Dignified Disposal of Unserviceable Flags conducted

Photo by Katey Wesley
Veterans Ed Folger, left, and Aaron Hall lower a portion of the large flag into the fire. Not pictured are the students who are supporting the other end of the flag as they bring it to the fire, treating the flag with respect even during its final moments.

Licking VFW Post #6337 held their annual Dignified Disposal of Unserviceable Flags on Wednesday, September 23. Over 250 flags were retired during the ceremony, and more than 70 students from fifth grade classrooms at Licking, Raymondville and Success schools participated in the event.

Veterans conducted the formal ceremony to remove the flags from service, then students held the edges of the large flags that had been flown at the intersection of US-63 and MO-32 as VFW Commander Billie Krewson cut them into sections to be burned. Veterans watched to ensure every scrap of the flags were consumed in the fire, as students entered the VFW Hall for snacks and stories from the Veterans about their service.

Licking VFW Post #6337 accept flags for disposal at their flag box in front of Licking City Hall throughout the year. They empty the box on a regular basis and safely store flags until the annual ceremony is held.

Photos by Katey Wesley