Horrific images of those in foreign nations burning American Flags appear on the news all too often. In the US there have been efforts to outlaw the burning of the flag, which is currently protected by freedom of speech. Ironically, those who protest the abuse of the national flag are often guilty of its desecration.
Yesterday I examined the Flag Code, noting many ways in which we abuse and improperly display the flag. From that research, some interesting facts came up. For example, there is one occasion in which burning the flag is the proper thing to do. In the event that the flag is no longer in proper condition to display, the Flag Code directs:
"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"
This is the only proper way of personally disposing of a flag. Many American Legion posts and local governments have facilities for proper flag disposal.
-Professor Walter
For more information on the flag of the United States please visit: American Flag Info - USA Flag Site.org
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