As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, a local student is helping ensure one of the nation’s most recognizable symbols is treated with the respect it deserves.
Southlake resident Kerrin McDevitt, a member of Girl Scout Troop 4039 and a student in the Class of 2027, has created a series of public flag retirement boxes across the city as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project — the highest honor in Girl Scouting, achieved by fewer than 5% of participants.
Her mission is simple but meaningful: to give the community an accessible, dignified way to properly retire American flags that are no longer fit for display.
According to the U.S. Flag Code, flags that are worn, torn, faded, or stained should never be discarded in the trash. Instead, they should be retired respectfully, typically through a ceremonial process. While many residents may not know how or where to do this, McDevitt’s project removes that uncertainty by placing clearly marked, hand-painted collection boxes in high-traffic community locations.
Those boxes can now be found at the Southlake Town Hall Library (lower level), White’s Chapel Methodist Church, and the Carroll ISD Administration Building — making it easy for residents to participate as part of their everyday routines. Once deposited, the flags are collected and retired by local Girl Scouts.
For McDevitt, the project is both personal and practical. A lifelong Girl Scout and longtime volunteer, she designed and built each box herself, combining craftsmanship with a broader goal of community education. The project also has built-in longevity. McDevitt has coordinated with younger Scouts to continue the effort in the years ahead, ensuring the boxes remain maintained and the program continues serving the community well into the future.