Was President Jimmy Carter Involved in Boy Scouts of America?

Hey Scouters, have you ever wondered whether President Jimmy Carter was involved with the Boy Scouts of America? The answer is both yes and no. Let’s dive into the details and explore his connection to Scouting, as well as his embodiment of the Scout Oath and Law throughout his remarkable life.

First, let’s talk about U.S. presidents who were Scouts during their youth. John F. Kennedy was the first president who participated in Scouting, achieving the rank of Star. Gerald Ford, the only president to earn the rank of Eagle Scout, remains a shining example of the values Scouting instills. Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden all experienced Scouting in their youth as well, even if they didn’t reach advanced ranks.

Now, what about President Jimmy Carter? While he wasn’t a Boy Scout as a youth, he became deeply involved in Scouting as an adult volunteer. When his sons joined the program, Carter stepped up to serve as a Scoutmaster, a troop committee chairman, and an Explorer Adviser. During his time as Scoutmaster, he worked hands-on to support his Scouts, demonstrating leadership and dedication to their growth. Reflecting on this experience, Carter once said, “Good to see you all. I used to be a Scoutmaster myself. I sympathize with you. I want all of you to make Eagle before you’re through, okay?”

President Carter’s commitment to Scouting didn’t end there. During his presidency, he received the distinguished Silver Buffalo Award from the Boy Scouts of America. This is the highest honor awarded to volunteers for their service to youth. The Scout Oath’s values of duty to God and Country were evident throughout his presidency. Carter famously vowed, “I would not tell a lie; I would not mislead the American people. So help me, God.” His integrity and dedication to service shone brightly both in and out of office.

Many believe Carter’s most profound dedication to service began after his presidency. In 1982, he and his wife Rosalynn founded The Carter Center, an organization committed to advancing human rights and alleviating suffering in over 80 countries. The center works to prevent and resolve conflicts, promote freedom and democracy, and improve global health. As Carter explained, “The right of people to live in peace and to have health care and their children survive are inseparable basic rights of human beings.” His ability to bring experts together and access leaders worldwide amplified the impact of his humanitarian efforts.

Another pillar of the Scout Oath is to stay physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. Carter embodied this ideal throughout his life. Even into his 90s, he participated in Habitat for Humanity projects, swinging a hammer alongside Rosalynn to build homes for the underprivileged. “I think this is the best way that I can put my Christian faith into actual practice,” he once said. His faith guided him in every endeavor, and he lived out the Scout Law—especially the principle that a Scout is reverent. For decades, Carter regularly taught Sunday school at his local church in Plains, Georgia. His deep faith and humility inspired all who met him.

President Carter described his life of service as an honor and a privilege, much like the spirit of Scouting itself. He didn’t see helping others as an obligation but as an opportunity to make a difference. Just as Scouts strive to do their duty to God and country, Carter lived those principles every day. His legacy reminds us all that service to others is one of the highest callings—and one of life’s greatest rewards.