Tattered American Flags

After the September 11th terrorists attack, many Americans felt it would be patriotic to display the American flag (I have one at the top of this website). Many decided to display a real flag on their car or truck to show their patriotism.

It has been more than 7 months since the terrorists attacks. Many of the flags now flying from cars and trucks have become tattered from the effect of the wind when the car or truck is driven at highway speeds. The once patriotic symbols are beginning to look more like a lot less. A flag, which is thread-bare flapping in the breeze, is an insult to the flag.

Owners would be better off just removing these flags rather than continuing to fly a tattered one. Fly the flag if you must, but have the decency to replace it with a new one and properly dispose of the old.

Section 8k of the Flag Code states, "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." It is recommended that you contact your local VFW Chapter and ask them for help properly disposing of your flag. And be sure to consider providing a small donation to them for their assistance. Or you can contact your local Elks Lodge (who created the idea of Flag Day, established officially by President Truman, himself a member of the Elks) or the American Legion. Some Boy Scout and Girl Scout troups also can provide this service.

Also check out Flag Rules and Regulations .

04/27/02
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