American flags retire with honors

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Timothy Moreland
  • 500th Aircraft Sustainment Squadron
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah --  After many years of faithful service, 63 United States flags were retired with honors during the evening of Oct. 1. The Flag Retirement Ceremony was conducted by the American Legion Post 133 and Boy Scout Troop 55, both representing Hill Air Force Base.

According to United States Federal Law 36 U.S.C. Section 176(k) as well as Resolution No. 440, by the National Convention of The American Legion meeting in New York, N.Y., "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 ceremony was presided over by Staff Sgt. Torrey Surat, 75th Communications Squadron and commander of American Legion Post 133. He was assisted by 21 Boy Scouts from Troop 55. A brief history of the flag was given prior to the retirement of the first flag. Each of the thirteen stripes was ceremoniously cut from the first flag, and a brief reading was done prior to placing the stripe in the fire. After the first flag was retired, each member of the audience was given a piece of the next flag, and they were able to pay their respects by placing it into the flames of the fire. Each subsequent flag was displayed by the Boy Scouts and then laid onto the fire.

As the flames reached into the sky, the ceremony concluded with the audience reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, and the playing of the Star Spangled Banner.