There are certain things that I often wonder about which, when I finally learn the answer, make me think to myself, “Well, that makes sense!”
One such question came about recently as I began noticing all of the new flags going up around municipalities and people’s homes in preparation for the Fourth of July.
For those with even a modest patriotic pulse, it is certainly refreshing to see. But in noticing Old Glory being hung in such admirable fashion, I could not help but wonder: What happens to the old flag that is being replaced?
Whether flying outside a school or hanging proudly in front of someone’s home, when a flag is taken down for good, there has to be a proper way to retire it. But what is it?
Enter my good buddy John Loughlin.
John is a decorated military veteran who, until very recently, hosted a
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One day I posed the question to John and asked whether he would mind staying a few extra minutes after his show to discuss the topic on mine.
He graciously obliged, and not only was John able to provide some stellar insight, but I believe he inspired a number of callers to chime in and do the same.
As it turns out, there are several ways to ensure that an American flag is retired properly and respectfully.
Many municipalities maintain collection boxes for worn or damaged flags, often located at town halls or other municipal buildings. A quick phone call to your local office can usually confirm whether such a collection point exists and where it can be found.
If you are familiar with a local Boy Scout troop, that can be another excellent option. Many troops participate in flag retirement ceremonies throughout the year and are often happy to assist in making sure the process is handled correctly.
Another avenue is your local American Legion Post or VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) Hall. These organizations frequently participate in flag retirement programs and may be able to help direct the flag toward an appropriate ceremony. As always, it is wise to call ahead before stopping by.
Flag retirement ceremonies are solemn events in which the flag is destroyed in a dignified and respectful manner.
Burning the flag is generally considered the preferred method of retirement and is often accompanied by readings, reflections, or other ceremonial elements intended to honor the flag and what it represents.
Interestingly, the United States Flag Code does not prescribe an exact method for retiring a flag. However, it does establish the expectation that a flag which is no longer fit for display should be destroyed in a dignified manner, preferably by burning. Additional information regarding flag retirement procedures can be found through resources provided by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and other patriotic organizations.
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Proper retirement of the American flag is more than simply disposing of a worn piece of fabric. It is a thoughtful process designed to honor a symbol that has represented our nation through triumphs, challenges, sacrifices, and generations of history.
Even if you do not have the time to personally see your old flag through to its final retirement, it is reassuring to know that there are organizations, veterans, scouts, and volunteers throughout our communities who are committed to ensuring that Old Glory receives the respect it deserves until the very end.
About Tom Lopatosky
Tom Lopatosky has run his own RI-based painting and repair business since 1995; LOPCO Contracting – the “Personable, Particular Professionals” – specializes in exterior & interior painting and carpentry. Recently LOPCO Contracting was named ‘RI’s Finest Painting Contracting Company’ by ShopInRI Magazine. In 2013, Tom was named “Humanitarian of the Year” by the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) and a “40 Under 40” award winner by Providence Business News. He is a member of both the PCA (Painting Contractors Association) and RIBA (Rhode Island Builders Association). Tom has often had weekly ‘Home Improvement Tips’ that have aired on the radio on 630 WPRO AM and on television on WPRI 12. You can catch Tom LIVE on the radio EVERY Saturday, 2pm-3pm, on 630 WPRO AM (99.7 FM) during his weekly PROTalk Home Improvement Radio Show! Tom has also written a book ‘The Care And Maintenance Of A New England Home’ (available on Amazon or through Barnes & Noble), detailing what he believes every New England Homeowner should be acutely aware of while owning a home in the region.
