Wednesday, December 11, 2024
The Hood County Acton Annex recently received a new makeover in patriotism, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Precinct 3 Commissioner Jack Wilson and Judge Stephen Barnett.
As a way to ensure that the U.S. and Texas flags never lose their pride — or their shine — the pair generously funded the installation of a sturdy flagpole and a solar light, totaling $404.66.
“They had a flag on a piece of PVC pipe with a piece of rebar in the ground to put out there in front and then they’d have to take (the flag) in every night,” Wilson told the Hood County News. “This way, it's out there and it can be seen at all times.”
The flagpole was ceremoniously installed and dedicated Monday, July 15, with a solid concrete foundation securing it in place.
“We have good flags on it, both Texas and U.S. with the light on top, so we can easily go to half-staff when the need arises, so it's up there and it's good,” Wilson said.
The process took approximately two months to complete, since the Hood County Commissioners Court didn’t approve the project until June 21.
“Facilities maintenance did an excellent job on the concrete pad,” Wilson said. “And I've actually got pictures at nighttime too, because I wanted to see how well (the flags) were illuminated.”
Wilson said he “feels great,” getting to contribute to such a meaningful community project — especially in light of what happened during the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump Saturday, July 13.
"It was monumental to be able to install (the pole) and have it in full mast from the get-go; it's a big deal,” Wilson said. “Patriotism feels like it's starting — not just in Hood County — but that it’s coming back all across the country.”
Wilson emphasized that both flags are "U.S. made” and highlighted that the flagpole also originated from a veteran-owned company based in the United States — both of which served as driving factors behind the project.
He noted the Acton Annex has been in Hood County since the ‘s70s, and this was just something he felt he had to do.
"I was surprised that there wasn't a permanent flag out there,” Wilson said. “But now there is.”
