Tilley Recognized in GMA Court of Honor
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Jacob Tilley (center) is flanked by some of the commanders who helped him reach the GMA. (l to r) Kelvin Dykes, Eugene Bowman and Melroy Slider. |
HURLEY, MS - December 8, 2002
Jacob Tilley of outpost 7, Magnolia Springs Assembly of God was the fifth young man in Mississippi to earn his Gold Medal of Achievement in 2002. A ceremony was held in his honor on December 8, 2002 during the evening services at his church. Many friends and family were on hand to witness this special occasion. Senior Commander, Eugene Bowman, emceed the ceremony.
The ceremony began with Pastor Al Roever welcoming everyone. Following the presenting of the colors, Jacob's family and district officials were escorted to the platform. Commander Melroy Slider read the list of Jacob's accomplishments that included advancements from Straight Arrows to Trailblazers and 37 merits.
The Gold Medal of Achievement was presented to Jacob by District Commander, Wesley Harmon. Jacob's mother, Lisa Tilley, did the actual pinning. Jacob is only the 4,642 young man to receive the GMA nationally and the 29th in Mississippi. The Gold Buffalo award was pinned by Robin Tilley and the Silver Buffalo by Cynthia Marble. He also received his commissioning as a Junior Commander and received his bars by Kerney Tilley.
A host of congratulatory letters was presented from many notables such as National Commander, Richard Marriott, General Superintendent, Thomas Trask, Senator Trent Lott, Governor Ronnie Musgrove and President George W. Bush and Laura Bush.
"Royal Rangers has been a part of my life since I was five," writes Jacob in his essay on the Value of Royal Rangers in My Life. "I remember my two older brothers getting ready for Royal Rangers each Wednesday night. I was so ready to get into Straight Arrows." He goes on to say, "In the ten years of my Royal Rangers experiences, I have laughed, learned, and listened. I can say I am who I am because of Royal Rangers and all of my great commanders. I have been molded carefully with love and leadership, and I value all these qualities."
A reception was held following the ceremony.
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