FLAG RETIREMENT CEREMONIES

The United States Flag Code 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. (Disposal of Unserviceable Flags Ceremony) ".

In scouting and many other groups, the disposal of these flags are done at a Flag Retirement Ceremony. I have tried to gather a few different type or ceremonies which I consider respectful. Some people may not agree with them all, but none are against any law that I could find.

If you are attending a Flag Retirement with younger scouts, you may want to take the time to explain about the ceremony. Some young scouts may not see the difference between the flags being burned on TV by some demonstrator and the one being retired. A few minutes of explanation before the ceremony may save tears and worries during it.

Where can a flag retirement ceremony take place?

Many scouting events lend well to ceremonies.

What do I need?

What you need often depends on the ceremony you choose. You will need a flag that needs to be retired, a fire, and an outdoor area to perform the ceremony.

Where do I get a flag if I do not have one?

Check with your local council office. Often flags are dropped off by people. Your local schools may be a source. Your sponsoring organization may be able to help. Check with your VFW Posts and other Veteran's posts. An ad in a local paper may get you more flags than you want but it can be another source. Almost anywhere a flag is flown on a regular schedule like a bank, post office, car dealerships etc.

What should I be careful of while doing the ceremony?

First, you need a fire that is active but not huge. If a fire has just been started, the flag may put the fire out rather than burn. Next, be careful of wind. If it is windy, the flag may catch fire then blow out causing a problem. Make sure everyone knows their part in the ceremony. This will help insure things go well. Make sure all precautions are taken that would normally be done when a campfire is set. And last, Beware of the flag material. Some flags will melt rather than burn, others will flare up when touched by flames.

Where can I burn the flag for retirement?

Campfires are often the main place flags are retired. You can also use large 55 gallon drums (be careful for these act as chimminies and will push hte flag in the air if not careful.) Some units have built special burning bins to retire large flags and large quantity of flags.

Below are a few ceremonies that I have collected. If you have any flag retirement ceremonies that you would like posted or linked to, please e-mail me the information.

   Flag Retirement Ceremonies, Which is Really the Correct Way?

   Flag Ceremony #1

   Flag Ceremony #2

   Flag Ceremony #3

   Flag Ceremony #4

   Flag Ceremony #5  by Stan Pope.

   Flag Ceremony #6 by Pack 106

   Flag Ceremony #7 I Am Your Flag

   Flag Ceremony #8 by Benny Ledford

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