U.S. Flags Retired by Brownsville VFW Post In Honorary Ceremony

Brownsville VFW Post 6937 holds a U.S. Flag retirement ceremony at the EC Courthouse on Weds, Oct. 16, 2024.

Darren Doyle, story:
Many that fly the American Flag know some basic rules of respect when it comes to its handling. One of those being that the flag should never touch the ground. Flags don't last forever and when they become worn, faded, or certainly ripped/torn, they should be disposed of. However, there is a very unique and respectful way to do so.

On October 16th, members of Brownsville VFW Post 6937 gathered at the Edmonson County Courthouse to honorably retire nearly 100 U.S. Flags that were no longer suitable for patriotic display.

The United States Code stipulates, “When a U.S. flag is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”

According to Post 6937, Post Commander Edwin Vincent  led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance, then he displayed a large US flag and described its parts as each part was honorably burned. The Post then conducted a rifle firing salute followed by the playing of Taps and the rest of the flags were retired by ceremonial burning.

Brownsville VFW Post 6937 holds a U.S. Flag retirement ceremony at the EC Courthouse on Weds, Oct. 16, 2024.

Brownsville VFW Post 6937 holds a U.S. Flag retirement ceremony at the EC Courthouse on Weds, Oct. 16, 2024.

This is a regular practice for Post 6937 and they also conduct flag training for 4th grade students in local schools.

"This year that training will begin soon during the last week of October.  At this point, every class in the Edmonson County School System has been through this training and knows the proper way to display and care for the flag," said the Post in a released statement. 

"The VFW is the largest organization of combat veterans in the US.  In Brownsville, we meet on the third Monday of each month (next Monday) at 6:30 pm at the Library.  If you have an overseas campaign medal, we would love to have you join us," the Post stated.

If you or anyone you know has a flag that needs to be properly retired, flags can be given to any Post 6937 member or dropped off at C & C Firearms and Outdoors in Brownsville.