Annie’s Mailbox: What to do with Dad’s funeral flag

Dear Annie: Eleven years ago, when my father passed away, the funeral home gave my mother an American flag, since Dad was a veteran of WWII. As per his wishes, there was no funeral and my father was cremated. This flag was never used and my mother put it away in a closet. Now my mother is in a nursing facility and I have the flag.

Annie, we already have a smaller flag that hangs by our front door. Dad’s flag has no sentimental value for me, but I have no idea who I can pass it on to or what else can be done with it. I can’t just throw it away. Do you have any suggestions? – Daughter of a Vet in Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

Dear Daughter: Are there nieces, nephews or grandchildren who might like to have this flag? Please ask around. Here are some other ideas: Contact your local historical society to see whether they will accept this item, perhaps along with your father’s other war memorabilia if there is any. Also offer it to nearby schools, the Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts, your local fire department and the VFW to see whether they are interested. Finally, please contact the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs (cem.va.gov) to donate the flag for use in the National Cemetery.