Iam amazed that an executive order was signed in August banning the burning of American flags and jailing those who burn them. A simple Google search shows that burning a U.S. flag is the only way to retire one that is too tattered, ripped or frayed to display with dignity.

The exception has been battle flags of U.S. military units proudly flown showing how much they endured protecting our country. One can only imagine the condition at the end of the night of the flag flying over Fort McHenry after a British bombardment, inspiring our national anthem.

Retirement is done at a ceremony where these flags are honorably burned with dignity, usually by service members, veteran groups and/or local dignitaries.

The American Legion Wilson Ritch Post 432 of Port Jefferson Station, which sponsors

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