Former Danvers selectman Joseph Pennimpede was concerned that the flag in Danvers Square was not lowered for the Aurora, Colo. shooting victims last month. He brought his concerns to the Board of Selectmen at last week's meeting.  

"Due to an apparent misinterpretation of the President's Order, the Flag was not lowered in Danvers Square," Pennimpede said to the board. "It is unfortunate that it ocurred, and hopefully steps will be taken to correct it from happening again in the future."

Pennimpede's comments were made before Sunday's shooting at a Sikh Temple in Wisconsin that killed six people.

Pennimpede said he would appreciate it if the selectmen look into this issue, and "hopefully an apology will be forthcoming, to all citizens of Danvers, by the highest management level, that this request was denied." 

Town Manager Wayne Marquis said the town did follow the president's order, by lowering the flag at the seat of Danvers government, Town Hall, as well as putting a sign in the entrance to the building, stating the flag was at half-staff for the Aurora victims. 

"We receive notices on a regular basis," Marquis said. "The governor sends a notice out asking that flags be placed at half-staff at the city or town hall. The president's order, as I read it, was at the seat of town government."

Marquis said there are roughly 17-20 municipal locations with American flags, including parks, town buildings and the veterans memorial flag in Danvers Square. 

"We take the respect and display of the American flag very seriously" Marquis said, noting the drop box for retired flags at Town Hall, and the Boy Scout ceremony performed at Endicott Park for proper retiring. 

The discussion will continue at the Sept. 4 Board of Selectmen meeting.