VFW Flag Retirement Ceremony

Description

National Flag Day is Wednesday, June 14, 2023, a day when Americans reflect on the foundation of the nation’s freedom. The US flag represents freedom and has been an enduring symbol of the country’s ideals since the early days.  This day commemorates the adoption of the flag on June 14, 1777 by resolution of the Second Continental Congress. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day.
 
Also, on this date, old and tattered flags are retired and burned in an official ceremony. Flag Retirement is the term used to define the proper, dignified way of destroying United States flags that are no longer fit to serve the nation. The Ralph Holewinski VFW Post 1518 will be hosting an official Flag Retirement Ceremony on Sunday, June 11, 2023, 1pm, at their Veterans Community Park, 1905 S. Otsego Ave, north of Ace Hardware store at 1:00pm. Local Scouts, as well as residents in the community, will be participating in the ceremony and burning American flags. The community is invited to bring their old, tattered flags and participate in the official ceremony.
 
If you cannot attend the ceremony on June 11, you can deposit your old, tattered flags in any of the 10 collection boxes around town; at the Library, ACE Hardware, Gill-Roy’s Hardware, Tractor Supply, Lowes, Walmart, Gaylord Bowling Center, the Otsego County Sportsplex, Gaylord Bowling Center, Waters Township Hall and Gaylord City Hall (in the lobby at the door facing M32).   
 
The VFW also sells new American and military branch flags in assorted sizes. For information or questions, call Maria Moore at 586-946-1026. A flag order form can be emailed to you or found on our VFW webpage. Funds from flag sales support the Phase II Post Building Fund.
 
And lastly, interestingly enough, the US Army celebrates their birthday on this date also. Congress adopted “the American Continental Army” after reaching a consensus position in the Committee of the Whole on June 14, 1775. Thanks to our many Army Veterans and Active Duty Personnel.