Boy Scout Troop 739 retires flags

Members of Boy Scout Troop 739, sponsored by Zion Lutheran Church of Fallbrook, recently held a Flag Retirement Ceremony while camping on Fiesta Island in San Diego.

As each American flag was retired, each Scout and parent stood silent as the group reflected on ‘Old Glory,’ the symbol of our nation. This is what was shared:

“I am Old Glory; for more than nine score years I have been the banner of hope and freedom for generation after generation of Americans.

“Born amid the first flames of America’s fight for freedom, I am the symbol of a country that has grown from a little group of 13 colonies to a united nation of 50 sovereign states. Planted firmly on the high pinnacle of American Faith, my gently fluttering folds have proved an inspiration to untold millions.

“Men have followed me into battle with unwavering courage. They have looked upon me as a symbol of national unity. They have prayed that they and their fellow citizens might continue to enjoy the life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, which have been granted to every American as the heritage of free men.

“So long as men love liberty more than life itself, so long as they treasure the priceless privileges bought with the blood of our forefathers, so long as the principles of truth, justice and charity for all remain deeply rooted in human hearts, I shall continue to be the enduring banner of the United States of America.”

Troop 739 meets on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church. Those interested in joining are welcome to attend a meeting for more information.