Derek Riess, son of Tracy and Lori Riess of Stewartville, and former member of Boy Scout Troop 56 of Stewartville, has earned the Eagle Scout rank. Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouting program of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). Only about five percent of the memberships attain this award.

Derek served as chaplain aide, patrol leader and assistant senior patrol leader and was a member of the Order of the Arrow. For his eagle project, he planned and constructed a movable sheltered bench for Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch. He is a 2011 graduate of Stewartville High School and currently attends Minnesota State University in Mankato.

Derek also attends Sabbath services at the United Church of God Southern Minnesota congregation with his parents and his three siblings: Alex, Hannah and Dylan Riess. Derek has been very active in the local church youth programs and has also served as a staff member at the United Church of God preteen camp in Southern Minnesota for many summers. Derek was recognized and honored for his achievement by his Church family at youth day on the Sabbath of Feb. 25.