on the lookout for humorous entries, they are there in response to B-P's admonition to KIS-MIF (Keep it simple- Make it fun)…Ric...

Table Of Contents

Alphebetical Lists of Abbreviations

• Acroynms and Abbreviations for All Levels of Scouting
• BSA Abbreviations and Acroymns
• Cub Scouts Abbreviations and Acroymns
• Explorers Abbreviations and Acroymns
• Order of the Arrow Abbreviations and Acroymns
• Afterword.

Acroynms and Abbreviations for All Levels of Scouting

AAD

Associate Area Director - A professional Scouter working in a region; assists as area director. See Also: AD

ACRONYM

Always Confused Regarding Official Names You Make-up - The Acronym for "Acronym". The man I learned this from was in the Army, so the first part in his definition was "Army Confusion..."

AD

Area Director - A professional Scouter on a Regional Staff who relates to, and often lives in, a certain area, and works with the Area President in giving direct service to local councils.

ADE

Associate District Executive - A professional Scouter who works under the direction of a District Exec. See Also: DE

AP

Area President - The ranking elected volunteer (non-commissioned) officer in an area. Heads the area committee and serves as a member of the regional cabinet.

B-P

Baden-Powell, Robert Stephenson Smyth - Founder of the worldwide Scouting movement. Born in L:London, Feb. 22, 1857. Created a Baron in 1929. He is referred to as Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell, Chief Scout of the World. Died Jan. 8 19441.

Camporee

Derived from two words: camp and jamboree. A district of council troop activity to demonstrate techniques of living in camp. Involves a one- or two-night camping experience. May involve Scoutcraft competition.

CC

Committee Chair- The adult leader of the troop committee, may also be a member of the chartered organization. Provides the motivation and direction to the committee to get the Troop Program implemented, as decided by the PLC. Also, Pack committee chair - provides organization to pack committee to carry out pack program.

CD

Camp Director - The Scouter in charge of the administration of a Boy Scout camp or Cub Scout day camp or resident camp. May also refer to Camping Director - A professional Scouter responsible for development of a council's year-round camping program.

CM

Campmaster - A volunteer Scouter trained to assist in short term camping.

CO

Chartered Organization - A religious, civic, fraternal, educational, or other community-based organization that has applied for and received a charter to operate a BSA Scouting unit.

Commissioner

A volunteer Scouter who works with packs, troops, and teams to help the units succeed. In addition to council commissioner, there are district-, assistant district-, roundtable-, huddle-, program-,and unit commissioners.

CR/COR

Charter Representative/Chartered Organization Representative- An adult representative of the group or organization that currently holds the BSA Charter. Reports information to and from the chartered organization and the Troop. Represents the organization to the local council.

Crackerbarrel

A gathering of Scouts and/or Scouters for friendship and fellowship with light snacks and refreshments. See Also: Mug Up: BSA

CSE

Chief Scout Executive - The top ranking professional Scouter of the BSA.

DAM

District Award of Merit - A recognition for Scouters who give noteworthy service to youth at the District/Exploring Division level.

DC

(1)District Chair - The volunteer chairperson of the district committee.
(2)District Committee - A group of volunteer adults responsible for carrying out the council program within their district.
(3)District Commissioner - See: Commissioner: All

Gilwell

Gilwell Park - The training center of the British Scout Association and the original homesite of Wood Badge Training. Located in Epping Forest, England.

MC

Member of the Committee- Adult volunteer who serves on the committee which carries out the unit program . Members are involved in operation of the unit as in finance, advancement, transportation, fund raising, and other duties determined by the CC and SM or CM or DC. Committees can be unit (pack, troop, post), district, or council.

PTC

Philmont Training Center - A center at Philmont Scout Ranch that hosts training seminars for selected Scouts and Scouters on topics ranging from Key-3's,to OA Advisers, to program leader training, to Commissioner training, etc. Attendance is by invitation upon local council nomination. See Also: Philmont

SOAR

Save Our American Resources - A conservation program for Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts and Explorers that involves identifying environmental needs, acquiring the skills to meet those needs, and carrying out a meaningful project.

