Page 34 - AL POST 390 OFFICER'S GUIDE AND MANUAL OF CEREMONIES - 2020

"We must not be unmindful either of the conclusions of other peoples with whom we have joined in the

quest for an honorable world peace. This is the higher order of disciplines."
Commander:"ln time of peace we can use the ennobling virtues of war and put behind us its ugliness and
suffering. In peace we shall go forward together to scale new heights of achievement in unity of purpose,
in sacrifice for the common good, in tolerance for those of different faiths and creeds, in bravery to fight for
social and economic gains, and in the discipline of good citizenship. We shall move forward in the sight of
God as a strong nation in a peaceful world."

Other speakers may be introduced by the commander. Sing `'The Star-Spangled Banner." Post members file out.

FLAG CEREMONIES

Retirement of old colors

This ceremony is suggested for occasions when an American Legion post may wish to retire, not dispose of,
colors that have become unserviceable.

Commander: '`lt has been recommended our worn set of old colors be fittingly retired. As they have served
our post for many years and on a great variety of occasions, we shall retire them with the respect they
deserve.
"Sergeant-at-arms, you will have the color guard advance and present the colors for final inspection."

The colors are brought to the commander's rostrum in proper form.

Sergeant-at-arms: '`We have the honor to present for inspection and retirement the colors which have
served our post for (number) years."

The sergeant-at-arms steps to one side.

Commander: ``The members of the inspection team will examine the colors."
The two inspectors can be post offlcers.

First inspector: '`The colors have become faded and worn as a result of use in post functions. I recommend
they be retired."
Second inspector: "These colors have become unserviceable in a worthy cause and they should be
honorably retired from further service."

Commander: '`Sergeant-at-arms, prepare the colors for retirement."
The sergeant-at-arms instructs the color guard to prepare to retire the colors. The commander gives three raps
of the gavel.

Commander: '`The chaplain will offer prayer."
Chaplain: "Almighty God, Captain of all hosts and commander over all, bless and consecrate this gathering.
We thank You for our country and its flag, and for the liberty for which it stands. We thankYou forThe
American Legion and its banner, and the privilege You have given us to serve our country in its hours of
need and to continue to serve our country in time of peace. Amen."

Commander: ``Sergeant-at-arms, retire the colors."

Most posts keep old colors in a trophy case or other location where they can be properly dlsplayed or stored.

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