How should an old or worn flag be disposed of?

Disposing of an old or worn flag should be done in a manner that shows respect for the symbol it represents. The proper way to retire a flag is to do so through a burning ceremony, conducted in a respectful and traditional manner. This practice honors the flag’s significance and ensures it is destroyed in a dignified way.

Burning the flag is a time-honored method recommended by the United States Flag Code, which emphasizes that when a flag is no longer fit for display, it should be burned in a ceremony that reflects the respect it deserves. This ceremony often involves members of the community, veterans, or organizations that uphold the flag's values, thereby reinforcing its symbolic importance.

Other disposal methods, such as throwing the flag in the trash or burying it, do not honor its significance and can be seen as disrespectful. Giving the flag to a veteran organization is a noble gesture but does not provide a definitive method for retiring a worn flag. Instead, these organizations might assist in educating individuals on proper disposal practices rather than accepting worn flags for disposal themselves.