American Legion Post 415 Installs Worn Flag Bin at Hartland Fire Department

There is a correct and respectful way to dispose of American flags which have become old or torn, according to Doug Kuhn, commander of Post 415 of the American Legion Post in Hartland.

“There’s a whole process to it and a formality,” Kuhn said.

Two years ago, the Hartland Legion Post, along with several Boy Scout troops organized a disposal day on the Sunday before Memorial Day. Set up at the , the volunteers received 150 flags that day that were in need of proper disposal.

“We got inundated with flags,” Kuhn said. “So it showed that there was a big need for it.”

With the help of local organizations and volunteers, Hartland residents now have a place to leave their old flags waiting for proper disposal. The Cromaine library donated an old book bin, which was re-painted and labeled.

And before the bin was even officially installed, by  Company, in front of the , Kuhn says it was already being put to good use.

“It was amazing,” Kuhn said. “The box was sitting there on the steps of the fire hall, it hadn’t been installed yet. It sat there for two weeks waiting to be installed and then when they went to install it, they had to take all the flags out because it was full.”

Kuhn says the local Boy Scout troops will responsible for checking and disposing of the flags on a regular basis which will help teach them respect and responsibility.

Kuhn also said he was happy with how the community effort came together to get the bin in place.

“We’re providing a service that’s needed, and the nice thing about this is it didn’t take an act of government to make it happen,” he said. “It was no big deal, everyone chipped in -- all volunteer efforts -- and it makes them feel good. It’s just a win for everybody.”

Six steps to properly dispose of the American Flag according to the Veterans of Foreign Wars: 

• The flag should be folded in its customary manner. 
• It is important that the fire be fairly large and of sufficient intensity to ensure complete burning of the flag.
• Place the flag on the fire.
• The individual(s) can come to attention, salute the flag, recite the Pledge of Allegiance and have a brief period of silent reflection.
• After the flag is completely consumed, the fire should then be safely extinguished and the ashes buried.
• Please make sure you are conforming to local/state fire codes or ordinances.