Scouts Raise Flag for America's 250th Anniversary in Honesdale

Local scouting troops participate in statewide ceremony to mark historic milestone.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 8:49am

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Members of Honesdale's BSA Troop 1 and Pack 105 of Scouting America recently helped mark the 250th anniversary of the United States with a ceremonial flag raising at the Wayne County Courthouse lawn. The event was part of a statewide program called 'Lite to Unite' that will see the same U.S. flag raised in all 67 Pennsylvania counties to commemorate the nation's historic milestone.

Why it matters

The flag raising ceremony showcases the important role that scouting organizations play in promoting civic engagement, community spirit, and patriotic values, especially during significant national anniversaries. Honesdale's participation in the 'Lite to Unite' program highlights how local communities across Pennsylvania are coming together to celebrate America's 250th birthday.

The details

The Honesdale scouts were joined by members of the Wayne County Sheriff's Department for the flag raising ceremony on March 24. The 'Lite to Unite' program started in Philadelphia on February 8, the date Scouting was founded, and will conclude with a ceremony in Pittsburgh on June 14, Flag Day. Prior to Wayne County's turn, ceremonies had been held in 19 other Pennsylvania counties.

  • The flag raising ceremony took place on March 24, 2026.
  • The 'Lite to Unite' program started on February 8, 2026 in Philadelphia.
  • The program will conclude with a ceremony in Pittsburgh on June 14, 2026, Flag Day.

The players

BSA Troop 1

A Boy Scout troop based in Honesdale, Pennsylvania that was chartered in 1911, a year after the formation of the Boy Scouts of America organization.

Pack 105 of Scouting America

A Cub Scout pack based in Honesdale, Pennsylvania that is sponsored by St. John the Evangelist Catholic Parish.

Wayne County Sheriff's Department

The law enforcement agency for Wayne County, Pennsylvania that participated in the flag raising ceremony alongside the local scouting troops.

David Srebro

The program director for the Northeastern Pennsylvania Council of Scouting America.

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What they’re saying

“The events showcase the importance of civic engagement, teamwork and Scouting values.”

— David Srebro, Program Director, Northeastern Pennsylvania Council of Scouting America

What’s next

The 'Lite to Unite' flag raising program will continue across the remaining Pennsylvania counties, culminating in a final ceremony in Pittsburgh on Flag Day, June 14, 2026.

The takeaway

Scouting organizations like BSA Troop 1 and Pack 105 play a vital role in instilling civic pride and patriotic values in young people, as evidenced by their participation in this statewide commemoration of America's 250th anniversary. The flag raising ceremonies demonstrate how local communities can come together to celebrate national milestones and honor the country's history.