Stock image of an American flag flying in the wind.

In partnership with the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the Iowa State Association of Counties (ISAC), Grundy County has installed a flag retirement box, at no cost to the county, on the first-floor lobby of the Grundy County Courthouse, 706 G Avenue, Grundy Center.

“Many of our residents are unsure how to care for the U. S. flag when it becomes worn or torn,” said ISAC President Richard Crouch who serves as a Supervisor in Mills County, Iowa. “This program provides a much-needed service to all county residents and reminds them that counties matter.”

This flag retirement box is in addition to the retirement box that serves the same purpose located at the Grundy Center Community Building.

The United States Flag Code prescribes flag etiquette – everything from flying it near other flags to instructions on how to raise and lower it.

The code states that the flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.

Flags should be folded respectfully before being placed in the box. Grundy County will then be responsible for the proper disposal of the worn flags.

“This centrally-located drop-off, in addition to the one at the Grundy Center Community Building, provides convenience while respecting our national symbol,” said Mark Schildroth, Grundy County Board of Supervisors Chairperson. “The county is unified in helping enable our citizens to respect our great nation while disposing of old or worn flags.”