County adds another option for proper disposal of U.S. flags
In partnership with the National Association of Counties, the National Flag Foundation, Dubois County has installed a flag retirement box, at no cost to the county, at the Dubois County Health Department 1187 S St Charles Street, Jasper.
Flags should be folded respectfully before being placed in the box.
The United States Flag Code prescribes flag etiquette — everything from flying it near other flags to instructions on how to raise and lower it. “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning,” says the code.
Members of American Legion Post 147 will be responsible for the proper disposal of the worn flags.
“By providing a second centrally-located drop-off we feel this provides yet another convenient place to dispose of flags while respecting our national symbol,” said Kitty Merkley, Dubois County Treasurer. “The county is unified in helping enable our citizens to respect our great nation while disposing of old or worn out flags.”
Said NACo Executive Director Matthew Chase, “We are pleased to provide these flag retirement boxes. Helping residents properly dispose of worn U.S. flags is consistent with our commitment to public service and community engagement.”
Well, following the old tried/true saying, “you can lead a horse to water, but…” let’s hope this new/additional disposal location will spur various flag owners into the action of either replacing their worn/tattered U.S. flags or at least taking them down…before they become all-too-worn/tattered…and taking them to a disposal location. Better no flag than one flown forgotten and dishonored (with obvious/severe fading, tattering, loosed from its mount, etc).