Wood Badge

A training award granted upon completion of the Wood Badge course. A leather thong with two wooden beads, a special neckerchief, and a slide (woggle) are worn by those who have completed training. Boy Scout Leader Wood Badge teaches leadership and troop operation skills. Cub Scout Trainer Wood Badge teaches how to "train the trainer".

WOSM

World Organization of the Scouting Movement - The international, non-governmental organization that is composed of over 120 member countries, which through the World Scout - Conference, -Committee, and -Bureau administer the basis of Scouting around the world.

YPP

Youth Protection Plan - Guidelines and policies, in place, to help fight child abuse. This BSA Emphasis fights child abuse by teaching youth the "three R's": Recognize, Resist, and Report child abuse; by helping parents and Scouters learn to recognize indicators of child abuse; and by teaching them how to handle child abuse situations.

BSA Acronyms and Abbreviations

96

Lone Scout Friend and Coach. Lone Scouts are those who cannot be served by a regular unit due to distance or other circumstances. This is the designation of the Scouter who works with him.

AAD

Associate Area Director - A professional Scouter working in a region; assists as area director. See Also: AD : All

ACRONYM

Always Confused Regarding Official Names You Make-up - The Acronym for "Acronym". The man I learned this from was in the Army, so the first part in his definition was "Army Confusion..."

AD

Area Director - A professional Scouter on a Regional Staff who relates to, and often lives in, a certain area, and works with the Area President in giving direct service to local councils.

ADE

Associate District Executive - A professional Scouter who works under the direction of a District Exec. See Also: DE

AP

Area President - The ranking elected volunteer (non-commissioned) officer in an area. Heads the area committee and serves as a member of the regional cabinet.

APL

Assistant Patrol Leader - Youth second leader of a patrol. Appointed by the PL to help him and take his place in his absence. A member of the PLC which runs the troop. See Also: PL

ASM

Assistant Scoutmaster - A commissioned volunteer, 18 or older, appointed by the chartered organization, who helps the SM administer the troop program. The term SA is used on applications and other literature. See Also: SA

ASPL

Assistant Senior Patrol Leader - Appointed by the SPL with the SM's advice and consent, he helps to run the troop with the SPL and the PLC. See Also: SPL

B-P

Baden-Powell, Robert Stephenson Smyth - Founder of the worldwide Scouting movement. Born in L:London, Feb. 22, 1857. Created a Baron in 1929. He is referred to as Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell, Chief Scout of the World. Died Jan. 8 19441.

B-P Award

Baden-Powell Patrol Award - An embroidered star worn beneath the patrol medallion distinguishes a member of a patrol that won this award by meeting requirements in : spirit,patrol meetings, hikes, outdoor activities, Good Turns, advancement, membership, uniform and PLC attendance. The motto of BSA : Be Prepared, honor his initials.

BOR

Board of Review - A review held to determine if a Boy Scout has satisfactorily completed rank advancement requirements. May also be held as an incentive for Scouts not advancing. For first 5 ranks, BOR is held by the troop committee, for the Eagle Scout rank, the council decides whether district or council advancement committee is responsible. See Also: COH

BSLTA

Boy Scout Leaders Training Award - A training recognition for adults in Boy Scouting (other than Scoutmasters).

C.O.P.E.

Project COPE - Challenging Outdoor Physical Experience - A team building and self esteem building physical challenge designed to broaden a scouts abilities and self confidence . Scouts depend on themselves and each other to complete the course while guided and guarded by trained COPE Counselors. Consists of problem solving exercises, low course (6 feet or less off ground) and high course (25 feet or more) where participants are belayed and safety is of utmost concern.

Camporee

Derived from two words: camp and jamboree. A district of council troop activity to demonstrate techniques of living in camp. Involves a one- or two-night camping experience. May involve Scoutcraft competition.

CC

Committee Chair- The adult leader of the troop committee, may also be a member of the chartered organization. Provides the motivation and direction to the committee to get the Troop Program implemented, as decided by the PLC. Also, pack committee chair - provides organization to pack committee to carry out pack program.

