With Veterans Day this week, the Warner Robins American Legion is continuing to show its patriotism through a flag disposal ritual.
"We have the honor to present, for final inspection and proper disposal, these flags of our country," says Air Force Veteran David Winward.
About 1,000 flags went up in flame to retire them in the traditional ritual.
"It's a sacred honor," notes Marine Veteran Walter Winchester.
"We are disposing of a flag by burning," says American Legion Commander Michael Brannan.
He makes the distinction in his phrasing clear, because saying "burning the flag" means the action is done in protest.
" 'Burning the flag' goes back to the sixties during the Vietnam War," explains Brannan. "We don't like to call it 'burning' the flag anymore."
Many might not realize it is against the law to dispose of your own flag.
A law, he says, that is too often ignored.
"They say 'I don't feel like doing it,' or 'nobody is going to notice anyway,' or 'no one cares'."
"It should mean a lot to all our citizens," says Winward. "We feel that we should pay honor to the flag until the point that they are disposed of."
Winchester says it is a matter of respect.
"Respect for the country," he says. "Respect for the veterans that served our country to protect that flag, not just throwing in the garbage and walking off."
People can also participate to honor servicemen and women who have fallen.
"Four years ago, we had a burning ceremony, and I came out in honor of my father," says Brannan.
This is not the only kind of flag protocol. Just to name a few, the United States flag code says to never let a flag touch the ground, do not hang it upside down, since that is a sign of distress, never wear the flag, mark it in any way, and fly it only when it is in good shape.
When it get's a little worn and torn, it is time to retire.
The ritual is a symbol that shows they care about our country.
"We need to do everything to respect our colors," says Winward.
The American Legion in Warner Robins, Post 172, says they do flag disposal about every two years.
Follow 13WMAZ's Karli Barnett on Twitter @KarliBarnett
