Loyal Legion Post will have flag retirement ceremony on June 14

The American Legion Post 175 will be performing flag retirement ceremonies on Flag Day, June 14, at 7 p.m. at the Loyal Legion Hall. Community members and youth groups are invited to attend with the American Legion family as worn out flags are ceremonially burned.

The flag of the United States of America was first authorized by Congress on June 14, 1777, and is a symbol of freedom and liberty. Today the flag consists of 13 alternating red and white stripes that represent the 13 original colonies and 50 white stars on a blue field with each star representing a state. The colors on the flag represent: red for valor and bravery; white for purity and innocence; and blue for vigilance, perseverance and justice.

Here are a few flag protocol basics. When the flag passes by at a parade or program, stand, remove hat and place right hand over your heart. If you are a veteran, salute. The protocol is the same when reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and/or singing the National Anthem at a ball game, a meeting or any other community event. The flag code was adopted by the National Flag Conference in 1923, with amendments made since. Specific design, display and use of the flag, respect for the flag and conduct during hoisting, lowering or passing of the flag are included in the flag code.

With Flag Day fast approaching, now is the time to replace your American flag if it is tattered or torn. U.S. flag code states that “when a flag has served its useful purpose, it should be destroyed, preferably by burning.” Please give your worn flags to a Legionaire, Auxiliary or SAL member for proper disposal or drop them off at the Legion, Mon.- Fri. between 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.