Kurt Peterson was awarded Eagle Scout at a court of honor at the Somerset Ward of Church of Jesus Christ on Oct. 27.

Peterson was presented the award while his grandfather and father, both Eagle Scouts, looked on.

He was originally in mainstream troop 687. Kurt, who is diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome (high functioning autistic spectrum) passed all requirements, and the only concession allowed by Boy Scout Council was waiving the 18-year-old-age restriction requirement. Although it took twice as long for Peterson to advance each rank, other scouts were encouraged to persevere and relate to disabled scouts.

Peterson’s community service project was restoring and replanting native flora and shrubs at the Lake Hills Park.

During the ceremony, he received a letter from the White House and the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Coincidentally. Peterson’s sponsor was Admiral Thomas Hayward, Chief of Naval Operations in Reagan administration.