Where I Stand—Mike O’Callaghan: Good Scout salutes vets

Tuesday, May 29, 2001 | 9:59 a.m.

Mike O'Callaghan is the Las Vegas Sun executive editor.

THIS MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND 50 new state flags flapped in the breeze at the Southern Nevada Veterans Cemetery. It was two years ago that Boy Scout Stephen Barrett of Henderson, when placing American flags on graves, noticed the worn and torn appearance of several state flags at the cemetery. This encouraged Barrett to approach Cemetery Superintendent Jack Porrino and offer to help replace the state flags. For the next two years this effort became Barrett's Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project.

The Foothill High School student and member of Troop 903 had selected a project that was both difficult and rewarding. The last flag arrived only 12 days before it was to join the other 49 new flags on Memorial Day weekend. The Georgia flag was in the process of being changed. When asked if he wanted to wait for the new flag, it was Barrett's decision to wait, and it arrived on time.

When describing his project he quoted President John F. Kennedy saying, "Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and success of liberty."

Then Barrett went on to write, "I want to dedicate my project in honor of the United States servicemen who have served our country, defended our freedom and have stood up for liberty around the world. My grandfathers are veterans of World War II. I have great respect for them and for their courage to answer the call of our country."

I know both of his grandfathers, and they have to be proud of Stephen's most recent accomplishment. This young man, who wants to enter the U.S. Coast Guard Academy upon completion of high school, is a good example that patriotism and dedication won't die when Tom Brokaw's "Greatest Generation" is no longer here to set a good example.

Miles S. Okamura, manager of the Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery, wrote Stephen, "I am glad to see that the 'Aloha' spirit lives not only here in Hawaii, but across the nation."

Nevada Gov. Kenny Guinn sent a flag that had been flown over the capitol building in Carson City. Gov. Howard Dean of Vermont wrote, "I want you to know I respect the hard work, tough discipline and motivation that it has taken to reach this level of success. I am sure that you will find this rewarding experience will serve you well for the rest of your life."

Boy Scout Stephen Barrett, son of Pat and Becky Barrett, took on a tough project and succeeded. His experience as a cross-country runner probably helped him the several times he received letters telling him that a state flag wasn't available.

Allow me to congratulate Stephen on his success and extend the thanks of thousands of Nevada military veterans and their families.