Members of Malta Bend American Legion Post 558 performed their annual flag retirement ceremony on June 14 - Flag Day - at the post home. Over 150 flags, many of which had been deposited at the flag-drop boxes at the Knights of Columbus hall and the Saline County Courthouse, were retired.

Prior to the start of the ceremony, a faded and tattered flag is raised to the top of the post’s flagpole. After the start of the ceremony, the flag is lowered and replaced by a new flag. It was then presented to the post commander, who affirmed that the flag has served its purpose and was now ready to be retired. The flag was then cut into three pieces, two of which are red and white stripes, and the third being the blue field with stars. A prayer was offered by the post chaplain, the remnants of the flag were marched to the fire, members presented a hand salute, and taps was sounded. The remnants of the flag were then placed in the fire with dignity and respect. This year members of Boy Scout Troop 42, Marshall, Mo., participated in retiring the remaining flags after the ceremony.