OK, I'm hoping someone here knows what I'm talking about. I remember being told a story regarding what the historical significance is of the ball on top of the flagpole at United States military bases.
Supposedly, it is hollow, and contains a piece of paper, a bullet, and a match. On the piece of paper is printed instructions for the proper way of burning the U.S. flag. If a military base is going to be overrun, the commanding officer is supposed to have the pole brought down, burn the flag in an efficient military manner, and then use the bullet to shoot himself.
I'm sure that if this is true today, it is only done as tradition. What I'm trying to determine is whether this is/was ever actually done. If anyone has any information about this, please let me know.
Thanks
[marines]