The James Monroe High School (JMHS) Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) Battalion conducted a flag retirement for 132 worn, tattered, or faded U.S. flags on May 21 at the Monroe County Board of Education offices in Union. The ceremony included inspection of the worn flags, a ceremonial firing detail, and the playing of “Taps.” Representatives of the Monroe County School Board, American Legion Posts 100 and 145, Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1108, and the local community were on hand for the respectful ceremony.
At the conclusion of the flag retirement the Maverick Battalion conducted a change of command ceremony, with Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Eli Thomas relinquishing command to Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Lyda King.
The Maverick Battalion conducts a flag retirement ceremony annually in the spring. Anyone desiring to have a flag retired in a respectful and honorable way may mail it to James Monroe High School, c/o JROTC, 142 James Monroe Drive, Lindside, WV 24951 or drop it in the box in the courthouse in Union. Please contact Major (retired) Todd Longancre at 304-753-6906 or Scott Womack at swomack@k12.wv.us for further details.