The 13 folds

I attended my first military funeral recently and was taken aback with the sheer precision involved in the folding of the flag. It was incredibly moving and the final presentation to the family members was very emotional. In speaking afterwards with the fine servicemen that took part in the ceremony I found out that there are exactly 13 folds in the flag, each symbolizing something different. Additionally, when the flag is completely folded and tucked in, the resulting shape appears like a tricorne hat and represents the soldiers who served under General George Washington and the many who have followed them in order to preserve the rights, privileges and freedoms we enjoy today. 

Here are what the 13 folds traditionally mean:

• The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life.

• The second fold signifies our belief in eternal life.

• The third fold is made in honor and tribute of the veteran departing our ranks, and who gave a portion of his or her life for the defense of our country to attain peace.

• The fourth fold exemplifies our weaker nature as citizens trusting in God; it is to Him we turn for His divine guidance.

• The fifth fold is an acknowledgement to our country.

• 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.

• 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 enemies.

• 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 our mother, for whom it flies on Mother’s Day.

• The ninth fold is an honor to womanhood, for it has been through their faith, love, loyalty, and devotion that the character of men and women who have made this country great have been molded.

• The 10th fold is a tribute to father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since he or she was first-born.

• The 11th fold, in the eyes of Hebrew 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 12th 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 Ghost.

• The last fold, the 13th, when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, “In God We Trust.”

So in the future when you see a flag folded, not only take time to appreciate the precision with which it is done, but also the symbolism behind each fold. May we never forget those that gave their lives for that very flag.