John Dirickson / Special to the LVN
Dillon Rasmussen may have a little different perspective on Memorial Day this weekend. At least from the standpoint of the American flag, since the 15-year-old Fallon Boy Scout completed work towards his Eagle Scout Award with a project dedicated to retiring flags and that included a flag etiquette presentation to students at Numa Elementary School.
The Churchill County High School freshman was motivated to complete his project after seeing many flags flown that were in need of repair.
“I saw some flags that were in need of repair so I decided that would be a good project to do to better the community,” said Rasmussen, adding he worked on the project for about 10 months.
Rasmussen’s work on the project included the collection of information on the American Flag, poems on patriotism and a PowerPoint presentation. Kenyon Jarvis, who serves as Troop 144 leader, had words of praise for Rasmussen.
“He’s really an exceptional kid; he’s always there to help,” Jarvis said, adding that the flag theme is the type of project Scouting promotes.
Mike Ludlow, Tomas Diaz and Rasmussen addressed some 400 students during two assemblies on a single day at Numa. He included the video in his presentation and was able to purchase flags to be given to each of the elementary school students.
During his presentation, Rasmussen discussed the flag is the nation’s symbol and asked: “Have you ever stopped to think that the flag really means?” He explained how the blue stands for the valor of those who fought and died in battles fought and all for which it stands. The white stands for the purity the hearts of Americans and also “represents the honor that each of us should show in our everyday lives.” And the red stands for all of the men and women who have died in the service of their country, as members of the armed forces and everyday citizens.
“It’s a pretty good feeling to help the community,” Rasmussen said.
His Eagle Court of Honor was held in April at Lattin Farms. Glen Perazzo, district commissioner, Eric Maass, district executive, and Brian Sorenson (district chairman) attended the ceremony and Alan Kalt delivered a speech on leadership skills.
After Troop 144 retired a flag along with the Taps played by Skyler Jarvis. Troop members included, Tomas Diaz, Pierson Jarvis, Joseph Sorenson, Eric Sorenson, Tyler Marsh. Scout Leaders present were Don Keele, Kenyon Jarvis and Corey Rasmussen.
His work still isn’t done. After all, Flag Day is coming up on June 14.
“I’m still collecting flags to retire,” Rasmussen said.
Anyone who wants to contribute may call Rasmussen at 775-867-4565.