From February 8 through June 14, 2025, Scouts across the Commonwealth have been participating in a historic statewide initiative known as Flags Across Pennsylvania, a collaborative effort led in partnership with the Pennsylvania Sheriffs’ Association to honor the American flag, civic responsibility, and community service.
The initiative features three American flags — plus one Scouting America flag — traveling through all 67 counties in Pennsylvania, with Scouts leading ceremonial flag presentations in communities across the state. At each county courthouse, Scouts have played a central role in formal flag ceremonies designed to promote patriotism, respect for the flag, and understanding of civic duty.
As part of this statewide effort, members of the Laurel Highlands Council began their participation on May 15 in Clearfield County. From that point forward, Scouts helped carry the flags through 12 counties within the council’s geographic footprint, engaging with local communities through flag ceremonies, educational programming, and moments of reflection on the meaning of service and citizenship.
Throughout the journey, Scouts have worked alongside law enforcement partners from the Pennsylvania Sheriffs’ Association, reinforcing a shared commitment to community engagement and civic education. The collaboration has provided young people with a unique opportunity to participate in a coordinated statewide initiative while developing leadership skills, public speaking experience, and a deeper understanding of civic traditions.
“Scouts do not simply observe civic responsibility — they practice it,” said Tracey Burkey, Chief Development Officer for Laurel Highlands Council. “Through Flags Across Pennsylvania, our youth have taken an active role in honoring our nation’s flag while building meaningful connections in communities across the Commonwealth.”
The statewide initiative will culminate on Flag Day, June 14, 2025, with a ceremonial event marking the conclusion of the 67-county journey. The Flag Day observances will serve as both a celebration and a reflection on the collective participation of Scouts, partners, and communities who helped bring the project to life.
Flags Across Pennsylvania represents one of the most expansive civic engagement efforts involving Scouts in recent years, demonstrating the organization’s ongoing commitment to character development, citizenship, and community service through hands-on experience.
Flag Day Participation Opportunity
Troops, packs, and crews across the Laurel Highlands Council are invited to take part in local Flag Day observances and ceremonies as part of the Flags Across Pennsylvania initiative. Units interested in participating can register online to receive information and details about the Flag Day event on Sunday, June 14th at Flag Plaza Scout Center. Visit scoutingevent.com/527-114869 to register.
Flags Across Pennsylvania represents one of the most expansive civic engagement efforts involving Scouts in recent years, demonstrating the organization’s ongoing commitment to character development, citizenship, and community service through hands-on experience.
