Worn flags went up in flames on the Jones-Quigg American Legion Post 739 grounds in Hokendauqua June 14.

Lehigh County Council sponsored the flag retirement ceremony, an annual event whereby tattered and torn American flags receive a proper disposal.

A large crowd was present at the Hokendauqua Legion pavilion for the ceremony.

Legion posts from across Lehigh County brought flags to the retirement ceremony.

Bright orange flames from the burning flags lit up the early evening sky as Boy Scouts from Troop 79, Stiles, tossed flags into the fire pit in a ceremonial tribute.

Boy Scout Troop 66, Slatington, also participated in the program.

Whitehall Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr., Catasauqua Mayor Barbara Schlegel, State Rep. Julie Harhart (R-183rd), Lehigh County District Attorney James Martin, Lehigh County Veterans Affairs Director Thomas Dye, Coplay Mayor Joseph Bundra and Northampton Mayor Thomas Reenock were present at the ceremony.

Also participating in the official Legion ceremony were Dennis Kisthart, county commander; David Altrichter, sergeant-at-arms; Mark Queen, narrator; William Bandura, first vice commander; Stanley Reinhard Jr., second vice commander; Paul Lamont, chaplain; Allen O. Delke, Post 15, Slatington, color guard; Sons of the American Legion, Hokendauqua; the Legion Riders, Hokendauqua; and Charles H. Schaeffer of the Post 191, Emmaus, firing squad.

Martin spoke of a mentoring program established by his office to aid veterans. He said veterans may also come forward to serve as mentors and receive training.

A Hokendauqa fire truck and volunteers stood by as the flames from the retired flags appeared to light the sky.