Did you know
The flag of the United States is a symbol of freedom before which Americans recite the pledge of allegiance. The flag's 13 red and white stripes represent the 13 original colonies. Its 50 white stars on a blue background represent the 50 states.
Respecting the Flag, Remembering the Brave
At PFCU, we believe in honoring the symbols that unite us—and the people who protect them. Since June 2025, our members have brought in 176 American flags to be respectfully retired through our lobby flag retirement boxes. This simple act reflects a deep respect for our nation and those who have served it.
As Veterans Day approaches, we want to take a moment to recognize the importance of properly retiring the American flag—and how this tradition connects us to the values of service, sacrifice, and unity.
Why Flag Retirement Matters
The American flag is more than fabric—it’s a symbol of freedom, democracy, and the sacrifices made by generations of service members. When a flag becomes worn, faded, or tattered, it should be retired with dignity and respect. According to the U.S. Flag Code, the preferred method of retirement is burning in a ceremonial manner, often conducted by veterans’ organizations, scout troops, or civic groups. Flags should not be disposed of in trash or recycling*.
By offering flag retirement boxes in our lobbies, we’re helping our members participate in this tradition and ensure that every flag is honored appropriately.
A Community of Respect
The 176 flags collected since June represent more than just numbers—they represent families, memories, and a shared commitment to honoring our country. We’re proud to be part of a community that values these traditions and supports our veterans not just on Veterans Day, but every day.
Join Us
If you have a flag ready for retirement, we invite you to bring it to any of our branch locations. We’ll ensure it is retired with the respect it deserves. All flags are given to a local Veteran's of Foreign Wars (VFW) branch for proper flag retirement ceremonies.
Thank you, Veterans, for all you have done to protect and serve our country. This Veterans Day, let’s continue to show our gratitude—not just through words, but through actions that reflect the values our veterans have fought to protect.
PFCU Branches & Locations