Tennessee Military Department Hosts Merit Badge University

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – More than 300 Scouts lived up to their motto, “be prepared,” by participating in the Tennessee Military Department’s 5th Annual Merit Badge University held at Nashville’s Joint Force Headquarters, September 19.  

These young Scouts, primarily form the Middle Tennessee area, spent the day with Soldiers and Airmen from the Tennessee National Guard, and volunteers from the Tennessee Emergency Management Authority, as they learned skills from 15 specialized merit badge classes that Scouts could choose from to earn.

“Scouting has always provided a tremendous foundation for leadership and opportunities for young men and women to learn skills to be good, active citizens,” said Maj. Gen. Warner Ross, Tennessee’s Adjutant General. “We always value the opportunity to host this event, knowing that we are helping these young men and women become better leaders and citizens.”   

The merit badges offered ranged from those required for Eagle Scout to professional based programs. For example, Army mechanics taught automotive maintenance and musicians with the 129th Army Band taught music. Other merit badges offered included architecture, engineering, first aid, personal fitness, and many more. 

“Many of the badges taught and earned today are not often available during meetings or at Scout camp,” said Sgt. 1st Class Ken Weichert, the Merit Badge University coordinator. “They were also taught by experienced Guardsmen who are experts in these fields with years of real-world experience. These events are always a great opportunity for Scouts to learn different skills from those who do it every day.”   

During the various classes, Scouts learned those skills while completing tasks to meet the badge’s requirements. Most scouts ended the day with at least one new badge, with many of them one step closer to earning Eagle Scout, the highest rank a scout can earn. After the day-long event was over, more than 300 merit badges were completed.   

“This was our 5th Merit Badge University we have hosted, and it was incredibly successful,” said Weichert. “We look forward to continuing to host this for many more years to come.”