A Historic Honor for a Lifelong Scout: Peyton Yates Presented the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award

On a beautiful, albeit warm, evening in Artesia, New Mexico, nearly 50 attendees gathered at Baish Veterans Park to witness a moment that will live in the annals of Scouting in our region: the presentation of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award (DESA) to Mr. St. Clair Peyton Yates, Jr.—known to many simply as “P.Y.”

This prestigious recognition marked the first time the award has ever been bestowed in the proud history of the Conquistador Council.

The ceremony, hosted by the Conquistador Council of Scouting America, brought together a wide cross-section of the Scouting family and community leaders. Among those present were elected officials, friends, and family of Mr. Yates; Scouts and Scouters from across the Council’s vast territory; senior volunteer and professional leadership—past and present; and a representative from the national office of Scouting America in Irving, Texas.

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The evening began with a formal flag ceremony led by members of Troop 228, followed by remarks from Council President Chris Lauderman and Scout Executive Karl Shelton. Together, they shared stories of Peyton’s deep Scouting roots, his legacy of civic service, and his quiet, steadfast leadership in both business and philanthropy.

Yates, who earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1955, has spent the past seven decades living the Scout Oath and Law through extraordinary professional success and unwavering service to his community, state, and nation.  He was noted for his tremendous success in the oil industry both in his family oil business and in his lifetime impact on the Independent Petroleum Association of America.  His influence can be seen throughout Artesia—in the public library, the aquatic center, the performing arts theater, and the Haven of Hope residential program for women and children. His fingerprints are on countless projects that have shaped the future of southeastern New Mexico, including current efforts to expand the Eddy County Fairgrounds and develop a new recreation center.

During the ceremony, Mr. Yates was escorted by two of the Council’s newest Eagle Scouts, a symbolic recognition of those who led the way in servant leaders to the next. In keeping with Eagle tradition, his wife Linda was invited to place the DESA medallion around his neck, and Peyton in turn presented her with the award’s signature charm—a moment that underscored the deep partnership they’ve shared throughout his journey.

Perhaps the most moving aspect of the evening was how simply and humbly Peyton accepted the recognition. Despite a lifetime of high achievement, he stood quietly, surrounded by young Scouts. In his brief remarks, he reflected not on his own success, but on the values instilled in him through Scouting, and challenged the Scouts to pursue their own level of distinguished service.

As the ceremony concluded, applause echoed across the park. The moment was not only a celebration of Peyton Yates—it was a celebration of what it means to be a Scout: to serve selflessly, to lead with character, and to leave the world better than you found it.

The Conquistador Council is proud to count Peyton Yates among its own and deeply grateful to all who made the event possible. May his legacy continue to inspire us all to greater service.