Scouts’ “pocket flags” to be placed in care packages for deployed military

While many 11 to 13-year olds were playing video games, swimming, or relaxing, Scouts of Troop 224 spent their Saturday afternoon folding “pocket flags.” Thanks to their efforts, deployed service members receiving care packages from the nonprofit organization Packages from Home will receive one of these small reminders of home. The boys of Troop 224 purchased three hundred of the mini-flags from the Pocket Flag Project (TM) using money from their weekly member dues.

Service is an integral part of the Scouting program and something these boys take seriously. Senior Patrol Leader Christopher LeMaster explained, “We do service projects because it’s part of Scouting. We did this project because when people serve in the military, they need to know that we think about them and we appreciate their sacrifices. These little flags will let them know that we recognize them for what they do for our country.”

Each flag was respectfully folded and placed in a clear plastic zipper bag.A card telling the recipient, “A flag for your pocket so you can always carry a little piece of home.We are praying for you and we are proud of you.Thank you for defending our country and our freedom” was included with each flag. Christopher and fellow Scouts Noah Anderson, Michael Wyatt, Ares Ostermeier, and Jacob Hernandez hope to receive letters from some of the flag recipients.

Troop 224 is dedicated to helping boys grow into responsible young men. The troop meets weekly at Deer Valley Community Center. Learn more on their website: troop224az.org.