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 American 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 our flag is a symbol of life.

The 2nd fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.

The 3rd 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 4th 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 5th 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 6th 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 the
Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with
Liberty and Justice for all.

The 7th 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 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 our 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 us of our 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 us the
rights, privilige! yes and freedoms we 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 will know why.

James Shoop

" Stand behind your Country and its leaders......