CAMDEN —The American Legion Post 30 is inviting the community to a flag retirement ceremony and open house at its headquarters on Pearl Street in Camden on Saturday, April 21 from noon to 3 p.m.

Members of Boy Scout Troop 200 in Camden will be participating in the ceremony with the veterans to give flags that are old or in disrepair a proper send-off. Post 30 Adjutant Jeff Sukeforth said that the legion is encouraging the community to bring their worn flags to the ceremony before noon or dispose of them in the drop box in the parking lot. 

The Ceremony for Disposal of Unserviceable Flags was passed during 19th National Convention of The American Legion in New York in 1937. The proper way to dispose of flags in by burning and this type of ceremony has been an integral part of American Legion ritual since that date.

Immediately following the service, the legion will hold an open house with refreshments, historical displays and information about Post 30’s year-round activities. Members will be available to speak to the public about mission of Post 30, their programs to support the community and veterans and how veterans can benefit from joining the organization.

The oldest member of Post 30 is a 101-year-old World War II veteran. Other members represent service in World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War and post-911 service.

While most of the members are male, the post encourages female veterans to join. Younger members are especially needed, added Sukeforth.

There are numerous community events that Post 30 hosts including participating in Memorial Day parades and services in Camden, Rockport and Lincolnville, placing flags at veterans’ graves before Memorial Day, Veterans Day events and supporting the Halloween festivities on Pearl Street with providing glow sticks and necklaces for the hundreds of trick-or-treaters for safety reasons.

Sukeforth said that the camaraderie and support from membership, especially in times of need, is a special part of joining the American Legion. The organization also holds a pastry and coffee informal gathering twice a month and family potlucks for additional fellowship among the veterans.

For more information about American Legion Post 30, call Frank Carr, Post Commander, at 236-3310 or Sukeforth, at 691-2270.

Reach Sarah Shepherd at news@penbaypilot.com