LEWISTON — The Lewiston Elks Lodge 371 hosted an awards night for the Boy Scouts Abnaki District of Pine Tree Council on Dec. 4. Fifteen Eagle Scouts were recognized for achieving the highest rank in scouting.

Exalted Ruler Larry Ashworth and Youth Activities Chairman Douglas Stone presented certificates of recognition and American flags to the following Eagle Scouts who attended the banquet: Alexander Corey, Joseph Bosse, Justin Cummings, Joshua Dill, Justin Fortier, Joshua Frechette, Markus Hall, Zachary Hebert and Hunter Rowell. Other Scouts who were recognized, but not in attendance, included Travis Adams, Steven Bang, Jeremy Bernier, Ian Bouffard, Douglas Kester and Kevin McArthur.

According to statistics, only 5 percent of boys who enter scouting ever achieve the Eagle rank. To become an Eagle Scout, a Boy Scout must fulfill requirements in the areas of leadership, service and outdoor skills.

A minimum of 21 merit badges must be earned, and an Eagle Scout must demonstrate leadership through the development of a community service project, serve in leadership positions in the troop and pass a board of review.

The Elks have supported scouting for many years. For more information on the Elk programs, visit: www.maineelks.org.

For more information on Boy Scouting in Maine, visit the Pine Tree Council’s Web site at www.pinetreebsa.org.