The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) have recognized Daphne local Gabriel Hunter as a nominee for their prestigious Community Service Award.

The Ecor Rouge chapter of the DAR covers a large span of Baldwin County such as Spanish Fort, Montrose, Daphne and Fairhope. According to a press release, they chose Hunter for his "achievements in the categories of patriotism, historical interest, environmentalism and conservation helped members think out of the age box."

Hunter, who was also an Eagle Scout, partook in a project that raised over $2,000 and involved more than 300 volunteers to help breathe new life into the public trail around the Jackson Oak in Village Point Preserve in Daphne. Gulf Coast Media previously reported his efforts, which caught the attention of the Ecor Rouge chapter of the DAR, leading to his nomination.

"I learned that, especially with a city project, there are a lot of speed bumps and hurdles. To get to the finished product sometimes takes longer than you think," Hunter told Gulf Coast Media in 2023. "We really just need to be patient with a project like this."

Hunter was presented with a nomination pin and certificate in a ceremony held on Nov. 14 by Ecor Rouge Regent Amy Molyneux and nominator Carol Salsamendi. Daphne Mayor Robin LeJeune was also in attendance and congratulated Hunter and his family.

"We're super proud of Gabriel, and we appreciate the [Daughters of the American Revolution] bestowing this award to him for his work that he did as a Eagle Scout project in the City of Daphne," LeJeune said. "It's a great honor, and we're so appreciative that someone else saw his work and thought enough of his project and what he had done for the City of Daphne and in Village Point."

The DAR recognizes young leaders twice a year with its awards and certificates such as the DAR Good Citizens awards along with JROTC medals and certificates. Hunter's nomination was approved at both the state and national levels.