I've been asked many times of what to do with an American flag after it's "useful" life. When a flag is torn, faded, falling apart or just old and ready for it to be retired, take it to "any" VFW, DAV, American Legion or military installation and ask them to carry out the proper disposal. Your request will be honored, Free of charge! If you cannot do that, simply fold a flag and place it in a receptacle, Put some charcoal lighter fluid on it and light it. You "MUST" burn the flag completely, therefor no desecration or disrespect to our country and Veterans is present. If you choose, you can render the appropriate Honors while it is burning. Thats what I do!
I think disposing of a Canadian flag is quite the same. We have a wood fired boiler so nothing remains. I really don't like it when a flag is left up flying with almost the outside red panel gone.
I'm Sorry WW I didn't include the Canadian flag, No disrespect to our Canadian neighbors… but you are correct! To honor your country is to give it it's proper respects and make sure there is "no" color left to be seen. It is equivalent to a body cremation.
Old Glory as I was taught clear back to the Cub Scouts, should be treated as a "living entity" therefore, as with a person who passes, when the Flag is unserviceable due to weathering She should be afforded a proper respectful interment. this was reinforced by the US Army later in life, AR840-10 defines proper care and etiquette (there are regs for the other branches as well im sure but im not familiar with their nomenclature). Flags I retire are always given to our local VFW for this purpose. as an add on to the OP, if unable to or if you wish to gift a great tasking for education purposes, contact your local Scout troop or troops and ask them to take it to the VFW and get an education on Flag Etiquette in the process, may even help them earn a merit badge as well as having the chance to meet some of our American Heroes!
That is a good thing for our youth to learn! Good point out Mike! I do it for "many" of my neighbors and friends twice a year and we make it a nice and respectful event.
My son's scout troop, of which I am also a leader of is sponsored by the local American Leigon post. We actively participate in their flag day activities which are more than the ceremonious retirement of an American flag. In addition to the burning of a flag they do a very good presentation of the history of the flag. It is a worthwhile event to attend for anybody. Assuming that other organizations do the same you should make it a point to look up and attend your local AL/VFW or other organization's flag day event next (and every) June 14.
