Distinguished Service Awards
The highest award is the Silver Beaver Award, presented by the National Court of Honor by recommendation of the local council. There is a strict limit on the number of awards that can be awarded annually. The Silver Beaver Award recognizes service to youth within the Abraham Lincoln Council (unit, district or council level), as well as service to the nominee’s community or church outside of Scouting over an extended period of time.
Nominations may be submitted throughout the year, but the committee meets in late January. Nominations are retained from one year to the next for three years.
Councils may also award the District Award of Merit, on recommendation of the district and with the approval of the council. The District Award of Merit also has a limited number that can be presented annually. It recognizes service to youth on a unit or district level.