Honoring Those Who Serve as America Approaches 250 Years
As our nation moves closer to celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026, Americans across the country are reflecting on the values that have defined our nation since its founding: duty, service, leadership, and a commitment to something greater than ourselves.
Those values are woven into the fabric of Scouting.
For more than a century, Scouting has helped prepare young people to become responsible citizens, strong leaders, and active members of their communities. Along the way, countless Scouts have gone on to serve our nation in uniform, carrying the principles they learned in Scouting into military service around the world.
Today, we pause to recognize and thank the men and women of our Armed Forces and their families. Their sacrifices protect the freedoms we enjoy and inspire the next generation to lead lives of character and service.
Supporting Military Families Through Scouting
Military families understand the importance of leadership, resilience, teamwork, and service better than most. These are the same values that Scouting helps develop in young people every day.
That’s why Scouting America has announced a new registration benefit for military families. Children of active-duty military members are now eligible for complimentary national registration, helping make Scouting more accessible to the families who already give so much in service to our country.
Whether a family is stationed in North Texas for a short assignment or calls our community home for years to come, Scouting offers opportunities for youth to build friendships, develop confidence, explore the outdoors, and grow into leaders.
We are proud to welcome and support military families as part of the Scouting family.
Christmas in July: 10,000 for the Troops
One of the simplest ways to show appreciation for those serving our nation is through a handwritten message.
This year, Circle Ten Council is partnering with 96.3 KSCS and Hawkeye in the Morning as part of the annual 10,000 for the Troops campaign. The goal is simple: collect thousands of holiday cards that will be distributed to military personnel during the holiday season, bringing a little piece of home to those who may be serving far from their loved ones.
And we’re getting started early.
Christmas in July Starts Now
Don’t wait until November to create your cards. Use the summer months to gather your family, your den, your patrol, your troop, or your crew and begin making holiday cards now.
This is a great summer service project for Scouts of all ages, and Cub Scouts can even use participation as part of their summertime activities.
A few encouraging words, a hand-drawn picture, or a heartfelt thank-you can make a meaningful impact on someone serving our country during the holidays.
Cards can be created throughout the summer and turned in at either Circle Ten Council Service Center when collection begins.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
As America prepares to celebrate 250 years of freedom, Scouting continues to prepare young people to lead the next chapter of our nation’s story.
By supporting military families, honoring those who serve, and teaching young people the importance of citizenship and service, we are helping build stronger communities and a stronger future.
This summer, join us in saying thank you to our military, welcoming military families into Scouting, and helping us reach our goal of 10,000 holiday cards for the troops.
Together, we can remind those who serve that they are appreciated, remembered, and supported by the communities they protect.
