Many future military officers come from Scouting. A Pentagon split could put those ties at risk.

"Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is reportedly considering severing ties with Scouting America, which could mean a consequential break with an organization that has long been closely associated with military service and leadership development. Public data from two prominentmilitary schools, West Point and the Naval Academy, shows that Scouting is common among future officers - more than one in ten cadets and about 10% of midshipmen in recent years have a Scouting background."

"A memo obtained by NPR in November highlighted Hegseth's desire to halt military support for the Scouts' National Jamboree and group activities on military bases. The Pentagon declined to provide a copy of the memo to Business Insider and did not comment on details surrounding any potential separation. "The Department will not comment on leaked documents that we cannot authenticate and that may be pre-decisional," Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson said in an email"

"The Scouts' Jamboree has long been a highly visible point of contact between the military and American youth. In 2017, the event featured a significant military presence - simulated helicopter rescues, displays of tanks and aircraft, flyovers, drill team performances, a special operations challenge, and other opportunities for Scouts to interact directly with service members. Whether the 2026 Jamboree events will feature similar military involvement remains to be seen (the Jamboree is usually held once every four years.)"

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is considering severing Pentagon ties with Scouting America, potentially ending military support for events and activities. Data from West Point and the Naval Academy show 10%–16% of recent academy classes reported a Scouting background, indicating a pipeline to future officers. A memo reportedly sought to halt military involvement in the Scouts' National Jamboree and on-base group activities. The Pentagon declined to provide the memo and called leaked documents unauthentic and possibly pre-decisional. Scouting America's Jamboree historically featured extensive military displays and interactions. The impact on the 2026 Jamboree and recruitment amid long-term recruiting challenges remains uncertain.

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