The Flag and Flag retirements evoke strong feelings in many people. Some will to tell you that their way is the only way. So who is to say which elements of Flag retirement ceremonies are correct and which are not? Who is the authority on Flag retirements? As Scouters, we must follow the law of the United States of America and policy of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). Regarding Flag retirement, the US Flag Code reads; "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." U.S. Federal Code, Title 4, Chapter 1, Section 8(k) (emphasis added).
The only recommendation (not policy) from BSA regarding Flag retirements says When the national Flag is worn beyond repair, burn it thoroughly and completely on a modest, but blazing fire. This should be done in a simple manner with dignity and respect. Be sure the Flag is reduced to ashes unrecognizable as a former Flag. Your Flag, BSA Publications, 1986 (revised 1994). Nothing else seems to apply.
Many persons have deep-seated feelings about how to accomplish Flag retirement. Most of these ideas can create wonderful ceremonies, but do not encompass necessarily all that can be done. Again, the simple statement: The US Code and BSA's Your Flag publication are the only rules to follow. That said, the following common misconceptions arise:
The Flag must be cut up before retiring: The Flag Code does not say anything about cutting up the Flag. The 1980's version of the BSA publication did state cut it into small pieces that will burn easily and completely on a modest, but blazing fire, but later versions have this language removed. Presumably, this change was due to differing customs and the lack of support by the Flag Code. The only conclusion that can be drawn then is; you may cut or not cut the Flag, so long as the Flag is retired in a dignified manner. Flying ashes may not be dignified.
If the Flag is cut, it must be done with scissors, not ripped or cut with a knife: If this is your custom, be aware that others may have a custom that says the Flag should only be ripped, not cut. Also know that there are very patriotic people for whom any cutting or ripping of the Flag is a desecration. They will be biting their tongues as your unit does so. Perhaps you may want to consider doing this prior to the ceremony in consideration of those who might find this part of the process too traumatic.
Only certain organizations are authorized to retire Flags: A number of people believe that only veterans organizations, military organizations and scouting groups can or should retire Flags. Any organization or individual, however, may retire a Flag in a ceremony, or in the backyard alone. Common sense might suggest that if you are by yourself it should be done out-of-sight, so that others don't mistake a private dignified service for unpatriotic desecration.
Flag retirements should only be done at a separate campfire, not be used for anything else, and the ashes should be buried (etc.): All of these procedures, when explained to others, may help to demonstrate the uniqueness of the situation, your individual unit heritage (your custom and respect for our Flag); however, they are just that, your customized procedures. Generally groups and organizations evolve and refine what makes their customs feel patriotic, respectful and dignified. Thus, they may differ in many ways.
Only people who are over 18 may handle the Flag during Flag retirement ceremonies: Just not true.
The Flag must be retired only by burning: Again, untrue. The Flag Code says Preferably by burning, meaning that burying or another method can be used when burning is not feasible (or desirable) for a location. As Scouters though, we should consider the BSA recommendation as described in Our Flag which specifies burning. As we generally retire Flags during a campfire program, this should not be a big deal. Additionally, a Flag retirement by fire is permanent.
Teach your traditions to your new scouts, and tell them why they are important to you or your unit. Tell your audience, this is our custom, and other groups may have different customs. It is important to talk to new scouts about what happens during a Flag retirement, before you start. Many will be witnessing a Flag retirement for the first time and, if it is not explained, they might feel that something very wrong is going on.
If your unit is working jointly with the local American Legion to perform a Flag retirement ceremony, then you should find out what their customs are. Likewise you might sometime be working jointly with Girl Scouts, the DAR, or the VFW -- find out what customs might be relevant. If other group members make up most of your audience for an event, then you should probably consider putting your customs on the
back burner and honor the others.
The key is respect. Respect for our Flag, and our country. Respect for others. There are many different Flag retirement ceremonies you can
conduct, and you could certainly design a ceremony yourself. The only requirement is that you conduct the ceremony in a "dignified" manner.
Do this, and most people will be sincerely moved.