MASON CITY, Iowa (AP) -- A 17-year-old Eagle Scout is building a memorial to firefighters after more than a year of planning.
Matt Meyer, a senior at Mason City High School, is completing the project at the city's fire department.
``Matt has put a great deal of planning into this Eagle Scout project,'' said Mary Zishka, the city's volunteer coordinator. ``When it is done, it will be a lovely green space to sit and reflect upon the contributions made by our firefighters and to remember our fallen firefighters around the country.''
The walls are built and a pathway has been created, Meyer said. A plaque, flagpole and landscaping with sod and flowers will complete the project.
Meyer said he needed to raise money for the project, but donor contributions helped reduce the need for cash.
Firefighter Carl Ginapp, who has his own sawmill, donated lumber valued at about $850, Meyer said.
The flag at the memorial will be dropped to half-mast whenever the department is notified of a firefighter who has died in the line of duty, Meyer said.
``It's just kind of a remembrance that it is a dangerous job and a way to honor those that are doing that job,'' Fire Chief Bob Platts said.
