Where to Retire a Worn American Flag in Alamogordo
Published 17 October 2026
If you have an American flag that is faded, torn or worn out, you can have it respectfully retired in Alamogordo. The Holloman Air Force Base Honor Guard will retire old, worn U.S. flags for people and organizations. Drop your flag at First National Bank, 414 E. First Street, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays, or call Rainee Mackewich at (575) 437-4880.
With Veterans Day coming up on Wednesday, November 11, this is a good time to look at the flag on your porch.
How do I retire a worn American flag in Alamogordo?
According to the KZZX public service announcements, the Holloman AFB Honor Guard will help you or your organization retire old, worn U.S. flags. Here is how it works.
| What to know | Details |
|---|---|
| Who retires the flags | Holloman Air Force Base Honor Guard |
| Where to drop off | First National Bank, 414 E. First Street, Alamogordo |
| When | Weekdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
| Contact | Rainee Mackewich, (575) 437-4880 |
| Cost | None listed |
Call ahead if you have a large number of flags or a flag from an organization, so they know what to expect.
When is a flag ready to be retired?
The U.S. Flag Code says a flag that is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning. You can read it in Title 4, Section 8 of the U.S. Code.
In everyday terms, that usually means a flag that is badly faded, frayed, torn or stained. Handing it to the Honor Guard means it gets the respectful retirement it deserves.
Why does this matter so much in Alamogordo?
Holloman is part of who we are. So many of our neighbors serve, have served or are raising families around the base. When I drive through town and see flags flying on porches, it is one of the things that makes Alamogordo feel like home. Retiring a worn flag the right way is a small, meaningful way to honor that.
If you would like to honor a veteran in a lasting way, my post on the memorial bricks at the F-4 Gateway Freedom Monument shows how.
How can I connect with local veterans groups?
The same KZZX community announcements list several veterans groups in our area. Times can change, so check before you go.
- American Legion Post 34: nmlegion34.org
- Marine Corps League Detachment 850: second Saturday of each month at 1 p.m. at the Elks Lodge. Contact Jeff Rager, (575) 551-2027.
What does this mean for people moving to Alamogordo?
If you are new to town, getting involved with veterans and community groups is one of the fastest ways to make friends here. Military families will find a lot of support in this community. My Holloman AFB relocation guide and volunteer in Alamogordo guide are good next reads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I retire an American flag in Alamogordo?
The Holloman Air Force Base Honor Guard retires old, worn U.S. flags. Drop them off at First National Bank, 414 E. First Street, on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Who do I contact about flag retirement in Alamogordo?
Contact Rainee Mackewich at (575) 437-4880. Call ahead if you have many flags or a flag from an organization.
When should an American flag be retired?
The U.S. Flag Code says a flag that is no longer a fitting emblem for display should be destroyed in a dignified way. That usually means it is badly faded, torn or frayed.
How is a worn flag retired?
The U.S. Flag Code says a worn flag should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning. Handing it to the Honor Guard makes sure it is done respectfully.
When is Veterans Day 2026?
Veterans Day is Wednesday, November 11, 2026. It is a good time to check whether the flag at your home needs replacing.
Flag retirement and veterans group details come from KZZX Country 105.3 public service announcements, checked 17 October 2026, and the U.S. Flag Code (4 U.S.C. Section 8). Please call ahead to confirm drop-off details.