Waynesville VFW Post 5202 conducted its annual U.S. Flag Retirement Ceremony Saturday, June 30, at their Post under the leadership of the captain of the Honor Guard, Rick Strubeck.

The U.S. Flag Code states "The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning." VFW Chaplin Bob Sager gave a prayer. The American Legion/VFW Honor Guard provided a three volley gun salute followed by Taps and then over 800 Flags were ignited.

On hand to assist with the ceremony were Wyatt Gibson, a Boy Scout from Sylva, Dylan Ingles and Zack Wright, both Eagle Scouts from Canton and Scout Leader Wayne Oakes from Waynesville. The Waynesville Fire Department was present for more than three hours for fire control. ...