Missouri Military Academy (MMA) recently hosted its annual Boy Scouts of America Merit Badge University, with over 600 Scouts, leaders and family members from seven states attending, doubling the number of attendees from 2023.

In the opening ceremony, MMA Cadet and Eagle Scout Mason Brooks led the Scout Oath, and MMA President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret), welcomed the attendees.

"Scouting is so important, especially in our nation today," Geraci said.

He commented on the similarities between Scouting and Missouri Military Academy, pointing out that the Scout Oath, laws, motto, and even the Scout slogan closely align with MMA core values, as well as the Academy's character and leadership development programs. 

Commenting on the importance of the Academy maintaining a close relationship with the Boy Scouts to support and advance their aligned missions, he emphasized the opportunities for Scout troops to take advantage of MMA's 288-acre campus, which has camping areas, trails, a lake, and indoor facilities.

"I have worked with young men and women for the last 20 years as an educator and before that in the Army for 30 years. I have seen first-hand the positive difference that Scouting makes in the lives of young people," Geraci said, addressing the Scouts in attendance on March 23. "So, for all of our Scouts here, what you're doing is very, very important."

During the annual MMA Merit Badge University, Scouts — including cadets of MMA’s Boy Scout Troop 1889 — complete badges, supported by MMA staff and faculty and local/regional Scout volunteers. Scouts engaged in events across MMA’s 288-acre campus to earn the badges, from the rappel tower to the indoor swimming pool to the rifle range to the stables. As part of the experience, many Scout troops also camped out on campus. 

For more than 100 years, both Missouri Military Academy (MMA) and Boy Scouts of America (BSA) have been helping young men reach their full potential through a curriculum of academic and leadership skills and by imparting values of duty, honor and selfless service.

MMA cadets are invited to join the Academy’s BSA Troop 1889 (named in honor of the year of MMA’s founding) for fun and challenging experiences that will enhance their positive character development and leadership skills. MMA’s unique environment – both campus and culture – provides the optimal structure, consistency and opportunities to advance as a Scout while enhancing the MMA brotherhood experience.

The event was held on Saturday, March 23.