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Have you ever wondered why the Flag of the United States of America is
folded 13 times when it is lowered or when it is folded and handed to
the next of kin at the burial of a veteran?
Here is the meaning of each
of those folds and what it means:
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, 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 thirteenth fold: 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.
The next time you see a Flag ceremony honoring someone that has served
our country, either in the Armed Forces or in our civilian services such
as the Police Force or Fire Department, keep in mind all the important
reasons behind each and every movement.
They have paid the ultimate
sacrifice for all of us by honoring our Flag and our Country.
Lord I ask a special prayer not for the reader of this post and our country. Please guide us to our rightful place being a country of light for your GLORY.
AMEN
HHC
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