The first rank that every scout, except Lions, earns when entering the Cub Scouting Program is the Bobcat rank.
These requirements are meant to demonstrate that the youth is making a commitment to participating in the scouting program.
To earn the Bobcat rank the new Cub Scout does the following:
- Learn and say the Scout Oath, with help if needed:
"On my honor, I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my Country and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. "
- Learn and say the Scout Law, with help if needed.
"A Scout is:
Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful
Friendly, Courteous, Kind
Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty
Brave, Clean, and Reverent."
- Show the CUB SCOUT SIGN. Tell what it means.
Make the sign with your right hand and with your arm held straight up. The two fingers stand for the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. They look like a wolf's ears ready to listen to Akela. Give the Cub Scout Sign when you say the Scout Oath or Scout Law.
- Show the CUB SCOUT HANDSHAKE. Tell what it means.
Using your right hand, place your first two fingers along the inside of the other scout's wrist. This means that you help each other remember and obey the Scout Oath and Law.
- Say the CUB SCOUT MOTTO. Tell what it means. "Do Your Best"
- Give the CUB SCOUT SALUTE. Tell what it means.
Point your first two fingers of your right hand out straight and close together. Touch the tips of the fingers to your cap or if not wearing a cap then to your eyebrow. A salute is a way to show respect. When you salute a leader (either adult or other scout), you show him or her that you respect their position. When you salute the flag, you show that you are proud of your country.
- With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the booklet,
How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse.
The above items are the basic information that all Cub Scouts learn when they enter into the Cub Scouting program.