Have you ever noticed the honor guard pays meticulous attention to
correctly folding the American flag 13 times? You probably thought it was
to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something new everyday!
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The
1st fold of
our flag is a symbol of life.
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The 2nd fold is
a symbol of our belief in eternal life.  |
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The
3rd 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
4th 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. |
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The
5th 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
6th 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 the
Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with
Liberty and Justice for all. |
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The
7th 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
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. |
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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 Fathers, for they too, have given their sons and
daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born. |
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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. |
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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. |
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There are some traditions and ways of doing
things that
have important deep meanings. In
the future, when you see flags folded, now you will know why. |
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