Flags Retired in Ceremony

As the Friday afternoon closed out until the half moon filled the crisp air, the American Legion Commander Vincent Schmoeckel opened the ceremony of retiring of the flag. Miles (Jim) Verhoff of the Boy Scouts and VFW and an inquisitive and receptive group young Scouts assisted with the event. The flag ceremony has not been held for several years.

The ritual is conducted to show respect and dispose of flags that are tattered, wind ripped, stained, outdated by age, and basically those who have served their purpose.

As a result of not having the ritual for the extended period of time about 500 flags were retired at the ceremony. Flags were placed for burning one by one. The flags were collected over time from the military, schools, businesses and individuals. This solemn ceremony is the "Dignified Disposal of Unserviceable Flags" and is a retirement of old colors.

After the opening statement by the Commander, a prayer was provided by Chaplain Kevin Stevens, a flag was held at full display and the order was stated, "retire the colors". After the initial flag was held over the burning flames in a container, it was folded and engulfed by the awaiting flames. Eager and enthralled Boy Scouts then were able to assist by taking their turn in retiring the colors and held flags over the firey container and offered it up at end of duty.

Also present, witnessing and aiding with the ceremony were Service Officer Jay Southwick, Ret. Col. Donald Klinko, Steve Schumacher, parents of scouts, members of the community, officers of the American Legion Auxiliary and VFW Auxiliary and members and officers of the Sons of the American Legion.

Following the evening and after the fire was out, the gromets were gathered and will be respectfully disposed of by burial in the cemetary or in the casket of a veteran with blessings of the family. Those who have flags that are in need of proper retirement may bring the flags to the VFW to be included in the next ceremony.

Following the event the group was treated to hot chocolate. The ceremony held on Friday, December 10th ceremony lasted over three hours.