Cub Scouts Prepare for U.S. Flag Retirement

The boys' seriousness and respect moved me. After taking the picture, I realized it displays a small cross section of our American society as well. Because it was low light, I used a very high ISO. The result was a bit grainy, so I used a dry brush effect on the original photograph. Most people like the effect and some friends and family have the photo matted and displayed in their offices and homes.

Before the ceremony, I did not know of the proper way to dispose of a worn U.S. flag. The U.S. Code at 4 USC Section 8(k) states, "The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning." Section 8 of the U.S. Code also provides, "No disrespect should be shown to the flag." I found that many locations on the web discuss law and etiquette regarding the U.S. flag. If your flag is worn to the point of not being proper for display, I recommend that you deliver it to your local scout troop, local government or American Legion Post.