Proper Disposal of American Flag

Considering the emphasis that is placed on the important and symbolic nature of the American flag it is surprising that so many adults are unfamiliar with the proper disposal protocol for American flags. The guidelines for correctly dealing with a flag in need of retirement are actually quite simple. There is an official United States Flag Code that expressly outlines the proper flag etiquette for almost any issue that might arise. Among the issues covered is the often asked question as to the correct way to dispose of an American flag that has been worn out to the point of being tattered by the elements.

If a flag is beyond repair and needs to be replaced there is in fact a proper disposal technique that should be followed. The common language as to how to best deal with this situation is that it is most appropriate for the flag to be destroyed in a "dignified manner." Exactly what constitutes a dignified manner leaves some people scratching there heads because this unspecific instruction does very little to enlighten inquirers that find this tidbit of information to be both obvious and generally uninformative.

While it may sounds almost sacrilegious the common dignified manner in which flags are most often disposed of is through burning. For most Americans the thought of burning an American flag conjures up radical images of violent anti-American protesters taking to the streets in masks as they riot and unceremoniously burn flags along the way. Despite these disturbing images when executed properly a respectable flag burning can feel almost like a dignified funeral or remembrance of all the values instilled in the idealistic set of American ideals.

The proper disposal of an American flag is traditionally done by American Legion departments. American Legion groups are stationed throughout the United States and serve as congregating locations for veterans to gather to socialize and organize local community events. Among the many community services veterans involved in the American Legion perform is the proper ceremonial burning of tattered flags that are no longer suitable for display. The rationale behind the decision to incinerate these flags is that it is a more fitting tribute than to merely toss them aside with the daily garbage.

While patriotism and national pride are by no means unique to the United States it is truly special to appreciate the degree of patriotism observed in such a relatively young country which is also the product of a vast melting pot of cultures and ideals. America has not always been the superpower that is today and while economic barometers ebb and flow the idea of the American dream remains a constant point of envy for most nations around the planet. While still a country with a checkered past and not without flaws in the twenty-first century almost all Americans regardless of the extend of their skepticism with particular elected officials or specific legislation believe in their hearts that while not perfect the American system and way of life is the best the world has ever seen.

Dignified flag burning ceremonies are routinely done by the American Legion and often occur on suitable dates like Flag Day - June 14th every calendar year. The American Legion also serves to inform the public about common misconceptions with regards to what necessitates destroying a flag. Perhaps the most common misconception is that if a flag ever touches the ground it must be retired and ultimately destroyed. This misunderstanding is likely a result of confusion regarding the fact that flags touching the ground should not be displayed. While it is true that any flag inadvertently touching the ground should be immediately corrected it is not the case that arbitrarily touching of the ground is a basis for immediate disposal.

All guidelines outlined in the United States Flag Code are primarily intended for the flying of flags at government buildings. Proud citizens have adapted these rules to regulate civilian life as well. Due to freedom of speech rights outlined in the first amendment of the constitution citizens are allowed to protest by desecrating the flag if they so choose. While it may seldom be a popular form of protest the very fact that the United States government does not censor its citizens from complaining about government is a testament to the freedoms that make the US a more progressive and free country than communist regimes in other parts of the world.