Shrewsbury Boy Scouts Help Raise New Flag At Senior Living Community

SHREWSBURY, MA — Boy Scouts from Troop 4 in Shrewsbury helped to raise a new flag at a senior living community in town on Nov. 20.

The scouts helped community members and residents at The Residence at Orchard Grove to retire their old flag and raise a new one.

The flag at the Orchard Grove was fraying, according to Mary Beth McCarthy, Senior Resident Engagement Director. She said they reached out to the local scout troop for help.

“We are so grateful for the scouts’ time, service, and the meaningful way they honored the flag and the country," McCarthy said.

The scouts in the troop had just recently heard about the importance of veterans and the sacrifices they make for the country, according to Scoutmaster John Travers, a 20-year U.S. Army veteran.

"So being asked to retire the colors and raise a new flag at Orchard Grove was perfect timing," Travers said. “Scouts learn that citizenship in a community means understanding their local government, services, and history, while being an active and contributing member through civic duties and service projects such as this one."

Flags are traditionally retired in the fall or spring, according to Travers. It is part of a solemn ceremony that includes a discussion of the flag and U.S. history.

Travers said that several of the scouts who performed reading parts in the ceremony are working on their Communication Merit Badge, which requires them to help narrate a ceremony. The badge is also required to earn the Eagle Scout rank.

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