The U.S. Flag Code allows you to repair a flag as long as the fix is neat and does not drastically alter the flag's required rectangular proportions. If the rest of the fabric is bright and strong, repairing it is an excellent way to extend its service life.
Otherwise American Legion, VFW & scouts can properly retire a flag
Perfectly acceptable to burn a worn flag yourself in a solemn and dignified manner. Memorial Day is prefered if you have no other connection to a specific date.
The retirement ceremony The most familiar version of the ceremony comes from The American Legion, which formally adopted a flag retirement ritual in 1937 and has conducted it ever since, most visibly on Flag Day, June 14. A typical ceremony folds the flag into its traditional triangle, presents it a final time, and commits it respectfully to a fire built for the purpose. Participants often salute or hold a moment of silence as the flag burns completely to ash, and the ashes are then buried.
