Posted on 10/15/2001 5:46:32 PM PDT by YOMO
Why The American Flag Is Folded 13 Times
Have you ever noticed on TV or a military funerals that the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the American flag 13 times? I've known how the 21 gun salute was determined (adding the individual digits of 1776), but only recently learned why the flag was folded 13 times when it is lowered or when it is folded and handed to the widow at the burial of a veteran. Here it is:
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 in God, 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 last and most important fold is 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 their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.
There are some traditions and ways of doing things which have deep meaning. You will see many flags folded in the coming weeks and now you will know why.
I just you would like to know WHY.
Funny thing....I had always thought that there was seven Red Stripes.....
...must be that 'New Math'....
For about the first 20 years it was 6 red stripes. [laugh]
Feel free to use it any way you like.
A Marine
When he died in February, he received a wonderful burial at the veteran's ceremony, complete with taps and presentation of the flag. There were two very young and nervous soldiers who folded the flag--it took them SEVEN TIMES to get it absolutely perfect. We had all broken out in a cold sweat in sympathy for the young soldiers, but they kept at it until they got it just right.
I thought my heart couldn't break any more until one of the soldiers somberly saluted the folded flag. We cried buckets and buckets of tears, but we were SO PROUD of my father-in-law at that moment!!!
I am attempting to catalog all the Huntley's that have served in the military.
Most of the Huntley's in this country are the descendants of one man, John
Huntley, who arrived in the new world about 1645. My site is simply a tribute
to their service.
Seven of my brothers served in the Navy. Together, we had over 110
years of combined service.
Francis L. Huntley
Please look at:
http://www.snopes.com/military/flagfold.htm
This information is incorrect.
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