Recognizing Matthew Emery Eckard For Achieving the Rank of Eagle Scout

RECOGNIZING MATTHEW EMERY ECKARD FOR ACHIEVING THE RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT -- (Extensions of Remarks - September 13, 2004)

Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I proudly pause to recognize Matthew Emery Eckard, an outstanding young man who has exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 444, and by earning the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout.

Matthew has been active with his troop by participating in many Scout activities. Over the 14 years Matt has been involved with Scouting, he has earned 29 merit badges. Matt set the goal in 2001 to be the youngest Eagle Scout in Kansas City. I am proud of him for achieving this goal and becoming the fifth youngest Eagle Scout in the whole United States. He was a 3-year camper at H. Roe Bartle Scout Reservation, and is a Brotherhood member in the Order of the Arrow.

For his Eagle Scout project, Matt repainted and surveyed the only Corp of Engineers flood gauge on Line Creek beneath Vivion Road in Riverside, Missouri. This gauge is the official marker used to measure the creek in the flood of 1993.

Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in commending Matthew Emery Eckard for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of America and for his efforts put forth in achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Scout.