You received a new American flag for Christmas and are not sure how to properly dispose of your old, worn Stars & Stripes.  (Or the one hanging at your business or church is frayed and needs replacing).  Throwing it in the trash is absolutely wrong and is disrespectful to all that flag represents.

Recommended options could include ceremonially burning or burying your flag (see how-to online) or donating it to some organization that will assist.

But there is a convenient local option.  There are “Retired U.S. Flag Collection Boxes,” appropriately marked in Red, White & Blue, in the Winn Parish Courthouse.  One is on the main floor across from the Police Jury Office.  The second is on the lower floor near the Driver’s License Office.  

Flags retired from their patriotic service may be placed in either of these boxes from which they will later be delivered to a veterans honor guard to be respectfully retired.

The collection boxes have been provided by WoodmenLife, an insurance and financial not-for-profit since 1890 that is one of the largest distributors of U.S. Flags (behind the federal government).  Agent Keith Reichardt explained that they place U.S. Flags of three sizes at schools, churches and other non-profits, including an oversized flag presented to Winnfield Senior High School.

Consider using this “better option” for an old flag that has served you well.