CD

Camp Director - The Scouter in charge of the administration of a Boy Scout camp or Cub Scout day camp or resident camp.May also refer to Camping Director - A professional Scouter responsible for development of a council's year-round camping program.

Chapter

An organization of National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) members in the local council. See Also: NESA

CM

Campmaster - A volunteer Scouter trained to assist in short term camping.

CO

Chartered Organization - A religious, civic, fraternal, educational, or other community-based organization that has applied for and received a charter to operate a BSA Scouting unit.

Coach

Coach - The commissioned volunteer Scouter, 21 or older, appointed to lead a Varsity Scout team. See Also: Varsity Scout

COH

Court Of Honor- A ceremony to honor and recognize Scouts for their achievements and rank advancements. A special COH is used when a Scout reaches Eagle. See Also: BOR

Commissioner

A volunteer Scouter who works with packs, troops, and teams to help the units succeed. In addition to council commissioner, there are district-, assistant district-, roundtable-, huddle-, program-,and unit commissioners.

CR/COR

Charter Representative/Chartered Organization Representative- An adult representative of the group or organization that currently holds the BSA Charter. Reports information to and from the chartered organization and the Troop. Represents the organization to the local council.

Crackerbarrel

A gathering of Scouts and/or Scouters for friendship and fellowship with light snacks and refreshments. See Also: Mug Up: BSA

Crew Chief

The elected youth leader of a Venture Crew. See Also: Venture

CSE

Chief Scout Executive - The top ranking professional Scouter of the BSA.

DAM

District Award of Merit - A recognition for Scouters who give noteworthy service to youth at the District/Exploring Division level.

DC

Den Chief - A Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Explorer who helps direct the activities of a den. Appointed by the SPL with SM advice and consent. Also Weblos den chief, who provides the same function for a Weblos den.

DC

(1)District Chair - The volunteer chairperson of the district committee.(2)District Committee - A group of volunteer adults responsible for carrying out the council program within their district.(3)District Commissioner - See: Commissioner: All

DE

District Executive - A professional Scouter who works under the direction of the Scout Executive and is responsible for the achievements of the district.

Fast Start

A preliminary training session with three part video explaining Troop organization, Troop meeting and, The Outdoor Program. Usually 3-4 hours.

Gilwell

Gilwell Park - The training center of the British Scout Association and the original homesite of Wood Badge Training. Located in Epping Forest, England.

Good Turn

Good Turn is a distinctive feature of Boy Scouting and its emphasis upon service to others, The Good Turn habit is one that all Scouts try to acquire.

Instructor

This youth leader helps other youth members with rank advancement; appointed by the SPL with the advice and consent of the SM. Also, any youth or adult who can teach or instruct others on parts of the Scouting program.

Jamboree

Jamboree - The term chosen by B-P to describe the first international gathering of Scouts camping together in London in 1920. The term is used to indicate a national or world gathering.

JASM

Junior Assistant Scoutmaster - Scouts, 16 or older, who help the SPL; appointed by the SPL with the advice and consent of the SM.

JLT

Junior Leader Training - A training course for junior leaders conducted by the council featuring Scoutcraft and leadership skills. May be up to a week long. Also refers to a Troop JLT conducted by the SM and SPL. A weekend devoted to building the leadership team and planning the troop program.

JOTA

Jamboree on the Air - The World Bureau of the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) sponsors a worldwide HAM radio event the third weekend of October each year to promote communication and understanding between Scouts all over the world. BSA's participation is coordinated by the International Division. BSA's Fort Worth TX Ham HQ is K2BSA. World Scout Bureau Ham HQ in Switzerland is HB9S

Key-3

The council key-3: council president, council commissioner, Scout Executive The district key-3: The district chairman, district commissioner, the DE The lodge key-3: The Lodge Adviser (OA), the Lodge Chief, the Staff Adviser

MC

Member of the Committee- Adult volunteer who serves on the committee which carries out the unit program . Members are involved in operation of the unit as in finance, advancement, transportation, fund raising, and other duties determined by the CC and SM or CM or DC. Committees can be unit (pack, troop, post), district, or council.

