For the fourth year, American Legion Post 328 will conduct its annual Ceremony for Disposal of Unserviceable Flags, as outlined in Resolution No. 440, on Sunday, September 27, 2020. The ceremony will be held at the former High School baseball diamond (west of Grove Hill Cemetery) on N. Genesee Street, in Morrison, IL. This ritual will happen rain or shine, unless lightning or heavy rain occurs. The public is invited to attend and should arrive by 11:45 a.m. for the noon beginning.
People may sit safely distanced in lawn chairs, stand, or remain in vehicles.
They may bring a retired flag to the burning ceremony. Before September 27, drop flags in the Post’s Flag Drop Box, at 306 E. Main Street. Besides American flags, other retired flags may also be turned in (POW/MIA, State, City, etc.)
Flags which have served their useful purpose and are tattered, faded, ripped, stained, or torn will be burned on an elevated palette of 2 x 4s. This new design will allow air flow to fuel multiple layers of cotton and synthetic fiber (polyester) banners. The latter flags burn with black smoke, due to chemicals in the fabric.
The Legion Honor Guard will perform the ceremony, under direction of Sergeant-at-Arms Jerry Brearton. He described it as “about five minutes of solemness to pay respect for retired flags.” Next is the incineration of flags. There will be three rifle volleys, and Carolyn Aiken concludes the ceremony with the playing of Taps.
Questions can be directed to Brearton at 717-814-8844 or jerry@brearton.net.
