Boy Scouts praised, awarded merit badges

McMinnville Boy Scout Troop 309 recently held its Court of Honor.

The troop of 20 boys earned numerous merit badges, including aviation, emergency preparedness, climbing and orienteering.

The trail toward Eagle Scout was highlighted with advancements in rank. The following earned their Tenderfoot rank: Robby Brown, Ethan Duncan, Landry Duvall, Alex Mullican, Brett Perkins and Stephen Salaman.

Boys advancing to the rank of First Class were Josh Crosby-Vasquez, Daniel Boyd, Jace McCoy and Chris Weitzel.

The awards program was attended by leaders and parents and the sponsor for the troop, Doug Milner, with Dr Pepper Bottling Company.

Tony Turner serves as scoutmaster. Dwayne Brown, Don Weitzel and Darrell Baines are assistant scoutmasters. Melonie Turner is troop committee chairman and Kathy Klasek, Susan Burrows, Daughn Baines and Lee Perkins are committee members.

Boy Scouts of America build tomorrow’s leaders today through citizenship training, character development and physical and mental fitness.