WESTFIELD-For area residents who have an American flag that is torn, faded, or damaged, state Sen. John C. Velis and his legislative aides will be collecting them curbside on Oct. 29 at the Westfield Senior Center.
Flags may be dropped off from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. For seniors who are picking up a meal that day, they may bring their flag with them and drop it off when they come through the lunch line from 11 a.m. – noon. All others can bring their flags from noon – 1 p.m.
“The flag is a symbol and representation of our great country, and should always be in pristine condition,” said Velis, who has served in the Army Reserve for 11 years. “When it is in a condition that is no longer fitting for display, it should be retired in a dignified and appropriate way.”
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“I can say without reservation that I think America is the greatest nation on the earth, and the flag is a symbol of that,” said Velis. “People have died, have been maimed, and have been permanently maimed in defense of the flag and everything we hold dear in the country. To me, the flag means everything.”
For more information on the flag retirement collection, call the Westfield Senior Center at (413) 562-6435.