Scouting milestone

Today marks the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America, an event worth celebrating. The organization has served at least 112 millions boys - more than any other organization.

And about 2 million of them have reached Eagle, Scouting's highest rank.

Boy Scouts of America still does what Robert Baden-Powell, the British general who founded the movement, intended: It builds character, promotes citizenship and develops fitness.

Scouting gives young men of all backgrounds and incomes the opportunity to experience unforgettable outdoor adventures. But they learn more than knot-tying and orienteering. They develop leadership skills, self-reliance and team spirit.

Scout assignments will require them to appreciate the workings of government, the principles of good finances and especially the need to help others. Consider: In 2008 Scouts reported more than 35 million service hours.

While BSA has retained its original purpose, it has evolved through the years and now has efforts to reach minorities and troubled kids. Some of its programs are co-ed. Rigorous child-safety standards were adopted after reports of sexual abuse by some Scout leaders.

The Gulf Ridge Council of BSA, which covers eight counties in Central Florida, including Hillsborough, serves 40,000 youths. They can begin as Tiger Cubs in first grade and remain in Venturing Crews until age 20.

Scouting was brought to America by wealthy Chicago newspaper publisher William D. Boyce, who lost his way on the foggy streets of London in 1909. As he stood under a street light, a "little lad of 12" appeared and guided him to his destination. Boyce offered him a tip, but the boy refused, saying he was simply doing his "Good Turn" as a Scout.

The impressed Boyce inquired about the organization, met with Baden-Powell and eventually with a group of other community leaders launched Boy Scouts of America on Feb. 8, 1910.

That unknown Scout's good turn helped start a program that has touched the lives of millions of youngsters and resulted in incalculable Good Turns.

So this milestone anniversary is a reminder of the immense good Scouting does. All Scouts, and the adult volunteers who make the program possible, deserve recognition and support.