A Highland resident was among nine recipients to receive the Silver Antelope award from the Central Region of the Boy Scouts of America.

John Beebe Sr., who's been involved with scouting for more than 55 years, received the honor during a national meeting of Boy Scouts of America this spring in Atlanta.

The Silver Antelope Award is conferred by the National Court of Honor of the Boy Scouts of America upon nomination by the Regional Executive Committee for distinguished service to youth. The award is for noteworthy service of exceptional character to youth by registered Scouters within the territory under the jurisdiction of the Central Region, according to a written release.

Beebe has been in scouting since March 1952. He began as a Cub Scout with Pack 19 at Lincoln Elementary in the North Hammond area. From there, he continued on to Troop 219 and Explorer Post 219, where he earned his rank of Eagle Scout in August of 1960, according to the release.

In addition to attaining Eagle Scout, Beebe has a long history in scouting, including being an Explorer, Explorer advisor, district commissioner, Junior Leader training staff member, and past council vice president of risk management/health and safety.

He is a member of the regional camp visitation team, a member of the National Committee, Boy Scouts of America, and a member of the National Jamboree staff. Before receiving the Silver Antelope Award, he earned the District Award of Merit in 1983 and the Silver Beaver in 1986.

Beebe hasn't limited his volunteer efforts to Boy Scouts. He's been an executive board for Calumet Council Girls Scouts, council member of Community Events in Highland, and president and lifetime member of the Hainesville Historic Society. In his spare time, he is a member of the allocation committee for Lake Area United Way.

The retired construction manager from Raytheon Engineers and Constructors and Boilermakers Local 374 has more than 40 years in the construction industry.

- The Times