Last Sunday, November 11th, Veterans Day 2018, the weather was sunny but November chilly and the parade grounds at Fort Independence on Castle Island were once again the scene of the semiannual Flag Retirement Ceremony. This is an impressive event that demonstrates the proper way to dispose of a worn, torn, faded or tattered American Flag. It gives Old Glory the respect it deserves. These ceremonies have become a tradition and held on Veterans Day and Flag Day each year and they are beautiful.
The ceremony was a joint effort by the Scottish American Military Society, the Castle Island Association, South Boston’s veteran’s organization and the Department of Conservation and Recreation. The crowd arrived early, and spectators were in place as the ceremonial sound of bagpipes filled the air. The National Anthem and a prayer started off the program. As is always the case in South Boston, everyone in attendance stood silently for the National Anthem and the prayer.
Speeches were made by veteran officials from the Scottish American Military Society, who were joined at the podium by Sister Florence, Bill Spain and John Scannell, a veteran who had turned 92 years old and received special mention as the flags were being prepared for retirement. The retirement itself consists of the banners gently laid in a special multi-angled structure. They are then lit and consumed by flames. Taps was then played as everyone in attendance stood; hats of and hands over hearts.
The Flag Retirement Ceremony at Castle Island is always open to the public and residents are invited and encouraged to bring flags from their homes that are ready to be retired to the event for proper disposal. It’s an event that highlights patriotism and love of country and salutes the veterans who have served and continue to serve our nation in defense of freedom.
