The Boy Scouts of America elected Dr. Robert M. Gates, former secretary of defense and former director of central intelligence, as the organization’s national president during the National Annual Meeting on May 22. In this volunteer role, Dr. Gates will lead the National Executive Board, which guides the Boy Scouts of America as it serves 2.5 million youth members, for two one-year terms. He is the 35th president of the BSA, following telecom pioneer and co-owner of the Seattle Mariners Wayne Perry.
Dr. Gates has a long history of participation and service in the BSA. He is a past member of the National Executive Board; a past president of the National Eagle Scout Association; a distinguished Eagle Scout; a recipient of the Silver Buffalo Award, the highest commendation given by the BSA for extraordinary service to youth; and a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow, the highest mark of distinction and recognition for those with exceptional service and unselfish interests.
Dr. Gates spoke to the Scouting family during the organization’s National Annual Meeting. Watch or read his prepared remarks here:
WATCH: Dr. Gates’ Remarks at the 2014 BSA National Annual Meeting
READ: Dr. Gates’ Remarks at the 2014 BSA National Annual Meeting