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FLAG
DESTRUCTION CEREMONIES
1. FLAG
RETIREMENT CEREMONY - I AM YOUR FLAG
Background
and Preparation: A small, modest fire is built and lit in advance, being given
sufficient time to burn down almost to coals.
Scout
#1:
The following is a direct quotation from the beginning of Title 36, Section 176,
of the United States Code:
"No disrespect should be shown to the flag of the United
States of America;"
Furthermore, Paragraph (K) of this same Title 36, Section 176,
states:
"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."
(Ceremony team enters in silence, displaying unfurled flag to
the assembled gathering)
Scout
#2:
(Recites entire following prose while flag's colors are being separated):
2. FLAG
RETIREMENT CEREMONY - I AM YOUR FLAG
I was born
on June 14, 1777
I am more
than cloth just shaped into a design.
I am the
refuge of the world's oppressed people.
I am the
silent sentinel of freedom.
I am the
emblem of the greatest sovereign nation on earth.
I am the
inspiration for which American Patriots gave their lives
and
fortunes.
I have led
your sons into battle from Valley Forge to the
blistering desert of the Arabian Peninsula.
I walked
in silence with each of your honored dead to their final
resting place beneath the silent white crosses row upon row.
I have
flown through peace and war, strife and prosperity, and
amidst it all I have been respected.
"Old
Glory" is my nickname; proudly I wave on high. Honor me,
respect
me, defend me with your lives and your fortunes. Never let my enemies tear me
down from my lofty position lest I never return. Keep alight the fires of
patriotism, strive earnestly for the
spirit of
democracy. Worship Eternal God and keep His commandments, and I shall remain
the bulwark of peace and freedom for all people. For, I AM YOUR FLAG.
(Stop here
until the flag's colors are completely separated; then continue).
Scout
#2:
My red
stripes symbolize the blood spilled in defense of the glorious nation.
Scout
#1:
LET US RETIRE THE RED STRIPES. HAND SALUTE!
(Red stripes are now placed on the burning fire)
Scout
#1:
TO!
Scout
#2:
My white stripes signify the burning tears shed by Americans who lost their
sons.
Scout
#1:
LET US RETIRE THE WHITE STRIPES. HAND SALUTE!
(White stripes are now placed on the burning fire.)
Scout
#1:
TO!
Scout
#2:
My blue
field is indicative of God's heaven under which we fly. My stars, clustered
together, unify 50 States as one for God and Country.
Scout
#1:
LET US RETIRE THE BLUE FIELD WITH STARS. HAND SALUTE!
(Blue field with stars are now placed on the burning fire.)
Bugler:
(Plays "Taps" while colors are being destroyed.)
Scout
#1:
TO!
(Ceremony team files out in silence)
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