SALISBURY — A dropbox that accepts worn U.S. flags as a way to pay a final tribute to veterans has seen a lot of use at Uncle Buck’s All-American Pub and Grill.
When Uncle Buck’s reopened at its new location on South Main Street in September, owners Scott and Judy Howard also introduced the box which accepts used flags for proper disposal.
The Howards’ partner in the project is Powles Funeral Home and Carolina Cremation in Rockwell.
Over four months, 69 flags have been deposited in the waist-high box just inside the front door of the restaurant.
“It’s kind of been a bit overwhelming,” Scott Howard says.
Will Staton says Powles Funeral Home has been impressed by the number as well and is looking to expand the program to other locations.
Powles Funeral Home periodically picks up these retired flags from Uncle Buck’s and makes sure they are used for one last patriotic duty. Every veteran cremated by the funeral home has a retired U.S. flag with him or her, thanks to the program.
“As far as we’re concerned, it has been a hit,” Staton says.
Howard says it has been an honor to have the dropbox and know the flags are being properly taken care of. “We want to remind people it’s still there, that’s what it’s there for, and we don’t want people to forget about it,” he said.

Contact Mark Wineka at 704-797-4263.