As anarchist groups across the country made headlines by burning the American flag in protest of President Trump’s immigration policies—doing so on both Flag Day and the President’s birthday—a group of veterans and volunteers in Mastic Beach gathered quietly to uphold the very traditions that define the nation’s core values.
At the Arthur H. Clune American Legion Post 1533, veterans were joined by residents and members of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts for a solemn and respectful Flag Retirement Ceremony, giving old and tattered flags a proper farewell in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code.
The event coincided with the 250th anniversary of the United States Army and came at a time of heightened political division and public protest, stark contrast to the dignity and reverence on display at the Legion post.
“This is how we honor the symbol of our country — not by desecrating it, but by treating it with the respect it’s due,” said Post Commander Rick Rossi. “The flag represents not just the government of the day, but the sacrifices made over generations to preserve our freedom, including the right to protest. That’s what makes this ceremony so meaningful.”
The tradition of retiring American flags by burning them in a controlled and respectful manner dates back to at least 1937 and has been codified in the U.S. Flag Code. According to Section 8(k) of the code, when a flag is “in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display,” it should be “destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”
Flags collected from schools, homes, and local institutions were folded into ceremonial triangles, saluted, and then placed into a specially prepared fire pit behind the post on Neighborhood Road. Scouts from local troops 48 and 138 participated by carrying flags to the fire, offering short statements of respect, and learning about the meaning behind the stars and stripes.
“It’s really important for kids to see what the flag stands for — freedom, unity, and history,” said the Commander. “We want them to understand that patriotism isn’t about politics — it’s about pride, service, and respect.”
The timing of the ceremony — on June 14 — held deeper resonance this year, as it also marked the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army. Across the nation, communities celebrated the milestone with parades, military tributes, and educational events. At the same time, the Army itself honored its founding in 1775 with a wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery and special ceremonies at bases around the world.