Legion Post 82 Shows How To Dispose Of Flags

By Richard Torres
For The Mountain Mail

“Today’s’ ceremony, The Dignified Disposal of Unserviceable Flags, is an opportunity for the public to view the proper way a Flag is disposed,” American Legion Post 82 Commander Jeff Terrell said last week.
Terrell was standing among Post members assembled at the Catron County Fairgrounds in Reserve for the ceremony June 14.
Approximately 20 citizens gathered for the event. Post members planted two rows of small American flags as an honor guard leading to the pyre. Atop the pyre were 60 flags
”These flags have been collected throughout the county. They are no longer in serviceable condition,” said Post member Joseph Thompson. “This is the first time such an event has been held here, and we are looking forward to this being an annual event.”
After a brief ceremony, the pyre was lit. Flames soon engulfed the nylon material.
“The blue field is cut out of the flag prior, and this decommissions its life as a flag. The blue field is burned along with the stripes. The grommets are buried separately,” Terrell said.
“I am here to support my husband Stephen and members of the American Legion. To witness this ceremony for our Flag is an honor,” Eddilu Brown said.
Post 82, known as Benevida Granee Post 82, is named after a serviceman killed in World War I.
“Our Post has members from all branches, and new members are welcomed,” Terrell said.
For more information on joining, contact Terrell at (575) 533-6140.

Legion Post 82 Shows How To Dispose Of Flags