Understanding the correct placement of patches on a Webelos uniform is crucial for instilling pride and adherence to Scouting traditions. This guide will clearly explain where each patch belongs on the Webelos uniform, ensuring every scout looks sharp and properly represents their achievements and affiliations. From temporary patches to rank advancements, we’ll cover all aspects of Webelos Uniform Patch Placement.
Right Pocket: Showcasing Temporary Achievements
Webelos Cub Scout wearing a temporary patch on the right pocket
The right pocket of the Webelos uniform is designated for temporary patches. This area allows scouts to display patches earned from various activities, events, and recognitions that are not considered permanent awards. Webelos Scouts have the freedom to choose which temporary patch to showcase, allowing for personalization and a celebration of recent accomplishments. It’s important to remember that only one temporary patch should be worn at a time on the right pocket to maintain a neat and organized appearance.
Patches with a button loop are designed to be hung from the right pocket button, positioned neatly behind the pocket flap. Examples of patches commonly worn here include:
- Webelos Den Patches: Representing the scout’s specific Webelos den.
- Camp Patches: Commemorating attendance at day camps, resident camps, or other camping events.
- Event Patches: Patches from Cub Scout derbies, jamborees, or special activity days.
- Pack Patches: Patches unique to the scout’s Cub Scout pack.
This flexibility allows Webelos Scouts to continually update their right pocket with patches that reflect their most recent and memorable Scouting experiences.
Beneath the Right Pocket: The Recruiter Patch
Webelos Scout uniform with Recruiter patch placement below the right pocket
The space directly below the right pocket is specifically reserved for the Recruiter Patch. This patch is a special recognition awarded to Webelos Scouts who have successfully recruited a new member into Scouting. Earning the Recruiter Patch signifies a scout’s commitment to growing the Scouting movement and sharing its benefits with others.
The Recruiter Patch should be centered beneath the right pocket, ensuring it is prominently displayed as a testament to the scout’s recruitment efforts. This placement is consistent across all Cub Scout ranks, including Webelos.
Above the Left Pocket: The World Crest
World Crest patch correctly placed above the left pocket of a Webelos uniform
Positioned above the left pocket is the World Crest. This emblem is a universal symbol of Scouting, worn by Scouts worldwide to signify their membership in the global Scouting movement. For Webelos Scouts, displaying the World Crest reinforces their connection to a larger community that extends beyond their den, pack, and even country.
The World Crest should be centered between the left shoulder seam and the top of the left pocket. This precise placement ensures the World Crest is clearly visible and properly positioned according to Scouting uniform guidelines. It remains in this location throughout a scout’s Cub Scouting journey and beyond.
Left Pocket: Displaying Webelos Rank Badges
Webelos uniform left pocket showcasing rank badges in the correct positions
The left pocket is the designated location for displaying Cub Scout rank badges, including those earned in the Webelos program. These badges represent a scout’s progress through the Cub Scout ranks and their achievement of specific milestones and skills. The placement of these badges follows a specific order within the left pocket:
- Bobcat Badge: Positioned at the 12 o’clock position. (Though typically earned earlier, if a Webelos Scout is new and earns Bobcat, this is its place).
- Tiger Badge: Placed at the 6 o’clock position.
- Wolf Badge: Located at the 9 o’clock position.
- Bear Badge: Situated at the 3 o’clock position.
- Webelos Badge: Typically the most recent rank, it will take the next available spot in the circle, or be positioned according to den/pack preference if all positions are filled. As Webelos is the highest Cub Scout rank before Arrow of Light, it is prominently displayed.
This circular arrangement on the left pocket provides a clear visual representation of a Webelos Scout’s advancement through the Cub Scout program.
Below the Left Pocket: Lion Badge Considerations
Lion badge placement below the left pocket on a Cub Scout uniform
The area below the left pocket is traditionally designated for the Lion Badge, which is earned in the Lion Cub program, the program for Scouts before Tiger rank. While Webelos Scouts typically have progressed beyond the Lion rank, understanding this placement is helpful for younger scouts transitioning into Webelos or for those who may have joined Scouting later.
The Lion badge, when applicable, is placed directly below the Tiger Badge. For Webelos Scouts who did not participate in the Lion program, this space remains blank or can be used according to pack-specific guidelines if any.
Right Sleeve: Essential Patches
The right sleeve of the Webelos uniform is home to three essential patches that are consistent across all Cub Scout ranks and signify important aspects of Scouting in America.
The American Flag Patch
American Flag Patch placement on a Webelos uniform sleeve
The American Flag Patch is a standard element of the Cub Scout uniform and comes pre-sewn on every official uniform shirt. It is positioned directly below the shoulder seam on the right sleeve. It is crucial to ensure that only a BSA-issued flag patch is displayed to maintain uniformity and respect for official standards. This patch symbolizes patriotism and a scout’s commitment to their country.
Den Numbers or Den Emblems
Den Number patch correctly placed on a Webelos uniform sleeve
Den Number Patches (or den emblems) are worn directly below the American Flag patch. These patches identify a Webelos Scout’s specific den within their pack. The Den Number patch should be placed touching the bottom edge of the American Flag patch, creating a neat and contiguous arrangement on the sleeve. This patch is essential for identifying scouts within pack and den activities.
Journey to Excellence Patch
Journey to Excellence patch on a Webelos uniform sleeve
The Journey to Excellence (JTE) Patch is awarded to Cub Scout packs that achieve the Journey to Excellence Award, recognizing high standards and program quality within the pack. This patch is placed just below the Den Number patch on the right sleeve. It’s important to note that only the most recently earned JTE award patch should be worn. This patch signifies the pack’s commitment to excellence and providing a high-quality Scouting experience.
By following this comprehensive guide, Webelos Scouts and their leaders can ensure accurate and respectful uniform patch placement, fostering pride in their achievements and upholding the traditions of Scouting. Properly placed patches not only enhance the appearance of the uniform but also tell a story of a scout’s journey and accomplishments within the Webelos program and Cub Scouting as a whole.
