The American flag is more than just a piece of cloth; it’s a powerful symbol of our nation’s history, the valor of our veterans, and the enduring spirit of the American people. We display it with pride, but as all things do, flags eventually wear out. When a flag becomes tattered, faded, or otherwise unfit for display, it should not simply be tossed in the trash. The respectful way we retire a flag is just as important as the reverence with which we fly it.
For the members of American Legion Post 86, and for all patriotic Americans, knowing the proper, dignified, and respectful process for flag disposal is a vital part of honoring what the flag represents.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
The U.S. Flag Code provides guidelines for the proper display and care of the flag. While it does not specifically mandate a retirement ceremony, it states:
“The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”
U.S. Flag Code, Section 8k
Disposing of a worn-out flag with a ceremony ensures that its service is concluded with dignity and respect, acknowledging the sacrifices and ideals it has represented throughout its time. This act is not about destruction; it’s about a final, honorable farewell.
The Proper Process: Where to Take Your Flag
The easiest and most common way to ensure your flag is retired properly is to drop it off at a designated collection point.
1. The American Legion
American Legion Post 86 is one of the best places to take a worn flag. As an organization committed to service and patriotism, we accept flags from the community year-round. We typically have a flag collection box near the entrance of the Post. These collected flags are then stored until they can be properly retired.
2. Other Organizations
You can also typically drop off worn flags at other patriotic or civic organizations, including:
- VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) Posts
- Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America
- Trail Life and Heritage Girls
- Some government buildings or courthouses
3. The Unserviceable Flag Ceremony
The American Legion and other veteran service organizations often conduct a Retirement of Unserviceable Flags Ceremony, usually around Flag Day (June 14th). This ceremony is a solemn and public event where collected flags are retired in a formalized, respectful manner, often involving burning—the preferred method—in a controlled, safe environment.
The ceremony typically includes:
- A solemn processional and presentation of the flags.
- The folding of the flag according to tradition.
- A reading of a prayer or a script that honors the flag’s service.
- The controlled burning of the flags, ensuring all remnants are reduced to ash and properly interred.
This ceremony allows the community to participate in this final act of respect, reinforcing the significance of the flag and our commitment to its ideals.
What to Do Next
If you have a flag at home that is ready for retirement, and American Legion Post 86 is currently not accepting drop-offs (for example, if our collection box is full or we are preparing for a ceremony), we encourage you to follow these steps to ensure its dignified handling:
- Examine your flag to confirm it is indeed unserviceable (frayed edges, large tears, significant fading, etc.).
- Fold it neatly according to the traditional triangular method.
- Hold it temporarily: Keep the respectfully folded flag in a safe, clean place at your home until a collection point becomes available. Do not discard it in the regular trash.
- Seek an alternate collection point: Many communities have multiple locations that collect flags year-round. We recommend contacting:
- Local VFW Posts (Veterans of Foreign Wars)
- Local Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts of America troops
- Trail Life or Heritage Girls Troops
- Some local Fire Stations or Government Buildings (Call ahead to confirm they have an official collection bin).
Your simple act ensures that the symbol of our nation is given the dignified retirement it deserves. By working together, we uphold the traditions that honor our flag, our veterans, and our country.