Eagle Scout rank to be awarded

BONNERS FERRY — Eric Layeux of Moyie Springs, has earned the highest advancement award the Boy Scouts of America offers to Scouts, the Eagle Scout Award.

Eric will be recognized in a ceremony on March 13, 2017. Currently, he is a member of Troop 114, chartered by United Methodist Men in Bonners Ferry. Formerly, Eric was a member of Chanhassen Minnesota BSA Troop 330, chartered by American Legion Post 550.

Being an Eagle Scout has always carried with it a special significance, not only in Scouting but also for the young man as he enters higher education, business or industry, and community service.

Only about four percent of all Boy Scouts earn the rank of Eagle Scout.

Each candidate must earn 21 merit badges and successfully complete a community, church, or synagogue-related service project to earn his Eagle; Eric chose to design, build and install fifteen informational trail signs and one map sign for the Copper Falls trail. The trail signs have interesting and fun facts for visitors to enjoy on their hike to beautiful Copper Falls.

The project took 213 hours over five months and involved 14 volunteers.

Eric has earned a total of 22 merit badges and has served as Senior Patrol Leader, Chaplain Aide, Patrol Leader, and Assistant Patrol Leader.

Additionally, Eric has earned the Outdoor Camping Award and the Arrow of Light. Eric joins other outstanding American citizens who have become Eagle Scouts, among them former President Gerald R. Ford, Jr., astronaut Neil A. Armstrong, cinematographer Steven Spielberg.

Eric is currently a High School Sophomore at Forrest M. Bird Charter School in Sandpoint. He hopes to enter the Air Force Academy after High School graduation.

Eric is the son of Mr. Chris and Dr. Susan Layeux of Moyie Springs. Eric has two older brothers, Michael and Daniel, who are both Eagle Scouts as well.