The University of Toledo chapter of the Student Veterans of America will host a flag retirement ceremony 11 a.m. Thursday, April 19 on the steps outside the Thompson Student Union.

The purpose of this free, public event is to educate the community on the history of the flag, explain the proper way to dispose of a flag that is no longer suitable for display, and preside over the retirement of several American flags.

“Many people know that burning the flag is a step in the process, said Cadet Erica Loroff, president of the UT chapter of Student Veterans of America. “However, many do not know that you have to divide up the colors on the flag and burn them separately.”

Attending this event is a way of showing respect and honor to those who have volunteered and sacrificed for the United States.

“We are a group of students from all different backgrounds that come from around the world to achieve our educational goals,” Loroff said. “This event will be a testament to the student body, faculty and administration that we honor, respect and, ultimately, thank those who have volunteered to serve and gave the ultimate sacrifice to our country.”

Student veterans will teach students, faculty, staff and area residents about the ceremonial folding of the flag and what each fold represents.

“It is a great opportunity to reflect during the ceremony about all that is great about our country and how much has been sacrificed to remain free to this day,” Loroff said.