The flagpole is surrounded by white rocks, enclosed by angled bricks, about 10' circle. I thought I'd come to the edge of the circle & sink a 4x4 post, 12" above ground. Mount a bell box @top of post, 90 out of ground with 3/4 rigid, then flex up to box and mount light on it. The rock is a nice shiny white, I hate to mess it up in any way with dirt on it, etc.
I've seen some MH lights with hoods or shields that help focus the light and keep glare down to passersby. I like MH because it's a good clean white light in my opinion and bulbs last a long time. This man is a retired vet, getting on in age. He doesn't get around so well anymore. I'll always change bulbs if I'm nearby but want to keep it simple.
I like quartz halogen, but they seem to burn out quickly & I've had to replace a lot of fixtures that make faulty contact with lamp ends.
Thanks for all the feedback. This is a good forum with lots of good, experienced people.