 A Scout who attains this rank is called an Eagle Scout . Since its introduction in 1911 , the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than two million young men . Requirements include earning at least 21 merit badges and demonstrating Scout Spirit through the Boy Scout Oath and Law , service , and leadership . This includes an extensive service project that the Scout plans , organizes , leads , and manages . Eagle Scouts are presented with a medal and a badge that visibly recognizes the accomplishments of the Scout . Additional recognition can be earned through Eagle Palms , awarded for completing additional tenure , leadership , and merit badge requirements . Many famous Americans are Eagle Scouts : astronaut Neil Armstrong , film director Michael Moore , TV host Mike Rowe , Steven Spielberg , Mayor Michael Bloomberg , Secretary of Defense Robert Gates , and President Gerald Ford are just a small sample of Eagle Scouts . 
