Excess temporary insignia

Excess insignia is not just found on the adults. The main problem with scouts wearing excess insignia is with their temporaries, those pesky cloth peaces that a boy receives by attending events. I don’t know if it is the parent that thinks that everything earned must go on the uniform or if it’s the boy, who is so proud of them, wants to wear all of them. But I have seen them sewn on the shoulder, pocket flap, shirt tail, sleeve, and four or more deep hanging from each pocket button.

BSA’s current Insignia Guide states: “Temporary insignia are issued for such events as summer camp, camporees, and Scouting shows … Only one such patch may be worn at a time. The patch is worn centered on the right pocket and must not exceed the dimension of the seams of the pocket, nor extend higher than the lowest tip of the pocket flap. It may be either sewn or suspended from under the flap attached to the button.”

The list of Temporary insignia includes the funky shaped Totin Chip Patches, which most parents try to sew on the pocket flap. The only exceptions are the Cub Immediate Recognition emblems, which may be worn suspended from the right pocket button by Cubs in addition to sewn-on temporary insignia.

The guide further explains “Previously earned badges and insignia—not representing present status—make a fine display on a BSA red patch vest, a trophy hide or blanket, exhibited in the home of the recipient, or at functions where such a display is invited.” It further explains “Members may wear only temporary patches (no badges of rank) on the back of the merit badge sash.”

            Personally, I like to sew them on a Blanket Poncho, which can be used as a coat or blanket at camp. Make or buy a Fleece Throw. Then bind a “T” cut opening that you have cut into the middle of the throw; add ties at the appropriate place to tie shut. Use a “T” opening instead of a round hole so that you do not have a cold spot when used as a blanket, like my oldest son did when I made his. If you wish it to be washable, use only cloth patches.