Have
you ever noticed that 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, preserving for them the rights, privileges and freedoms they
enjoy today. There are some traditions and ways of doing
things that have deep meaning. I personally did not know what the folds stood for. Be sure and share this with all Americans. We need to understand our history and symbolisms.
Thank you, Sarah Hirz, for suggesting this subject for the blog.
