How are unserviceable flags destroyed?

Category: 
General Flag Etiquette
Question: 
How are unserviceable flags destroyed?
Answer: 

The Code suggests that, “when a flag has served its useful purpose, it should be destroyed, preferably by burning.” For individual citizens this should be done discreetly so that the act of destruction is not perceived as a protest or desecration. Many American Legion posts conduct Disposal of Unserviceable Flag Ceremonies on June 14, Flag Day, each year. This ceremony creates a particularly dignified and solemn occasion for the disposal of unserviceable flags.

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George Henry

August 4, 2011 - 5:46pm

This is something you just don't hear about anymore I wish there was some way to revive the interist.I recently was talking to someone on my jobsite and he had received a Flag and when I asked him if he kept it lit or took it down at night he was clueless.The next day he told me he spoke to the friend who gave it to him and he told him "I just assumed you knew the Flag etiquet.Most people today don't know it and maybe together we can revive it along with real Patriotism. Thanks for the opportunity to vent. George

drloftin1573

October 7, 2011 - 9:54am

I am appalled at the lack of respect that the children and teens of this generation have for our Flag and what it represents. I was at a September 11 remembrance that involved a large number of kids, and when the National Anthem was sung, and the Pledge of Allegiance recited, I was SICKENED by the number of young people that were talking, playing, laughing, and generally being disrespectful of this solemn and beautiful part of our national heritage. I am only 38 years old, BUT, I know the proper respect that is due OUR Flag and OUR National Anthem, and OUR Pledge of Allegiance. I wanted to grab a couple of these kids and literally shake them and say to them "Don't you realize what you are doing?" I believe that we, as the teachers of this generation have FAILED MISERABLY to teach these kids, our next generation of leaders, exactly what sacrifices have been made on their behalf by the ones who have gone before. Thanks for the chance to vent. Devon R. Loftin Chattanooga, TN

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