Every once in a while, you come across stories that touch your heart and remind you of the goodness in the world. One such story is the dedication of our Girl Scouts in honoring Veterans. Today, we're shining a spotlight on an inspiring tradition where Girl Scouts from the Lenape Pines Service Unit place flags on the graves of Veterans three times a year.
In a world that moves way too fast, it's important to take a step back and remember those who have paved the way for our freedom. These Lenape Pines Girl Scouts do just that by honoring Veterans in their community. The Lenape Pines Service Unit, serving girls in and around Mays Landing, NJ, has embraced this noble tradition. They visit the Atlantic County Veteran’s Cemetery at Estell Manor Park three times a year, placing flags on the graves of those who have served our nation. This act of service is a testament to their commitment to making a positive impact.
Honoring Veterans is not just about paying tribute; it's about acknowledging the sacrifices made for our freedom. Placing flags on graves teaches Girl Scouts the importance of gratitude. It's a hands-on way for them to understand and appreciate the freedoms they enjoy today. This tradition fosters a sense of pride and responsibility in these young minds, encouraging them to carry these values throughout their lives.
For many Girl Scouts, participating in these events becomes a cherished memory. It's a chance to learn about history, hear firsthand Veterans' accounts, and understand service's true meaning. These experiences shape their character and inspire them to continue making a positive impact in their communities.
Girl Scouts and Leaders from Lenape Pines Service Unit, a part of Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey, place flags to honor Veterans.
Preparation for the Lenape Service Unit begins weeks in advance. Girl Scouts, along with their leaders and volunteers, gather to plan the event. They ensure that they have enough flags and coordinate with the cemetery staff. It's a team effort that involves everyone, from the youngest scouts to the adult volunteers.
Flag Day, celebrated on June 14th, is a significant occasion that honors the American flag. It's a day to reflect on the values and freedoms that the flag represents. For Veterans and service members, the flag holds a special place in their hearts. It symbolizes their dedication and service to the nation. By connecting the Girl Scouts' tradition of placing flags with Flag Day, we can highlight the importance of showing our support for the flag and what it stands for.
One of the best ways to show our support is by displaying the flag. Whether it's at home, school, or work, flying the flag is a simple yet impactful way to honor our Veterans and service members. The Girl Scouts' tradition of placing flags on graves aligns perfectly with the spirit of Flag Day, showcasing their dedication to honoring our heroes.
Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world. Through programs, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges—whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends. Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alums, Girl Scouts lead the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most important to them.