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Veterans Retire Old American Flags

WEST SACRAMENTO (CBS13) – More than a thousand American, state and POW flags were laid to rest in West Sacramento on Friday morning.

With a three-volley salute, it began – a special burning ceremony organized by area veterans.

The flags got all the pomp and circumstance they deserved after years of flying high.

When the US flag becomes worn, torn and faded, it's time to replace it with the new flag and retire the old one. It's a tradition these veterans want to make sure doesn't disappear.

"The more aware, the better that the children understand and hopefully it gets them excited about the flag," said Marine Veteran Billy Wagster. "We teach them the respect of the flag. Therefore, they have that as they grow up."

Dozens of students from Riverbank Elementary came by to watch the ceremony, which is held twice a year in West Sacramento.

The next one will be in October.

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