Long after the last firework echoes in the sky, patriotism is a feeling that is strong amongst local members of Scouting America.

Each year, local Scout troops hold ceremonies to properly and respectfully retire worn-out American flags. Now, one Scout, Sean Storer, is putting together an Eagle Scout project that will ensure flags are properly respected all along their journey to retirement.

He and his troop, 410 of Mount Jewett, are placing five flag collection boxes at local Veterans of Foreign Wars posts. The five boxes are expected to be up by December — just in time to protect flags from the harsh winter elements.

“This will help ensure that the flags are properly disposed of and protected every step of the way,” Sean said.

“Right now, many of these places have cardboard boxes inside their buildings but what these kids are working on will be an outdoor material that can withstand the weather,” said Amy Storer, Sean’s mom. “We want to make it as easy as possible for people to access them.”

Boxes will be placed at the VFW posts in McKean County in addition to the box already at Costa’s Hardware in Smethport.

Even with the informal system in place right now, Scouts still collect hundreds of flags per year that need to be disposed of properly. The U.S. Flag Code dictates that an American Flag should be disposed of in a dignified manner, preferably through burning.

“It is a very solemn and respectful ceremony when we retire the flags,” said Sean. “Each boy brings a flag up to the fire one by one; we have a moment of silence and salute each flag before they are put into the fire.”

For Sean, each year’s flag disposal ceremony brings up an array of emotions.
“I think the main feeling I have is gratitude towards those who have sacrificed so that I can have the life I am living and the freedoms I enjoy,” he shared.

Sean has been involved in Scouting America for the last decade and has close ties with the Bradford VFW.

“Back when Sean was just starting in Cub Scouts the Bradford VFW was his sponsor,” said Amy. “And he has been associated with them ever since.”

Only about 2% of Scouts have achieved the Eagle rank, according to information from the organization. The requirements for becoming an Eagle Scout are extensive.

“You have to have a troop and move up through all the different ranks while getting your merit badges,” said Sean. “You have to be at each rank for a specific amount of time.”

“Part of what makes this an Eagle Scout project is that he leads the other Scouts in doing something to help others,” said Amy. “So that is why the whole troop will be helping with the boxes.”

The Scouts will pour the cement foundations for the boxes. They will work with a business to craft the boxes themselves.

Sean has spent the better part of his life working toward the rank of Eagle Scout. In addition to being a Scout, he has repeatedly been elected to the Order of the Arrow, the National Honor Society of Scouting America. Scouts are chosen for the order based on the recommendations of their fellow troop members.

“If I become an Eagle Scout it would mean a lot because it is a very prestigious rank to achieve,” said Sean. “It will show me that I have the grit and determination to achieve anything I put my mind to.”

Sean said he cannot imagine what his life would have been like without Scouting America.

“It has given me so many opportunities to grow as a person,” said Sean. “It has taught me a lot of practical life skills and helped me to connect with others.”