How Do I Retire an American Flag?
Respecting the Flag
American flags should always be treated with respect and honor because they represent those who worked, fought, and sacrificed their lives for our rights and freedoms. It also represents all of us; the hard-working people who make this country something to be proud of. In fact, Congress amended the Flag Code in 1976 to include the statement that the U.S. flag is a living entity and, as such, has all the rights thereof, including the right to exist and expire with dignity.
As you prepare to fly your flag this season, you might find that it’s become torn and tattered and needs to be retired. While there are a few preferred methods to properly retire your flag, throwing it in the garbage is NOT an option.
Respecting the Flag
American flags should always be treated with respect and honor because they represent those who worked, fought, and sacrificed their lives for our rights and freedoms. It also represents all of us; the hard-working people who make this country something to be proud of. In fact, Congress amended the Flag Code in 1976 to include the statement that the U.S. flag is a living entity and, as such, has all the rights thereof, including the right to exist and expire with dignity.
As you prepare to fly your flag this season, you might find that it’s become torn and tattered and needs to be retired. While there are a few preferred methods to properly retire your flag, throwing it in the garbage is NOT an option.
How Do I Retire an American Flag?
The U.S. 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”. While this is the preferred way to dispose a flag, it can be dangerous.
According to WikiHow and VFW.org there are certain steps to safely and properly burn and retire a flag.
- If you plan on burning in an open area, obtain a permit through the Illinois EPA. Permits are free and should arrive within 90 days of application.
- Build a medium sized bonfire away from buildings or trees. Clear away any debris because not only is it a safety hazard, but it isn’t respectful of the flag.
- Place the flag in the fire when it’s burning strongly, but it isn’t so heightened that flag pieces would start to blow away. Another safety tip is to never burn the flag on a windy day because the flag could blow away while on fire, which would be a huge fire hazard.
- Fold the flag, preferably in the ceremonial triangle. Make sure it doesn’t touch the ground and that it’s handled with care. Place the flag into the fire.
- Be respectful while the flag is burning. You can take a moment to reflect on its meaning or recite the Pledge of Allegiance if you’d like.
- Make sure that the flag has completely burned and only the ashes remain. You can let the fire die down, while watching it the whole time, or put it out on your own.
Note: If your flag is made from nylon or polyester, do not burn it. The smoke will contain dangerous chemicals that could harm your lungs. Instead, consider taking it to a donation center or burying it.
A safer alternative to burning the flag is to donate it to your local government or other organization that accepts them. Some common places to donate include:
- Ace Hardware
- Local Fire Department
- Village Hall
- Local VFW
You also have the option to respectfully bury the flag. Fold the flag in the ceremonial triangle, place in a strong wooden box, and bury a few feet in the ground. Similar to burning the flag, make sure to handle it with care and consider its meaning as you bury it.
Once you’ve successfully retired your old flag, go out and buy a new one! It will serve as a great reminder to yourself and your neighbors that we are lucky to live in a country that honors life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
How Do I Retire an American Flag?
According to the U.S. Flag Code, “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”. While this is the preferred way to dispose a flag, it can be dangerous.
Note: If your flag is made from nylon or polyester, do not burn it. The smoke will contain dangerous chemicals that could harm your lungs. Instead, consider taking it to a donation center or burying it.
A safer alternative to burning the flag is to donate it to your local government or other organization that accepts them.
You also have the option to respectfully bury the flag. You should fold the flag in the ceremonial triangle, place in a strong wooden box, and bury a few feet in the ground. Similar to burning the flag, make sure to handle it with care and consider its meaning as you bury it.
Once you’ve successfully retired your old flag, go out and buy a new one! It will serve as a great reminder to yourself and your neighbors that we are lucky to live in a country that honors life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
