There’s now an easy way to properly dispose of worn or damaged American flags in Waukee. Gavin McKibben from Boy Scout Troop 182 recently completed his Eagle Scout service project in partnership with his troop’s sponsor, the Waukee American Legion. On occasion, members of the Legion respectfully burn U.S. flags in special retirement ceremonies as a service to the community. But, they were finding it challenging to collect all the tattered or torn flags in Waukee in a convenient way for residents and businesses.
Gavin built a wood and metal flag drop box that is now permanently stationed at the Waukee American Legion building at 410 6th Street. Members of the community can now drop flags in the box 365 days a year.
“There really is a need in the community for a drop box that will allow anyone to drop off worn American flags at their convenience and in one location for the Legion to receive them,” Gavin said. “I believe that the drop box will also draw awareness for some who may not know that there is a proper way to retire our flag. In Scouting, we show respect for the American flag, and this project was one more way for me to do that with the help of my troop.”
If you have worn American flags, please drop them in the community’s new U.S. Flag Retirement Drop-Off Box. The Legion will collect them, fold them properly if needed, and then dispose of them in a retirement ceremony. POW/MIA flags are also welcome, and they will go through the same process.
Gavin completed the installation of the box on October 22, and had the honor of putting the first flag in the box for retirement.