• Flag Retirement Options

tattered american flag

Displaying a flag outside for all to meet, where it volition experience different temperatures and ever-changing weather, volition consequence in a worn flag eventually – even the all-time flags.

With the average outdoor flag statistically merely lasting nigh xc days (Star Spangled Flags are not average), it is possible you volition have at least a few sometime ones that are ripped, tattered, or in another way worn out and damaged, prepare for disposal by the finish of the year.

With all the significant it holds, it would exist incorrect to throw them in the trash. But few people know what to do with old American flags. What is the proper manner to retire an American flag?

While it is non illegal, much of the younger generation does not realize the disrespect associated with throwing away an American flag. Or maybe y'all knew y'all shouldn't toss it in the garbage, simply didn't know whatever other way to get rid of information technology. Well, nosotros are here to tell you how to properly dispose of an American flag.

5 Options for Retiring Your Flag (click the titles for more than details)

  • Donate Your Tattered Flag
  • Ceremonial Flag Called-for
  • Bury Your Quondam Flag
  • Shredding Techniques
  • Flag Disposal Locations
  • Supersede Your Worn Out Flag

Properly Disposing of a Tattered American Flag (Respectfully)

Normally burning the flag is listed as the commencement choice, but there may be some concerns. Volition the fumes be bad for the surround or your wellness? What if you don't have a identify to build a fire?

Flags are fabricated from a much wider range of products now than they used to be when the The states Flag Lawmaking was first created. Depending on what kind you have will determine if information technology contains materials that produce dangerous fumes when burned. If you lot experience dangerous trying that method or don't have the resource, not to worry, in that location are enough of other options. That'due south why we outset recommend giving older flags to qualified organizations like the VFW or American Legion every bit the all-time option.

flag recycle

Donating is a great US flag disposal technique. Effectually your customs at that place are places that you tin can drib a tattered American flag off for them to dispose of. To make information technology easier we have created a map below showing "American flag disposal near me" where you will see a list of local drop-off centers and depository boxes.

Flag disposal locations such as your local Veterans of Strange Wars (VFW) posts, American Legion, and Boy and Daughter Picket organizations, even some Walmart and Home Depot locations volition gladly take them to recycle or burn. VFW flag disposal locations offer these services to ensure the flags get thrown away properly if others practice not take the means to. You can also check your local hardware or grocery stores for a flag drop box, a container to collect old American flags for donation. This provides a quick and easy solution for those who are busy to make certain their quondam flags are taken intendance of properly.

Flag Disposal Places Nigh You lot

two. Formalism Flag Burning

The The states has a set of laws pertaining to The states flag disposal known every bit the The states Flag Code. In this set of rules are the specifications on how the item we use to symbolize freedom, innocence, and unity should exist treated. Also known as retiring the flag, information technology is of import to regularly get rid of torn ones.

The Code states that if it is not in adept enough status to represent our country, information technology should be taken downward and destroyed. The dignified manner they recommend is called-for.

You will want to brand sure to follow proper technique when burning an American flag. Offset, make sure the fire is large and hot enough to incinerate the cloth completely. Fold the flag(s) properly and place it on top of the flames. While information technology is called-for, bear witness respect past saluting, singing the National Anthem or reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Once you are sure it is entirely burned, put the burn out.

three. Flag Burial

This is a great option for anyone that wants to dispose of their own flag but is not able to or does not want to build a fire. Yous tin coffin a flag in the basis in a well-constructed container to keep information technology protected. While some people exercise non find information technology proper, a good rule of pollex to keep in listen is that equally long as it is thrown abroad in a dignified style, it is allowed. Make sure to follow the procedure below to guarantee a respectful ceremony.

The correct way to bury a pennant includes finding a box in adept condition to identify information technology in. In the United States Flag Code, information technology states the cloth should non come up in contact with the ground or clay, then finding a quality box is necessary. Fold it properly and identify it in the box to be placed in the ground. Just every bit nosotros recommended for the called-for, have a moment of silence or respectfully say a few words equally y'all bury the box.

4. Shredding Techniques

Once a flag is cut up, it is technically non an official American flag anymore, meaning you can then throw it away without it being disrespectful. Shredding gives you multiple options to either burn down, bury or recycle the material once information technology is disassembled.

Flag recycling is common with constructed and nylon made banners because burning these materials tin be hazardous. It is possible to accept the nylon from an erstwhile flag and turn information technology into a make new one from the old. Equally for called-for and burying, y'all will just follow the previous steps once yous cut it.

Just like every other disposal solution, there is a proper and respectful way to do this. The kickoff technique entails cut apart each of the white and red stripes. Split them neatly by using a sharp pair of scissors. The other option is to cut it in half vertically and then again horizontally. The most crucial stride for both procedures is to make sure the blue department with the stars stays intact.

Supercede Your Worn Out Flag

Flight a tattered American flag is but as disrespectful as throwing it in the garbage. Though some may non have the means to purchase a new ane, it is against etiquette to fly one that is worn out.

If you lot take the ability to purchase another (StarSpangledFlags.com provides coupons to assistance every month), respect all that it represents and hang i in pristine status.

As an American, the flag symbolizes the history that provided usa with the foundation for our country today. It is imperative to care for these emblems with respect and retire them with dignity.

With these four disposal options, there is no reason this symbol of freedom should be found in the trash. Browse our selection of durable American, Land, Military and Historical flags.

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