Mug-up

This Canadian Scouts term is the equivalent of the BSA Crackerbarrel; a time of fellowship and friendship with light snacks and refreshments. See Also: Crackerbarrel

NCS

National Camping School- A training program to train Scouters who will serve in leadership roles in Summer Camps. All senior camp staff must attend NCS for certification in their field fir the camp to be accredited. This includes: Camp Dir, Program Dir, Program Commissioner, Aquatics Dir, C.O.P.E. Dir, Shooting Sports Dir. and others.

NESA

National Eagles Scout Association - This group provides an opportunity for all Eagle Scouts to retain identification with Scouting through service to the local council in which they live.

Philmont

Philmont Scout Ranch - The 136,000 acre scout reservation near Cimmaron, MN. Each year Philmont hosts Scouts and other groups participating in high-adventure hiking and treks. A rugged, outback experience usually lasting 11 days.

PL

Patrol Leader - Youth leader of a patrol consisting of between 5-8 other boys. As a member of the PLC he helps make the decisions that run the troop. He appoints his APL

PLC

Patrol Leaders Council - The youth leaders of a BSA troop. The PLC consists of the SPL, ASPL, PLs, APLs. They should be trained by the SM, through Troop JLT, to do the planning and running of the troop. (From Larry E. Kurfis): Planning, Leadership, Communications. See Also:JLT

PTC

Philmont Training Center - A center at Philmont Scout Ranch that hosts training seminars for selected Scouts and Scouters on topics ranging from Key-3's,to OA Advisers, to program leader training, to Commissioner training, etc. Attendance is by invitation upon local council nomination. See Also: Philmont

SA

Assistant Scoutmaster- An adult leader who helps the Scoutmaster in various ways. A commissioned volunteer, 18 or older, appointed by the chartered organization.This term is used on Applications and other literature, in practice the term used is ASM. See Also: ASM

SLBT

Scout Leader Basic Training - This is the older reference to the current Scoutmastership Fundamentals. See Also:SMF I, II, III

SM

Scoutmaster- Adult leader head of the troop. A commissioned volunteer, 21 or over, appointed by the chartered organization. Provides direction and training to the Scouts so they can run a troop more effectively. Works with the troop committee and the chartered organization representative to provide program opportunities and direction.

SMF I,II,III

Scoutmastership Fundamentals, Parts I,II,III- A basic training program for Adult Scout leaders consisting of: Part I, Troop organization (how to get it running) Usually 6 hr.. Part II- The Troop Meeting. Usually 3 hrs..Part III-The Outdoor experience, it., scout craft and outdoor skills. Weekend long. Taken after Boy Scout Leader Fast Start Training. See Also: SLBT

SOAR

Save Our American Resources - A conservation program for Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts and Explorers that involves identifying environmental needs, acquiring the skills to meet those needs, and carrying out a meaningful project.

SPL

Senior Patrol Leader - Youth Leader of the troop. He is elected by the members of the troop and is the head of the PLC. He appoints his ASPL.

TC

(1)Troop Committee - A group of adult volunteers led by the CC to get the troop program implemented, as decided by the PLC.
(2)Troop Commissioner - See: Commissioner: All; UC

TG

Troop Guide - A youth leader who works with the new Scout patrol in the troop; appointed by the SM in consultation with the SA responsible for the new Scouts.

TRS

Troop Resource Survey - A survey of the talents, skills, and interests of adults who could provide program assistance to the troop.

UC

Unit Commissioner - A volunteer Scouter who works with packs, troops, and teams to help them succeed. Carries information and questions to and from the unit, to and from the local council

VA

Assistant Varsity Scout Coach

Varsity-

Varsity Scouting - A part of the BSA program for young men (Varsity Scouts) who are at least 14 but not yet 18. The unit is a team; the youth unit leader is a Coach. The emphasis is on advancement, high adventure, personal development, service and special programs and events.

VC

Varsity Scout Coach - Youth leader of a Varsity team. See Also: Varsity

Venture-

High adventure activities for a patrol (Venture Crew) of Boy Scouts, 13 and older in a troop.

