Eagle Scout hopeful creates drop box to retire worn U.S. flags

Weather, neglect and age are to blame for the U.S. flags that continue to wave tattered and fouled around the area.

Those flags should be removed and replaced. However, there is some decorum for the disposal, or burial, of old flags. When a flag is so worn it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our country, it is to be buried by burning in a dignified manner. Annually, the veteran organizations in the county come together to hold a ceremonial flag burning or burial on a weekend that falls close to Flag Day which is celebrated on June 14.

So, what do you do with the worn flag until then?

The importance of honoring the U.S. Flag is ingrained in the Boy Scouts and therefore, should come as no surprise that an Eagle Scout hopeful decided to plan a project around the symbol. Logan Hunter, 15, a member of Boy Scout Troup 181 in Huntingburg, planned, built and installed a flag drop box at the Huntingburg VFW Post 2366, 314 N. Geiger St.

Residents can stop by the VFW and drop their flags in the box at their leisure, and the VFW will ensure the flags receive their proper burial.

When considering a project, Logan said he came upon the idea by the number of old flags he has seen flying in the area.

“I have seen lots flags around the community that are tattered and torn,” He explained, “So, I did some research and found that other communities had put up boxes.”

After receiving approval for the project, Logan constructed it with the help of his father, Roger Hunter. The box was installed at the VFW about two weeks ago. “As it is staying there, it will be a place people can take their flags when they need to be retired,” Logan explained.

As of Monday, it already had 10 flags dropped off.

At 15 years old, Logan, who’s been in scouts for about six years, is working hard to achieve his Eagle Scout. “I just know that it will be really helpful later in life,” the Southridge sophomore said about his ambition.

A Facebook Page has been created about the project.

Logan is the son of Roger and Melanie Hunter.