CRESTVIEW — A local Boy Scout troop with a remarkable track record for graduating its members to scouting's highest rank has added another Eagle Scout to its roster.
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Tayler Vest of Troop 773, chartered to the Knights of Columbus, was promoted to Eagle Scout on Saturday at his Court of Honor.
"This is a time for pride and joy as well as an occasion for serious reflection," Boy Scouts District Executive Kelly Carrico said.
The ceremony included traditions such as the lighting of the Eagle Trail, a series of candles that were a visual reminder of the ranks through which Tayler progressed to attain Eagle.
Tayler's proud parents, Kellie and Joe Vest, pinned their son's Eagle badge on his uniform, and in return received small Eagle pins from Tayler.
Then, as directed by Troop 773 Scout Master Daniel Behr, Tayler, following troop tradition, hugged and kissed his mom. Parental support is a cornerstone of the troop's success, Behr said.
After Behr and Carrico removed Tayler's red troop neckerchief and replaced it with the blue-and-white Eagle neckerchief, Tayler extinguished all but his Eagle candle, kneeled, prayed for God's guidance and thanked all his supporters.
"It's been a long trail," Tayler said.
Contact News Bulletin Staff Writer Brian Hughes at 850-682-6524 or brianh@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbBrian.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Crestview troop adds another Eagle Scout to its ranks (PHOTOS)