The Flag Retirement Box located near the entrance to the Putnam County Bank Loan Center in Hurricane speaks. The existence of a drop-off box for American flags which are no longer suited for display speaks of a respect for the flag and what it represents.

Boy Scout troops from all over the nation display that respect by disposing of donated used flags in retirement ceremonies consistent with United States Flag Code specifications. The Box at the Loan Center has allowed a convenient means for the public to comply with Flag Code specifications since November 23, 2024. Flags are removed from the Box and properly retired each month. Creation of the Box was part of Jacob Vaughn’s Eagle Project. Jacob arranged for collected flags to be properly retired by cremation at Chapman Funeral Home. Families of veterans often request that a flag be included in the cremation of their loved one.

When Troop 236 Leader Gerry Stover opened the door this January, it was filled. “When I opened the door, they actually fell out,” Stover reported.

The use of the Box reveals that the Putnam community shares the Boy Scouts’ respect for the Flag.