At the Thunderbirds we have a special award system. As each scout joins the troop, they get a leather rope to wear the beads they earn throughout their years with the troop. Each colored bead means a different thing. The main ones are as follows:
BLACK - Troop Camp-out
BLUE - Tenting Outing at Temps. Below 32F
BRASS - Tenting Outing at Temps below 0F
BROWN - Completion of Special Training Event
CLEAR - Advancement in Rank
CLEAR/SPARKLE - Completed at summer camp, Iron man or 1 mile swim or polar bear swim
GRAY - Troop or Patrol Hike of 5 miles or more
GREEN - Conservation Project
LAUNDER - Win a patrol event.
LT. BLUE - Attendance - 75% Meetings and Camp-outs
ORANGE - Special Recognition by Scoutmaster
PINK - Spring Educational Trip
RED - Recruiting and Registering a New Member
SILVER - Achieve First class in less than 1 year.
SPECIAL COLOR/SHAPE - Commemorate Unique Events
TAN - SP Training
TURQUOISE - High Adventure
WHITE - Conestoga District Event
YELLOW -Greater PGH Council Event (Summer Camp)