The Thirteen Folds Of The American Flag:
Have you ever wondered why the flag of the United States of America
is folded 13 times when it is lowered or when it is folded and handed
to the widow at the burial of a veteran? Here is the meaning of each
of those folds and what it means to you.
The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life. The second fold is a
symbol of our belief in eternal life. The third fold is made in honor
and remembrance of all the veterans departing our ranks who
gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to
attain peace throughout the world.
The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as Americans
citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as
well as in time of war. The fifth fold is a tribute to our country,
for in the words of Stephen Decature, "Our country, in dealing
with other countries may she always be right; but it is still our
country, right or wrong."
The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart
that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States Of
America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation
under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all. The
seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through
the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag
against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without
the boundaries of our republic.
The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley
of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to
honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day. The ninth fold is
a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, there
love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women
who have made this country great has been molded. The tenth fold
is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and
daughters for the defense of this country since they were first born.
The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen represents the
lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and
glorifies in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an
emblem of eternity and glorifies, in there eyes, God the Father,
the Son, and Holy Spirit.
When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost
reminding us of our nation's motto, "In God We Trust". After
the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the
appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers
who served under General George Washington, and the sailors
and marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who
were followed by the comrades and shipmates in the Armed
Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights,
privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.
The next time you see a flag ceremony honoring someone that
has served our country, either in the Armed Forces or in our
civilian services such as the Police Force or Fire Department,
keep in mind all the important reasons behind each and every
movement.
They have paid the ultimate sacrifice for all of us by
honoring our flag and our Country.
