DENVER, CO – This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America. To help celebrate this occasion and the great institution of Scouting, and to honor all scouts everywhere, the U.S. Postal Service recently issued the new 44-cent Scouting Stamp on July 27, 2010. It is now available at all Post Offices.

The Scouting Stamp was dedicated at the National Scout Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill, VA on July 27 before more than 30,000 scouts from around the nation. They had set up camp there for 10 days of activities and fun to help celebrate the organization’s centennial anniversary.

Robert Mazzuca, chief scout executive of the Boy Scouts of America, helped unveil the stamp at the national jamboree and first day of issue event on July 27, 2010. “We are appreciative that scouting’s centennial will have a place in history with the many great people and events that are commemorated on U.S. stamps.” said Mazzuca. “It is truly an honor to receive the distinction of a commemorative stamp. We hope that it provides the entire country the opportunity to share in the milestone of our 100th anniversary.”

Stamp artist Craig Frazier of Mill Valley, CA, worked under the direction of art director Derry Noyes of Washington, DC, to create the colorful Scouting Stamp illustrated image. The 44-cent First-Class stamp depicts two different scouts in clothing and accessories that are often part of the outdoor scouting experience — hats, packs, boots, and binoculars. The stamp ishows the large silhouette of a scout peering through binoculars. Within this figure is another scout perched atop a mountain taking in the vista.

Scouting has grown into an organization of more than 28 million youths and adults throughout the world. It includes boys and girls throughout the U.S, and in more than 160 countries, who learn about adventure, skill building, leadership, personal development, and community service.

The Boy Scouts of America celebrated its 100th anniversary on Feb. 8, 2010. To mark this milestone, the organization has undertaken nationwide celebration efforts that reintroduce the organization to today’s young people and families, reinforce the value of scouting, and to re-connect with the millions the organization has impacted.

Besides Post Offices, the new Scouting Stamp is also available by credit card order at www.usps.com/shop, or by calling 1-800-STAMP-24. For more information on the Boy Scouts of America, visit www.scouting.org.

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