Flag Replacement Ceremony
You'll have an old tattered flag and a new flag (one that's been flown over the nation's Capitol, etc.), and a certificate. The main leader should be there and boy and girl scouts.
Scouts and Leaders advance to the stage. Two Scouts are holding the old flag draped over their arms (folded lengthwise). One Scout has the new flag and another Scout has the framed certificate. Four to six additional Scouts also march up to the stage to fold the flag later.
Leader: Our flag is the symbol of our country. Have you ever stopped to think what the flag really means? As you look at your Flag, remember that it is red because of the blood of the men and women who have died to keep our country free. It is blue because of the true blue loyalty of its defenders and people. It is white to symbolize liberty - our land of the free. And the stars are symbols of our states, and our hope for a bright and shining future.
(Scouts bring old flag to the front)
Leader: We have an old friend here who has fulfilled his duty to our country. The flag which has proudly waved in front of {town. school, troop} for many years is now worn and faded, and we are here to retire it with honor. Please rise and be respectful as the Scouts fold this flag for the last time.
(Scouts fold flag)
(Appropriate music - "My Country 'tis of Thee')
(One Scout holds the folded flag as the Honor Guard steps back)
Leader: This proud symbol of our country will be retired officially by our
scouts at a later date. (Or if time permits, include the Flag
Retirement Ceremony here.)
(Scouts bring forward new folded flag and certificate)
Leader: Addresses group - I am honored to present to you, a new flag.
This flag is very special. It has been flown over the Capitol Building in
Washington DC in honor of {your troop, pack etc.}, as a symbol of the
loyalty and faith in the United States of America. My hope is that it will
now fly proudly over {your building, etc.}, and that all of our scouts,
leaders, and parents will remember the meaning of our flag each time that
they pass by.
Please accept your new flag and fly it high and well, with respect and honor.
(Appropriate music: The Star Spangled Banner while Honor Guard retreats)
