Cub Scouts retire 35 faded flags

The Webelos den of Cub Scout Pack 97 and the Batson family retired 35 faded and worn American flags Saturday at the Batson home in Allegheny Township. Pictured here are Alexander Hartshorne and Jarah Batson placing a flag section on the fire for disposal as Joe Hartshorne, Brayton Batson, Annaliese Hartshorne and Ava Hartshorne wait to retire additional flag sections. Scout leaders read inspirational messages about the flag, and young people read about the symbolism of the shapes and colors of the stars and stripes. State Rep. R. Lee James read a passage about the history of the flag and what it represents to every American, and then each flag and banner was placed into the flames for consumption. The group sang a verse of “God Bless America” and then processed away from the fire in silence. (Submitted photo)