Harwinton Flag Retirement Successful ahead of Flag Day Holiday

Photo (left to right): State Representative John Piscopo, American Legion Post 137 member Dan Thurston, American Legion Post 137 Commander Gary Schaff, and State Senator Lisa Seminara.

HARWINTON – On Saturday afternoon, State Representative John Piscopo (R-Thomaston) joined his legislative colleague, State Senator Lisa Seminara (R-Avon), and members of American Legion Post 137, for a flag retirement ceremony. American Flag code calls for unserviceable flags to be properly disposed of, typically by burning them. This task was supervised and conducted by members of the Harwinton Volunteer Fire Department.

“It’s a somber, yet very patriotic experience,” said Piscopo, who has helped coordinate several retirement ceremonies. “It’s incredible that we, as Americans, can have so much shared respect for our country’s most sacred symbol. I appreciate those who participated in the proper retirement of their flags and our volunteers who made the event possible.”

In 1937, the American Legion created a resolution that it would carry our flag retirement ceremonies. Since then, the organization has been integral in conducting proper retirements across the country. According to Piscopo and his fellow event hosts, many Harwinton residents donated their used and worn flags.

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