Hundreds of flags of America, Oklahoma and others will be formally retired in a burning ceremony at 3:00 p.m, on Saturday, Sept. 21 at the Murray County Expo in Sulphur. The event is sponsored by the American Legion, which has been an historic leader in honoring the Stars and Stripes.
Locally, American Legion Platt National Park Post 148 members will be doing the ceremony.
In addition to American Flags, there will be emblems representing the State of Oklahoma, the National Guard, and POW/ MIA flags.
Flags of all sizes will be burned Saturday. Banners range from postcard size to huge flags that have to be cut up in order to fit in the burn barrels.
The American Legion nationally has a significant and enduring history of honoring the American Flag. As far back as 1923, the Legion is credited with helping create a conference of numerous organizations that created an authentic code of flag etiquette called The Flag Code.
Pertinent to Saturday’s retirement activity, The Flag Code specifies how to respectfully treat a flag when it “is in such a condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display.” The Code advises “it be destroyed in a dignified way by burning or by some other method in harmony with the reverence and respect we owe to the emblem representing our Country.”
The American Legion calls the U.S. Flag “The living symbol of our great Republic,” adding, “It embodies the essence of patriotism.”
“If you would like to come out and help or be a part of this honor, please feel free,” said Mark Estlack, commander Post 148.
The flag ceremony starts at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, Sept 21.
