Simmons earns rank of Eagle

Tucker Beasley Simmons, 18, of Vestavia Hills, has earned the highest advancement award the Boy Scouts of America offers to Scouts: the Eagle Scout Award.

Simmons was recognized in ceremonies in May at the offices of the Greater Alabama Council, Boy Scouts of America.

A member of Liberty Crossings United Methodist Church Troop 76, Simmons is one of approximately 4 percent of all Boy Scouts who attain the Eagle rank, according to Scoutmaster John Whitson.

Each candidate must earn 21 merit badges and successfully complete a community, church or synagogue-related service project to earn his Eagle. Simmons chose to create a walkway that connects an outdoor prayer garden at Liberty Park Baptist Church to the church building.

 He has served as Patrol Leader and received the Order of the Arrow. Simmons joins other outstanding American citizens who have become Eagle Scouts, including former President Gerald R. Ford, astronaut Neil A. Armstrong, cinematographer Steven Spielberg and former FBI Director William Sessions.

Simmons is a member of Liberty Park Baptist Church and is active is SGA, tennis, choir, National Honor Society and the Ping Pong Club at Vestavia Hills High School, where he is a senior.

He is the son of Gil and Leigh Simmons of Vestavia Hills.