American Legion Post 221 will conduct its annual flag retirement ceremony on the grounds of the post at 357 The Great Road Tuesday at 6:45 p.m.
Nationally, the American Legion has designated Flag Day as the appropriate time to dispose of unserviceable U.S. flags. Detailed ceremonies, designed to convey dignity and respect, culminate with destruction by fire, as outlined in U.S. Flag Code.
Quinn Ricci, a Scout in Troop 194, made and installed a special box to collect residents’ worn-out flags as part of his Eagle Scout project. The box is located adjacent to the front door of the post, and Ricci said he hopes to install two more at central locations such as the police station and senior center. “It’s easier to retire a flag properly if you know where to drop it off.”
His project also included building a new flag retirement pit, which Legion members plan to dedicate on Tuesday. It’s a standard block-and-metal fire pit that he said provides a more long-term option.
Ricci has been a member of Troop 194 since age 11—his entire Boy Scout career. “I’ve always helped out on Flag Day,” he said. His Eagle project was designed “to do something important for the American Legion members. It’s a big deal retiring flags. It means something to me and will mean a lot to other people.”
Ricci, who graduated from Bedford High School this month, has passed the Eagle Board of Review and expects to formally receive the honor in July. He said he will continue with the troop as an adult leader.
Also during the ceremonies, the post will recognize Quinn’s father, Scoutmaster Peter Ricci, who is stepping down after more than 12 years of active leadership with the troop.
Mike Rosenberg can be reached at [email protected], or 781-983-1763
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