According to the United States Flag Code, "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." When a flag becomes faded, tattered or torn, it may be ready for retirement, and the Boy Scouts can help. Troop 47 in Manheim held a flag retirement ceremony on June 17 at Scout Hall, located between North Hazel and North Linden streets on Scout Alley.

"Retirement of the American flag is important for honoring what the flag represents and means to everyone," said Scoutmaster Corby Rhodes. The troop, which consists of 13 boys from the Manheim Central School District, has been retiring flags for years. The most recent ceremony marked the second year the troop held the event at Scout Hall during the week of Flag Day.

Flags were given to or collected by members of the troop and the Manheim VFW Post 5956 - Cyrus R. Peters Memorial Post and Auxiliary, which also participated in the ceremony.

The troop followed a specific set of steps to properly retire the flag, Corby explained. "As the flags were disassembled and cut apart, it was explained what each stripe signifies and what the blue field of stars signifies," he said. During the ceremony, audience members were given the opportunity to retire a small flag in honor or memory of a loved one. Representatives from several local organizations, including the VFW, spoke at the ceremony as well.

Brandy Rhodes, assistant Scoutmaster, said the flag retirement is an important ceremony for the Scouts. "As a leader, it is very rewarding to teach the boys skills and watch as they learn and successfully complete them," he said. "The smile on their face when they complete it is the reward we get. That chance to pass on knowledge is invaluable to the Scouts."

The members of Troop 47 are senior patrol leader Drew Smith, Janston Wolfe, Brent Wolfe, Damien Wolfe, Jonathan Wenger, Leo Neifert, Braylon Vuong, Gareth Wright, Zack Zahora, Tyler Zahora, Owen Carper, Dakota Bolton and Gavin Beale.

Corby noted that Scouting offers a variety of opportunities for youths, and that the troop is always looking for new members to join. "Scouting is an adventure suited for anyone," he said. "The Scouts enjoy everything from camping to doing service projects, learning and leading, enjoying the camaraderie and friendship."

For more information on Troop 47, contact Donna Rhodes at 717-606-2177.