The Pentagon has issued a strong warning that it may completely end its long-standing partnership with Scouting America unless the youth group returns to its traditional emphasis on 'God and country' values.
The threat came in a social media post Monday night from Defense Department spokesperson Sean Parnell. He said the department had conducted a months-long review and found Scouting America had 'lost its way' after its 2025 rebranding that welcomed girls and LGBTQ+ members and focused more on inclusivity.
Parnell stated that logistical, financial, and personnel support — including help with the group’s large national jamboree — would continue only if Scouting America quickly makes 'common-sense, core value reforms' and returns to traditional principles.
"For more than a decade now, Scouting America’s leadership has made decisions that run counter to the values of this administration and this Department of War.
— Sean Parnell, Pentagon spokesperson
The warning follows a November memo from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to Congress that first raised the possibility of pulling support. Hegseth has been vocal about opposing what he calls 'woke' policies in the military, including diversity programs and inclusive changes in partner organizations.
Scouting America responded cautiously, saying it was encouraged by the Pentagon’s latest message and looks forward to continuing discussions. The group emphasized its 116-year history of promoting citizenship, service, and adventure for American youth.
The organization previously expressed surprise and disappointment at Hegseth’s initial criticism, noting that it remains nonpartisan and has worked constructively with every presidential administration.
Background on the Dispute
The Pentagon’s review focused on Scouting America’s shift away from what the current administration views as traditional values. Officials have criticized the group’s inclusivity policies, including admitting girls and LGBTQ+ members, as conflicting with military culture and recruitment goals.
Hegseth’s earlier memo accused the organization of fostering 'gender confusion' and attacking 'boy-friendly spaces.' He suggested redirecting military resources — including personnel, equipment, and support for the summer jamboree — away from the group.
Reactions and Criticism
The threat drew pushback from some Republican lawmakers who have long supported scouting. Rep. Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania, co-chair of the Congressional Scouting Caucus, called it shortsighted to end a partnership that has served as a major recruitment tool for the military for generations.
Main Points of the Controversy
Pentagon threatens to end logistical and financial support.
Criticism focuses on inclusivity policies and rebranding.
Scouting America has welcomed girls and LGBTQ+ members since 2019–2025.
Threat includes potential withdrawal of support for national jamboree.
✓ Monday night social media warning from Pentagon
✓ Review cites shift away from 'God and country' values
✓ Scouting America expresses hope for continued partnership
✓ Some GOP lawmakers criticize the Pentagon’s stance
The dispute reflects broader tensions within the current administration over diversity, equity, and inclusion policies in institutions that partner with or receive support from the federal government.
What This Could Mean
If the Pentagon follows through, it would mark a significant break from decades of close cooperation between the U.S. military and scouting organizations. The partnership has historically provided logistical support, leadership training, and a pipeline for military recruitment.
Scouting America has not yet indicated whether it will change its inclusivity policies in response to the pressure.
Back to God and country – immediately!— Sean Parnell, Pentagon spokesperson
The outcome will likely have implications for other youth organizations and nonprofits that rely on federal partnerships, especially those that have embraced more inclusive policies in recent years.
