13 Reasons to Celebrate the 4th of July
Have you ever wondered why the flag of the United States
of America is folded 13 times after it is lowered or when
it is handed to the widow at the burial of a veteran?
Here are the symbolic meanings of each of the folds:
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 in God, 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, represents
an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God
the Father, the Son, and Holy Spirit.
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 who 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.
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