In Honor of Our Flag
Flag ceremonies are a long-standing Girl Scout tradition that honors the American flag as the symbol of our country and all the hopes, dreams, and people it represents. Our camps have begun and ended each day with the raising and lowering of the flag for decades and this is an iconic Girl Scout moment for many of our members. One of the most meaningful ways to show respect for the flag is by participating in a flag retirement ceremony.
Girl Scout Troop 538 in Franklin helped conduct a flag retirement ceremony with VFW Post 4411 during their Memorial Day Ceremony on May 29.
This year marked the 100th anniversary of Flag Day, celebrated every year on June 14. In recognition of the occasion, GSCCC volunteers Kevin Wilkinson and Carolyn Engler organized an opportunity for Girl Scouts to participate in a flag retirement ceremony hosted by American Legion Post 280 in Chesapeake on June 10.
Partnering with a VFW or American Legion post is a great way for Girl Scouts to perform community service. Damaged or worn flags can be retired in a dignified, respectful manner. Troops/groups may also want to hold a damaged flag collection and then plan a ceremony during a troop camp trip or a service unit encampment.
Some groups choose to cut the flag into smaller pieces (cutting along the blue field and separating each stripe) as part of the ceremony. Once placed in the fire, the troop leader or another designated member conducts a respectful memorial service as the flag burns, such as delivering an inspiring message of the flag’s meaning and symbolism.
You can find information from the U.S. Department of Defense on how to dispose of a flag properly.
Save the date for our upcoming event, “How to Host a Proper Flag Ceremony” on October 22 at A Place for Girls in Chesapeake. Registration is opening soon!