Wood Badge

A training award granted upon completion of the Wood Badge course. A leather thong with two wooden beads, a special neckerchief, and a slide (woggle) are worn by those who have completed training. Boy Scout Leader Wood Badge teaches leadership and troop operation skills. Cub Scout Trainer Wood Badge teaches how to "train the trainer".

WOSM

World Organization of the Scouting Movement - The international, non-governmental organization that is composed of over 120 member countries, which through the World Scout - Conference, -Committee, and -Bureau administer the basis of Scouting around the world.

YPP

Youth Protection Plan - Guidelines and policies, in place, to help fight child abuse. This BSA Emphasis fights child abuse by teaching youth the "three R's": Recognize, Resist, and Report child abuse; by helping parents and Scouters learn to recognize indicators of child abuse; and by teaching them how to handle child abuse situations.

Cub Scout Abbreviations and Acronymns

88

Lone Cub Scout Friend and Coach - Lone Cubs are those that cannot be served by a regular unit due to distance or other circumstances. This is the designation for the Scouter who works with him.

AAD

Associate Area Director - A professional Scouter working in a region; assists as area director. See Also: AD : All

ACM

Assistant Cubmaster - This is the popular abbreviation. The correct one is CA. See Also: CA

ACRONYM

Always Confused Regarding Official Names You Make-up - The Acronym for "Acronym". The man I learned this from was in the Army, so the first part in his definition was "Army Confusion..."

AD

Assistant Denner - A Cub Scout or Weblos Scout elected by his peers to help the Denner See Also: Denner : Cub

AD

Area Director - A professional Scouter on a Regional Staff who relates to, and often lives in, a certain area, and works with the Area President in giving direct service to local councils.

ADE

Associate District Executive - A professional Scouter who works under the direction of a District Exec. See Also: DE

ADL

Assistant Den Leader - A commissioned volunteer Scouter, 18 or older, appointed by the Chartered Organization to help the Cub Scout Den Leader. See Also: DL

AOL

Arrow Of Light - The highest rank in Cub Scouting. The only Cub Scout badge that may be worn on a Boy Scout uniform.

AP

Area President - The ranking elected volunteer (non-commissioned) officer in an area. Heads the area committee and serves as a member of the regional cabinet.

B-P

Baden-Powell, Robert Stephenson Smyth - Founder of the worldwide Scouting movement. Born in L:London, Feb. 22, 1857. Created a Baron in 1929. He is referred to as Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell, Chief Scout of the World. Died Jan. 8 19441.

CA

Assistant Cubmaster - A commissioned volunteer Scouter, 18 or older, appointed by the Chartered Organization to help the Cubmaster. See Also: CM :Cub

Camporee

Derived from two words: camp and jamboree. A district of council troop activity to demonstrate techniques of living in camp. Involves a one- or two-night camping experience. May involve Scoutcraft competition.

CC

Committee Chair- The adult leader of the troop committee, may also be a member of the chartered organization. Provides the motivation and direction to the committee to get the Troop Program implemented, as decided by the PLC. Also, pack committee chair - provides organization to pack committee to carry out pack program.

CD

Camp Director - The Scouter in charge of the administration of a Boy Scout camp or Cub Scout day camp or resident camp. May also refer to Camping Director - A professional Scouter responsible for development of a council's year-round camping program.

CM

Cub Master- Adult Leader of a Cub Scout Pack. A commissioned volunteer Scouter, 21 or older, appointed by the Chartered Organization.

CM

Campmaster - A volunteer Scouter trained to assist in short term camping.

CO

Chartered Organization - A religious, civic, fraternal, educational, or other community-based organization that has applied for and received a charter to operate a BSA Scouting unit.

Commissioner

A volunteer Scouter who works with packs, troops, and teams to help the units succeed. In addition to council commissioner, there are district-, assistant district-, roundtable-, huddle-, program-,and unit commissioners.

CR/COR

Charter Representative/Chartered Organization Representative- An adult representative of the group or organization that currently holds the BSA Charter. Reports information to and from the chartered organization and the Troop. Represents the organization to the local council.

Crackerbarrel

A gathering of Scouts and/or Scouters for friendship and fellowship with light snacks and refreshments. See Also: Mug Up: BSA

CSE

Chief Scout Executive - The top ranking professional Scouter of the BSA.

CSLBT

Cub Scout Leader Basic Training - Taken after Fast Start training, this may be delivered as a one-day training course, a three-step course, or a self study course. Weblos leader outdoor training and the den leader coach seminar are also part of the basic training for those leaders.

DA

Assistant Den Leader- Adult assistant Den Leader, aids the Den Leader in managing a Cub Scout Den.

DAM

District Award of Merit - A recognition for Scouters who give noteworthy service to youth at the District/Exploring Division level.

DC

Den Leader Coach - One of many volunteers that provide training and resources to Den Leaders.

DC

Den Chief - A Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Explorer who helps direct the activities of a den. Appointed by the SPL with SM advice and consent. Also Weblos den chief, who provides the same function for a Weblos den.

DC

(1)District Chair - The volunteer chairperson of the district committee.
(2)District Committee - A group of volunteer adults responsible for carrying out the council program within their district.
(3)District Commissioner - See: Commissioner: All

DE

District Executive - A professional Scouter who works under the direction of the Scout Executive and is responsible for the achievements of the district.

Denner

A Cub Scout or Weblos Scout elected by his peers to help the den chief and den leader.

DL

Den Leader- Adult leader of a Cub Scout Den. A registered volunteer, 21 or older, appointed by the Pack committee t plan and direct the den's activities.

Fast Start

A preliminary training session with three part video explaining Pack organization,Pack meeting and, The Outdoor Program. Usually 3-4 hours.

Gilwell

Gilwell Park - The training center of the British Scout Association and the original homesite of Wood Badge Training. Located in Epping Forest, England.

MC

Member of the Committee- Adult volunteer who serves on the committee which carries out the unit program . Members are involved in operation of the unit as in finance, advancement, transportation, fund raising, and other duties determined by the CC and SM or CM or DC. Committees can be unit (pack, troop, post), district, or council.

Mug-up

This Canadian Scouts term is the equivalent of the BSA Crackerbarrel; a time of fellowship and friendship with light snacks and refreshments. See Also: Crackerbarrel

NCS

National Camping School- A training program to train Scouters who will serve in leadership roles in Summer Camps. All senior camp staff must attend NCS for certification in their field fir the camp to be accredited. This includes: Camp Dir, Program Dir, Program Commissioner, Aquatics Dir, C.O.P.E. Dir, Shooting Sports Dir. and others.

PC

(1)Pack Committee- Serves to implement the Pack Program and operate the Pack on a day-to-day basis. This includes: finance, transportation, fund raising, etc. See Also: CC: All
(2)Pack Commissioner - See: Commissioner: All

PTC

Philmont Training Center - A center at Philmont Scout Ranch that hosts training seminars for selected Scouts and Scouters on topics ranging from Key-3's,to OA Advisers, to program leader training, to Commissioner training, etc. Attendance is by invitation upon local council nomination. See Also: Philmont

SOAR

Save Our American Resources - A conservation program for Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts and Explorers that involves identifying environmental needs, acquiring the skills to meet those needs, and carrying out a meaningful project.

TC

Tiger Cub group Coach- Adult liaison between Tiger Cub parents and Pack

UC

Unit Commissioner - A volunteer Scouter who works with packs, troops, and teams to help them succeed. Carries information and questions to and from the unit, to and from the local council

WA

Assistant Weblos Den Leader-Adult assistant in a Weblos Den.

WC

Weblos Den Leader Coach - One of many volunteers who provide training and other resources to Leaders.

WE

Weblos Den Leader- Adult Leader in older Cub Den.Weblos is an eighteen month program that begins the transition to Boy Scouts

Wood Badge

A training award granted upon completion of the Wood Badge course. A leather thong with two wooden beads, a special neckerchief, and a slide (woggle) are worn by those who have completed training. Boy Scout Leader Wood Badge teaches leadership and troop operation skills. Cub Scout Trainer Wood Badge teaches how to "train the trainer".

WOSM

World Organization of the Scouting Movement - The international, non-governmental organization that is composed of over 120 member countries, which through the World Scout - Conference, -Committee, and -Bureau administer the basis of Scouting around the world.

