The Texas Association of Counties has placed a U.S. Flag Retirement Center container in the lobby of the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office for the public to properly dispose of old, worn-out American flags.
“Quite often American flags are discarded in a disrespectful manner when there is actually a proper and respectful way in which to retire a U.S. Flag and this new location at the Sheriff’s Office serves as an open invitation to the public to utilize when needed,” said Capt. Ken DeFoor, spokesperson for the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Bobby Rader reminds the public of a standard and informational manner to manage the U.S. Flag and its eventual retirement.
The colors of the United States flag shine with red for courage, white for purity and blue for loyalty. In addition the flag of the United States reminds us of the greatness of America. The United States flag represents the sacrifices, hard work and accomplishments that established the character of our country. It signifies that we are dedicated to liberty, justice and the freedom for all.
“The flag is a symbol of all of America. It is not a political symbol. It represents the honor, courage, and sacrifice of those who struggled to preserve the ideals on which our country was founded,” DeFoor wrote in his media statement.
When saluting the United States flag, as it is raised and lowered, all persons not in uniform will salute by placing their right hand over their heart. Men with a hat will hold it to their left shoulder.
The salute will be held until the flag is unsnapped from the flagstaff, or through the last note of the National Anthem, whichever is the longest.
When a flag is in motion you should salute the moment that the flag passes.
When an American flag is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning. Sheriff Rader goes on to say the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office has a receptacle for those that want to retire their flag. The public may bring it to the LCSO office and drop it off. The Boy Scouts of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars or the American Legion will be contacted and will properly destroy them.