Dear Editor,
I would like to commend Dylan Morris and his friends on their efforts towards Dylan's Eagle Scout project. It is important to honor the men and women who have fought to keep us a free nation. And, when the project required more time and effort than they had planned, they didn't quit!
About 20 years ago, as an amateur genealogist, I discovered my great-great grandfather Fritzinger's grave in Belleville without a flag-holder. He had fought in a war in Alsace-Lorraine, and as an immigrant fought here in his new country in the Civil War. I reported this oversight to my first cousin, a retired Marine officer. Next Memorial Day a flag-holder and American flag flew there to honor him. Remember to check your family tree for American veterans and make sure their graves have flag-holders.
Secondly, for any living vets we encounter, we must be sure to offer a handshake and verbal thanks for their service. And, remember to honor them on Veteran's Day by flying the American flag, donating to veteran's programs, and listening to their stories if they are willing to share.
Also, let's support scouting programs in our area in any way we can. These youth vow to honor "God and Country." What could be more admirable than that?
I'll close with an interesting statistic. Since the Eagle Scout Award was created in 1912, 10% of our military has been comprised of Eagle Scouts.
Diane Johnson
Snowflake, AZ.