MEMORIAL GOLD STAR

WHAT IS A MEMORIAL GOLD STAR?  A Memorial Gold Star is a unit recognition, placed on the unit flag in memory of a former member of that unit who has died in the service of their country.

WHERE CAN I READ ABOUT THIS in BSA literature?  In the Insignia Guide: "GOLD STARS (MEMORIAL) Gold stars may be affixed to the unit flag indicating members of the unit who died in the service of their country. The stars should be placed along the staff edge of the flag, parallel to the staff, with the bottom star 6 inches from the staff edge and 6 inches from the bottom edge; subsequent stars to be placed proportionately on that line, up to the place assigned to the veteran insignia.  No. 11117."

WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS?  At this time, there is no further documentation in any BSA literature.  How do I apply?  There is no application process or approval needed for this unit recognition.  You can order the stars through National Supply Division, and plan a ceremony to attach them to your unit flag.

How Do I order the Stars?   The part number given in the insignia guide (No. 11117) is orderable through the National Supply Division.  (800-323-0736).  This is a factory part only, so is not generally kept in stock at any BSA location. Order lead time is 4-6 weeks.  Be sure to order far in advance.  Stars are sold in pairs, designed to be sewn on opposite sites of the unit flag.

What should I address in planning a ceremony?  First, be sure that your ceremony is compliant with the wishes of the family of the deceased. Second, be certain that your ceremony focuses on the Scout values, including Duty to Country.  In no circumstances should a Scout ceremony be allowed to become a political commentary.  Be careful not to portray the Boy Scouts of America as a paramilitary organization. Remember that this is a unit recognition - a celebration of the success of the unit in instilling the core values of Duty to Country and Duty to Others in an extraordinary way. This unit recognition is not well known.

What should a good ceremony include?    Each ceremony will be unique to the circumstances of the individuals and unit involved.  Some elements to consider including are:

• Involvement of pack, troop, and crew in a single ceremony, as appropriate
• Involvement of current youth members of the unit(s)
• Involvement of the family, if they desire
• An account of the individual's scouting record
• Acknowledgment of the fallen individual's own leaders, regardless of current registration status (Den Leader and Scoutmaster from years ago, e.g.)
• Importance of duty to country in our values
• Explanation of the significance of the Gold Star on a unit flag
• Actual placement of the stars on the unit flag(by safety pin, temporarily)
• A forward-looking statement of challenge and inspiration to current scouts and leaders

There is volunteer support available, including a sample ceremony script.  Please email me at jduncan@ieee.org.  Or visit our website at http://home.comcast.net/~ilduncans

Where does the Star go? On the Pack, Troop, or Crew Flag, located six inches from the staff edge of the flag and six inches from the bottom.