VFW auxiliary in Waltham launches a flag-exchange program

June 14 is National Flag Day, one of  numerous holidays and observances throughout the year when citizens are encouraged to display the American flag. 

But what if a flag is no longer fit for display? Waltham’s John M. Sullivan VFW Post 10334 Auxiliary is offering a new program for residents to retire worn-out American flags and receive a free new flag in exchange. 

Sally Collura and Donna Hughes, who serve as senior vice president and treasurer of the auxiliary, came up with the idea. They will arrange to visit residents and exchange their old flag for a new, 3-by-5-foot American flag. Residents will also receive a certificate in gratitude for flying the flag.

“We are making it convenient for homeowners to fly a new flag that replaces the older, worn flag,” Collura said. “We want to make it convenient for homeowners including seniors that may have difficulty getting out to purchase a new one.”

The United States Flag Code advises owners to never discard a flag in the trash but to retire it in a dignified way, for example, by ceremonial burial or burning. Retired flags can be placed in a special collection box, such as the one in front of the central post office on Main Street. VFW posts, scout troops and other civic groups also often offer this service.

To participate in the free flag exchange program, Waltham residents should contact Collura at sallycollura@gmail.com or 781-838-1130 to schedule a visit. “We will bring the flag to the Sullivan Post 10334, fold and place it in the flag receptacle located in the parking lot at the rear of the post,” she explained.

Money from the Sullivan Post’s general fund will be used to purchase the new flags. If the program becomes popular, Collura hopes the public will support it through donations.

Collura said the program will continue throughout the year. She has bigger ambitions, too. “We are hoping that other VFW auxiliaries across the state and hopefully one day across the country will adopt this program.”