Headdress Ceremony

For:
Akela (Cub Master), ACM (Asst. Cub Master)

Props:
Wolf & Bear Headdresses

Akela:
This is the ceremonial Wolf Headdress. It represents the origin of Cub Scouting as told in the story of Mowgli in the Jungle Book. The Wolf Pack adopted the "Man Cub" and taught him the ways of the Pack. So have we done to each of the members of our Pack. The erect ears of the wolf are symbolized by the Cub Scout sign. In some tribes, the Indian Scout was called a Wolf, and wore the skin or head of the wolf when beginning a scouting expedition. Tonight, we have _____ Cub Scouts who have earned the rank of the Wolf. Will they and their parents please come forward.

(Read names and wait till all are present.) You are not beginning your expedition, but ending it. You have earned the rank of Wolf. You will now begin a new expedition, on the trail of the Bear. To your parents I present the Wolf badge. They may present it to you as the Wolf skin that marks you as a member of the Wolf Pack.

ACM:
I wear on my head the ceremonial bearskin. The Bear is respected by all other animals because of his size, loyalty to its young, and hunting ability. The Bear Baloo, taught Mowgli the Law of the Jungle. Tonight we have ____ Cub Scouts who have earned the rank of Bear. Will they and their parents please come forward.

(Read names and wait until all are present.) You too will be respected by your fellow Scouts as you have attained greater stature tonight. Continue to obey the Law of the Pack and you will soon join the ranks of the Webelos Tribe as a warrior Scout. To your parents I present the Bear badge. They may present it to you as the Bearskin that marks your stature in the Pack.

---- Source: 1997 WLACC Pow Wow Book

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