Scotts Valley Boy Scout troop holds flag retirement ceremony for Flag Day

Boy Scouts of America Troop 614 held their second annual flag retirement ceremony this Flag Day.

This is the second year the troop has invited the community to watch as they respectfully burn flags that are no longer ‘fit to fly.’

Scoutmaster Tim Johnson said while some use burning flags as a rebellious act, this is the opposite. “It’s the manner in how you burn the flag, it’s not as a form of protest, it’s a respectful way of retiring the flag.”

Five flags were retired at this years ceremony. One of those belonged to World War II Veteran Orlow “Buzz” Garrett. He passed away a few years ago and one of his families wishes was to have his last flown flag properly retired with troop 614.

Leader Matthew Baker says it’s a privilege to have that connection with someone who has served our country, “all I can say is that’s an extreme honor to be able to be able to retire a flag for such a hero.”

Tonight’s ceremony was one of many for some members of the troop, but for others, it was their first.

“Being able to retire a flag that represented our country is really really special,” said Leah Cawley.

Her friend Gabrielle Salles agreed, “It’s a really big honor because we’ve heard a lot about it from our troop and people said it’s a really powerful experience so it’s really amazing to be a part of that.”

Leaders said flags that are tattered, torn or faded can be brought into any Boy Scouts of America Troop who will then hold a proper ceremony.

The Scotts Valley Drop off location is St. Phillips Church’s front office or the Boys & Girls Club of Scotts Valley during business hours.