13 Folds in the American Flag

nunn

13 Folds to the American Flag From the 21st TSC Chaplain. In the coming weeks, we will visit through TV and news reports the funerals of many people. In those clips, we will see the folding of our flag over the caskets of many victims of last week. When you see this, I want you to remember something very special. Those whose bodies are laid to earthly rest will be honored by a tradition of folding the American Flag. This is not just a nice gesture, but has great meaning from our history, which even terror cannot overcome. And so, as you get the lumps in your throats, tears in your eyes, and struggle with bitterness, anger, and frustration, here is something to remember how special these people were: Have you ever noticed on TV or at military funerals that the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the American flag 13 times? I've known how the 21 gun salute was determined (adding the individualdigits of 1776), but only recently learned why the flag was folded 13 times.When it is lowered or when it is folded and handed to the widow at the burial of a veteran. WHY THE AMERICAN FLAG IS FOLDED 13 TIMES Here it is: 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 departingour 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 ourrepublic. 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 citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The THIRTEENTH fold: 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 GeneralGeorge Washington, and the sailors and marines who served under Captain JohnPaul 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. There are some traditions and ways of doing things which have deep meaning. You will see many flags folded in the coming weeks, and now you will know why.

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Certified SIG pistol armorer/FFL Dealer/Full time Peace Officer, Moderator of the General Discussion Board on Gunbroker. Visit www.gunbroker.com, the premier gun auction site on the Net! Email davidnunn@texoma.net Jesus is Lord!

7mm_ultra_mag_is_king

Thanks nunn, I learned something today

simonbs

Thank you Nunn. Things like this should be taught in our schools. I'm printing it for a future lesson plan at home.

gunboob

About that 21 gun salute!....Is that right,..being from 1776?I thought it might have something to do with clearing out one side of a man-o-war as it entered port.Any other versions on this? I got asked that after a funeral of a 93 yr. old friend just the other day, and, didn't know.Bob

concealedG36

Please take a look at: http://www.truthorfiction.com/rumors/foldsoftheflag.htm Here is an excerpt from that site:The Meaning of the Folding of the American Flag-Truth! & Fiction! Summary of eRumor:Message alleges that there is meaning to each fold of the American flag, for example, at a military funeral when the flag is presented to the family of the person who died. Most of them are of spiritual and religious significance. The Truth:The meaning of the folding of the American flag that is described in this eRumor is not without importance, but it is not official and not required.Public Law 94-344, known as the Federal Flag Code, is the law of the land regarding the handling and displaying of the American flag. It does not include anything regarding the significance or meaning of folding the flag. It was first adopted by Congress in 1923 and revised numerous times. According to the American Legion, the code does not call for a ceremonial folding of the flag and the folding procedure is also traditional. Same for the meanings of the folds. Nobody seems to know when or where it originated or who wrote it. There is speculation that it may have come from a chaplain who attached the mostly Judeo-Christian religious meanings to the folds, perhaps for a burial ceremony. Official or not, the statement has gained status as the traditional meaning of the folds and is found in many governmental and military manuals. One additional note: The eRumor says the 21-gun salute originated from adding the digits of 1776. That is not true. According to Arlington Cemetery, the 21-gun salute evolved from many years of various traditions of honoring dignitaries I do not know what the "real" truth is, I just thought I should offer an opposing viewpoint.G36

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Gun Control Disarms Victims, NOT Criminals

22WRF

What is the origin of the 21-gun salute? http://www.army.mil/cmh-pg/faq/salute.htm