Respect for the flag, proper flag etiquette, community and country have been a part of scouting programs for over one hundred years. The flag, as a symbol of our living country, is itself considered a living thing. By showing respect for the flag, we also show respect for all it represents. This includes not only the appropriate way to present the colors, but also dignity upon being retired. When an American flag becomes worn, faded, torn or soiled, it should be retired.
On June 27, 2016, Mrs. Sheril Spears, leader and county director of Girl Scout Troop 7540 and committee member of Boy Scout Troop 754, presented a proposal to the Cleburne County Fairgrounds committee for the scouts to build a permanent fire pit to be used by the community for the purpose of flag retirement ceremonies. The proposal was unanimously accepted. The project is in the funding stage at this time and is expected to move into the building stage this fall.
On Saturday, September 10, 2016, beginning at 6:00 p.m., Girl Scout Troop 7540, lead by Sheril Spears, and Boy Scout Troop 754, lead by Bruce Claunch, will present a flag retirement ceremony at the fairgrounds, as a part of the Cleburne County Fair program. Everyone in the community is invited to come out and attend the ceremony. If you have a flag that needs to be retired there are boxes located at the Claude Dill Complex, 2319 Hwy 110 W, Heber Springs and the Cleburne County Courthouse, 301 West Main Street, Heber Springs, where you may leave your flag for the ceremony.
