10/13/2026
As we collect and prepare flags for our flag retirement ceremony in January, we’ve noticed something interesting:
A few flags have come through that look like they’ve barely been used.
And that got us thinking about something we’ve seen online. There’s a video making the rounds that says if a U.S. flag touches the ground, it automatically needs to be retired.
That’s not quite true.
The U.S. Flag Code is found in Title 4, Chapter 1 of the United States Code. And when it comes to retiring a flag, the relevant section is pretty straightforward.
4 U.S.C. § 8(k) says: “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”
That’s the standard.
The Code does say that the flag should never touch anything beneath it, including the ground. That’s about treating the flag with respect. But touching the ground does not, by itself, mean the flag is no longer fit for display.
If your flag gets a little dirty, take a look at it. Can the dirt be brushed off? Can it be appropriately cleaned? If the flag is still in good condition, there’s no requirement in the Flag Code saying it must be retired simply because it touched the ground.
Now, if it’s ripped, torn, badly stained, faded, frayed, or otherwise no longer a fitting emblem for display? That’s different. That flag has earned its retirement.
So yes - do your best to keep Old Glory off the ground. The Flag Code says we should. But if an otherwise perfectly good flag accidentally hits the ground, don’t assume its service is over.
Give it a look. Take care of it. And if it’s still fit to fly, let it keep flying.
And if you do have a flag that has reached the end of its service, bring it by when we meet. We’ll add it to our queue for our January flag retirement ceremony and make sure it receives the dignity it deserves.
