Notable Figures Who Were Boy Scouts

Notable Figures and Their Boy Scout Backgrounds

Many famous individuals have ties to the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), with some even achieving high ranks within the organization. These connections often shaped their lives, careers, and values in significant ways.

Neil Armstrong

Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon, was a member of the BSA. He earned his Eagle Scout Award as a member of Troop 14 in Wapakoneta, Ohio, in 1947. Twenty-two years later, he made history by stepping onto the lunar surface during the Apollo 11 mission. Before his historic journey, Armstrong sent a message to the National Jamboree, saying, “Hello to all my fellow Scouts at Farragut State Park in Idaho … Apollo 11 would like to send them best wishes.”

Martin Luther King Jr.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a registered Boy Scout from age 11 to 13 with Troop 151 in Atlanta. His early involvement in scouting helped shape his character, though he left the program before reaching higher ranks due to his academic pursuits. He started college at 15, leaving little time for continued scouting activities.

Jimmy Buffett

Before becoming a Grammy-winning musician known for songs like "Margaritaville," Jimmy Buffett was a Boy Scout. His experience in scouting contributed to his diverse skill set, including field medicine. Buffett once said, “From my Boy Scout days, I can patch people up. I can do stitches, which comes in handy in remote surf breaks.”

Harrison Ford

Harrison Ford achieved the rank of Life Scout, the second-highest in the BSA. In 2001, he rescued a lost 13-year-old Boy Scout in Yellowstone National Park while piloting his helicopter. His dedication to the organization has been well-documented, showcasing his commitment to community service and leadership.

John Wayne

The iconic Western actor John Wayne, born Marion Morrison, was a Boy Scout. The BSA honored him by naming a campsite after him: The John Wayne Outpost Camp. This tribute reflects his long-standing connection to the organization.

Michael Jordan

NBA legend Michael Jordan was a member of the BSA. His mother, Deloris Jordan, emphasized the importance of scouting in her children’s lives, stating that they were involved in various activities, including Boy Scouts.

Jimmy Stewart

Classic movie star Jimmy Stewart was a Boy Scout in Indiana, Pennsylvania. His appreciation for the organization's values led to the creation of the James M. Stewart Good Citizenship Award, recognizing outstanding contributions to society.

George W. Bush

Every U.S. president becomes an honorary Boy Scout, but some, like George W. Bush, were active members. Bush participated in scouting as a Cub Scout in Texas and addressed scouts during his presidency, highlighting the importance of the organization.

Gerald Ford

Gerald Ford was the only U.S. president to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. He earned the award in 1927 and later received the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award in 1970, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential Boy Scouts in history.

Bill Gates

Bill Gates was a scout in Seattle during the 1960s and 1970s. In 2010, he received the Silver Buffalo Award, the BSA’s highest honor, for his efforts to support youth development. Gates reflected on how scouting helped shape his skills and interests.

Buzz Aldrin

Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon, was a Boy Scout who achieved the rank of Tenderfoot. His experiences in scouting likely influenced his career in space exploration.

Nolan Ryan

Baseball legend Nolan Ryan was a Cub Scout in 1956. His early involvement in scouting had a lasting impact on his career, with many crediting it for his discipline and success.

Wynton and Branford Marsalis

Musical brothers Wynton and Branford Marsalis both were involved in scouting. Wynton, in particular, was an Eagle Scout at age 12, demonstrating his discipline and dedication.

Zach Galifianakis

Comedian Zach Galifianakis earned the rank of Eagle Scout while growing up in North Carolina. Though he doesn’t often speak about his scouting experiences, they may have influenced his sense of humor.

Jay Leno

Late-night host Jay Leno credits his time in the Boy Scouts for helping him develop his comedic talents. Despite challenges with dyslexia, he found his niche as a cheermaster, using humor to lift the spirits of his troop.

Steven Spielberg

Oscar-winning director Steven Spielberg was a Boy Scout who began his film career at age 11 by making a short film to earn a photography merit badge. His experiences in scouting inspired his semi-autobiographical film, The Fablemans.

John F. Kennedy

Before becoming president, John F. Kennedy reached the level of Star Scout. He remained involved with the BSA throughout his life, eventually becoming its National Honorary President.

Richard Gere

Actor Richard Gere, though not an Eagle Scout, maintained a strong connection to the BSA. He supports humanitarian causes, reflecting the values instilled during his scouting years.

Bill Clinton

Former President Bill Clinton was a Cub Scout. During his presidency, he praised the BSA for promoting volunteerism and civic responsibility.

Chris Pratt

Actor Chris Pratt mentioned his scouting background on Twitter, highlighting his philanthropy and commitment to supporting young scouts.

George Takei

Actor George Takei expressed disappointment over a controversial speech at a Boy Scout Jamboree. He emphasized his pride in being a former scout and the values it instilled in him.

Sam Walton

Walmart founder Sam Walton is considered the highest-earning Eagle Scout in terms of net worth. While Bill Gates was a Life Scout, Walton’s financial success highlights the potential impact of scouting on future achievements.

L. Ron Hubbard

L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, is the only known former Boy Scout to create a religion. Though there are rumors about his early achievements, they remain unverified.

Mike Rowe

TV personality Mike Rowe was an Eagle Scout. He credited scouting with providing a safe space for self-exploration and growth.

Derek Hough

Dancing with the Stars star Derek Hough continues to support scouting, citing his childhood experiences as a key influence on his love for outdoor adventures and community service.