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)