By Kathy Pickens

A tangible reminder of a student whose presence is much missed now soars overhead at Fort Dale Academy.

On Friday evening, a new flagpole and flag were dedicated in memory of Carter Brunson Boswell who lost his life in a vehicular accident earlier this year. 

Father Wayne Youngman of St. Elizabeth Catholic Church presided at a 4 p.m. service, which included a scripture reading, prayer of intercession, and a blessing of the flagpole and flag. 

The football team, cheerleaders, and coaches attended this special time of remembrance along with family and friends. 

In the pre-game presentation, the Boswell and Carter families were given Carter’s football jerseys.   

During a dedication and prayer by youth pastor and seminary student Matt Langford, Carter was recognized as a member of the football, basketball, and soccer teams. 

Langford said of Carter, “his presence is sorely missed in the classroom and on the field of play.” Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Tate Buntz presented the colors, and Madison Norrell Castleberry sang the National Anthem.

Senior parent Carol Harold said of this event, “The parents and students of the class of 2018 communicated to determine what our school needed that could also memorialize Carter.

We decided to dedicate a new flagpole and offer a scholarship to a member of Carter’s class, the Fort Dale Academy Class of 2019.” 

Harold went on to say that the donations by the senior class exceeded their goal and that Dunklin and Daniels Funeral Home donated a new flag for the occasion.

A plaque at the base of the flagpole reads “Fly High CB.”

The senior class hopes this memorial will serve as a reminder of Carter’s huge smile and fun-loving demeanor.