Members of Warwick’s American Legion to conduct flag disposal ceremony July 10

WARWICK — A ceremonial American Flag burning at Warwick’s American Legion Post 214 will take place on Wednesday evening, July 10, at 6 p.m.

According to the American Legion, the most responsible way to destroy your worn, tattered or otherwise damaged American Flag is by burning. And each year a “ceremonial burning” is offered by officers and members of American Legion Post 214 on Forester Ave.

The Ceremony for Disposal of Unserviceable Flags is outlined in Resolution No. 440, passed by the 19th National Convention of the American Legion in New York, Sept. 20-23, 1937. The ceremony has been an integral part of American Legion ritual since that date.

As participating members of the post assemble out-of-doors and at night by a small fire the sergeant-at-arms presents the flags to the first and second vice commanders, and then to the post commander. During the ceremony the commander explains how the flags have served the country and why they are now unserviceable. He orders the flags destroyed by burning and asks the post chaplain to offer a prayer.

Local residents who have flags that are in poor condition and no longer serviceable are invited to leave them in a used flag disposal box on Forester Ave. outside Post 214. The flags should be placed in a plastic bag or other suitable container.

For additional information call 986-1290 or e-mail: alegionpost214@warwick.net.