Pentagon Moves to End Partnership with Scouting America

The U.S. military is preparing to terminate its long-standing relationship with Scouting America, formerly known as the Boy Scouts, according to sources close to the War Department. The decision comes amid concerns over the organization’s shift toward gender-neutral policies and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

War Secretary Pete Hegseth has criticized Scouting America for its “genderless” messaging, arguing that the group no longer aligns with his vision of cultivating leadership and resilience in boys. He described the Scouts as having become an organization that “attacks boy-friendly spaces,” claiming it is no longer a meritocracy.

The military’s support for the Scouts dates back over a century, with formalized ties beginning in 1937. This included allowing Scout troops to meet on military bases, deploying medical teams and logistical units to the National Scout Jamboree, and providing trucks, ambulances, and aviation demonstrations. Under draft guidance, all of this support would cease.

A source indicated that memos were prepared to notify Congress but have not yet been transmitted. The Pentagon declined to comment on leak documents, stating it would not address pre-decisional materials. Scouting America defended its decades-long ties to the military, emphasizing its nonpartisan status and mission of developing leaders grounded in integrity and service.

Federal law requires the Pentagon to support the Jamboree but allows the War secretary to withhold aid if he determines it would be “detrimental to national security.” Hegseth is preparing to invoke this exception, arguing that shifting military manpower to the Jamboree diverts resources from border security and other operational priorities.

The potential break has already created friction within the War Department, with Navy Secretary John Phelan warning that the shift may be “too restrictive,” noting that up to one-third of Navy officers in training have a Scouting background. He argued that allowing Scout programs on bases serves as a valuable recruiting tool.

Scouting involvement has long been linked to military service, with roughly 20% of service academy cadets being eagle scouts. Enlistees who hold the Eagle rank currently qualify for advanced standing and higher initial pay — a benefit that would disappear if the partnership ends.

A draft letter to Scouting America’s leadership laid out the support the Pentagon would withdraw and ended by wishing the group “a safe and successful National Scout Jamboree.”