Top two photos and article provided by Assistant Editor Jerry Lindsey. Jerry Brearton submitted the last picture.
“The Ceremony for Disposal of Unserviceable Flags is outlined in Resolution No. 440, passed by the 19th National Convention of The American Legion in New York, September 20-23, 1937. The ceremony has been integral to American Legion ritual since that date.”
On Sunday, September 24, 2023, Morrison American Legion Post 328 held the annual ceremony to dispose of flags at Grove Hill Cemetery in Morrison, IL. Following prescribed procedures set forth by the National American Legion, members disposed of 568 American flags declared “unserviceable.”
Before the burning, the Legionnaires presented Al and Darlene Gertz with a Certificate of Appreciation for their years of service, in placing flags on veterans’ graves throughout the local area. Post Commander Larry Zuidema presented the certificate.
Jacob Andrews–at left beside Jerry Brearton–participated in this annual ceremony for the first time. The Morrison High School graduate now lives in Rock Falls, IL. He is a Specialist E4 in Delta Company, 1-133rd Infantry Battalion of the Iowa Army National Guard. Andrews plans “to deploy in a couple years.”
Seven Legionnaire riflemen offered a three-volley salute. Left-to-right are Larry Zuidema, Garry Seaman, Terry Jones, Bob Brands, and Ken Petersen. James Prombo was out of view at the far right.
