For the Gazette 

PLOVER – Owen Helgeson, 14, obtained approval for his project called Stations of the Flag from Plover Village Board Members at their September 15th meeting. Helgeson also was granted approval from the Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout proposal team in January.

Helgeson is a Life Scout with Troop 298, beginning his scouting path since kindergarten. Stations of the Flag is Helgeson’s Eagle Scout project. His plan includes stations around Lake Pacawa Park regarding the 13 folds of the American flag. Each station will have an engraved plaque that teaches individuals about the American flag folding procedure. Each plaque will have additional information honoring Americans for their military service beginning with the Revolutionary War and ending with the Middle Eastern Wars.

Helgeson wants to teach people the 13 steps to folding Old Glory. 

He says, “The procedure for folding the American flag is not taught in schools, so children need to learn from family, scouts, clubs, and other organizations. If these groups don’t teach the American flag folding ceremony, then who will? At least when people come to the park they can walk around the lake and learn about it.”

Helgeson’s project is one step closer to achieving the rank of Eagle. He received approval from the Boy Scouts of America Committee to make this project come full circle. Then his planning can continue along with fundraising and donation collecting all while giving leadership to others. 

Achieving Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America program. Only 4 percent of scouts earn this rank after a lengthy review process. 

“It’s all worth it,” said Helgeson, “Scouting is the best. It’s just great.” 

The Stations of the Flag is currently in the planning and developmental stages. Helgeson intends on meeting with Plover VFW members for suggestions and revisions to his suggested plaque statements and to obtain sponsorship. Helgeson says he wants to get the wording on the plaques just right and service member approval is important to him. 

Helgeson’s timeline includes project completion in the spring of 2022, right alongside the completion of the newly renovated paved trail around the lake. Helgeson’ is still waiting for approval from the National Board Committee. Upon approval, Helgeson plans to move forward with his project.