Moon Republican Committee, Scouts Retire American Flags at Moon Park

Moon residents gathered Saturday beneath a pavilion at to retire tattered and worn American flags and commemorate those lost in the 9/11 attacks. 

"We do it to help fuel patriotism," said Cathy Tress, chair of the Republican Committee of Moon Township. "It's so important that the flags are retired in a respectful way." 

Residents brought nearly 70 flags to be disposed of at the ceremony. Boy Scouts from Troop 905 tucked the flags into triangular folds and burned them, one by one, at the park. 

Traditionally, only members of the military and Boy Scouts are charged with retiring American flags. Following the ceremony, the flag ashes will be collected and buried. 

The fourth annual event, hosted each year by the township's Republican committee, featured the Boy Scouts as well as Girl Scouts and Brownies, from Troops 50469 and 50555, paying tribute to those killed 10 years ago in the 9/11 attacks. 

Children read poems and spoke about how the attacks a decade ago have affected them.  

"We established this [event] for years ago and we have the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts put it on," Tress said. "It's a way to teach them about their country, too." 

The event also honored township first responders from both the and . State  and state , both of Moon, were also in attendance at the ceremony. 

Pippy, an Army officer, said the event carried a special meaning for him. He said a rendition of the song "I'm Proud to Be an American," sung by Moon Area senior Lizzie Marince, reminded him of his days in military training. 

"It's great to teach this younger generation about duty and service," Pippy said. "And it's very emotional to see the proper retirement of the flag. Seeing these kids it just gives you a lot of hope."