Troop No. 609 Life Scout Thomas Bowden, of Whitefield, wanted to honor all veterans for his Eagle Scout service project. He and 12 volunteers finished the project at the Whitefield town office in time for Memorial Day.
Bowden raised money to purchase six flag poles, six flags for every branch of the military, and a granite bench. He solicited businesses for donations and discounts, and put collection jars at local businesses to raise funds for his project.
He estimates he and a dozen volunteers have 150 hours into the project. The crew set flag poles, installed the granite bench, put in a crushed stone walkway, and mulched around pine trees behind the flag.
Bowden’s father is an Army veteran of the Iraq War, and his grandfather and great-grandfather also served their county. Their service was a big influence in his decision to honor military servicemen and women.
He said he wanted to add to the Whitefield Memorial and flag pole at the town office. “I wanted to twitch it up a little, so it would pop. I wanted to dedicate it to all veterans.”
Flags, from every branch of the military, including the newest branch Space Force, fly on both sides of the Town flag pole.
On Memorial Day, Bowden and fellow Troop No. 609 Scout Thomas Mullens were asked to retire the old flag, and raise a new flag. Troop No. 609 Chair Rich Gray assisted them.
Bowden has earned 22 merit badges, including all the Eagle-required badges. The service project is the last phase to earn Scouts’ highest honor, the rank of Eagle.
Bowden, 17, is a junior at Lincoln Academy and the son of Brad and Natasha Bowden.
