*See photos below this article.*
Many Pelham residents proudly fly the American flag at their homes. Unfortunately, after seasons of exposure to the elements, the flags can become worn and tattered. Most of us know that an American flag should be disposed of properly and respectfully. Now, a local group is making it easier for citizens to follow the proper etiquette of flag disposal.
The Sons of American Legion Squadron 555 (SAL), located in Pelham, recently unveiled the SAL 555 Worn Flag Deposit Box at its July meeting. The box was conveniently placed in front of the Pelham Senior Center at 50 Racquet Club Parkway. Citizens can place their worn flags in the box at any time, and SAL 555, also known as the “Triple Nickel,” will collect the flags so that they can be retired with respect.
The Pelham Boy Scouts Troop 404 assisted with the project and refinished, painted, and applied graphics to the flag deposit box. On July 9, 2023, Troop 404 joined with Arrow of Light (AOL) Scouts from Pelham Cub Scout Pack 404 to hold a flag retirement ceremony at the Pelham Cemetery. A new fire pit was previously constructed at the cemetery and was an Eagle Scout project by Shawn Winn of Helena Troop 2.
According to the U.S. Department of Defense website, the American Legion passed a resolution regarding flag retirement ceremonies in 1937, an important ritual that is still followed today. The resolution states, “The approved method of disposing of unserviceable flags has long been that they are destroyed by burning.” While burning a U.S. flag in an undignified manner constitutes desecration, these ceremonies are held in a specific manner.
The DOD website states, “During an American Legion ceremony, participants stand aligned in two parallel rows about 20 feet apart, facing each other. A small fire burns beyond the row of members, opposite the Legion commander.
“The flags that are no longer serviceable are presented to Legion commanders, who inspect them to make sure they should be discarded. When it is agreed upon that they’ve reached their current worn state due to proper service of tribute, memory, and love, a color guard presents the colors, and a chaplain offers prayers.
“As the crowd salutes, the flag detail dips the retired flags into kerosene and puts them on a rack over the fire. A bugler sounds ‘To the Colors’.” Read more on flag retirement ceremonies and watch accompanying videos on the U.S. Department of Defense website.
The Sons of American Legion Squadron 555 was established in 2016 with 15 charter members. The SAL's mission is to support veterans and their families and the policies of the parent organization, the American Legion. The group also promotes patriotism and is focused on programs that benefit youth. Learn more about SAL 555 by visiting the organization’s website.
A member of Pelham Troop 404 and Pelham Senior Center Director Katie Augsburger unveil the Worn Flag Disposal Box located at the Pelham Senior Center.
The Worn Flag Disposal Box is located on the porch of the Pelham Senior Center.
The Worn Flag Disposal Box is revealed at a ceremony at the Pelham Senior Center.
Members of the Pelham Boy Scouts Troop 404 conduct a flag retirement ceremony at Pelham Cemetery.
Members of the Pelham Boy Scouts Troop 404 conduct a flag retirement ceremony at Pelham Cemetery.