Is Burning The American Flag One Way To Respectfully Dispose Of It?

It's Flag Day and if you want to swap out a tattered or worn American flag, there are several ways to dispose of it properly. Is one of the respectful ways to dispose of the stars and stripes burning it? The answer is yes but there are rules you will need to follow.

How Do I Properly Dispose of a Worn or Tattered American Flag?

There are a few ways you can do this. If you wish to get rid of it yourself, follow these steps according to the Country Living website in conjunction with the Department of Defense.

If the flag is currently flying, respectfully lower it and remove it from the pole. 

After lowering the flag, fold it in the customary triangular manner.

Build A Medium-Sized Fire in a Safe Location

The fire has to be the proper size so that the heat will fully burn the flag without leaving any of the worn or tattered American Flag intact.

While the flag is burning, you are to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

Finally, once the flag is completely incinerated, put out the fire completely.

What if I Don't Want to Burn My American Flag? Is There Somewhere I Can Donate It?

Yes! There are flag disposal locations throughout New York State. The local Veterans of Foreign Wars or VFW Posts, American Legion locations, and Boy and Girl Scout organizations will accept your tattered and worn American Flags. Many locations have these bins inside their posts.