ELIDA, Ohio (WLIO) — Local veterans helped residents honor the American flag Friday during an annual flag exchange event in Elida ahead of Flag Day.
Members of the Marine Corps League Detachment 1063 of Lima set up at the Elida Town Hall, offering the public an opportunity to properly dispose of worn or damaged American flags.
Held each year on the Friday before Flag Day, the event allows residents to bring in tattered flags for respectful retirement. New flags and other patriotic items were also available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the Marine Corps League.
Organizers said the event continues to be well received by the community and provides an opportunity to educate the public on proper flag etiquette.
"When you have a tattered flag, lower it carefully and don't let it touch the ground. Fold it up and bring it to them for disposal. If you have your flag up at night, it must be illuminated or removed before dusk," said Gene Border of the Marine Corps Detachment.
Border added that the American flag may only be flown at half-staff by order of the president or governor, as well as on Memorial Day.
Members of the Marine Corps League will continue their community outreach efforts next month when they attend the Fireman's Jamboree in Cridersville and the Moon Festival in Wapakoneta.
