Every thread of the American flag tells a story, of sacrifice, of service, of unity. For generations, it has flown over battlefields and schoolyards, over courthouses and homes, representing not just a nation, but the ideals that hold it together. When that flag becomes too worn to fly, it deserves a farewell that matches the reverence with which it was raised. That’s the heart behind the Tattered Flag Project.
What Is the Tattered Flag Project?
Launched by Honoring America’s Veterans, the Tattered Flag Project is a community initiative aimed at collecting worn, torn, and tattered American flags and retiring them with the dignity they deserve. From August 1 through September 1, community members are invited to drop off their aged flags at designated collection sites throughout the Phoenix area. These flags will then be ceremoniously retired during a Flag Retirement Ceremony at the Phoenix Fire Academy on September 10.
The event is being held in partnership with USAA.
“At USAA, we are proud to stand with those who have served—and the Tattered Flag event is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices behind every star and stripe. As this flag is respectfully retired, we honor the brave men and women who defended it and recommit ourselves to serving those who served us.”
— Patrick Fitzhugh, Regional Site Director, USAA
Flags may be dropped off at any of the following participating locations between August 1 and September 1:
- All 12 Spencers Locations throughout the valley (see the map on the Tattered Flag Project website)
- Salt River Project, Administration Building Lobby, 1500 N Mill Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85288; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
- University of Phoenix, Admin Building, 4025 S. Riverpoint Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85040
Why It’s Important to Pay Tribute to the American Flag
The American flag is more than a piece of fabric. It is a symbol of freedom, resilience, and sacrifice. Its stars and stripes represent a living history. It reminds us of those who fought to defend it, and of the shared values that make us Americans: liberty, justice, freedom, and equality.
When we see the flag flying proudly, it stirs up pride, gratitude, a sense of belonging. So when a flag becomes tattered or faded from its service, it is not something to be discarded lightly. It should be honored, just as we honor the people and principles it represents.
Why Proper Flag Retirement Matters
Properly retiring an American flag is a way of expressing respect, not just for the flag, but for our country and those who have sacrificed for it. Tossing it in the trash or letting it languish in storage dishonors the symbol it has become. The U.S. Flag Code provides guidance on how to retire a flag that is “no longer a fitting emblem for display,” stating that it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.
That act of respectful retirement isn’t just a tradition, it’s a civic duty, and a teaching moment for generations to come. It’s a reminder that even in letting go, we uphold honor.
How to Properly Retire an American Flag
If you have a flag that is worn beyond repair, here’s how to retire it respectfully:
- Inspect the Flag
Make sure it is no longer fit for display (faded, torn, or frayed). - Fold the Flag Properly
Before retirement, the flag should be neatly folded into the traditional triangle shape. - Conduct a Respectful Ceremony
Retirement should be done with dignity. Many choose to include:- The Pledge of Allegiance
- A moment of silence
- Remarks or prayers
- Patriotic songs or readings
- Burn the Flag
Place the folded flag into a clean, safe fire outdoors. The flag should be fully consumed by flame. The ashes can then be buried respectfully. - Alternatives to Burning
If burning is not practical, you can:- Shred the flag (separating red, white, and blue) and bury the pieces in a respectful container.
- Deliver the flag to authorized organizations.
Join the Movement
By participating in the Tattered Flag Project, you’re doing more than dropping off a flag, you’re honoring a legacy. You’re teaching the next generation what patriotism looks like. And you’re helping ensure that even in its final moments, the American flag is treated as the powerful symbol it truly is.
Let us retire the flag with the same honor it was flown — proud, free, and unforgettable.