Bush Offers High Praise to Boy Scouts
Tuesday, 31 July 2001

BOWLING GREEN, Va. -- George W. Bush hailed the Boy Scouts on Monday, saying the organization's values "are the values of America," the Associated Press reports.

In videotaped remarks to 32,000 boys attending the National Scout Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill in Virginia, Bush said young people involved in Scouting represent the best of the country's potential.

"Every society depends on trust and loyalty, on courtesy and kindness, on bravery and reverence," Bush said. "These are the values of scouting and these are the values of America."

Bush had intended to address the participants in the Jamboree personally, but poor weather prevented him making the short flight from Washington.

Bush has often praised the Boy Scouts and has defended the organization when its policy of prohibiting gay scouts and troop leaders has been criticized. Bush said the Boy Scout uniform is a symbol of commitment to high standards.

"What you have learned in scouting will see you through life. In good times and difficult ones, the scout motto will always help you: 'Be prepared.' And whatever you do, the scout oath will always guide you: 'On your honor, do your best.'"