A Legacy of Service to God, Country and Community

What has twelve legs, six heads, and hearts devoted to service? The Foster and Eldredge family, residing in Cumming since 1994, recently added two new Eagle Scouts to their own “eagle’s nest.” In May, Ryan Foster and his cousin Brady Eldredge received the rank and award of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. That makes six Eagle Scouts in the tight-knit family. John Foster, Ryan’s dad is the Scoutmaster for Troop 425, and for all six of the boys. Brad Eldredge, Brady’s dad is the Assistant Scoutmaster and has served as Scoutmaster. The Brothers-in-law have attended the BSA High Adventure Camp in Philmont, New Mexico three times with all the boys.

“I just love how the Scouting program has helped create such fine young men in our family,” states John Foster. His sons, Ryan, who just graduated from South Forsyth High, Mark and Cameron former graduates of Lambert High School, focused on serving in the community where they were raised. Ryan said, “It feels great to give back to a community that means so much to me and family.”

Brady Eldredge is a rising senior at South Forsyth. His older brothers Tyler and Tim are former graduates of Lambert High School. Brady shared, “Our family is heavily involved in the Boy Scouts. My grandfather earned the Silver Beaver, which is a big deal in the BSA. I’m happy to earn the rank of Eagle Scout like my dad and older brothers.”

Collectively the cousins’ Eagle projects have helped the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, The Place, SAAFT House of Forsyth, and US soldiers in Afghanistan.

Their service goes beyond the community as John Foster, his son Cameron, Brad Eldredge and his sons Tyler and Tim have all served full-time missions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Brad said, “To spread the knowledge and hope of the Savior Jesus Christ was life-changing for me. I’m thrilled my sons have chosen to give their time and have the same experience.”

The family’s rich legacy also includes grandparents who served in the military. One grandfather died while in active duty in the Air Force. Another grandfather retired from the Army and is buried in Arlington, Virginia. Their aunt is retired from the Air Force. Their cousin is currently serving at the Naval Academy.

Dee Foster, John’s wife beamed with pride at the recent Eagle Scout court of honor. “To see my husband, my brother-in-law, my nephews, and my sons in BSA uniforms made me realize what amazing men we have in our family. They are devoted to service in the community, their country and their God. Our family sees all benefits the community, our country, and our Heavenly Father has provided for us. Our main desire is to give back in various ways.”