When to Replace Your American Flag

The Fourth of July is one of the biggest days for flying the American flag. If you put yours on display last week for Independence Day and wondered if it was getting a little worn out, there are things to look for.

With just two months to go before the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks there is still time to get a new flag and retire one that may be worn out.

The owner of Flag Lady Gifts in Wayne Jan Hartman says frayed edges and faded colors are the biggest signs of wear and tear.  But there are other things to consider too. Click on the video to learn more from the Upper Main Line's "Flag Lady"

If you need a new flag, you may want to consider buying one sooner than later. Hartman says the days immediately following 9/11 were the busiest ever for sales of Old Glory. She expects there will be heavy demand in September as people commemorate the tenth anniversary of 9/11.

There are several options for the dignified and proper disposal of a worn out American flag. Hartman's store on Lancaster Avenue at Eagle Road in Wayne will take them. The shop cuts out the stars from donated flags and creates a card with them that can be given to service members or anyone. Hartman says she got the inspiration after visiting a U.S.O. center at Philadelphia International Airport. The U.S.O. distributes the stars to members of the military who are being sent overseas as a thank you and a reminder of the country they have volunteered to serve.