Special to the Herald

The National Association of Counties (NACo) and ACCG have partnered to provide all Georgia counties with a free flag-retirement box for county residents to deposit flags that are no longer in good condition.

Effingham County’s box is positioned just inside the front door of the Administrative Complex at 804 S. Laurel St. in Springfield

“Many of our residents are unsure how to care for the U.S. flag when it becomes worn out or torn,” said ACCG President Billy Pittard. who serves as chairman of Oglethorpe County. “This program provides a much-needed service to all county residents and reminds them that counties matter.”

When American flags become worn out or torn, the U.S. Flag Code outlines the proper etiquette for respectfully retiring them. “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning,” according to Section K of the U.S. Flag Code.

Counties can work with community partners such as the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, veterans’ groups, librarians and sheriffs’ departments to collect the flags and conduct retirement ceremonies in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code.

“We are pleased to provide these flag retirement boxes. Helping residents properly dispose of worn U.S. flags is consistent with our commitment to public service and community engagement,” said NACo President Mary Ann Borgeson.

NACo 2nd Vice President Larry Johnson, a DeKalb County commissioner, added, “NACo and ACCG are honored to join forces to ensure our nation’s flag receives a dignified retirement.”

The U.S. Flag Retirement Program is just one of the many ways NACo helps build stronger counties and a stronger America.

To learn about making the most of NACo membership, please contact membership@naco.org or visit www.naco.org.