SOLON — The Solon American Legion held a ceremony to retire approximately 2,100 flags Friday, June 14 in recognition of Flag Day. Members sparked a fire in the fire pit centered in the field and after a quick rehearsal of the ceremony, the members took their spots. Two veterans held folded flags ready for retirement and the color guard escorted them across the field. The flags made a stop to receive a speech from Adam Hopp, Commander of Stinocher Post 460. After an invocation by Chaplain Doug “Doc” Thompson the flags were laid over the fire with “Retreat” playing in the background as the flames jumped up and caught the flags.
“Flag etiquette and education are major programs for The American Legion and fall under one of the organization’s founding pillars,” said Hopp. “We are honored to be able to host events like this for our community, and our hope is that we’re raising awareness of how to properly display, care for, and show respect for our Nation’s flag.”
The fire was quite a spectacle, drawing some Solon residents to watch as it consumed the flags.
Hopp said the ceremony was established in 1937 to encourage proper respect for the Flag of the United States and to provide proper disposal of unserviceable flags. For veterans like Hopp, the flag has a great significance.
“I think about everyone who has fought for the freedom that our flag stands for, that it’s not just a piece of cloth, but a symbol of unity and hope that will always keep us together. As the flag fades into the fire, I look at it as another final salute to everyone who fought for it, the families that sacrificed, and those that gave their lives for it,” said Hopp. “Performing this ceremony in a dignified manner honors them.”
A receptacle for flags to be disposed of is located at the Legion Post year-round.
“We are honored to carry on this tradition and hand it down to the next generation.”
Solon American Legion Stinocher Post 460 members Harrold Hop (front) and Sgt. at Arms Denny Hansen present worn out American flags for disposal by burning during a flag retirement ceremony Friday, June 14 (Flag Day) at Legion Park.