Girl Scouts Donate Flags to Hillsborough Schools on Flag Day

Photo: Karen Briegs & Tara O'Brien

Even though Flag Day isn't a federal holiday, it is celebrated by many different people in a variety of ways. For Girl Scout troops in Hillsborough, it meant that they were able to give back to their community in a special way—by donating a brand new flag to Hillsborough schools.

“These flags are extra special,” explained Girl Scout Leader and Flag Day coordinator Karen Briegs, who volunteers as a Co-SUM. “Each flag was flown over the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington DC on March 12th, the date that the first Girl Scout Troop was officially recognized in the United States—Girl Scout Birthday. We thought a donation would be a great way to thank the Hillsborough school district for all they do for us as Scouts, so I called on Troop Leader and Hillsborough Elementary School teacher, Jen Hopson, for advice, and we got to work!”

In preparation for Flag Day, more than 50 Girl Scouts were trained in proper flag handling and etiquette by members of Hillsborough VFW Chapter - Post 8371. Mr. Dima, an Officer in Chapter 27 Military Order of the Purple Heart coordinated the event, and shared with the girls some interesting and little-known facts about the flag’s history—like the fact that Betsy Ross encouraged the use of a five-pointed star design even though President George Washington had originally requested a six-pointed version—a great lesson in how even the smallest actions can have big impact.  

The Veterans performed a special flag-folding ceremony and then worked in small groups with the girls to help them learn the skill.  Girls also witnessed a color-guard flag processional and were surprised at the difficulty when they each got to try carrying a flag on a staff!

Girl Scouts of all ages and levels arrived at their respective schools in full uniform on Flag Day and participated in a variety of events. Several schools conducted a full flag switch or retirement ceremony where the old flag was taken down from the flagpole and properly folded by the girls. Then, the new flags were hoisted into the sky where they were saluted with a heart-felt and moving pledge of allegiance.

"Our Girl Scouts had a lot to be proud of," said Briegs. "The great country they live in, the premier leadership organization for girls they belong to, and most importantly proud of themselves for representing both with dignity and grace!"

See more photos from the event below: