The Salem Elks and Boy Scouts combined efforts to properly retire 113 flags including six of the large Interstate flags over the weekend as part of Flag Day activities.
The Chaplain for the Salem Elks, Danny Shuler, provided a history of the ceremonies.
“Today these colors are tattered and faded. They have served their country with honor and distinction. They have now reached the end of their patriotic journey. May the fundamental virtues for which they waived forever be imbedded in our hearts and souls. With a service of tribute memory to love our faded and worn American flags, we honorably retire them with dignity and respect.”
The members of the Salem Boy Scouts then paired up and carried each of the tattered and worn flags up to a burn pit where they were burned.
Scoutmaster Levi Ward feels it’s important the Scouts be part of the program.
“Between myself and my two assistant Scout Masters, all three of us Veterans, we definitely feel this is important. Not just the service of it but sharing it with the boys and the community and getting it done.”
The grommets that are in the flags are removed and sent to the VA Hospital for recycling.
Salem Elks Chaplain Dan Shuler explains how flags are properly disposed. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
