By Carol Schreiber
Review Staff Writer
On Monday night, September 10, members of the Nobles County Legion Council held a most patriotic program in Brewster with the retirement ceremony for many unserviceable United States flags.
At this time of year, the thoughts of many go to the 9-11 attacks. With the 17th anniversary of the event this week, patriotism continues in the forefront, and was shown during the respectful ceremony for flag retirement.
The U.S. Flag Code states that, “the flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.” So, when a flag is torn and tattered beyond repair, the proper etiquette is for it to be retired and burned.
Many flags were retired in such a manner after a ceremony which pointed out how the flags were well used, flown with honor and no longer serviceable.
The unserviceable U.S. flags were then “fittingly destroyed,” as they were burned in the dignified and solemn ceremony held near the Brewster Legion Hall.
The ceremony included the inspection of the flags, finding them unserviceable after being used in a worthy cause.
Following a prayer by the Chaplain, the flag retirement began. Seven-year-old Emma Hill, with the assistance of Dundee Legion member Bill Brunk, lit the first flag. Many Legion members helped to add flags which were in need of retirement.
Several Brewster Fire Department members were in attendance to be on hand for any fire safety concerns.
Second District Commander Cindy Brunk thanked the Legion members for attending the ceremony, and also expressed her appreciation for those that helped to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Dundee Legion Post earlier this summer.
Legion members participating in the ceremony came from Round Lake, Dundee, Brewster, Ellsworth, Adrian, Heron Lake, Okabena and the VFW Post in Worthington.
