Colonel James Wood II Chapter honors Old Glory at flag retirement ceremonies

On June 14, 2023, the Colonel James Wood II Chapter (CJWII) of the Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution honored our nation’s flag with their participation in three Flag Retirement Ceremonies across Virginia. As per the U.S. Flag Code, these dignified ceremonies ensure that the flag, when worn out, is destroyed in a respectful manner.

The ceremonies began in Timberville at the Timberview Crossing Assisted Living Facility, where a significant gathering, including senior veterans, congregated to honor the flag. The ceremony was conducted by the Fort Harrison Chapter, with assistance from scouts of the Virginia Headwaters Council, the DAR’s Narrow Passage and Massanutton Chapters, and the CJWII Color Guard, who concluded the event with a musket salute.

The color guard at Timberville l. to r. Dale Corey, Chip Daniel, Marc Robinson, Erick Moore (Photo courtesy of Randy Atkins.)

Retired Navy Captain Ros Poplar provided a presentation titled “Flag Day as Seen by A Veteran,” honoring the significant role the flag plays in the lives of those who have served their country.

Following the event in Timberville, the Stonewall District Ruritan Club in Clear Brook hosted the next ceremony, which involved Girl Scouts from six troops. The scouts, along with the CJWII Color Guard, conducted a proper flag retirement and folding ceremony, with a three-round musket salute fired to honor the flag.

SAR participants at Clear Brook l. to r. Erick Moore, Dale Corey, Brett Osborn, Chip Daniel, Richard Tyler, Marc Robinson, Jim Simmons, and Brian Bayliss. (Photo courtesy of Rachel Bayliss.)

The day’s final ceremony, held at the Round Hill Fire Station, was led by the Fort Loudoun DAR Chapter, with the CJWII providing a dignified tribute to the U.S. Flag and its symbolism by presenting the colors.

SAR participants at Round Hill, l. to r. Allan Phillips, Richard Tyler, Erick Moore, and Marc Robinson.

These three ceremonies marked a solemn and respectful tribute to the United States flag by the Colonel James Wood II Chapter. Their participation in the events underscores the reverence and dignity with which we should treat the symbol of our nation, ensuring that even in retirement, the flag receives the honor it is due.