Dozens of American flags that were tattered, torn and discolored from the outdoor elements were disposed in a dignified manner by the Lansford American Legion Post 123 on Sunday.

Legion members, most of them who had served in the military, held a solemn flag disposal service in front of the Legion Post.

Following the service, the red, white and blue banners were transported to an undisclosed location where they were properly burned by members of the American Hose Company of Lansford with the oversight of Legion officials.

Fewer than a dozen citizens attended the program.

Richard Pogwist, post adjutant, expressed his disappointment at the turnout by the public.

“My heart goes out to the handful of citizens who turned out,” he said. “If it was a protest or something, we might have a bigger turnout.”

He said the ceremony was mentioned in advance in the Times News and on social media.

Pogwist explained the procedures for proper disposal of the flag, which includes a ceremony that includes the narrative, the Pledge of Allegiance, prayer and the playing of taps.

About two dozen flags were lined up in folded triangles on a table in front of Legion members.

They were presented by the Legion’s sergeant-at-arms, Ian Acciarito.

Accepting them were Nate Krajcirik, post commander; Christine LeClair, first vice commander and Art Williams, second vice commander.

Williams also served as the bugler.

Pogwist said the protocol calls for the flag disposal program to be held on Flag Day, which is June 14.

He said as far back as January, the Legion Post was planning for the Flag Day program, but had to postpone it until after Carbon County reopened from the COVID-19 pandemic.

LeClair, who is also the Carbon County Director of Veterans Affairs, said anyone who has an unusable flag can take it to their local American Legion Post.

She also said that people who receive flags that are placed on coffins can bring them to the Veterans Affairs office.

They will then be transported to the National Cemetery at Fort Indiantown Gap, where they will be flown on the Avenue of the Flags.