By Theo Bazdorf
For The Alpine Sun
On Saturday June 18, six boy scouts from Troop 105 and four cub scouts from Pack 105 in Alpine gathered at Bert Fuller VFW Post 9578 to retire dozens of U.S. flags. Under the guidance of Scoutmaster Mark DeVaux, the scouts prepared for the ritual of incinerating the worn and damaged flags.
By Theo Bazdorf
For The Alpine Sun
On Saturday June 18, six boy scouts from Troop 105 and four cub scouts from Pack 105 in Alpine gathered at Bert Fuller VFW Post 9578 to retire dozens of U.S. flags. Under the guidance of Scoutmaster Mark DeVaux, the scouts prepared for the ritual of incinerating the worn and damaged flags.
According to the United States Flag Code, flags that are no longer serviceable must not merely be thrown in the trash, but should be “destroyed in a dignified manner, preferably by burning”.
After a brief ceremony by Post Quartermaster Carl Silva and a prayer by Post Chaplain Theo Bazdorf, the scouts proceeded with the duty. VFW member Navy veteran John Vorburger supervised the two-hour ritual.
Any resident who has a worn, damaged or otherwise unserviceable U.S. flag may turn it in at the Alpine VFW, 844 Tavern Road for appropriate retirement by the Post, usually done annually.
