The Scout Salute and Handshake
Our Scout salute and handshake are ancient signs of
bravery and respect. Back in the days when George
Washington was general of the Continental Army; men
carried weapons for their protection. When they met one another there was an
uneasy moment as each watched the other’s right hand. If it went toward his sword
or gun, there was a battle, but if it went to his hat it was a salute of
friendship or respect.
The left-handed shake comes to us from the Ashanti warriors
whom Baden-Powell knew over a hundred
years ago in South Africa. He saluted them with his right
hand, but the Ashanti chieftains offered their left hands and said: “In our
land only the bravest of the brave shake hands with the left hand, because to
do so we must drop our shields and protection.”
The Ashanti knew of General Baden-Powell’s bravery, for
they had fought both against him and with him, and they were proud to offer him
the left-handed shake of bravery.
During February, we will honor the birthday of two brave
men: General Washington, founder of our nation, and General Baden-Powell,
founder of our Scouting movement. As you use the Scout salute and handshake, remember
these two great men.