Drop Off Locations For Worn and Old American Flags In CNY

Do you have a worn and tattered flag? You can drop it off at these locations to be properly retired with respect and honor.

All flags collected will be properly folded before disposal. The drop-off locations will be collecting worn flags until Thursday, May 24 for preparation of the Watchfire ceremony on Sunday, May 27th, 2018 in the Veterans Memorial Watchfire Park, New York State Fairgrounds, Syracuse, NY.

• Senator John J. Hughes State Office Building, 333 E. Washington St., Syracuse
• Utica State Office Building, 207 Genesee St., Utica
• Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street, Suite 327, Oneonta

The Watchfire ceremony stems from the military tradition that following a battle or long march, a massive fire would be started so those missing or lost could locate and rejoin their comrades. Using that time-honored model symbolically, they use the warmth and light of the Watchfire to guide everyone to join them in the reflection of those comrades who had gone on before and made our nation strong through their service and sacrifice.

The Watchfire is open to everyone to make Memorial Day an event that honors all those who have served and given their all for our way of life. The Memorial Watchfire hosted by the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 103, and takes place at dusk on Sunday, May 27th, 2017 at the New York State Fairgrounds, Syracuse, NY.

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