If you have been asked to write an Eagle Scout recommendation letter, you may be wondering where to begin. The good news is that there are plenty of resources available to guide you through the process, including sample letters that you can use as a starting point. In this article, we will provide tips for writing a compelling Eagle Scout recommendation letter, as well as seven examples to help you get started.
Tips for Writing an Eagle Scout Recommendation Letter
Before diving into the examples, here are a few tips to keep in mind when writing an Eagle Scout recommendation letter:
1. Start with a Title
Begin your recommendation letter with a clear and concise title that identifies the purpose of the letter. For example, “Recommendation for Eagle Scout Candidate John Smith.”
2. Be Specific
Provide specific examples of the candidate’s qualities and accomplishments that demonstrate their readiness for the Eagle Scout rank.
3. Use a Professional Tone
Use a professional tone throughout the letter, and avoid using overly casual language or slang.
4. Highlight Leadership Skills
Eagle Scouts are expected to be strong leaders, so be sure to highlight any leadership experience or skills that the candidate possesses.
5. Edit and Proofread
Take the time to carefully proofread your letter and make any necessary edits before submitting it.
6. Offer Contact Information
If possible, offer your contact information in case the recipient has any questions or needs further information.
7. Use Examples as a Starting Point
Don’t be afraid to use sample letters as a starting point for your own. Just be sure to personalize the letter to fit the candidate’s specific situation and qualities.
Examples of Eagle Scout Recommendation Letters
Recommendation for Eagle Scout Candidate John Smith
Dear [Scoutmaster’s Name],
I am writing to highly recommend John Smith for the rank of Eagle Scout. John has been an active member of Troop [Troop Number] for [Number] years, and in that time he has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to service.
John has served as a patrol leader for [Number] years, and during that time he has consistently shown himself to be a responsible and effective leader. He has a natural ability to motivate and inspire his peers, and he is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that his patrol is successful.
In addition to his leadership skills, John is also a dedicated volunteer in his community. He has logged over [Number] hours of volunteer service through his involvement with [Organization Name], and he is always looking for new ways to give back.
It is my pleasure to recommend John Smith for the rank of Eagle Scout. I am confident that he will continue to make a positive impact in his community and beyond.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
…
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in an Eagle Scout recommendation letter?
Be sure to include specific examples of the candidate’s leadership skills, community involvement, and other qualities that demonstrate their readiness for the Eagle Scout rank. Use a professional tone throughout, and proofread your letter carefully before submitting it.
How long should an Eagle Scout recommendation letter be?
An Eagle Scout recommendation letter should be one or two pages in length, and should provide enough detail to give the reader a clear picture of the candidate’s qualifications and accomplishments.
What format should I use for an Eagle Scout recommendation letter?
You should use a professional business letter format for your Eagle Scout recommendation letter. This includes a clear and concise title, a professional greeting, a well-organized body, and a complimentary close.
What should I avoid including in an Eagle Scout recommendation letter?
Avoid using overly casual language or slang in your letter, and do not include any personal opinions or biases. Stick to the facts and provide specific examples to support your recommendation.
Can I use a sample recommendation letter as a starting point?
Yes, sample letters can be a helpful starting point for writing your own Eagle Scout recommendation letter. Just be sure to personalize the letter to fit the candidate’s specific situation and qualities.
Can I offer my contact information in the letter?
Yes, if possible, you should offer your contact information in case the recipient has any questions or needs further information.
Conclusion
Writing an Eagle Scout recommendation letter can seem intimidating, but with the right guidance and a little effort, it can be a rewarding experience. By following the tips and examples in this article, you will be well on your way to crafting a compelling letter that will help your candidate achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.