Flag Donation & Retirement
American Legion Post 171 accepts worn American flags for respectful retirement and provides guidance on proper flag etiquette for our community.
Reusing Serviceable Flags
Flags that are still in good condition are not destroyed.
Instead, Post 171 redistributes them within the community. When members see worn flags displayed around Damascus, they often replace them with a serviceable flag donated through the program.
Donate your Flag
American Legion Post 171 accepts worn or unserviceable American flags for proper retirement. A secure drop-off box is located behind the Post building.
American Legion Post 171
10201 Lewis Drive
Damascus, MD
Flags may be placed in the box at any time.
Proper Flag Retirement
Each year on Flag Day in June, Post 171 conducts a respectful flag retirement ceremony.
Flags that are no longer serviceable are retired according to the traditions and protocols of the United States Flag Code.
Honoring the Flag with dignity, respect, and transition.
About the Flag Ceremony
The American Legion Post 171 conducts formal United States Flag Retirement Ceremonies in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code.
When a flag becomes worn, faded, torn, or otherwise unserviceable, it is retired in a dignified and respectful manner. Our ceremony reflects the honor, sacrifice, and principles the American flag represents.
Community members are welcome to observe and participate.
Proper Disposal of the U.S. Flag
According to the United States Flag Code, when a flag is no longer fit for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified manner. The traditional method of retirement is by burning in a respectful ceremony.
Post 171 ensures that every flag entrusted to us is retired with honor and solemnity.
Participate or Learn More
If you would like to attend an upcoming Flag Retirement Ceremony or need assistance with flag disposal, please contact us.
American Legion Post 171 thanks members of the Damascus community for helping ensure that the American flag is always displayed and retired with the dignity and respect it deserves.