BUFFALO, N.Y. — If your American flag has seen better days, but you know you shouldn't just toss it in the trash, New York State can help.
The Office of General Services is collecting them at locations statewide so they can be properly retired. The Stars and Stripes will then be disposed of as part of the Memorial Watchfire hosted by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 103 at the State Fairgrounds in Syracuse on May 26.
In Western New York, flags can be dropped off at the Mahoney State Office Building at 65 Court Street in downtown Buffalo.
"The American flag more than any other symbol in our nation inspires a sense of hope, pride and courage to all those who serve under it," said Jim McDonough, Director of the NYS Division of Veterans' Services.
"We take great care to commemorate and honor the American flag. The annual Watchfire ensures this American symbol is retired with dignity and respect. We are grateful to the Office of General Services for the proper collection of these flags, the Vietnam Veterans of America for their work in retiring these flags at the Watchfire, and we are honored to be a partner once again in their annual tradition."
Flags will be accepted through Wednesday, May 22.
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