YPP

Youth Protection Plan - Guidelines and policies, in place, to help fight child abuse. This BSA Emphasis fights child abuse by teaching youth the "three R's": Recognize, Resist, and Report child abuse; by helping parents and Scouters learn to recognize indicators of child abuse; and by teaching them how to handle child abuse situations.

Explorer Abbreviations and Acroymns

AA

Associate Advisor-Helps Explorer Advisor. Can facilitate a portion of the program. He is a commissioned volunteer, over 21, appointed by the chartered organization to help the Explorer Advisor. See Also: EA

AAD

Associate Area Director - A professional Scouter working in a region; assists as area director. See Also: AD : All

ACRONYM

Always Confused Regarding Official Names You Make-up - The Acronym for "Acronym". The man I learned this from was in the Army, so the first part in his definition was "Army Confusion..."

AD

Area Director - A professional Scouter on a Regional Staff who relates to, and often lives in, a certain area, and works with the Area President in giving direct service to local councils.

ADE

Associate District Executive - A professional Scouter who works under the direction of a District Exec. See Also: DE

AP

Area President - The ranking elected volunteer (non-commissioned) officer in an area. Heads the area committee and serves as a member of the regional cabinet.

B-P

Baden-Powell, Robert Stephenson Smyth - Founder of the worldwide Scouting movement. Born in L:London, Feb. 22, 1857. Created a Baron in 1929. He is referred to as Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell, Chief Scout of the World. Died Jan. 8 19441.

CC

Committee Chair- The adult leader of the troop committee, may also be a member of the chartered organization. Provides the motivation and direction to the committee to get the Troop Program implemented, as decided by the PLC. Also, pack committee chair - provides organization to pack committee to carry out pack program.

CO

Chartered Organization - A religious, civic, fraternal, educational, or other community-based organization that has applied for and received a charter to operate a BSA Scouting unit.

Commissioner

A volunteer Scouter who works with packs, troops, and teams to help the units succeed. In addition to council commissioner, there are district-, assistant district-, roundtable-, huddle-, program-,and unit commissioners.

CR/COR

Charter Representative/Chartered Organization Representative- An adult representative of the group or organization that currently holds the BSA Charter. Reports information to and from the chartered organization and the Troop. Represents the organization to the local council.

CSE

Chief Scout Executive - The top ranking professional Scouter of the BSA.

DAM

District Award of Merit - A recognition for Scouters who give noteworthy service to youth at the District/Exploring Division level.

DC

(1)District Chair - The volunteer chairperson of the district committee. (2)District Committee - A group of volunteer adults responsible for carrying out the council program within their district.d
(3)District Commissioner - See: Commissioner: All

DE

District Executive - A professional Scouter who works under the direction of the Scout Executive and is responsible for the achievements of the district.

EA

Explorer Advisor- Adult head of Explorer Post. Advises youth members on Post activities and helps in facilitating planning. A commissioned volunteer Scouter, 21 or older, appointed by the chartered organization.

EE

Exploring Executive - A professional Scouter who is responsible for selling and servicing Exploring in the council

Explorer

A registered youth member of an Explorer Post. Exploring is that part of the BSA program for young women and men who are at least 14 and through eighth grade or are 15 or older. Membership may continue through age 20. The unit is a post or a ship (Sea Exploring). Emphasis may be on career exploration, outdoor and high adventure activities, hobbies, service or other areas of interest to the post members.

Key-3

The council key-3: council president, council commissioner, Scout ExecutiveThe district key-3: The district chairman, district commissioner, the DEThe lodge key-3: The Lodge Adviser (OA), the Lodge Chief, the Staff Adviser

MC

Member of the Committee- Adult volunteer who serves on the committee which carries out the unit program . Members are involved in operation of the unit as in finance, advancement, transportation, fund raising, and other duties determined by the CC and SM or CM or DC. Committees can be unit (pack, troop, post), district, or council.

