By Rick Palsgrove
Eastside Editor
Boy Scout Alex Kelley sees his Eagle Scout project as tribute to local veterans.
Kelley, a member of Boy Scout Troop 68 of Reynoldsburg, wants to install six additional flag poles in honor of the branches of the military to go along with the existing flag poles in Huber Park.
“There is an existing American flag and a POW Flag between the Reynoldsburg Senior Center and the Huber Park parking lot,” said Kelley. “The additional flag poles will be placed in a semi-circle around the American flag that is already present. One flag will fly from each pole representing each branch of the military – Army, Navy, Marines, U.S. Coast Guard, Air Force, and a new pole for the POW flag.”
He hopes to have the flag poles installed before the Reynoldsburg Tomato Festival on Aug. 19 and 20.
“I am currently working with the city of Reynoldsburg to determine the height of the flag poles as there is an existing American flag so the poles need to be shorter than that one,” said Kelley.
Kelley said he needs to raise $8,000 for the project.
“The total estimated cost is $8,000, but I will also be attempting to work with companies to get a reduced price on the flag poles,” said Kelley. “I am just beginning the fund raising aspect so I have not collected/raised any money at this point.”
Kelley said Troop 68 scouts and families are assisting and the city of Reynoldsburg will assist with providing equipment on the day of installation.
“The city of Reynoldsburg does not have this type of public tribute to veterans,” said Kelley. “Also, I wanted my Eagle Scout project to be something that was meaningful to my community as well as to be a project that will be around for generations to enjoy and for me to visit in my older years.”
To donate to the project, send or drop off donations to: City of Reynoldsburg/Parks and Recreation Department, C/O Alex Kelley, Troop 68,7232 E. Main St., Reynoldsburg, OH 43068.
