Eagle Scout: Nation's Highest Scouting Honor Bestowed on Du Quoin Man Sunday

Garrett Loyd , son of Du Quoin Assistant Fire Chief Rick Loyd and wife Ruth Ann, was bestowed with the highest scouting honor in the nation during an impressive service held at the Gospel Assembly Church of Du Quoin on Sunday.It is the rank of Eagle Scout, which acknowledges and rewards those who represent the very best of scouting. The rank is held by at least one president of the United States, several of the nation's civic and industrial leaders and some in the nation's space program members. For Loyd, it represents a seven-year commitment to his family, to his schools, to his community and church and certainly to his nation.

It is represented by more than 25 badges in science, outdoor stewardship, education, and mentoring fellow scouts at all levels. Garrett's last project involved working with fellow scouts to renovate much of the Robert Summers little league sports complex in Du Quoin earlier this year.

That work involved enlarging one field, making repairs and installing new landscaping at the entrance to the complex.

At his side during Sunday's ceremony were his parents, Rick and Ruth Ann.

Garrett's service record was recited by his long-time scout master Duane White. The Court of Honor was conducted by Kevin Burris. His mentor, Rick Neal, received a special pin as did those who contributed to the successes in his life--Chuck Weber and Tim Davis. Garrett's parents received special commemorative mother and father Eagle Scout pins, as well. His longtime pastor, Rev. Fitzsimmons, gave the closing benediction. Garrett is now a student at St. Louis University hoping to major in bio-chemistry, then entering medical school.