by Burdel Draper
Flag Day is the 14th of June, a day of the year when we honor our nation’s flag and all it stands for. If one chooses to fly the flag, it should be displayed with respect on flag day and the rest of the as well. I conduct a survey of the business, government officers, and buildings flying the flag. Out of six government flag displays, only one, the West Wendover city complex was in good condition and properly illuminated. All others were frayed and improperly lit. Both post offices, as of June 8th, have not flown the flag for several weeks. When they do, both lack the lighting for a 24-hour display.
The local casinos have five displays. Four of the five have flags that are beyond repair. All five have poor lighting on the displays.
The remaining two businesses, a trailer park and a daycare are badly frayed and have no lighting.
About a month ago I found a flag next to the railroad tracks on the ground. Someone had attempted to repair, than threw it away instead. That is not that proper way to retire a flag.
I hope that our elected officials and casino managers will take steps remedy these violations of the flag code.
Displaying the Flag Outdoors
The flag should be raised briskly and lowered slowly and ceremoniously. Ordinarily it should be displayed only between sunrise and sunset. It should be illuminated if displayed at night.
(Illuminated means a dedicated source of light shining on the flag. The dose not mean light from a parking lot or street light)
When the flag is lowered, no part of it should touch and other object; it should be received by waiting hands and arms. To store the flag, it should be folded neatly and ceremoniously.
The flag should be cleaned and mended when necessary.
When a flag is so worn it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our country, it should be destroyed by burning in a dignified manner.
Note: Most American Legion Post regularly conduct a dignified flag burning ceremony, often on Flag Day, June 14th. Many Cub Scout Packs, Boy Scout Troops, And Girl Scout Troops retire flags regularly as well. Contact your Local American Legion Hall or Scout Troop to inquire about availability of this service.