When watching TV, films and other documentaries, you might notice that during funerals, military exercises and other special exercises, the honor guard folds the American flag 13 times exactly.
The American flag is folded 13 times to stand for the first 13 colonies. The honor guard will give close attention to the proper way of folding the banner to give it due respect. There are various exercises and military drills that will showcase patriotic virtues. The way that the flag should be folded must be followed at all times and the military takes the practice very seriously. Government schools used to teach these among other things, but the lessons stopped sometime in 1955.
Each fold may also have certain meanings.
Generally, the first fold of the Star – Spangled Banner represents life. The second fold stands for never-ending life. The third fold shows honor and remembers the veterans who gave up their lives to protect the citizens of the United States and maintain peace worldwide. The fourth fold stands for the weaker nature of people. As Americans, we trust in the Lord and we always resort to peaceful methods of settling disputes even during times of war. God’s guidance is always sought in any predicament. The fifth fold represents honor towards our country. Regardless of the circumstances, every citizen is required to stand for the United States.
The sixth fold points to where our hearts are located. In our hearts, we pledge allegiance to the United States of America and the republic it represents. The virtues of justice, liberty and equality are also given importance. The seventh fold gives honor to the Armed Forces and its loyalty to fight all enemies and threats towards the country, foreign and domestic. The eighth fold pays tribute to those who faced death and died so that others may live. It is also a way to honor mothers. The ninth fold pays tribute to women who help shape the children who will become future leaders and models.
The tenth fold of the American flag gives respect to the father, who has brought up his children well so that they may also defend the nation. The eleventh fold stands for the lower part of the seal of King David and his son, King Solomon. It shows honors to the Hebrews and their ancestors and the true God. The twelfth fold symbolizes eternity and the Holy Trinity. Finally, the thirteenth fold features the motto “In God We Trust”. In the end, the stars should be shown on top of the fully folded banner.
When the American flag is completely folded and tucked, people in various groups and organizations are reminded of those who spent their lives making the United States the greatest nation in the world. People should always remember the freedom that they enjoy today came from the blood and tears that were shed years ago. Citizens should learn and understand the thirteen folds of the flag and teach these to their kids as well for future generations to appreciate.