United We Stand Badge
For Junior Girl Scouts

America is a very special place to live. It provides all of its people with the freedoms necessary to lead a happy life. Find out how to celebrate the things that make the United States unique.

Complete at least six out of 10 activities.

1. Show the Colors

Learn the correct way to fly an American flag or carry one in a parade. How do you show that you respect the flag?

2. Write On!

With the help of an adult, send cards to people in the Army, Navy, or other U.S. armed forces. Thank these people for protecting your freedoms.

Note: For security reasons the US Department of Defense has discontinued special mail programs addressed to "any serviceman." If you want to do this particular activity, you need to address the cards or box of cards to a specific person. This is a great activity for those who have contacts on military bases or overseas. Check out the DOD news release on alternatives to sending mail.

3. Express Yourself

Write a poem or create a piece of art about what your country means to you. Submit it to your local or school newspaper, or your council newsletter.

4. Roots

One of the unique things about America is that it is a nation of immigrants. Find out what countries the people in your community or their ancestors came from. How many different nationalities, religions, and cultures are within your own town? city? state?

5. The Pledge of Allegiance

Learn the Pledge of Allegiance in sign language. Visit the Michigan State's American Sign Language Browser Web site to learn ASL signs.

6. Sing Out

Learn a patriotic song like:

• America the Beautiful
• God Bless America
• America
• The Star-Spangled Banner
• This Land Is Your Land
• Yankee Doodle
• When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again

Sing the song with your family, friends, or Girl Scout troop. Visit the University of Virginia Library: Lift Every Voice, Music in Everyday Life for more ideas.

7. … For Which It Stands

The American flag isn't the only American symbol. Find out about two other American symbols and what they stand for.

8. Check It Out

With your troop or some friends visit a historical site, museum, memorial, or park in your community.

9. Days Gone By

What did kids your age do centuries ago? Pick a time (the 1600s, 1700s, 1800s) and find out.

10. Lend a Hand

Show your patriotism by helping people in your community who are in need. Spend one morning or afternoon lending a hand.

The United We Stand badge was adapted from one developed by Rockland County Girl Scout Council (New City, New York).

Note: Participation patches must be worn on the back of the uniform only.

Girl Scout badges, patches, awards, and other insignia that are earned for the accomplishment of skill-building activities or any set requirements should be presented, worn, or displayed only after Girl Scouts have completed the requirements outlined in the appropriate program materials.

All insignia are owned by Girl Scouts of the United States of America and are protected by law for use by GSUSA. None of the insignia may be copied, duplicated, or reproduced without prior express written authorization from Girl Scouts of the USA. All rights reserved.