The Silver Buffalo Award
Recognizing Extraordinary National Service to Youth
The Silver Buffalo Award is Scouting America’s highest and most distinguished national honor for adult volunteers. First awarded in 1926 to Lord Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Scouting movement, this prestigious accolade recognizes individuals who have rendered noteworthy, nationwide service to youth.
Presented annually during the Scouting America National Annual Meeting, the Silver Buffalo Award honors those whose extraordinary leadership, philanthropy, and lifelong dedication have made a profound, positive impact on young people across the United States.
Significance & Eligibility
The Silver Buffalo Award is truly national in scope. Unlike council or regional awards, it recognizes contributions that have influenced the youth of the nation as a whole—either directly through Scouting America or through broader civic, educational, philanthropic, or governmental leadership.
Eligibility & Nomination Criteria
Scope of Service: Must have rendered service of an exceptionally noteworthy character to youth on a national level.
Open to All: Nominees may be registered members of Scouting America or non-members whose civic, educational, or humanitarian achievements have significantly benefited the youth of the nation.
National Impact: Contributions must extend beyond local councils or regions to influence national programs, youth policy, or nationwide youth development.
No Self-Nominations: Nominations must be submitted by third parties and supported by national Scouting committees or community leaders.
Nomination & Selection Process
Because the Silver Buffalo Award is Scouting America’s highest national recognition, candidates undergo a rigorous review process by the National Court of Honor.
Nomination Guidelines:
Prepare the Nomination Packet: Complete the official Silver Buffalo Award Nomination Form, providing a detailed record of the candidate’s national service to youth and overall civic accomplishments.
Document National Impact: Detail specific projects, leadership roles, board appointments, or philanthropic contributions that have shaped youth programs at a national level.
Gather Endorsements: Include strong letters of recommendation from national leaders, civic officials, or prominent organizations supporting the candidate’s achievements.
Submit to the National Court of Honor: Completed nomination packets must be submitted directly to the National Office of Scouting America prior to the annual deadline.
List of Silver Buffalo Recipients
| Council | Award | Year | Recipient Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monmouth | Silver Buffalo | 1935 | Calvin Derrick |
| Monmouth | Silver Buffalo | 1959 | Irving J. Feist |
| Monmouth | Silver Buffalo | 1973 | Joseph A. Brunton, Jr. |
| Monmouth | Silver Buffalo | 1978 | Dorothy Feist |
| Monmouth | Silver Buffalo | 1990 | Carl M. Marchetti, M.D. |
| Monmouth | Silver Buffalo | 2007 | Bray B. Barnes, Esq. |
| Monmouth | Silver Buffalo | 2014 | Robert J. Smith, Jr. |
Need Additional Help?
For guidance on preparing a Silver Antelope nomination packet or verifying submission procedures for your National Service Territory, please contact the Council Advancement & Awards Committee at monmouth@scouting.org or call (732) 536-2347.
