How to Properly Dispose of an American Flag in Daviess County, KY

"You're a grand old flag
You're a high-flying flag
And forever in peace may you wave
You're the emblem of
The land I love
The home of the free and the brave"

Lots of folks fly the stars and stripes either in front of their homes or businesses here in Daviess County. While, made to be durable, unfortunately American flags are not indestructible. You can't or at least definitely shouldn't just toss them in the trash when they become torn or ragged.

Respectfully Disposing of an American Flag

When you go to replace your flag, there are rules according to U.S. Department of Defense just as there are when it comes to hanging a flag. You are more than welcome to take care of disposal at your home if it is safe and legal to make a fire.

How to Properly Dispose of an American Flag Yourself

The flag must first be folded in the customary triangle, then make sure the fire is big enough to fully burn the fabric to ashes. Place the flag on the fire and either salute, say the pledge or have a moment of silence in honor of what this patriotic symbol means.

Daviess County Flag Retirement Ceremony

If you aren't able to perform those steps yourself, you can take your worn or faded flag to any of the local veterans organizations such as the American Legion or VFW. You can also go to the Daviess County Courthouse at 212 St. Ann St. In the lobby, there is a drop box to put them in for the Flag Retirement Ceremony on Friday, June 14th, which also happens to be Flag Day.

The Owensboro Daviess County Veterans Organization will collect all of the flags for the ceremony on the south side of Panther Creek Park. All are welcome to attend starting around 4:30 PM.