The Ocala Police Department is now providing a new option for the disposal of worn U.S. flags.
OPD has installed an American flag retirement box within the main entrance of the police headquarters. The idea of having a flag receptacle at the police headquarters comes from Detective Coughlin, who is also a veteran.
“When an American flag becomes worn or torn, there’s a respectful way to retire that flag,” said Coughlin. “This retirement box is a way we can respect our national symbol and provide our citizens with this convenient service since we’re centrally-located.”
The receptacle’s custom design comes from iCandy Designs, of Ocala. Carl Englesman, the manager and graphic artist, designed the wrap.
Within the patriotic artwork, you can see images that are unique to Ocala/Marion County, like historic buildings and iconic oak trees. The wrap was donated by Steve Woodall, the owner of iCandy Designs.
“We’re pleased to provide this flag retirement box,” Chief of Police, Mike Balken, stated. “We want to make it easy for Ocala citizens to properly retire their old or faded American flags. It means a great deal to us and to many others in our community.”
OPD says flags should be folded respectfully before being placed in the box. The Ocala Police Honor Guard will be responsible for the proper retirement of the worn flags.
American flags will be accepted during normal business hours.
The box is located at 402 S. Pine Avenue.