Wicker Offers Strong Defense of Boy Scouts

WICKER OFFERS STRONG DEFENSE OF BOY SCOUTS
The U. S. House of Representatives recently approved a resolution recognizing the Boy Scouts of America for the organization's countless public and community service activities. Ordinarily such a vote would hardly capture national attention, except that it came against the backdrop of a lawsuit aimed at curtailing Scouting activities on U.S. military bases. The issue has raised the ire of members of Congress in both parties.

While the Congressional resolution has no force of law, it provided members the opportunity to express their frustrations about this latest in a series of misguided attacks on the Boy Scouts. I strongly supported the measure, and I share the view that the longtime relationship between the Defense Department and the Boy Scouts should be preserved.

ACLU ATTACK ON SCOUTS
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) brought the lawsuit because it objects to the sponsorship of Boy Scout activities on military bases. The ACLU argues that these actions violate the separation of church and state since Scouts require members to believe in God. The suit was filed against the U.S. Department of Defense as well as the Department of Housing and Urban Development and would end virtually all government support of the Boy Scouts.

The litigation was filed in 1999 and had been pending in federal court until November 15 when the two sides announced a settlement of one portion of it. The agreement clarifies existing policy that precludes Defense Department entities from officially sponsoring private organizations. The settlement also requires the DOD to communicate that message to all military bases in the U.S. and overseas. While this limited action may not have major implications, I am disappointed that the government conceded the point instead of continuing to defend this unwarranted legal action.

PRIVATE SPONSORSHIP ALLOWED
The agreement does not prevent Defense Department personnel from being involved with Scouting on a personal basis, nor does it prevent Scouting activities from taking place on military installations. It also does not preclude servicemembers from sponsoring Boy Scout units on their personal time.

Another part of the same lawsuit seeks to end other DOD support for the Scouts, including sponsorship of the national and world Boy Scout Jamborees that have been held at Fort A.P. Hill in Virginia since 1981. The government should vigorously fight to protect this great tradition. I have joined as cosponsor of another House resolution urging the Defense Department to support activities of the Boy Scouts, especially DOD's involvement in hosting the national and world jamborees. I will also back stronger legislative action if it becomes necessary to protect the Boy Scouts from this unfair persecution.

SCOUTING PROGRAMS PRAISED
Since Congress chartered the Boy Scouts of America in 1916, the organization has provided outstanding programs to develop character, leadership, and good citizenship for millions of young men. The group also makes no apology that religious faith remains one of its solid foundations. As a former Scout myself and as the father of an Eagle Scout, I know first-hand about the benefits of membership. The Boy Scouts should not be punished for standing firm on those lofty principles.