Presidents, musicians, Olympic gold medal winners and pro athletes have all participated in an organization that promotes duty to God and country — some even earning its highest achievement — Eagle Scout.

On Sunday, Boy Scout Troop102 celebrates its 90th anniversary as part of one of the largest youth organizations in the United States.

“Boy Scout Troop 102 was started in 1919,” said David Lofton, co-chairman of the local Eagle Scout board and a former scout master.

A fire destroyed the official research, but coordination with the Andrew Jackson Council and the National Office in Texas shows continuous charters date back to 1924 — making it the second Boy Scout Troop to be chartered in Mississippi.

Lofton credits the success and longevity of the troop to its dedicated leadership and sponsorship.

“You have to have good adult leaders and you have to have a good sponsor — a good place to meet and call home,” he said.

Scoutmasters have included Lofton, Frank Shipley, Claude Thompson, James Worthey, Dave Bastion, Gene Wylie, Wayne Forrest, Phil Corley, Jim Pace, Phil Gee and S.C. Thomas.

Paul Eagles is the current scoutmaster.

First Presbyterian Church sponsor’s the troop.

“As you can imagine, keeping a scout troop alive and well for 90 years is no small task.  First Presbyterian Church should be commended for the support they have provided over the years and are providing still today. We have a meeting space that is more than we could have ever hoped for and tremendous support from the church staff,” said Eagles.

To date, Boy Scout Troop 102 has produced 131 Eagle Scouts, with the first in 1938. Most recently, Wes Allison, Joseph Jabour, Michael Rangel and Nicholas Crasta earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

With all of the extra curricular activities offered for teens, Lofton said it is harder for boys to stay committed to the scouting program.

“There was not as much competition in the earlier days,” he said, but his advice for those starting out in Boy Scouts is to “stay the course.”

“Do what is takes and realize once an Eagle always and Eagle,” said Lofton, adding that benefits of the “lifetime achievement” can aid in securing a job and for those seeking any service in the military — an Eagle Scout offers one rank advancement.

“It shows that you know leadership skills,” said Lofton, and since it takes four to five years to obtain the rank of Eagle it demonstrates commitment.

The anniversary celebration will begin at 10:30 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church and past leaders and members of the troop will be recognized, said Lofton. A reception and open house will follow the service across the street at the scout hut, he said, and will include exhibits and photographs through the troop’s history.

“The community is encouraged to share any memories of this troop if they have them,” said Schuyler Oakes, a member of the reception committee.

For more information, call 601-831-7592.