Local Boy Scout installs flag retirement box at Veterans Memorial Garden

The Veterans Memorial Garden, at the intersection of Roark Valley Road and W. Main St. (the 76 “strip”) in Branson, recently gained a wonderful new addition to help serve veterans and other patriotic citizens. Thanks to the efforts of a Branson Boy Scout, Maxton Cottom, the Garden is now home to a beautiful hand-crafted Flag Retirement Box. 

Located near the entrance of the Garden, the Flag Retirement Box was installed and officially dedicated on Thursday, May 14. It will serve as a drop-off for flags that have become too worn or soiled to be displayed, allowing for these symbols of our nation’s freedom to be properly retired with dignity in a special ceremony. 

Max designed and built the flag box under the direction of Branson High School instructor Aaron Magnuson, working on it during every shop class period for about four months. The effort was part of the requirements for a Scouting America service project, and as those who have completed such projects know, they are not easy. Starting with an idea, the Scout makes the necessary contacts, secures permits and paperwork, raises needed funds and coordinates with others for the labor required. 

Max said he originally thought of the flag box idea as a Cub Scout, and later realized there were no designated retirement boxes around Branson for worn flags. Proper respect for the American flag is an integral part of the Scouting experience, with flag retirement ceremonies frequently held during summer camp outings, and Max has participated in several of those. 

Members of the American Legion often help with the ceremonies, and several were involved in Max’s project, helped with funding, and were on hand for the dedication. American Legion members are regular volunteers at the Memorial Garden, and presented Max with a special certificate for his efforts. They will also monitor the box to retrieve flags for retirement. This project was actually not the first involvement with the Garden for Max, as he previously served on a crew helping to install a fountain.

State Farm Insurance Agent Doug Baker also sponsored the project. 

“As an Eagle Scout, I know firsthand the immense work, organization and leadership it takes, and sponsoring Max’s project was an easy decision because I believe deeply in investing in our youth,” said Baker. “This new U.S. flag disposal box at Veterans Garden serves a vital purpose by giving our community a respectful way to retire our nation’s symbol. I’m proud of Max’s hard work, leadership and dedication.”   

“It’s so great to see young people involved in patriotic efforts,” said Chris Cartwright of the Flagstore in downtown Branson, a regular donor of flags on display throughout the Garden. “People often bring flags to the store to ask about disposal, so it’s great to have another local option for that, and the timing is perfect with Flag Day approaching.” 

Cartwright and others hope the new box will help inspire people to check whether their flag is in good repair for proud display during America’s 250th Anniversary celebrations, and to make sure any flags that are not suitable will be retired with dignity.  

“We’re thrilled to have this beautiful retirement box right up close to the entrance of the Garden,” shared director Jana Evans. “We really appreciate Max’s hard work, as well as all the others who have joined in.” 

Area residents and visitors alike are encouraged to stop by the Garden, at the intersection of W. Main St. and Roark Valley Rd., to retire any worn flags they need to replace or just to appreciate Max’s handiwork and all the other wonderful displays, as we all celebrate our nation’s freedom and those who have fought to preserve it.