Flag retirement boxes at the VFW

BONNERS FERRY — The local Veterans of Foreign Wars chapter has received their flag retirement box and would like to thank all involved in the purchase and installation of the box located at the VFW hall.

The American Legion, Disabled American Veterans and the VFW wish to thank the community for its constant support of local veterans and their families.

Among those helping out were Glenda Poston, Boundary County commissioners, Jake Reidenaver, Kelly’s Excavating, B.F. Redi Mix, 9B Builders (Ed and Caleb Perez), VFW Commander Apo and Ron McIlnay.

The Flag Protection Act was enacted by Congress in 1989, in response to a Supreme Court decision which held that a state law prohibiting flag burning was unconstitutional, Veterans Affairs officials said. The act provides that anyone who knowingly desecrates the flag may be fined and/or imprisoned for up to one year. This law was challenged by the Supreme Court in 1990.

When the flag is worn out or otherwise no longer a fitting emblem for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning, VA officials said.

Out of respect for the U.S. flag, never: dip it for any person or thing, display it with the union down, except as a signal of distress, never let the flag touch anything beneath it: ground, floor, water, merchandise.

The flag should never be carried horizontally, but always aloft. It should be fastened or displayed in a way to prevent it from being damaged or soiled. It should not be used for apparel, bedding or drapery nor as a costume or athletic uniform. However, a flag patch may be attached to the uniform of patriotic organizations, military personnel, police officers and firefighters, VA officials said.

The flag should not be used for advertising or promotion purposes or print it on paper napkins, boxes or anything else intended for temporary use and discard.