Scouts BSA place flags at Union Cemetery ahead of Memorial Day

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Scouts BSA had over 100 scouts do their part to honor veterans and military members who gave the ultimate sacrifice in serving their country.

At Union Cemetery, scouts gathered to lay over 2,000 flags near the graves of service members and veterans.

This was the first time Hudson Poulton took part in the flag event but was excited to do his part to honor them.

"I feel as though the least I could do is put down a flag and honor their name," Poulton said.

It was more than just boy scouts, girl and even cub scouts took part as well.

Maggie Green is a student at Bishop Watterson but is also a lead officer with her BSA group. Green adds that she views the special day differently following her acts of service. "Especially being out here today, it's really cool to take a part in putting up these flags and it makes it more meaningful for me," Green said.

The acts of service not only honor vets who made the ultimate sacrifice, but it carries a long tradition with Union Cemetery and Scouts BSA.

Rich Baker is with the board of trustees at the cemetery and says the event has been lasting for over 30 years.

"It's important, it's an important part of Union Cemetery," Baker said. "And I think it's an important part of the respect that people feel for our veterans."

Baker wasn't a Boy Scout growing up but knows the act adds to their mission. "It's very consistent with the Boy Scouts' mission, of honoring and respecting, and to do it on Memorial Day weekend is just a great fit," Baker says.

Their mission is something Sean O'Briant can share with his son Quin. Both are boy scouts who have been a part of the flag ceremony.

Scouting is so much about service and leadership and who better to honor than those who have given their lives to serve our country," Sean said.

Quin agrees, adding he's glad to help friends and families honor those who lost their lives serving. It's a strong reminder for Quin of what the special day stands for.

"Usually Memorial Day is parades and celebrations, but it's important to remember why we this day," Quin said. "It's for the veterans, It's for the soldiers."

On Monday, starting at 10 a.m., Union Cemetery will hold a remembrance ceremony for veterans, including a taps and a lone bagpipe player walking through the cemetery.