American Legion Post 14 Commemorates Flag Day with Flag Retiring Ceremony
SHREVEPORT, La. – On June 14th, 1777, our nation officially recognized the iconic stars and stripes we know as our flag. Today, we know this date to be Flag Day. American Legion Post 14 on Lakeshore Drive in Shreveport celebrated by holding a flag retiring ceremony to dispose of unserviceable flags donated to them by the community. Other veterans gathered to watch as the Legion carried out the flag retiring ceremony, outlined by Congress to ensure these flags were disposed of in a dignified manner.
“I would hope that when people see this ceremony that it moves them, that it brings them closer together. It’s another patriotic holiday,” veteran Ben Cothran said. “This is our nation’s flag. This is the banner that we all fall under, and I would hope that seeing the actual disposal process of the flags that are torn, tattered, and unserviceable that it would bring people closer together.”
The American Legion collects flags in the area year-round to retire them in a respectful manner.
More Events and Participations
Various other events also took place at the American Legion Post 14 as part of the Flag Day commemoration. Veterans and community members participated in activities that honored the flag and the principles it represents. From flag folding demonstrations to patriotic speeches, the day was filled with reverence for the symbol that unites Americans across the country.
The Ceremonial Flag Retirement Process
The flag retiring ceremony, a solemn and time-honored tradition, began with the preparation of the unserviceable flags. Each flag, carefully inspected for damage and wear, was respectfully folded before being placed in the retirement fire. As the flames consumed the flags, attendees paid their respects, standing in silence to honor the sacrifices made by those who have defended the flag throughout history.
Community Support and Involvement
The community’s involvement in donating unserviceable flags to the American Legion Post 14 demonstrates a shared commitment to upholding the values symbolized by the flag. By participating in the flag retiring ceremony, individuals showed their respect for the flag and the country it represents. The support of the community ensures that the tradition of proper flag disposal continues to be observed with dignity and honor.
Unity and Patriotism
Events like the flag retiring ceremony not only serve to honor the flag but also to foster a sense of unity and patriotism among participants. By coming together to witness the retirement of the flag, individuals reaffirm their bond as Americans and their dedication to the principles of freedom, justice, and democracy. The ceremony serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served under the flag and the importance of upholding its symbolism.
Continuing the Tradition
As Flag Day comes to a close, the American Legion Post 14’s flag retiring ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring significance of the flag in American culture. By continuing the tradition of proper flag disposal, the Legion ensures that the flag is respected even in retirement. The ceremony serves as a tribute to the flag’s role in uniting the nation and a reminder of the values for which it stands.