The Meaning of the 13 Folds of the American Flag...
The Meaning of the 13 Folds of the American Flag...
Michael Thornton made this post some time ago, and since so many of us do not know the meaning of the 13 folds, I felt it appropriate to reblog the post to give it more visibility.
BTW, please go to Michael's original post to make comments for him. He wrote this post a long time ago and it will never go out of style. He deserves to hear your comments about the post. Thanks, Bill.
As we begin to salute and remember those brave Americans that have fallen in defending our Country's freedoms, it is the duty of the honor guard to take the flag that draped the fallen hero's coffin, respectfully fold it and present it to the hero's family. Did you know that there is a meaning and words recited for each fold? Below is the text that is recited by honor guards:1. The first fold is the symbol of life.2. The second fold is a symbol of our belief in the eternal life.3. The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks who gave their portion of life for the defense of our country to attain a peace throughout the world.4. 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 times of war for His divine guidance.5. 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."6. 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.7. 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.8. The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered in to 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.9. The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great have been molded.10. The tenth fold is a tribute to father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born.11. 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.12. 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 Ghost.When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, "In God we Trust."The National Cemetery Administration attempted to ban the recitation of these words. Let us hope and pray to the Almighty, that the powers to be will not succeed...Semper Fi...
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