FLAG RETIRING CEREMONY #2

NARRATOR: When the flag of our Country becomes old and tattered from use, it becomes time to retire it in a dignified way. We do not just throw it away, or tuck it in the basement in a box.

A solemn ceremonial burning of our nation's colors is one such way. Only a few organizations in our country are permitted to conduct such an important ceremony. The Boy Scouts of America is one.

First, we separate the flag into its main colors: red, white, and blue. (This is done before the ceremony. Ceremonial members are given one or more pieces of the flag to be retired.) Second, we carefully place the pieces of color in the ceremonial fire.

(As the narrator start reading, the ceremonial members with the red parts of the flag slowly walk to the fire, and gently place the strips into the fire. They can then either return to their places or stand in a semi-circle behind the fire area.)

The Red in our flag stands for the Blood that has been spent defending our country's way of life.

(As the narrator starts reading, the ceremonial members with the white parts of the flag slowly walk to the fire, and gently place the strips into the fire. They can then eather return to their places or add to the semi-circle behind the fire area.)

The White in our flag stands for Freedom. The freedom of choice is what makes our country great.

(As the narrator starts reading, the ceremonial members with the Blue parts of the flag slowly walk to the fire, and gently place the field into the fire. They can then either return to their places or add to the semi-circle behind the fire area.)

The Blue field with the White stars stands for our Union -- Fifty individual states or stars bound together by a common cause: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

As our old honored Flag leaves us, let us pledge allegiance to our new flag.

(One can do the Pledge of Allegiance- here, or sing the Star Spangled Banner, or America or God Bless the USA as one sees fit.)

CONTINUE

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