Eagle Oval Bead Patch

Proudly display this Eagle patch to show your Wood Badge loyalty. For all those who can claim, "I used to be an eagle".This is a great gift for your patrol at reunions or to give to your patrol as a Thank You for the great memories.

The eagle symbolized strength, courage, farsightedness, and immortality. 

In looking for a suitable recognition for the 19 men who completed the first Wood Badge course, the hero of the 217-day siege of the South African town of Mafeking in 1900 found among his old army trophies and souvenirs a long necklace of quaintly carved wooden beads. In 1888, during the African Zulu wars, Baden-Powell found the necklace in a hut that had been recently deserted by the African King Dinizulu (Dinny-Zulu).

He presented each man who had taken part in the camp with one of the beads. They were badges of wood. The beads gave the training its name - the Wood Badge Course.

These simple wooden beads signify the completion of the training course soon became one of the most highly prized possessions a scoutmaster could have. When the original beads ran out, the Gilwell training staff whittled others to keep the tradition established by Baden-Powell.

Two simple wooden beads knotted on a leather thong have come to signify that the wearer has completed the most respected scout training program and is dedicated to the highest standards of service.

Product Dimensions: 3"