DAPHNE, Ala. — Benjie Hughes of Hughes Cremation and Funeral Service asks Eastern Shore residents who own tattered American flags to donate them for two reasons: retire Old Glory and honor U.S. military veterans.

Hughes said he’s received around 50 flags since Aug. 9. All flags donated to the crematory are used to honor recently deceased military veterans in our area and to destroy Old Glory with dignity.

“It’s a neat way to honor veterans and retire flags at the same time,” Hughes said.

According to the United States code, title 4, section 8, the flag, when it is in such a condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem to display, should be destroyed, preferably by fire, Hughes said in a statement. Each flag donated will be draped over the body of a U.S. veteran, Hughes said.

“We feel that by doing this, both the deceased veteran and the retired flag are treated in the most patriotic way,” Hughes said in a statement.

Hughes started the program after he noticed a funeral home in South Carolina asking for flags.

Beginning this month, he asked people for worn flags, knowing he cremates U.S. veterans at least a couple of times per week, he said.

“This gives people something to send the flags to,” Hughes said.

Families who choose to retire a flag along with their deceased U.S. veteran family member still have the option to take home a new flag, which each funeral service provides.

You can drop off flags Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at Hughes Cremation Service, 7951 American Way in Daphne, or call 621-5890 to get the flag picked up.