Girl Scouts send flags to troops

More than 150 overseas troops will soon receive a sweet memento from Carson City thanks to the efforts of a group of Junior Girl Scouts from Troop 176.

Nearly 15 girls and a few leaders got together Saturday at the Children's Museum of Northern Nevada to participate in an international Pocket Flag Project.

Co-leader Suzanne Peckham, who headed up the project, said a big part of the activity was learning about the United States flag, including how to properly fold it.

Peckham said she was able to get the kits from a friend in San Francisco and thought it would be a great Girl Scout activity.

"We learn about flag etiquette and then we fold them and put them into little teeny pouches," Peckham said. "There is no sewing involved, but the best part is that each girl gets to write a short message to go with the flags she folds."

Included in each package is a card which says: "A flag for your pocket so you can always carry a little piece of home. We are praying for you and we are proud of you. Thank you for defending our country and our freedom."

The troop worked on the project for two hours Saturday with a short snack break midway, but while they worked, they took turns going over some of the information they had learned about flag history as well as the meaning of the stars and stripes.

But for most girls, the most important thing was that they could be a part of such a meaningful worldwide effort.

"I'm doing this because the troops are helping our country and this gives them encouragement and support, and it shows that we care," said Jessica Chandler, 10.

The feeling was much the same for 10-year-old Abby Ferenz.

"The people that are fighting are risking their lives for our freedom, and I want to support them," Ferenz said.

The Pocket Flag Project was started in 2001. Go to www.pocketflagproject.com for more information.