Each year on June 14, Flag Day marks the adoption of the United States flag in 1777. The flag’s design reflects the nation it represents: 13 horizontal stripes for the original colonies and 50 stars representing the states of the Union. The flag’s design and colors reflect the history and structure of the nation.
Caring for a U.S. flag includes knowing when and how to retire it once it becomes worn or damaged. It should be retired through established disposal methods to preserve dignity of the flag rather than placed in regular trash.
At the Sacramento County Department of Waste Management and Recycling, employees including Barron R. Hill, John Graham, Wes Siefker and others help ensure flags flown at the County’s North Area Recovery Station and Kiefer Landfill, are retired through formal flag retirement ceremonies. Barron also monitors Half-Staff orders and notifies facilities to ensure flags are displayed appropriately.
Residents can also find guidance from the U.S. Department of Defense on properly disposing of worn-out flags, and from organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars, which provide information on flag display, folding, retirement ceremonies, and disposal. Many local retailers, veterans’ groups and civic organizations also collect tattered flags for ceremonial retirement.
The Department of Waste Management & Recycling (DWMR) manages the operations, maintenance and development of the solid waste management system within unincorporated Sacramento County. DWMR’s mission is to enhance the quality of life in the unincorporated areas of Sacramento County by providing:
- Solid waste management and recycling programs in a fiscally responsible manner;
- Public and employee health and safety;
- Stewardship of our natural resources and environment;
- Consumer protection; and
- Outstanding customer service.
Flag Day provides an opportunity to share information about available resources for U.S. flag retirement and disposal.