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you know how to correctly fold the American flag? At a miltary funeral
the honor guard pays meticulous attention in folding the United States
flag 13 times. But, why 13 times? Most think that it symbolizes the
original 13 colonies, but infact that is wrong.
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.
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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 'thirteenth 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.
ONE NATION, UNDER GOD, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL
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