Political Protester Replaces Tattered American Flag

During a political protest outside of the SEA/SEIU 1984 headquarters on North Main Street on Oct. 13, one of the protesters noticed that the American flag was in tatters and decided to replace it.

Linda Banfill of the Marine Corp League saw that the flag was tattered to such a degree that it was disrespectful, she noted.

Even though she’s 70, Banfill climbed onto the lawn of the SEA, lowered the flag, removed it, and replaced it with a new one that she had in her vehicle.

Not long after the generous gesture, a SEA employee came outside and took the tattered flag from Banfill before she could fold it properly and prepare it for ceremonial disposal.

Beth D’Ovidio, the communications administrator for the SEA/SEIU 1984, said the union appreciated that she noticed the tattered flag.

“The normal weather-related wear and tear on our flag requires us to replace it every few months,” she noted. “We will continue to monitor our flag’s condition, as we normally do, and replace it as needed.”

D’Ovidio added that the union supported “citizens exercising their first amendment rights, including the demonstration that has been taking place in front of our headquarters this morning.”

Proper disposal of an American flag includes folding it lengthwise and then into its customary triangle fold and then burning it while ensuring the entire flag is consumed. Individuals attending the flag burning are to salute the flag, recite the Pledge of Allegiance, and then have a brief moment of silence. After the fire, the ashes are to be buried.

Caption: Linda Banfill of the Marine Corp League changes the tattered flag at the SEA/SEIU 1984 building on North Main Street on Oct. 13, 2014. Credit: Brian Blackden.