Found flag

[gerti]

While walking the dog today I found flag in the middle of the road. It was about 2x4', in good shape, long rope still applied. The rope probably broke due to the recent sub-zero temperatures.

Not knowing who it belongs to, I wedged it very visible at a utility pole, hoping the owner will spot it. If it's still there next time I come by, what would be the correct way to handle this?

Thanks

Gerd

[lrr]

I'd likely keep it if nobody claimed it, but whoever lost it may have no idea when and where they lost it.

Maybe run an ad on Craigslist?

[All Thumbs]

If it is a U.S. flag, and it was on the ground, it should be turned over to any group that will burn it. Many BSoA and Vet groups will burn the flag for you.

[dbhost]

http://www.usflag.org/flagetiquette.html

[LCHIEN]

Presuming it was a US flag to which you refer,

I believe that the flag should not be allowed to touch the ground, however, having unfortunately done so by accident is not grounds for disposal by burning.

If merely soiled and not permanently stained you may launder it. If damaged beyond repair then it may be disposed of by dignified burning.

If usable and it is not claimed, you may probably feel free to give it a home. It will be happy waving free for a proud american.

[Tom Slick]

A soiled or tattered flag needs disposal. A flag that touched the ground does not need disposal unless it became soiled and tattered. The "burn it if it touches the ground" is a misinterpretation of the flag code.

[All Thumbs]

A soiled or tattered flag needs disposal. A flag that touched the ground does not need disposal unless it became soiled and tattered. The "burn it if it touches the ground" is a misinterpretation of the flag code.

It didn't "touch" the ground. It was "on" the ground, "in the middle of the street," I imagine for some time before it was discovered.

Personally, I'd burn it, same as if I found it in the trash. But to each his own.

[gerti]

Thanks everybody! The flag (US) was no longer where I put it. Let's hope it was either found by the original owner or that the person who picked it up treats it with the respect it deserves.