WASHINGTON, D.C. February 27, 2026 – U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced today that the Department of War (DoW) has formally placed Scouting America on notice, demanding the organization return to its traditional roots or risk its long-standing partnership with the U.S. military.
In a video message posted to X, Hegseth declared:
“The Department of War has officially put Scouting America on notice.
It’s time to get back to basics — and DoW is leading the charge.”
The move intensifies months of pressure from the Trump administration on Scouting America — formerly the Boy Scouts of America — to abandon Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, gender-fluid policies, and what officials call “social justice stances” that have “attacked boy-friendly spaces.”
Background of the Dispute
Scouting America rebranded in 2024 and opened programs to girls beginning in 2018, moves the Department of War has repeatedly criticized as straying from the organization’s founding mission of building “masculine virtues,” character, leadership, and patriotism among boys.
The Pentagon has historically provided significant logistical, medical, and financial support to Scouting America, most notably for the quadrennial National Jamboree that draws tens of thousands of scouts. Officials have warned that continued support — including use of military bases and resources — is now contingent on “core value reforms.”
Earlier this month, DoW spokesman Sean Parnell stated the department was nearing a final agreement only if Scouting America rapidly implements changes aligning with the administration’s “God and country” principles and eliminates DEI programs.
Yesterday’s reports indicated the Pentagon was shifting toward maintaining ties after backlash, but Hegseth’s announcement today makes clear the pressure campaign continues under DoW leadership.
Strong Support from Former Scouts and Conservatives
The announcement drew immediate praise online, with many former scouts and veterans echoing calls to “Make Boy Scouts Boys Again.” Replies to Hegseth’s post included:
“As a former scout, I support this wholeheartedly. The corruption of the scouts needed to end a long time ago.”
“Make the Boy Scouts boys again!”
“Order of the Arrow was created for a reason. This organization has become an embarrassment.”
Scouting America has not yet issued a public response to today’s notice.
Life News Agency will continue monitoring this developing story as the Department of War enforces its zero-tolerance policy on DEI across all federal partnerships.
About The Author
