After a shower gave the ground a much needed soaking on Sunday night, the clouds gave way to traditional 4th of July weather - sunny and hot. The Village of Callaway continued their celebratory ways of the last month, and hosted a flag retirement ceremony and fireworks display to commemorate our nation’s Independence Day.

The evening festivities at the ballpark began with a flag retirement ceremony of unserviceable flags. The public was invited to attend the ceremony as well as bring any old worn out flags they might have for disposal.

The disposal of these flags is in accordance with the U.S. Flag code, “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.” The proper disposal procedure calls for the ashes of the burned flags to be placed in a box and buried.

We are not to just throw a worn out flag in the trash like any other old item - that's considered disrespectful. Just as there's etiquette for displaying Old Glory, there's also etiquette for disposing of flags in a dignified manner.

American Legion Post 59 conducted the flag retirement ceremony, followed by the posting of the colors prior to the start of the fireworks display at dusk.

Treats were made available for the fireworks show, with popcorn and water provided by the American Legion Auxiliary and ice cream sandwiches, compliments of Callaway Market. The children in attendance were given glow bracelets and other fun patriotic gifts.