SOUTH POINT - Normally, it is the youth and their achievements that are acknowledged at Boy Scout "Court of Honor" ceremonies.

Recently, some young men turned the tables and honored a man who has been both scout leader and community servant for more than 50 years.

Members of the Boy Scout Troop 115, South Point United Methodist Church, honored former scoutmaster Art Ferguson recently for his commitment to scouting.

Since Ferguson is suffering from poor health, the scouts even took their ceremony to his house.

Troop chairman Bill Reid said Ferguson's love for the outdoors has inspired successive generations to explore the area's waterways and hillsides in search of adventure and a hands-on education in the environment.

"Art has hiked trails that no longer exist," Reid said. "Wherever canoe met paddle, you were sure to find Art. He has been an inspiration to scouts and their leaders."

While presenting Ferguson with a plaque, Scoutmaster Scott Kelley noted that the elderly honoree has served in a number of capacities over the years, taking on duties as scoutmaster, explorer,

advisor, expedition leader and troop committeeman, touching the lives of countless young men over several generations along the way.

Ferguson said he was both pleased and surprised the Boy Scouts honored him for his

service and said those 50 years of being involved in scouting have been memorable ones.

"Being a high adventure person, I always enjoyed taking them on canoe trips and hikes and I have enjoyed seeing them advance and become responsible young men with exemplary character, with a love for God and country and seeing them get involved in community service," Ferguson said.

"This gave me great pleasure."

Kelley said while failing health has restricted Ferguson's participation in scout troop activities, he will remain on the active roster, something that Ferguson said he is proud of.