05/24/2025
US Flag Retirement
A flag retirement ceremony is a dignified process to honor a worn-out or damaged American flag. It typically involves folding the flag, a salute, and either burning or burying the flag in a respectful manner. Organizations like the American Legion and St. Albans VFW, along with St. Albans City School Cadets, will conduct retirement ceremonies. This year's ceremony will be on June 11th (13th as a rain date).
You can drop flags off at either VFW Post 758 on Lake Street or the American Legion for retirement. If you are not able to do so, please follow the instructions listed.
To respectfully retire United States flags that are no longer fit for display, in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code.
Inspect the Flag:
Ensure the flag is indeed unserviceable—faded, torn, or frayed beyond repair.
Gather Materials:
A fire-safe location (preferably outdoors)
Fire pit or a metal container
Kindling or wood for burning
Tongs or gloves for handling the flag
Bucket of water or fire extinguisher for safety
Optional: Ceremonial items such as a bugle, drum, or color guard
Participants:
Assign roles if desired—narrator, color guard, or members to fold the flag.
Notes:
Do not burn synthetic flags (e.g., nylon) as they release toxic fumes. In those cases, cutting the flag into respectful parts (e.g., separating the stripes from the union) and disposing via a proper non-burning method is acceptable.