By By KATHIE HEMPEL / Niles Daily Star
NILES-Tyler Siebert, 15, knows what it is to be trustworthy, loyal and helpful.
The attributes of being a top Boy Scout has led him to stand before the Eagle Scout Court of Honor.
Siebert a member of Troop 541 will be honored at a ceremony to be held Sunday, May 6 at 1 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Buchanan. His mother, Helen Cassidy invites the public to attend.
Siebert has been involved in a number of special scouting projects over the past several years.
Last year his service project, needed to earn his Eagle Scout status, was to build a fire pit for the use of other groups meeting at First United Methodist Church where his troop has met for many years.
"I thought it would be nice to choose a project that gave back to the church that has supported us for so many years. Scouting involves a lot of outdoor activities. so I thought it would be nice to create a spot where others could meet outdoors," Siebert said.
The fire pit has a brick-work patio and wooden benches with lots of room for lawn chairs. Mentor Ben Davison, a family friend, helped with some of the planning and provided some tools.
Siebert does not plan to end his scouting career with the Eagle Scout designation. He will receive the first of three palms, the final scouting achievement, at Sunday's ceremony.
"I want to get all three palms. I have already earned the bronze and will then complete five more merit badges for both the silver and the gold. I have to wait three months between each of the palms before applying for the next," Siebert said.
Last summer, Seibert joined other Scouts in New Mexico at the historic Philmont Scout Ranch. The adventure included the scouts experiencing long hikes in the mountains, campouts and horseback riding.
This summer, Siebert plans to kick back a bit and work on his tennis game. A sophomore, he is intent on improving his backswing before the season begins next fall.