Lifesaving and Meritorious Action Awards

Lifesaving and Meritorious Action Awards recognize registered youth and adults who have performed an attempt to save a life, or to recognize notable acts of service that put into practice Scouting skills or ideals.

Recommendations for any of the awards are submitted by unit leaders to the Council Advancement Committee for review and submission to the National Court of Honor. The awards are:

Lifesaving Awards

• Honor Medal with Crossed Palms: Awarded in exceptional cases to youth member or adult leader who has demonstrated unusual heroism or resourcefulness in saving or attempting to save a life at extreme risk to self.
• Honor Medal: Awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has demonstrated unusual heroism and skill in saving or attempting to save life at considerable risk to self.
• Heroism Award: Awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has demonstrated heroism and skill in saving or attempting to save life at minimal personal risk to self.

Meritorious Action Awards

• Medal of Merit: Awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has performed an act of service of a rare or exceptional character that reflects an uncommon degree of concern for the wellbeing of others.
• National Certificate of Merit: Awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has performed a significant act of service that is deserving of special national recognition.