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 next of kin
at the burial of a veteran?
Here is the meaning of each of those folds and what it means:
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 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 American
citizens trusting, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in
time of war for His divine guidance.
The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of
Stephen Decatur, "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, their 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 our 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 their eyes, God the Father, the Son
and Holy Spirit.
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.
