Eagle
Eagle is the seventh and highest rank in Scouts BSA. A Scout can complete requirements for any other rank in virtually any order, but the ranks must be earned in sequence (Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle). To earn the Eagle rank, a Scout must be active in their Troop and Patrol for at least 6 months after earning Life, earn a total of 21 merit badges, including 12 required merit badges (First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, Communications, Personal Fitness, Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, Environmental Science, Personal Management, Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, Camping, and Family Life), serve in a leadership position in the Troop for at least 6 months, and complete an Eagle Scout service project which is helpful to any religious institution, school, or community.
Eagle Palms
Eagle Palms are earned after a Scout has earned the Eagle Scout award. To earn Palms, an Eagle Scout must be active in their Troop and Patrol for at least 3 months after becoming an Eagle Scout or after earning the last Palm, demonstrate Scout Spirit and leadership ability, and earn 5 additional merit badges beyond those required for Eagle or the last palm. Merit badges earned at any time can be used towards the required 5 for each Palm. The Bronze Palm represents 5 merit badges, the Gold 10, and the Silver 15. The Palms must be earned in order and only the appropriate combination of Palms should be worn to signify the total number of merit badges earned beyond those required for Eagle.