Retiring the flag…with dignity

W. Richard Dukelow

Most countries have complex rules to protect their national flag from desecration. These range from simple handling of the flag to rather strict rules on where the flag can be displayed. In many countries there are laws against burning or using flags for commercial purposes. The best example of the latter was with the Saudi Arabian flag that Coca- Cola Company depicted on its beverage cans in the 2002 celebration of the FIFA World Cup! McDonalds made similar depictions of the flag on carry-out bags. Both withdrew their controversial products on request of the Saudi Arabian government.

The United States expects its flag to be treated with dignity but, in accord with free speech , allows its use in various demonstrations. It is an insult to fly the flag of many nations upside down but with the flag of the United States such action is considered a signal of military or maritime distress and danger. Destruction of the flag is frowned upon.

Unfortunately, flags wear out and become weathered with constant use. How does one retire and dispose of a worn out flag? Ask any Boy Scout and he can probably tell you the routine. The American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars often have annual events where flags are properly retired. Locally we have a couple who have, for three years, held a "flag retirement party" where old flags are accumulated and disposed of. Ilona ("Sam") and Len Matson of Lakeside have taken on this task and this year on June 13, the eve of the national Flag Day, they collected and disposed of 9 worn U.S. flags in a proper and dignified ceremony. In this instance they were again assisted by the families of the Red Hat Society Sisterhood of Somers. This year, a patriotic group of about 27 people gathered for the ceremony.

The technique is simple. A small bonfire is made in a fire circle in the Matsons' backyard. After a group sing of the "Grand Old Flag," two individuals (the men take turns' spread out a flag, and,holding the ends, solemly lower the flag so that the center is over the flame. The flag never touches the ground. As the flag ignites and is consumed (it is a hot process!) the flag ends are folded over the fire. Then the next flag is presented and the entire process repeated until all flags to be retired are consumed.

The entire ceremony is respectful and dignified. Readers of this article who have flags they may wish to retire next year should contact members of the Somers Red Hat Society.

W. Richard Dukelow is a Somers resident and columnist for the West Shore News.