Col. James Wood II Chapter Conducts Flag Retirement Ceremony

​On 14 November 2020, the Colonel James Wood II Chapter of the Virginia SAR combined with the Wayside Inn, Middletown to conduct a Flag Retirement Ceremony.  These ceremonies honor the symbol of American freedom.  When a flag is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, it is to be destroyed in a dignified manner.  Over 40 flags were gathered from the community that were no longer serviceable.  These flags were burned with the proper respect due a symbol of all that was emblematic of a Nation of free men, devoted to the ideals and practice of freedom and democracy.  They were replaced in a never ending cycle of new flags proudly displayed to reflect the qualities that make our nation great.  The ceremony was conducted by Dale Corey with chaplain duties performed by Jim Simmons.  A color guard presented the colors led by Brett Osborn.  Included in the guard were Erick Moore, Marc Robinson, Chip Daniel, Marty Keesecker, Nathan Poe, Charles Harbaugh (Mayor of Middletown), Sean Carrigan, Clay Robinson, Allan Phillips, Eric Robinson and drummer Doug Hall.  Pictures are provided courtesy of Allan Phillips.  The first picture is the Color Guard consisting of Brett Osborn, Erick Moore, Marc Robinson, Chip Daniel, Marty Keesecker, Nathan Poe, Paul Christensen, Charles Harbaugh, Sean Carrigan, Clary Robinson, Allan Phillips and Eric Robinson.  The second picture is Clay Robinson, Doug Hall and Flag Detail Chip Daniel, Marc Robinson and Erick Moore.
 
Submitted by Dale Corey