CNY Locations Accepting Tattered American Flags For Retirement

The US Flag Code states that if the American flag is not in good enough condition to represent our country, it should be taken down and destroyed.

Worn flags collected will be disposed of at the Memorial Watchfire rain or shine with the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 103, at dusk on Sunday, May 26th, 2019 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse.

The Watchfire and ceremony make Memorial Day more meaningful for everyone. Veterans and Non-Veterans gather at the Watchfire to honor those who have so faithfully served the nation. You're encouraged to bring tattered, worn or faded American Flags for respectful burning on the pyre.

Most libraries, your local American Legion or VFW, accept tattered flags as well as these locations:

• Senator John J. Hughes State Office Building, 333 E. Washington St., Syracuse
• New York State Fairgrounds, gate 2, 581 State Fair Boulevard, Syracuse
• Utica State Office Building, 207 Genesee St., Utica
• Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street, Suite 327, Oneonta

The Watchfire stems from the military tradition that following a battle or long march, a large fire would be started so those missing or lost could locate and rejoin their comrades.