POLK COUNTY -- The Polk County Veteran’s Service Office has begun a new “Retire Your Flag” program. Through this program, members of the general public will have the ability to donate aged, torn, and retired flags for cremation alongside community veterans when they pass away if the family desires.
“This program will allow us not only to dispose of the American flag in the proper way, but also honor our veterans and provide a respectful retirement tribute,” said Gail Wassberg, Benefit Specialist, Polk County Veteran’s Office.
The United States Flag Code states: “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”
When your loved one passes, check with your local funeral home to see if they participate in this new program.
Upon receipt of the cremated remains of their veteran, the family will receive a “Certificate of Flag Retirement” stating the last deed of service for that flag was to drape their veteran or lay along-side of the veteran during the cremation disposition process.
Currently, flags can be donated to the Polk County Veteran’s Service office, located at the Balsam Lake Government Center as well as drop off locations throughout the county at your local participating VFW/AL Organizations.
Last Update: Jul 08, 2022 6:44 am CDT