MT

Mate-Sea Explorer Post Assistant

PTC

Philmont Training Center - A center at Philmont Scout Ranch that hosts training seminars for selected Scouts and Scouters on topics ranging from Key-3's,to OA Advisers, to program leader training, to Commissioner training, etc. Attendance is by invitation upon local council nomination. See Also: Philmont

SK

Skipper- Sea Explorer Post Leader. Sea Exploring is organized along Navy lines.

SOAR

Save Our American Resources - A conservation program for Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts and Explorers that involves identifying environmental needs, acquiring the skills to meet those needs, and carrying out a meaningful project.

WOSM

World Organization of the Scouting Movement - The international, non-governmental organization that is composed of over 120 member countries, which through the World Scout - Conference, -Committee, and -Bureau administer the basis of Scouting around the world.

YPP

Youth Protection Plan - Guidelines and policies, in place, to help fight child abuse. This BSA Emphasis fights child abuse by teaching youth the "three R's": Recognize, Resist, and Report child abuse; by helping parents and Scouters learn to recognize indicators of child abuse; and by teaching them how to handle child abuse situations.

Order of the Arrow Abbreviations and Acroymns

ACRONYM

Always Confused Regarding Official Names You Make-up - The Acronym for "Acronym". The man I learned this from was in the Army, so the first part in his definition was "Army Confusion..."

B-P

Baden-Powell, Robert Stephenson Smyth - Founder of the worldwide Scouting movement. Born in L:London, Feb. 22, 1857. Created a Baron in 1929. He is referred to as Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell, Chief Scout of the World. Died Jan. 8 19441.

Brotherhood

The OA's second level of membership. The Ordeal member after 10 months of membership may seal his membership in the Order by taking a further pledge to service of others, Troop and Lodge.

Call-out

Call-out - the ceremony that begins the membership induction process for newly elected Order of the Arrow Candidates. See Also: OA

Chapter

An optional geographic administrative unit of an Order of the Arrow Lodge, usually corresponding to a District.

Chief

The key elected youth leader in the OA; may be Chapter-, Lodge-, Section-, Region, or National-Chief.

Good Turn

Good Turn is a distinctive feature of Boy Scouting and its emphasis upon service to others, The Good Turn habit is one that all Scouts try to acquire.

Key-3

The council key-3: council president, council commissioner, Scout ExecutiveThe district key-3: The district chairman, district commissioner, the DEThe lodge key-3: The Lodge Adviser (OA), the Lodge Chief, the Staff Adviser

Lodge

A local council Order of the Arrow group chartered annually by the National Council. A large, or geographically diverse lodge may be divided into chapters. See Also: Chapter: OA

NLS

National Leadership Seminar- A training program for youth and adult OA Leaders, containing Lodge Organization and leadership methods, ceremony organization and performing hints and ideas, and other Lodge oriented subjects

NOAC

National OA Conference- A biennial gathering of OA members, usually in a Mid-western University, for training and fellowship.

OA

Order of the Arrow- An adjunct program of BSA. It is an organization of honor campers dedicated to service and leadership in the Troop and community. Arranged in Lodges (1 per Council) and Chapters (if Council is). Lodges may take a native American name usually of the Nation or another totem near them.

Ordeal

This is the OA's first level of membership. Scouts, at least First Class, who meet other requirements are elected by their Troop mates and pass through an "Ordeal" meant to encourage self reflection and awaken an awareness of others' needs. Membership is "not so much for what you have done, but for what you are expected to do"

Vigil Honor

This is the OA's highest level of membership. A Brotherhood member, after at least two full years membership may be called out by the Lodge for this honor. Reflects an understanding and dedication to a life of service and of living the Scout Oath and Law.

YPP

Youth Protection Plan - Guidelines and policies, in place, to help fight child abuse. This BSA Emphasis fights child abuse by teaching youth the "three R's": Recognize, Resist, and Report child abuse; by helping parents and Scouters learn to recognize indicators of child abuse; and by teaching them how to handle child abuse situations.

AFTERWORD:

This is the end of the line, for now. You have a primer of Scouting words to figure out and use. I refer you to the BSA Booklet "The Language of Scouting" publication #3000 for further study and reference. As always, remember that the boys come first. Please, do not get bogged down in minutia so that your Scouts suffer. Above all "Keep it Simple- Make if Fun"