Flag drop box installed near memorial
A flag drop box for old or tattered flags has been installed near the Veterans Memorial downtown.
Chris Snow, commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Wood-Hall Post 8109, said that members recently discussed the need for a Flag Drop Box in Pea Ridge.
“We were constantly being asked by people in the public, or businesses from around the community, how they could get their old or tattered flags to us for proper retirement,” Snow said, explaining that he called around to local post offices and tried getting old mail boxes to possibly refurbish as a flag drop box, but he was unsuccessful.
Snow said fellow Post 8109 member Terry Thurman (now the post quartermaster) suggested reaching out to local Boy Scout troops to see if any of them were trying for their Eagle Scout badge.
Snow said he posted on social media that the post was inquiring about the installation of a flag drop box to be installed near the Pea Ridge Veterans Memorial and specifically asked if any Cub Scout troop members were trying for their Eagle Scout badge.
“After a short while, I was contacted by an previous co-worker of mine who works with Troop 262,” Snow said, explaining that he was put in contact with Zach Howe and his father Alex Howe. Zach was trying to get earn his Eagle Scout badge. “I spoke with Alex and Zach and we came up with a design and game plan on what the VFW Post was looking for. From that point, I left it in the hands of Zach Howe.”
Zach kept in close contact with Snow regarding every step, including when the concrete footing would be poured, when the flag box was getting installed and specifically what was required regarding wording on the sides.
“I put together the document and Zach had it made exactly as requested. He was professional and respectful and did a great job!” Snow said.
On Monday, Jan. 13, Snow met with Zach Howe and his dad Alex, and presented Alex a letter of appreciation from the members at Wood-Hall Post 8109 along with a $350 check.
“Zach is taking his board review in the next week or so,” Snow said. “We are wishing him all the best on his future endeavors.”
The letter states: “On behalf of Wood-Hall Post 8109 and all its members, we would like to thank you for your dedication and service to our community! We appreciate your commitment to your Troop and all that you’ve accomplished! Taking on a project, completing it in a timely, professional manner directly reflects that of a good up and coming leader. We are wishing you the best of luck on your upcoming board review for Eagle Scout, and we know you’ll do well. Less than seven percent of Boy Scouts earn the title of ‘Eagle Scout,’ so wear your badge proudly. It’ll be quite the achievement.
“With all our heart and appreciation, we thank you for providing Wood-Hall Post 8109 and the city of Pea Ride with a flag drop box. We are forever grateful.”