Gunshots, Smoke Are Part of Avon Lake Flag Burning Ceremony

Those near the American Legion Post 211 on June 14 might hear gunshots and see smoke. It’s nothing to worry about member John Shondel said.

Tuesday, June 14 is Flag Day and traditionally Post 211 conducts a ceremony to properly dispose of American flags that have been brought to the Post during the past year for proper disposal by the American Legion Honor Guard.

Shondel said the traditional retreat ceremony includes the sounding of the bugle call "Assembly" with "Retreat" to be sounded at 5 p.m. followed by one volley of blank rifle fire. The American flag is then lowered and presented to the post commander, representing faded, worn or tattered flags that have been dropped off at the Post.

“This may take in excess of two hours and will produce black smoke because many of the flags are either nylon or polyester and may cause some concern for residents who are not familiar with the practice,” Shondel said. 

Boy Scout Troop 338, Avon Lake, sponsored by Post 211, will be present and participating as well.

Flags that need to be discarded can be dropped off June 13 or 14 at the American Leion Post 211 at 31972 Walker Rd. (next to Giant Eagle).