As the new year kicks off and we look forward to elections for OA, there are a few things to know and consider as your boys perpare to nominate each other.
OA Membership Requirements
To become a member of this special order, a nominee must be active in their Boy Scout Troop or Varsity Scout Team by meeting the following requirements:
- Be registered with the Boy Scouts of America.
- Hold the BSA rank of First Class or higher.
- Have attended 15 days and nights of Scout-sponsored camping during the two years before his election.
- Have attended one long-term camp that consists of six consecutive days and five nights as part of the camping requirement listed above.
- Be approved by the Scoutmaster or Varsity Team Coach to confirm that he is an example of living the Scout Oath and Promise in his daily life.
- Be elected by his fellow Scout Troop or Varsity Team members.
Arrowmen Qualities
Along with the OA membership requirements listed above, the boys should also take into consideration the following questions as they think about whom they should nominate to join scouting’s national honor society:
- Who among this Troop/Team is a friend to all?
- Who is helpful when others need a hand?
- Who is cheerful when he has tiresome jobs to do?
- Who would you wish to go camping with?
- Who regularly attends meetings of the Troop/Team, including campouts and other service projects?
- Who among them sets the example by living the Scout Oath and Law in his everyday life?
- Who can you depend on?
- Who do you feel is worthy to be included as a member of this special order?
Becoming a member of the Order of the Arrow is one of the highest honors a scout can receive!
Other Helpful Resources
Here are some other resources that may help you learn about OA, adult eligibility and local lodges and contacts.
