Flag Folding Adds Meaning to Services

Each time a veteran of the United States Armed Forces is laid to rest, the flag is folded in a ritual that is both dramatic and uplifting. According to the National Flag Foundation, the process is meticulous and consists of a dozen folds, each having a significant meaning.

• The first fold of the 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 veteran departing our ranks who gave a portion of his or her life for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.
• The fourth fold represents our weaker nature; for American citizens who believe in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in times 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 them that we protect our country and our flag against 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 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, 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 father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were born.
• The eleventh fold, in the eyes of Jewish citizens, 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.

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 the appearance of a cocked hat. This shape reminds us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, the sailors and marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones and their comrades and shipmates in the United States Armed Forces, all of whom preserve for us the rights, privileges and freedoms we enjoy today.
To learn more about the American flag as well as history of the pledge of allegiance, visit www.legion.org or www.usflag.org.