Scout illustration - from the politically incorrect alphabet

Boy scout that is, the Baden-Powell version, not Tonto. Why politically incorrect? Well, the uniform and requirement of obedience both whiff of militarism, which is a PC no-no. Likewise the patriotic oaths. There were/are even breakaway groups like the cloyingly named "Woodcraft Folk", aimed to appeal to politically correct parents with a combination of paganism and anti-capitalism.

I imagine also that Scouting's association with Rudyard Kipling probably taints it too, Kipling being anathema to many of the PC crowd. I for one enjoy his writing ('Kim' for instance is a ripping yarn of the first water), even if some of his views - on organised labour for instance - I don't share (I'll go to the young Steinbeck for that).

The illustration should feature a scout wearing the old style wide brimmed hat and shorts, with scarf and woggle and a knife in its scabbard.

I was a member of the cubs for a year or so, had a great time getting wet and muddy on the camping and canoeing excursions, but was less fond of the particularly brutal games of British Bulldog which were encouraged by the scout master in order for us to 'let off steam' (more accurately 'lose blood').

Be Prepared (words and music by the blessed Tom Lehrer)

Be prepared! That's the Boy Scouts' marching song,
Be prepared! As through life you march along.
Be prepared to hold your liquor pretty well.
Don't write naughty words on walls if you can't spell.

Be prepared! To hide that pack of cigarettes.
Don't make book if you cannot cover bets.
Keep those reefers hidden where you're sure that they will not be found,
And be careful not to smoke them when the scoutmaster's around,
For he only will insist that they be shared, be prepared!

Be prepared! That's the Boy Scouts' solemn creed,
Be prepared! And be clean in word and deed.
Don't solicit for your sister, that's not nice,
Unless you get a good percentage of her price.

Be prepared! And be careful not to do
Your good deeds when there's no one watching you.
If you're looking for adventure of a new and different kind,
And you come across a Girl Scout who is similarly inclined,
Don't be nervous, don't be flustered, don't be scared. Be prepared!

Dib dib dob, our trusty scout salutes the Queen. The scout's promise varies by nationality, but almost always includes a promise to do one's duty by God and Country - or the ruler of it. I wonder who the holders of this medal made their promise to:
Scout medal image at www.thelearningfederation.edu.au

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Scout

Be Prepared (words and music by the blessed Tom Lehrer)