Box for old U.S. flags placed at Cape park

Southeast Missourian

To encourage more people to properly dispose of old flags, the American Legion in Cape Girardeau recently installed "old flag" drop boxes at Capaha Park on Broadway and on Thomas Street.

"Before, people were dropping off flags at the American Legion, just leaving them on the sidewalk," said American Legion member John Yallaly. "This will be better for us and everyone else too."

The federal flag code requires that a U.S. flag, when it is in poor condition for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.

"Many people don't know what to do with their flags." Yallaly said. "There's probably a lot out there that just get thrown away."

Although the Broadway box has only been up for two weeks, Yallaly said it has been filled with torn, tattered and faded flags twice already.

The Cape Girardeau post office donated two slightly-damaged mail boxes, which were repainted a crisp blue and gold with the American Legion emblem on each side.

"I'm proud we were able to donate the boxes," said postmaster Mike Keefe. "It's a good thing to do with those boxes we can't use anymore."

To properly dispose of old flags, the American Legion holds a burning ceremony at the Veteran's Home once a year.

"This not only gives us a chance to get rid of these flags properly, but it will encourage people to take a look at their flags to see what condition they're in," Yallaly said.

cclark@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 128