Manson American Legion retires nearly 500 American flags

MANSON — Seven members of Manson American Legion Post 108 gathered Oct. 10 at Chelan Fraternal Cemetery to conduct a flag retirement ceremony, properly disposing of nearly 500 worn and unserviceable American flags.

Under the direction of Post 108 Commander Clyde McCullough, the ceremony began at 2 p.m. and concluded at 4:40 p.m., when the final flag was placed in the retirement fire.

The ceremony traditionally takes place on Flag Day, June 14. This year’s event was postponed because of summer wildfire conditions and local burn restrictions until the burn ban was lifted.

Assistant Chaplain Marie Cannon opened the ceremony with a prayer.

Also participating were Brian Strausbaugh, Jim Taylor, Clyde McCullough Jr., Craig Pittson and Norm Manly.

Manson American Legion Post 108 provides a year-round collection point for community members to turn in worn, faded or damaged American flags for proper retirement. The collection box, maintained by the post and the Manson Chamber of Commerce, is mounted on an exterior wall and accessible to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Post 108 members thanked community members for entrusting them with the respectful retirement of the flags.

The ceremony reflected the American Legion’s commitment to honoring the nation’s flag and the principles it represents, even after the flag is no longer fit for service.

Norm Manly contributed to this report.