Celebrate the Nation’s Semiquincentennial – 1776 to 2026 and earn a Patch!

Overview:

In honor of the United States' 250th anniversary, Cornhusker Council invites all youth and adult members to commemorate this historic milestone by earning a special Nebraska 250th Anniversary Patch. This program encourages Scouts to explore our state’s history, recognize important figures, contribute to their communities, and reflect on Nebraska's place in the story of America.

Historical Background:

The United States will mark its Semiquincentennial in 2026, celebrating 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Nebraska, while not one of the original thirteen colonies, played a critical role in the westward expansion of the U.S. and the shaping of the nation. From the Louisiana Purchase and the passage of the Homestead Act, to the legacy of leaders like Chief Standing Bear, Nebraska holds a unique place in America’s journey toward liberty and justice for all.

To honor this milestone, this patch program combines historical learning with civic engagement, outdoor exploration, and service—true to the spirit of Scouting.

🧭 Program Details:

Eligibility:

Open to all registered youth and adult members of Cornhusker Council, Scouting America, including:

• Cub Scouts
• Scouts BSA
• Venturers
• Adult Leaders

 Timeframe:

All requirements must be completed and submitted by December 31, 2026.

🏅 Award Requirements:

To earn the Nebraska 250th Anniversary Patch, complete all of the following:

✅ ALL PARTICIPANTS (Youth and Adults):

• Chief Standing Bear Award
  Earn or have previously earned this meaningful Cornhusker Council recognition.
• Visit a Historic Nebraska Site:
  Choose at least one of the following:
  • Your County Courthouse
  • The Nebraska State Capitol
  • The Nebraska State Historical Society
  • Homestead National Historical Park
• Community Service:
  Participate in a service project benefiting your community or chartered organization. Examples:
  • Help in a local parade
  • Assist with a grounds clean-up
  • Participate in a food drive or flag ceremony
• U.S. Mint Coin Collection Activity:
  Collect or view the 1976 Bicentennial coins and the upcoming 2026 Semiquincentennial coins:
  • Quarter
  • Half-Dollar
  • Dollar
    (Coin replicas, virtual collections, or family heirlooms are acceptable for display purposes.)

🧒 Cub Scouts:

• Citizenship Requirement
  Complete the Citizenship Adventure/requirement in your current den level (per Cub Scout handbooks).
• Revolutionary Hero Research
  Learn about a famous figure from the American Revolutionary War and tell your adult leader about them.

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👦 Scouts BSA & Venturers:

• Merit Badge Completion
  Earn at least one of the following:
  • Citizenship in the Nation
  • Citizenship in the Community
  • Scouting Heritage
    (Scouts who have already earned all three merit badges automatically fulfill this requirement.)
• Revolutionary Hero Research
  Research and present to your Adult Leader about a key Revolutionary War figure.

• ---

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Adult Leaders:

• Support Youth Participation
  Actively assist your Scouts in completing the patch requirements.
• (Optional Addition – for adult patch wear): Share a brief written or verbal reflection about Nebraska’s or your family's connection to American history or civic engagement.

📬 Submission Instructions:

Once all requirements are completed, submit the Nebraska 250th Anniversary Patch Completion Form to:

Cornhusker Council Office
PO Box 269

800 S 120th St.

Walton, NE 68461

Patches can be awarded at an upcoming court of honor, pack meeting, or special ceremony.

Questions?

Contact Cornhusker Council or visit cornhuskercouncil.org