Here is how to understand the flag that laid upon it and is surrendered to so
many widows and widowers:
Do you know that at
military funerals, the 21-gun salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the
year 1776?
Have you ever noticed
the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the United
States of America Flag 13 times? You probably thought it was to symbolize the
original 13 colonies, but we learn something new every day!
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. In
the future, you'll see flags folded and now you'll know why.
Share this with the children you love and all others who love what is referred
to as the symbol of "Liberty and Freedom."
MAYBE THE SUPREME COURT SHOULD READ THIS EXPLANATION BEFORE THEY RENDER THEIR
DECISION ON THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
In
the meantime, may GOD
protect us always.
One
Nation, Under GOD, With Liberty and Justice for ALL