The Silver Beaver

The Silver Beaver

The Silver Beaver Award is the highest award given in Scouting. It is awarded to those who have given extraordinary service to youth through the scouting program over a period of many years. In order to achieve this award you have to be nominated by someone in local leadership, then have your service record reviewed, then your nomination approved by the Council. It is not something you can apply for or actually work toward.



I know a few people who have recieved The Silver Beaver, but I never considered that I would be one of them. I have worked in the youth of the church most of my adult life. I have been ward Young Men's President three times, Scoutmaster two times and have probably been a merit badge counselor forever. In the councils and districts where I gave the majority of this service, recognition for adults seemed quite rare.


Three years ago when I returned to Southern Utah, my bishop submitted my name when the district asked for cantidates for the Second Miler Award, a district recognition. Joyce messer, who does all the work for the district awards interviewed me and told me I should have been, and would be recognized for my many years of service. That year I recieved the Second Miler Award, the next year I recieved the District Award of Merit, and this year I recieved the Silver Beaver Award.


The award ceremony was at the Provo Tabernacle on September 12, 2009. Ninety-six people from the Cedar Breaks Council recieved this recognition. Many of these people have worked much harder and put in more time than I have, some perhaps less, and I am sure there are many scouters out there who deserve this recognition more than I. Nonetheless, I am extreemly honored to have the award and will wear it with pride.


Governor Gary Herbert spoke at the ceremony, after which each cantidate walked to the podium with their escort (Elma Lynne) and the award was presented while a short bio was read. After exiting the stand, a photo was taken with the district scout executive.


All our kids from the area and their spouses came to the ceremony, which was an honor for me as well. After the ceremony we took the group to lunch at Olive Garden where we had a good visit before returning home.