Drop Off Your Worn U.S. Flags At Panama City City Hall’s New Collection Box

PANAMA CITY, FL. — A Worn U.S. Flag Drop Box was installed and unveiled on Monday, July 7, 2025, at City Hall, 501 Harrison Avenue. This Drop Box was provided by former Eagle Scout Kaial Hajik, who has donated six other drop boxes in Bay County, each costing about $1,500. The Drop Box will be available to the public during normal business hours of City Hall within the Grace Avenue lobby. 

With Panama City’s proximity to Tyndall Air Force Base and high volume of veteran residents, this addition will provide an accessible opportunity for honorable flag disposal. As designated by the U.S. Flag Code, “the flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing.” As such, unserviceable flags are meant to be removed from their posts and retired in dignified ceremonies. A flag should be retired if its colors are faded or streaked with pollution, if its ends are frayed or if the fabric becomes torn or transparent. 

The City has partnered with the local Paul W. Airey American Legion Post 392, which will empty the Drop Box when the receptacle is full of worn U.S. flags. The collected flags will be disposed of in accordance with the United States Flag Code, which includes a service inspection, the presentation of colors, prayer, and a flag retirement ceremony hosted by the American Legion. 

The City of Panama City honors all who have served under the United States flag and encourages citizens to dispose of unserviceable flags to uphold their dignity and maintain reverence for their symbolism.