Burning Old Flags, She Was There in Belgium 1944 by TomDart
Close
Hover over top left image to zoom.
Click anywhere to exit.
Members remain the original copyright holder in all their materials here at Renderosity. Use of any of their material inconsistent with the terms and conditions set forth is prohibited and is considered an infringement of the copyrights of the respective holders unless specially stated otherwise.
No AI - This artwork was created entirely by hand or with traditional digital tools.
Description
Flag Day is a little holiday much forgotten by some Americans. Display the American Flag is about the most celebration generally seen.
Today we went to a flag disposal. You see, when not usable with dignity, flags are destroyed by fire in a fitting ceremony.
The woman with lovely gray hair is watching as a flag is placed in the fire. She lives in a home for veterans. She was a nurse at the Battle of the Bulge(Bataille des Ardennes)in 1944. I imagine these flags mean something more to her, something you had to be there to learn.
As each flag was placed in the fire, it was dedicated to a specific deceased soldier and provided a final salute.
This is not a gallery quality image compostion but does shed some light on a small slice of life, memory, respect and emotion in a small city in the USA today.
Comments (9)
Like the ceremony this image has been presented with real dignity...well done.
Touching ceremony! Unfortunately here in Italy there's no respect to the flag.
Such a great story behind the image making it an image of importance a story of life past and present, excellent work Tom!!!
Very moving.. and my flag is flying proudly today..
I had forgotten this custom. As a young girl, I went with my father to a couple of these flag disposal ceremonies. I still fret over the protocol of handling our nation's symbol - more than most people I know. This shot is one of great feeling and respect. I love it.
Touching shot!!
this is a profoundly moving photo tom!
Excellent work and perfect realisation
Very interesting ! How we were afraid ! It was very cold and Belgium is so small. Luckily you were there ! thank you !