Show Respect for the Flag by Retiring One With Dignity

By Gary Peterson, Senior Copywriter

The Stars and Stripes is the most recognizable symbol of our nation. It deserves respect in how we handle it, display it and — when it’s time — retire it.

WoodmenLife values our American freedoms. That’s why we’ve presented more than 3.5 million flags to nonprofit organizations, schools and communities nationwide. (We’re second only to the federal government in the number of flags we purchase.)

It’s also why we’re proud to oversee the proper disposal of old, worn, frayed, or faded U.S. flags.

Our commitment to properly retiring U.S. flags is in line with the United States Flag Code, which states, “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”

How to Retire a Flag With a Proper Ceremony

Anyone can retire a flag, but you should review local fire ordinances and note the material of the flag before conducting a ceremony. (Some materials may emit toxins if openly burned.) And although there is no official ceremony for a flag retirement, the National Flag Foundation provides a structure for a dignified ceremony.

The first step would be to pick a location where the ceremony can be held respectfully, like a park, and invite people to attend, like local elected officials, Veterans and Scouts.

Next steps would be to set up a fire pit or brazier. Be sure to bring fire-starting tools, as well as the flag or flags to retire.

When you retire the flag, begin by folding it properly, according to the U.S. Flag Code. Then start a fire, being sure it’s large enough to burn the entire flag. Next, place the flag into the fire.

As the flag burns, salute it and say the Pledge of Allegiance. You should also pause for a moment of silence. When the flag is entirely burned, collect the ashes and bury them.

Show Respect for a Flag That Can’t Be Burned

If a flag can’t be burned, due to an ordinance or the material it’s made of, the U.S. Flag Code allows for the burying of a flag. The National Flag Foundation recommends burying a folded flag in a dignified box and pausing for a moment of silence afterward.

By properly retiring the flag, we show reverence for it as a symbol of our country. When we conduct a ceremony, we share our patriotic pride with one another. It’s a moment that can create a lasting memory.

WoodmenLife Can Help

We’ve produced a video that can guide a proper flag retirement. The video’s imagery and narration will lead you through the process.

Learn more about WoodmenLife’s efforts to support America at WoodmenLife.org/Patriotism

Not a member yet? Find a Representative near you at WoodmenLife.org/Find/Rep

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