Tribute to President Gerald R. Ford

IN MEMORIAM
Gerald R. Ford
38th President of the United States
July 14, 1913 - December 26, 2006

The National Capital Area Council, Boy Scouts of America joins with our Country in mourning the loss of our Nation's First Eagle Scout President, Gerald R. Ford.  President Ford earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1927 as a member of Troop 15, chartered to the Trinity M.E. Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  In 1970, he was recognized by the Boy Scouts of America with the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award "for his service to the Nation and community". 

In 1974, the National Capital Area Council honored President Ford with the Scouter of the Year Award.  President Ford was a staunch advocate of the Scouting program and credited his Scouting experience with shaping the course of his life.  In his words "I can say without hesitation, because of Scouting principles, I know I was a better athlete, I was a better naval officer, I was a better Congressman, and I was a better prepared President."

During his term as Vice President, Gerald Ford noted that "One of the proudest moments of my life came in the Court of Honor when I was awarded the Eagle Scout badge. I still have that badge. It is a treasured possession. I am the first Eagle Scout Vice President. The three great principles which Scouting provides�self-discipline, teamwork, and moral and patriotic values�are the basic building blocks of leadership. I applaud the Scouting program for continuing to emphasize them. I am confident that your ability to bring ideals, values, and leadership training to millions of our young people will help to bring about a new era�a time in which not only our Republic will progress in peace and freedom, but a time in which the entire world shall be secure, and all its people free."

Gerald Ford with the Eagle Scout Guard of Honor at Mackinac Island State Park, MI. The troop guided visitors around Mackinac Island and raised and lowered the flag each day. August, 1929.

Silent Salute - Thank you to all Scouts, Scouters, and parents who were able to participate in the "Silent Salute" to President Ford when the procession passed the World War II Memorial on Saturday evening, December 30, 2006. Eagle Scouts were joined by our top professional and volunteer Scouting leadership representing our entire membership. 

Additionally, the Boy Scout Council headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, which is named in honor of President Ford, will be participating in services for the President in his hometown.

LINKS
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum