When an American flag becomes worn, torn, faded or soiled it must be retired in a burning ceremony. Local Girl Scouts provided this service for an American flag being retired at Turlock Fire Station No. 2 on Monday.

First the flag was stretched out and then each stripe was cut, leaving the blue star field intact. While the sections of the flag were placed into a barrel containing a wood fire, the scouts recited what each part of the flag represents.

The Girl Scouts then held a vigil over the fire until the flag remnants were destroyed.

“Retiring a flag is the perfect way to honor our veterans,” said Girl Scouts Service Unit Manager Julie Davis.  “The American people have stayed true to the values that the flag represents and we are honored to be a part of this ceremony.”