CLARKSBOURG, W.Va (WDTV) – 17-year-old James Besten had a unique connection to the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center because it was where his parents fell in love.

For this reason, he chose to make his Eagle Scout project something to benefit VA employees.

“My parents met, and I guess they liked each other. My mother arrived at work on a Monday morning and gave birth with me a few hours later. So, needless to say, I owe this medical center a lot. “Besten said.

Besten said his father and grandfather both served in the Air Force and received their medical care at the center.

Besten said the idea came to him after his father told him the national anthem was played every morning in honor of those who served.

His father also said that the employees each had their own standard bearer on their desks.

“I didn’t think they did that in adult jobs. Seeing this really inspired me. I suggested maybe, let’s get some new ones. Something more public and brighter,” he explained.

Besten introduced the first of the flag bearers to a representative from each branch of the military who worked at the center.

He also received an award from the VA thanking him for his gift.

Besten said he hopes others his age will follow in his footsteps when it comes to honoring veterans.

“My generation must continue to respect veterans. You know, don’t despise them at all. They sacrifice so much for us. When they didn’t have to. It was a choice, not a mandate,” he added.

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