Burning Of A Damaged Flag Or One That Has Touched The Ground

[lonnietucker]

I was asked about why the American Flag is burned when it is too damaged or touches the ground today and I could not remember the reason why that is done. Can anyone please refresh my memory?

[Peter Ansoff]

Hi, Lonnie!

I was asked about why the American Flag is burned when it is too damaged or touches the ground today and I could not remember the reason why that is done. Can anyone please refresh my memory?

First of all, here is what the "flag code" actually says about flag disposal:

"The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning."

The point is simply that the disposal should be done with dignity -- you shouldn't just throw the flag in a dumpster or use it as a rag. It doesn't have to be by burning; that's just the preferred way. Also, you do not need to dispose of a flag just because it's touched the ground. If it's soiled, you can clean it by whatever method is appropriate for the fabric. (Many flags are synthetics and can be machine-washed.)

I hope this answers your questions. If not, let us know!

Peter Ansoff

[lonnietucker]

Yes it does. Thank you very much.

[Metzger]

We have an American flag that is folded as a burial flag. However, it is fadded and was never used as a burial flag. What is the proper disposal of this flag?

[communitybuilder]

Here is an article on how to properly dispose of the american flag

How to Dispose of an American Flag | eHow.com

[Peter Ansoff]

Hi, cb -- welcome to the forum!

Unfortunately, that article is a little bit misleading, because it implies that burning is the only proper way to dispose of a US flag. Actually, the flag code just says that burning is the preferred way. Other methods are OK, as long as they do not allow the flag to be seen in an undignified setting.

Peter Ansoff