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Have you ever noticed
that at law
enforcement funerals
the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly
folding the United States of America Flag 13 times?
The 1st fold of the flag is a symbol of life.
The 2nd
fold is a symbol of the belief in eternal life.
The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing the
ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of the country to attain
peace throughout the world.
The 4th fold represents the 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 the 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 6th fold is for where people's hearts lie. It is with their heart that They
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 its Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed
Forces that they protect their country and their flag against all her enemies,
whether they be found within or without the boundaries of their 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 their 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 them of their nations 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
and by Law
Enforcement officers, preserving for them the rights, privileges and freedoms they
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 what is referred
to, the symbol of "Liberty and Freedom"