June 14th is Flag Day in the United States, the day in which we celebrate the adoption of the red, white, and blue flag that took place back in 1777. With this big day comes many heart-warming gestures and patriotic salutes, and this year was no different, especially for those at Ronnie Thompson Ford.The local Civil Air Patrol participated in a flag retirement ceremony at the car dealership, carefully taking down the flag that had been flying there, folding it up according to protocol, and replacing it with a brand new flag.

Following the flag’s removal came a speech from Captain James Bradley, who also serves as chaplain of the 507th Ellijay Composite Squadron. Captain Bradley told those in attendance about the importance of taking down the flag once it has served its purpose and has become worn. He also went on to say that the next time a flag is retired at Ronnie Thompson that the ceremony will be different than the one performed on Friday, as there are several different ones that can be performed.

A total of three flags were retired at the car dealership including the one featured in the ceremony. These three flags will be incinerated, with the ashes brought back to Ronnie Thompson Ford and hopefully buried around the dealership’s flagpole.

Video of the ceremony as well as photos can be viewed below: