The Francis J. Mellar Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8252 in Gloucester celebrated Flag Day on Sunday, June 14, with a traditional flag retirement ceremony. About 20 veterans and family members participated at the post home on John Clayton Memorial Highway, just down from the bowling alley. The ceremony consisted of an invocation by Chaplain Jonathan Sawyer, recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, and readings by Senior Vice Commander David Lowery. District Commander Jim Gierlak acted as Master of Ceremonies. Quartermaster Tony Botticello played “Taps” on the bugle and the approximately 200 tattered and faded flags were reverently retired by burning, as prescribed in the U.S. Code. Afterwards, everyone enjoyed the beautiful weather by having a holiday picnic. Above, VFW youth member Trevor Burke places a worn flag on the fire. At right, among those taking part in the day’s events were, from left, Chaplain Sawyer, Junior Vice Commander Don Tellock and Senior Vice Commander Lowery.
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