Saturday night, the American Legion Leonard Moore Post 71 of Clayton held a training event to teach area Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts the proper way to retire Old Glory.
The US flag code specifies that “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.”
When the American flag is soiled, beyond use, or repair it should be retired.
There are several common myths and misconceptions about the American Flag.
It is not illegal to throw away the American Flag but it is considered poor etiquette. Another myth is that you cannot wash the Flag. Flags can be washed or dry cleaned.
You can fly an American Flag with fewer than 50 stars. The US Army Institute says any American Flag is never obsolete.
Many assume Town mayors have the authority to determine when to fly the American Flag at half staff in their city. Mayors do not have that authority. The decision can only be made by the state Governor or President of the United States.
One of the more common myths is the Flag must be retired if it touches the ground. It is recommended to avoid touching the ground to keep the Flag clean and presentable but the flag doesn’t need to be retired if it happens to touch the soil. Contributed photos
