This ceremony is to be held giving the Flag(s) to be retired the utmost respect. These flags are the symbol of what this country has stood for and still stands for. At no time should any form of disrespect be given during this ceremony.
Old Flag(s) |
Wood to be added to a Blazing Fire: |
Camp Fire |
Redwood - Oak |
Color Guard Detail |
Cedar - Walnut |
Scouts in Class "A" Uniforms |
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Scissors / Sheers |
- "Title 36, Section 176, of the United States Code states"No disrespect should be shown to the flag of the United States of America;"
- Furthermore, Paragraph (K) of this same Title 36, Section 176 States: "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.
- Furthermore, Paragraph (K) of this same Title 36, Section 176 States: "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 BSA publication "Our Flag" states: "When the national flag is worn beyond repair, burn it thoroughly and completely on a modest, but blazing fire. This should be done in a simple manner with dignity and respect. Be sure the flag is reduced to ashes unrecognizable as a former flag."
Leader / Narrator : "When the United States flag (Old Glory) becomes worn, torn, faded or badly soiled, it is time to replace it with a new flag, and the old flag should be "retired" with all the dignity and respect befitting our nation's flag. The traditional method of retirement is to incinerate the flag, but this does not mean that on should simply drop the entire flag (intact) into a fire. Though I disagree with burning a flag for a political statement and truly fell it is a dishonorable act, I also feel that freedom of speech must be protected. However, today we are not burning a flag we are retiring a symbol of America's honor, courage, and strength. Therefore we request that all remain silent during this ceremony."
Leader / Narrator : "A flag ceases to be a flag when it is cut into pieces. In addition, it is easier to completely incinerate the flag, if it is cut up with scissors or shears in a methodical manner. The corners of the flag should be stretched out over a table top and someone should cut the flag strip by strip and then star by star."
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Leader / Narrator : "The flag(s) we retire tonight has served us well, but due to it's condition it is no longer suitable for display. A fresh new flag now flies in it's place, to carry on the honor and dignity of "Old Glory" which flew many years ago."
Leader / Narrator : "Will the audience please stand."
Leader / Narrator : " Tonight we will retire this great symbol of freedom throughout the world. Please remain silent until directed otherwise. ABSOLUTE DIGNITY MUST BE MAINTAINED THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE CEREMONY!"
Leader / Narrator / Scout #1 : "Seven red stripes and six white strips; together represent the original 13 colonies that gained us liberty. The red stripes remind us of the lifeblood of brave men and women who were ready to die for this, their country."
Leader / Narrator / Scout #2 : "The white stripes remind us of purity and cleanliness of purpose, thought, word and deed. The blue is for truth and justice, like the eternal blue of the star-filled heavens."
Leader / Narrator / Scout #3 : "The stars represent the fifty sovereign states of our union. The American Creed states, "it is my duty to my country to love it, to respect its Constitution, to obey its laws, to respect its flag and to defend it against all enemies."
Leader / Narrator : "The U.S. flag should be treated with respect when it's flying, and should be treated with respect when it's being retired."
Leader / Narrator / Scout #4 : " Therefore, we retire flags with dignity and respect when they become worn, torn, faded or badly soiled. A flag ceases to be a flag when it is cut into pieces. We separate the 13 strips that represents the original 13 colonies, and the 50 stars to pay homage to the 50 states that together make up this great nation."
Leader / Narrator : "Four types of wood are added to the fire when retiring a flag. They are:
| Redwood | to remind us of the red-blooded Americans who fought and died to build our nation under this flag. |
| Oak | for rugged strength that carried the flag across this nation and today reaches for the stars |
| Cedar | to protect us from pestilence and corruption and preserve our American way of life |
| Walnut | to remind us of the rich soil, the beautiful countryside and the fruitful brotherhood founded by our ancestors |
Leader / Narrator : "Color Guard, present the colors to be retired...Scout Salute...if you are out of uniform place your hand over your heart."
Leader / Color Guard : Respectfully separate each strip one at a time. When all of the strips have been separated, hold the stars separately. Color Guard should respectfully place each strip in the fire and ensure that it is placed in such a manner that the strip will be fully incinerated and the Color Guard does not get burned. When all of the strips have been placed in the fire, place the stars in the fire in a horizontal position in such a manner that the stars will be fully incinerated and the Color Guard does not get burned.
Leader / Narrator : "We are drawn here together in the sight of God to pay our "last respects" to this symbol of our great nation, "America", the land of the free and home of the brave. Please join with me in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance."
Leader / Narrator : "Two...Color Guard Dismissed"
