Torn American flag upsets Mobile locals

MOBILE, Alabama (WALA) - The American flag is a symbol of pride for our country. It's worn on uniforms and millions of children recite pledges to it each morning. But one flag in downtown Mobile is flying in terrible disrepair: it's worn out, faded, torn to shreds and people are not happy.

The late afternoon sun glistened over downtown Mobile.

In Bienville Square, squirrels welcomed their human visitors, and the fountain gushed softly. But tucked away in a corner, something's out of place.

"You look up, that don't look good. It's an eyesore!" said a Marine veteran.

"It's tattered, it shouldn't be like that!" another man said.

"Nobody has a flag like that, come on, that's disgusting! Know what I'm sayin'?" the Marine vet said.

The flag is weathered and torn to shreds, yet is still hoisted above the park.

Bienville Square is a landmark.

"One of the premiere places in Mobile," said the Marine veteran. "I just watched this lady come here and sweep up the cigarette butts. People care about this area, but we got a tore up flag, something that represents not only the city, the country."

Federal law is very specific about how the American flag should be displayed. But it says if the flag is in terrible shape, it should be disposed of in a dignified way: by burning.

A city spokesperson said the Public Works Department was informed about the flag, and plans are in place to replace it.

"If you're gonna respect your country, you should take care of the flag and the symbols thereof," one man said.

"That flag is the United States' colors, and that's what we stand for, that's what we fight for; freedom, justice and equality," said the veteran.

The symbolism of our flag stands forever, and while these colors don't run, they are torn and people think it's time to make a change.

A city spokesperson says the bucket truck used to replace the flag is currently being serviced, but as soon as the truck is up and running, they'll make the switch.