Pender County commissioners recognized a community member during a recent Board of County Commissioners meeting as he worked toward earning a merit badge required for the rank of Eagle Scout.

Dr. Tate introduced Evan Jones, a sixth-grade student at Penderlea School, who attended the meeting to fulfill part of the requirements for the Communications merit badge through the Boy Scouts.

During the meeting, Evan introduced himself to commissioners and shared that he was attending as part of his effort to complete the merit badge, which is one of the requirements for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. The Communications merit badge encourages Scouts to develop public speaking and leadership skills while learning how government meetings operate.

County commissioners welcomed Evan and commended him for taking part in the meeting as he continues working toward his Scouting goals.

Earning the Eagle Scout rank is the highest achievement in the Boy Scouts program and requires dedication, leadership and the completion of several merit badges, including Communications.