Top 10 Things to Remember about Flag Retiring

By Josh Loftis
(Las Vegas & Reno, NV) – Friday, June 14, 2019 is Flag Day.  It sits right between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, which are two perfect times to proudly display your American flag. But time, elements, even storage can take a toll on your flag, leaving it weathered, worn, and ready for retirement. We checked with the experts to provide a top 10 list of things you will want to keep in mind when you retire your flag.

#10 – Ceremonial Flag Burning

We know what you might be thinking, but burning the flag, is a perfectly acceptable method for disposing of the flag as long as it is done respectfully. This can be done by folding the flag properly and then gently laying the flag on a pit or fire. You can have someone salute or recite the “Pledge of Allegiance," or sing “The National Anthem" while the flag is burning. You can find instructions on how to properly fold your flag here: http://www.usflag.org/foldflag.html  The goal is to have a fire big enough and hot enough that nothing will remain of the flag after it has been burned.

# 9 – Synthetic Flag Burning

Burning nylon or a synthetic material is different from burning wool or cotton.

The synthetic materials can create hazardous gases or vapors, because these synthetic materials can be petroleum-based. On the positive side, these synthetic materials can hold their colors and last much longer than natural cloth or fibers. But when it is time to retire the synthetic fabric flag, instead of burning it, there are some who recycle synthetic flags to make brand new ones! American Flag Disposal can assist you. Contact them at FlagRecycling@Gmail.com or call 262-783-4800. You can check out their website at www.americanflagdisposal.com.

#8 – Flag Burial

Another acceptable method for disposing of your flag is to bury it. To do this fold the flag properly. (See link under Ceremonial Flag burning for proper flag folding.) Then, place the flag carefully in a dignified box for burial. You may take this time to say aloud what the flag means to you as you bury it in the ground.

#7 – Flag Shredding

We know this doesn’t sound right, but shredding the flag can be appropriate when done properly. If you decide to shred your flag, it is recommend you get a nice, sharp, pair of scissors and cut each of the 13 stripes very carefully from each other, leaving the blue field and stars intact. Be careful to not let the pieces touch the ground. Maybe assign someone to hold each of the pieces as they are being cut. Once all of the pieces have been cut, you can dispose of the flag by either burning or burying it per the instructions above.

#6 – Flag Touches Ground

This probably goes without saying, but don’t let it touch the ground! Still, accidents happen. If it touches the ground, don’t fret. Just carefully pick up the flag. There is a misconception that if a flag touches the ground, it MUST be retired. Our experts tell us, that’s not always the case, particularly if it remains suitable for display – so keep that in mind!

#5 – Don’t Repurpose

You may be looking at that ripped flag and think, “Hey, I could use that as a bandana or make cute baby clothes out of what is left!” Please, don’t! We appreciate your patriotism and desire to repurpose “Old Glory," but please do not use the flag for any other purpose than for what it is intended for, which is to be displayed in a place of honor and respect.

#4 — Don’t Throw It Away

This also probably goes without saying, but throwing your flag in a trash can would be extremely disrespectful to the flag! The rules we observe are laid out in the U.S. Code with Title 4, Chapter 1, Section 8 under, “Respect for Flag," stating: “The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, the floor, water or merchandise. In paragraph (k), it also 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.

#3 – Wash It

Sometimes your flag is just a little soiled or dirty. Despite misconceptions, washing your flag is perfectly acceptable. If it is soiled in a small area, it is recommended you spot clean using a damp rag with a mild detergent. If the flag is obviously soiled or dirty overall, you may want to take it to a dry cleaner.

#2 – Teaching Moment

Whatever method you choose to dispose of your flag, you are encouraged to take this as an opportunity to gather with family, friends, and neighbors to show respect and honor to our flag. This is a great opportunity to talk about what it means with your children and show them the proper respect our flag deserves.

#1 – Give It Away

There are many qualified organizations that provide flag disposal for you. Veteran Service Organizations, Boy or Girl Scout Organizations and your local National Guard may receive the flag. Additionally, the Nevada Department of Veterans Services, through our Veterans Memorial Cemeteries, will be glad to dispose of your flag for you. If you’re unsure where to start, just contact the Nevada Department of Veterans Services at 775-825-9748 and we can get you connected with a qualified organization in your area.