Flag Retirement Ceremony 2024

A flag retirement ceremony is a solemn and dignified event held to respectfully dispose of old, worn, or damaged American flags. It’s a way to honor the symbolism and significance of the flag by properly retiring it from service.

During the ceremony, the flag is typically cut into smaller pieces, usually by ceremonial scissors or a knife, with each stripe and star being separated. These pieces are then carefully placed into a fire, often accompanied by a moment of silence or a recitation of patriotic verses. The fire burns until the flag is completely consumed, and the ashes are then collected and buried in a respectful manner.

Flag retirement ceremonies are often conducted by veterans’ organizations, scout groups, or other community organizations as a way to pay tribute to the flag’s symbolism and demonstrate reverence for its proper disposal.

When: 9 AM

Where: Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Photo Credit: David Westphall Veterans Foundation