With Memorial Day weekend upon us and all that brings in the way of family, good food, and of course an extra day off, it's right and fitting that we also pause and take note of why this weekend is set aside...to honor those who have given their lives in service to our nation and the protection of our freedoms.
When a soldier or servant falls in the line of duty, the family is given an American flag, neatly folded 13 times in the shape of a triangle. The folding process by an Honor Guard is in itself, an impressive ceremony, and over time has taken on meaningful tradition with symbolism. I'd like to share that symbolism with you, but with this understanding: The meanings given to each of the folds is not something the U.S. government or even some vets officially recognize. They are there not because there are 13 folds, but were attributed afterward.
That being said, knowing that value is attached to something so special as our nation's flag can and does bring comfort to loved ones left behind, to those who have also paid a dear price in the loss of them that gave the "last full measure of devotion" to preserve it, even to the point of protecting the rights of those who might dishonor it.
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.
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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 Decaur, "Our Country", in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong.
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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 to 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 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, privileges and freedoms we enjoy today.
Let this weekend be one of rememberance for those who have fallen, and appreciation of those presently serving.
