Veteran's Day is a sacred day to me. I cherish my freedoms and recognize that they came by way of suffering, bloodshed, and loss beginning with the Revolutionary War. When I heard there was a proper flag burning ceremony to retire or dispose of worn United States flags in a National Park in Kentucky, I went to pay my respects to Old Glory and shake the hands of the men and women who have served our country.
The Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, ROTC, Army Reserves, and U.S. Park Rangers were present to retire the flags, cut them properly, and dispose of them by fire. All the Veterans in the community were asked to come forward and we said the Pledge of Allegiance. Some of the older Scouts read stories about famous flags and gave some history.
We watched as the flag's stripes were separated from her field of blue. Each section was burned separately and saluted.
Thank you for sharing this experience. Proper flag etiquette is something that is all too often forgotten or disregarded; so many have fought and died for Old Glory and it is a shame when she is mistreated. Thank you, again. Much respect.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this. I never know what to do with my old flags and just hang on to them. This should be an annual event in towns all across America on Flag day, wonder why it's not?
ReplyDeleteLOVED your pictures and doesn't this give you faith that our country really is going to be alright again?
xoxo
Joni