Flag Retirement & Sales
When your American flag becomes worn, faded, torn or soiled, it should be retired and replaced with a new flag. But what does it mean to “retire” flags of the United States Of America which have served us so well for so many years? It is important to understand the distinction we make when we retire the colors. These flags are not to be discarded, not to be ignored, and not to be forgotten.
The first formal decision to burn the American Flag as a means of retiring it came on June the 14th of 1923. That is when the representatives of 68 organizations met in Washington DC for a conference called and conducted by the American Legion to draft an authentic code of flag etiquette. This goal was accepted and later passed into law by Congress. A portion of this code states that 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. In so doing, we must be clear. We are not burning these flags out of hatred and disrespect for the country it represents. They are burned with the utmost respect for the United States of America. They are burned to honor all those who fought beneath its stars and stripes. They are burned in remembrance of those who died defending our country.
An American flag may be a flimsy bit of printed gauze or a beautiful banner of finest silk. The intrinsic value of the American flag may be trifling or great, but its real value is beyond price for it is a precious symbol of all that we and our comrades have worked for, lived for, and died for. A free nation of free people turned to the faith of the past. Devoted to the ideals of just, freedom, and democracy. The American Flag is historic, spirited, and a patriotic symbol that has flown above this great country for more than 200 years. It has attained this proud position by love and sacrifice. Citizens have advanced it and heroes died for it. It is a sign made visible of the strong spirit that has brought liberty and prosperity to the people of America. It is the flag of all of us alike.
The easiest way for the community to accomplish is task is by bringing their tattered flags to Waconia American Legion and placing them into our collection box. In doing so, they can rest assured that their flags will be retired with honor and dignity, and in the manner prescribed per the code of flag etiquette. They can also purchase a new flag from Post 150, further supporting the American Legions mission in Waconia.