When Richmond Hill Boy Scout James Morris needed to decide on a project to help him earn the coveted status of Eagle Scout, he didn’t have to look too far out for inspiration.

A lacrosse player, James noticed that the spot where he and his teammates play didn’t have an American flag nearby.     

“At DeVaul Henderson Park, he noticed over there, where his friends play often, that there is no flag,” explained Rebecca Morris, James’ mother.

Many folks beforehand might not have even noticed the lack of an American flag in a place where so many baseball fields, tennis courts, and running trails abound. 

But coming from a military family himself (his father and grandfathers both served), James believes that seemingly small things like displaying the flag can make a big difference in showing pride for one’s community and country.    

So with the help of his Boy Scout troop and the Bryan County Parks & Rec department, James went to carry out his plan: to establish a 30-foot, lighted flagpole and peaceful sitting area in DeVaul Henderson Park.

But the cost proved to be the biggest hurdle.

“The cost for both the flag and pole came at just under $3,000,” said Rebecca.

Luckily, donations came from near and far, from family and friends to organizations like Bryan County Public Works which donated supplies, equipment, and park benches. Even the Lowes storefront in neighboring Pooler helped out by donating pavers for the sitting area.  

And this Saturday, Flag Day, will be a chance to celebrate both the new flagpole and James’ ascension to the Eagle Scout rank, which he obtained on May 19. 

The Morris family and Boy Scout Troop 400 will host a Flag Dedication event at the Devaul Henderson Park Gym at 10 a.m., which is open to the public. 

“Flag Day is a day that honors the flag, its history, and what it represents to our great nation.  James specifically chose Flag Day due to its meaning and how it applies to his project and feelings towards his country,” said Rebecca.