Special to Iredell Free News

The Boy Scouts of America Gemstone District recently held its annual Gemstone Adult Leader Recognition Banquet at the Triplett United Methodist Church in Mooresville. Scout Leaders, Cub Scout Packs and Scouts BSA Troops were presented awards, including training awards, veteran awards and awards to the units.

Aaron Peel was awarded the District Award of Merit, the highest award presented, for his outstanding service to the Gemstone District.

For many years Peel organized and ran the Gemstone District Cub Scout Pinewood Derby, where top winners from Cub Scout Packs across Iredell County compete. He also holds the position of assistant scoutmaster for Troop #377 in Mooresville, which is chartered by Rocky Mount Church.

Peel also serves as an Eagle Scout advisor, Merit Badge counselor and leads many construction and service projects at Rocky Mount Church and other places in the community.