A Symbolism of the U. S. Flag Ceremony


 

 

The First fold of our flag is a symbol of life. 

The Second fold is a symbol of our belief the eternal life. 

The Third fold is mode in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks who gave a portion of life for the defense of our country to attain a peace throughtout 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 Six 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 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 our republic. 

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 Nineth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, love, loyalty, and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great have been molded. 

The Tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of out 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 Holy Ghost. 

When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our national 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 Staes, preserving for us the rights, priviledges, and freedoms we enjoy today. 


 
 

YOUR FOLDED FLAG

Your folded flag shows six stars
Says who you were where you are

Each to me means something dear
Of your life through out the years

The first one is for God up above
Because he sent you for us to love

One is our country you had served
With many medals you deserved

As I look at the next I see your life
The hard times with so much strife

One for your place inside my heart
Still make so many tear drops start

One is the childhood that we shared
I hope you knew how much I cared

This one is the last but not the least
A prayer that you will rest in peace

It's been two years now on this day
You went with God to forever stay
As above your grave today I stand
I'm holding these flowers in my hand
I look at your picture on your stone
Though I don't feel that I'm alone
Now I will feel that your not so far
I have a Folded Flag with six stars 

 In the memory of Thomas E. Schlup
January 21, 1947 ~ November 10, 2000

©Thelma N. Shutters
November 08, 2002 
used with permission


 

 

SGT Eddie E Chervony

"The Flag Folding"

MSG William H Crisp

PFC Joel K Brattain