News Release

Public Invited to Andrew Johnson National Cemetery for Flag Retirement Ceremony

Date: June 7, 2024
Contact: Zach Miller, 423-638-3551

Andrew Johnson National Historic Site (NHS) will host an official flag retirement ceremony at the Andrew Johnson National Cemetery, Friday, June 14, 6 pm to 7:30 pm.

Upon the death of President Andrew Johnson in 1875, among his final wishes was that his body be wrapped in one of the most sacred of our national symbols, the U.S. Flag. In keeping with this deep reverence of our flag and after flying above the Andrew Johnson National Cemetery for the past year, the time has come to replace the American flag, which has served as a faithful sentinel above these hallowed grounds. The public is invited to participate in this unique ceremony in which the American flag will be retired with dignity. The event will begin at 6 pm at the cemetery, located at 121 Monument Avenue, Greeneville 37743, and continue until 7:30 pm. The cemetery will remain open until dusk.

Visitors will have an opportunity to participate in the ceremony and discover how an American flag should be properly retired with honor. The event will commemorate the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice made possible the country we live in and the rights we enjoy today.

Visitors of all ages, especially Scouts and other youth organizations from the community, are invited and encouraged to attend.

The park cannot accept worn flags prior to the event. Persons wishing to donate worn American flags for retirement are asked to participate in the June 14 event.

For more information, contact Andrew Johnson National Historic Site Visitor Center at [phone].