The U.S. military may soon end its century-old relationship with Scouting America—formerly known as the Boy Scouts of America—following claims that the organization has “abandoned its mission” to support young men. According to an alleged draft memo obtained by National Public Radio, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is considering severing ties, citing concerns that the group has become “genderless” and begun to “attack boy-friendly spaces.”

“The organization once endorsed by President Theodore Roosevelt no longer supports the future of American boys,” the memo reportedly reads. Hegseth, a former Army officer, is said to have argued that Scouting America has strayed from its traditional, merit-based roots that helped shape generations of young men into leaders, patriots, and service members.

If enacted, the Pentagon would stop providing medical and logistical support for the organization’s National Jamboree—a massive event that can draw over 20,000 participants—and military bases would no longer be able to host Scout meetings. The move would mark the end of one of the nation’s longest-running collaborations between a youth group and the U.S. armed forces.

In response, Scouting America said it was “surprised and deeply saddened” by the report. “Our nation’s military has walked side-by-side with Scouts for generations,” the organization stated. “An enormous percentage of those in our military academies are Scouts and Eagle Scouts. Our Scouts and leaders admire and are inspired by our military heroes. Many of our Scouts trade their Scouting uniforms for the uniforms of our nation’s armed forces.”

The group pushed back against accusations that it no longer promotes meritocracy. “Badges and ranks are not given; they are earned. Just ask any Eagle Scout,” the statement continued. “Young men and young women alike thrive in scouting. Scouts wear an American flag on their sleeves and swear a duty to God and country.”

Scouting America urged members and supporters to contact their representatives in Congress, hoping to preserve the long-standing relationship. “We will continue our efforts to work with the Pentagon to address this critical issue,” they said.

The controversy follows the organization’s 2024 name change from Boy Scouts of America to Scouting America, a move that coincided with its 115th anniversary. The rebrand was intended to reflect inclusivity after the group began admitting girls in 2018. At the time, Scouting America President Roger A. Krone said, “This will be a simple but very important evolution as we seek to ensure that everyone feels welcome in scouting. Though our name will be new, our mission remains unchanged: we are committed to teaching young people to be prepared. For Life.”

Still, critics—including Hegseth—argue the organization has moved too far from its roots, suggesting the shift undermines the development of distinctly male leadership experiences. The debate underscores the larger cultural struggle over gender, tradition, and identity in American institutions that once served as pillars of community life.