WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Indian American Congressman Suhas Subramanyam is pushing back against a reported proposal from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth that would end the military’s long-standing partnership with Scouting America. The plan, revealed through a leak, has stirred concern among youth advocates, veterans, and families who rely on scouting programs for leadership development.
Subramanyam, who represents Virginia’s 10th District and serves as the Ranking Member of the Military and Foreign Affairs Oversight Subcommittee, said the idea would undercut a vital path into military service. He said thousands of young people discover leadership roles and a sense of duty through Scouting America before joining the armed forces.
He said ending the partnership would weaken a tradition that has supported the U.S. military for more than a century. “If Secretary Hegseth was truly concerned about America’s young men, he wouldn’t be cutting this partnership,” Subramanyam said in a statement. He noted that many Eagle Scouts enter the military prepared for leadership because of the values and training they gain in the Scouts.
Subramanyam said the proposal would deepen the country’s recruitment challenges. He said it would also affect families who depend on scouting programs to help build confidence, service, and discipline in young people. He urged the Department of Defense to “reverse course immediately.”
Reports on the draft proposal suggest the Pentagon is weighing several major changes. The document would end military logistical and medical support for Scouting America’s biggest events, including the National Jamboree. It would also bar Scout troops from meeting on U.S. military bases in the country and abroad.
The memo reportedly claims Scouting America no longer aligns with the military’s traditional values. That argument has drawn criticism from former military leaders and youth development experts, who say scouting has long helped prepare young adults for disciplined service.
The partnership between the military and Scouting America — formerly known as the Boy Scouts of America — dates back more than 100 years. The two have worked together on service projects, training activities, and large-scale scouting events across the country. Many families see scouting as a direct entry point into public service and the armed forces.
Leaders of Scouting America called the leaked proposal “surprising and deeply saddening.” They highlighted the group’s century-long cooperation with every presidential administration. That work has included leadership programs, base access for Scout units, and military support at major national and international events.
Scouting America, founded in 1910 and renamed in 2025, operates under a congressional charter. It has also received federal protection through the Support Our Scouts Act of 2005. The law prevents federal agencies from reducing support for scouting programs. Supporters say the draft proposal conflicts with the intent of the act and could spark legal and political battles.
The leak has triggered broader questions about how the U.S. should support youth organizations at a time of falling military recruitment. Subramanyam said the partnership has long helped the military find motivated, well-trained young people who value service. He argued that cutting ties would hurt national readiness at a critical moment.
Advocates for scouting say the program continues to create leaders who serve their communities and the country. They say removing military support would limit access to key programs and weaken ties between young people and the armed forces.
The Department of Defense has not publicly commented on the leaked proposal. However, the growing criticism suggests the final decision will face intense scrutiny.
