More than 100 unserviceable American flags were retired recently in a somber ceremony at Peotone Fire Station 1.
The flags were flown over veterans’ graves “and in recognition of our freedom at many homes, businesses, and various public places.” They are collected at Post 392 during the year.
Peotone American Legion Post 392 and Scouts BSA Troop 315 participated, along with Scoutmaster Robert Wilcox Sr. and Assistant Scoutmaster Dawn Ramirez. The Scouts included Nathan D., Griffin A., Tyler W., Landan H., Kennet G., and Josh D. (BSA rules prohibit publication of Scouts’ last names.)
According to U.S. code, a flag is considered unserviceable and should be retired when it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, typically defined as being significantly torn, frayed beyond repair, faded beyond vibrant color, or dirty beyond cleaning.
The code specifies that a flag no longer fit for display should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning. For safety, the flags were burned at the fire station training center.
“Being a part of the flag retirement ceremony is a time honored Peotone scouting tradition that goes back quite a few years now,” Scoutmaster Wilcox said.
“The ceremony was created by the American Legion, and they have done an amazing job. We are grateful to be asked to partake in this solemn ceremony, which our boys take to heart.
“In addition to the ceremony, the boys fold each flag so they may be retired in a respectful manner. There are more than a 100 flags retired each year.”
The ceremony was opened with the presentation of “a number of unserviceable flags of our country for inspection and disposal.”
Post 392 Commander Irv Darnell said, “We here present the flags of our county, which have been inspected and condemned as unserviceable. They have reached their present state in a proper service of tribute, memory, and love.
“Let these flags be retired and destroyed with respectful and honorable rites, and their places taken by bright new flags, and let no grave of our deceased soldiers, sailors, and airmen be unhonored and unmarked.”
With the mournful sound of “Taps” playing, the first flag was respectfully and slowly placed in the fire. The “National Anthem” followed, and the remaining flags also were burned.
Service Officer Bob Krueger read a tribute to the “U.S. Flag,” a poignant salute noting that it represents…“peace, honor, truth, and justice.
“I stand for freedom,” it continues.
“I am confident. I am arrogant. I am proud.
“I have fought in every battle of every war for more than 200 years. I was flown at Valley Forge, Gettysburg, Shiloh, and Appomattox. I was there at San Juan Hill, the trenches of France, in the Argonne Forest, Anzio, Rome, and the beaches of Normandy, Guam, Okinawa, Korea, and Khe San, Saigon, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan know me. I was there. I led my troops. I was dirty, battle-worn, and tired, but my soldiers cheered me.
“And I was proud.
“My name is Old Glory. Long may I wave. Dear God in heaven, long may I wave.”
Sr. Vice Commander Dave Dralle and Chaplain Rev. Terry Krouskoupf also participated in the ceremony.
Should be Oliver H. not Landen H.