West Point’s Luke Haley works toward highest distinction
About two months ago, West Point Boy Scout Chad Haley dedicated a POW-MIA chair at the Waldo Wood Field at O’Neill High School. It was his Eagle Scout project.
Not to be outdone, Chad’s twin brother Luke, also a candidate for Eagle Scout, recently installed two Flag Retirement boxes in the community.
One was at the Connor-O’Doyle Post 633 of the American Legion in Highland Falls. The other was just off West Point’s Washington Road, across from the West Point Cemetery.
He recently stopped by both locations to dedicate them — with him were members of his family, dad Chad, mom Debbie, his twin and their sister Maggie.
American Legion Commander John Flynn accepted the dedication in Highland Falls, and West Point Garrison Commander Col. Anthony Bianchi accepted the one on post.
Haley explains why he chose this project.
“As a strong symbol of the beliefs and values of our country, proper flag disposal is a very important and honorary event because it allows the out of use flags to be destroyed in a way that honors our country and what it believes in,” he said. “According to US Flag Code, ‘The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning’.”
At West Point, he said, “this is especially important because of its rich history in defending our country and fighting for the flag with its graduated officers. The cemetery is a prime location because of the ceremonies that occur there honoring the sacrifices that were made by those who now reside there eternally. Additionally, because the West Point Spouses’ Club also resides in one of these buildings, its location is well known to the community.”
He added that the box is needed because West Point doesn’t have a flag drop-off.
“It is vital that the proper care and disposal of flags is encouraged and honored at West Point, home of the prestigious military school and location of monumental historic events. It is one more way in which West Point and its residents can serve our country.”
And what about the American Legion building? The box will be placed outside the building.
“It is another ideal location because it actively conducts flag burning ceremonies,” Haley said. “In addition, its location will allow easier access to a wider range of community members.”
He added that because the American Legion already has a fire pit for the ceremony — “which was designed by a fellow Eagle Scout “ — this project makes the steps to honorably retire a flag more accessible to the community.
As well, Haley said the project furthers the relationship with Troop 23 and the American Legion.
“I hope to establish a tradition of partnership by encouraging the scouts to be a part of their ceremonies and help out when needed,” he said.
Flynn was thrilled to accept the box in Highland Falls.
“For years I’ve been trying to track down the old style mailboxes that so many veteran facilities use as a flag drop,” he said. “They simply cannot be found anywhere, and those that are being sold privately cost about as much as a Taylor Swift concert ticket!”
He said he was incredibly happy when Haley contacted him.
“This will certainly be an upgrade from the plastic bag that are left on our door steps,” Flynn continued. “The Legion is grateful to Luke and the Scout organization for their hard work. We are looking forward to working with them again.”
The two patriotically painted boxes have a slot at the top to insert the flags and a small door on the bottom to collect the deposited flags. The paint color draws attention to their purpose, the high school junior said.
