GOD BLESS AMERICA . . .

Meaning Of The Folding Of Our Flag

Do you know that at military funerals, the 21 gun
salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776?

Have you ever noticed the honor guard pays meticulous attention to
correctly folding the American flag 13 times? You  probably thought
it was to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something
new every day!

The 1st fold of our flag is a symbol of life.

The 2nd fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.

The 3rd 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 4th 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 5th fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of
Stephen Decaur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries,
may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong.

The 6th 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 the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God,
indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.

The 7th 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 8th 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.

The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood, and Mothers. 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 10th 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 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King
David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews' eyes, the God
of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in
the Christians' eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.

The 13th fold, or 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 that have deep
meaning. In the future, you'll see flags folded and now you will
know why.

Share this with the children you love and all others who love the symbol
of "Liberty and Freedom"