Please consider donating a "worn out" American flag to our project so
that it can be repurposed to honor both our active and retired US
veterans. What we mean by "worn out" is a flag that is no longer
flyable due to some condition such as being tattered, torn, faded, or
the like. Specifically, we are asking for flags that are 5 x 8 feet in size
or smaller that have embroidered stars. Unfortunately, we cannot use
Casket/Funeral flags because the stars are too large.
What we do is take the stars from each flag and use them to create
small packs called "Star Packs". Each pack contains one star and the
following saying:
I am part of our American Flag. I have flown over a home in the U.S.A.
but I can no longer fly. The sun and wind have caused me to become
tattered and torn. Please carry me as a reminder that YOU are not
forgotten.
Here is what a "Star Pack" looks like:
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The packs are then presented to both active and retired veterans. The process of presenting one of these packs to a veteran is called "Starring a Veteran." Packs are only presented to veterans. We did not originate this idea, but think it is a great way to thank and honor our veterans. We would like to include a "Star Pack" in each personalized stocking we send to our troops.
The reason we ask only for American flags with embroidered stars is simply because non-embroidered stars tend to shred when they are cut out of the flag.
It is important to note that the flags we receive will be handled with respect and care at all times. The flags will initially be laundered before separating the stars, and all unused remnants of each flag will be properly disposed of ceremoniously.
If you are interested in donating one or more flags for this purpose, please click here to send an email requesting further information.
Note: You may want to consider creating your own "Star Packs" to be able to honor active and retired veterans that you know or encounter in your daily life. To present a pack, ask the veteran if they have been "Star'd" (for some have already been.) If not, then ask if they would mind if you "Star" them. To do so, simply read the saying to them, hand them the pack, and then thank them for their service. It is such an honor to be able to honor our troops this way. The pack gives the veteran a little piece of home to carry with them always.
Thank you for your support.
Annette L.
"Donate a Flag" Chairman & Team Leader
Stockings for Soldiers