Local veterans and citizens were able to see the American flag fly high over a section of Maple Grove Cemetery in Munising, thanks to a new flagpole. The project was organized by local 17-year-old Frank Carlson.
“It was special. A lot of people were there, more than what I was expecting,” Carlson said.
Despite his age, Carlson has strong veteran ties. Like most Alger County families, numerous members of his family have served in the armed forces. Finding a way to recognize the local veteran community was important for the high school senior, especially for those in their final resting place.
“With no flagpole there, it was almost disrespectful to the veteran community,” Carlson said.
Carlson organized the project as part of a necessary step of becoming an Eagle Scout. He raised over $4,000 for the project, which only cost approximately $3,500. The extra money will be used for maintenance of the pole. He also has to do relevant paperwork and present the project to other Boy Scout organizers for final review.
Frank’s father Pete is one of the troop leaders.
“What he’s done is impressive and I’m proud of him,” Pete said. “This was a lot of work and he stepped up to accomplish it.”
The ceremony almost didn’t happen, as the flagpole itself arrived on Friday morning. Installed at the last second, the ceremony went without a problem with roughly 60 people in attendance.
“Digging the hole and pouring the concrete was probably the easiest part of this project,” Boy Scout troop leader Dave Horne said. “There was a lot of work to keep up with and he showed the leadership to clearly explain and execute the project.”
The Maple Grove Cemetery now has two flagpoles, one for each section of military resting places. While there is no word on if each location will receive a formal Memorial Day ceremony in 2023, local veterans are proud that a young member of their community is willing to find a way to create the logistical problem.
“It turned out great. He did a wonderful job and it will mean something to the people of this county,” American Legion Post 131 Commander Rocky Van Dorn said. “For veterans, it’s still special to see the flagpole at both spots and realize why (the flag) is flying there in the first place.”
