Meaning of Flag Folding

UNITED STATES FLAG FOLDING CEREMONY


The flag folding ceremony represents the principles on which our country was originally founded. 

The portion of the flag denoting honor is the canton of blue containing the stars, representing the states who have provided the men and women who have served in uniform. The canton field of blue dresses from left to right and is inverted only when draped as a pall on a casket of a veteran, who has served our country honorably in uniform. 

In the Armed Forces of the United States, at the ceremony of retreat, the flag, is lowered, folded in a triangle fold, and kept under watch throughout the night as a tribute to our nation's honored dead. The
next morning, it is brought out, and, at the ceremony of reveille, run aloft as a symbol of our belief in new life. 

     The first fold of our flag is a symbol of our belief in God.

     The second fold is a symbol of our devotion to the United States of America.

     The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans who have departed our ranks.

     The fourth fold represents our reliance on God for guidance and strength.

     The fifth fold is a tribute to freedom and all that it means to us.

     The sixth fold represents our heart. For it is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.

     The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is the Armed Forces who protect our country and our flag against all her enemies.

The eighth fold is a tribute to honor our mothers, whose faith, love, loyalty, and devotion have shaped the character of the men and women who have made this country great.

     The ninth fold is a tribute to fathers, who gave their sons and daughters for the defense of our country.

     The tenth fold is a tribute to American families everywhere. Our strength is built upon their strength.

     The eleventh fold is a symbol of our belief in justice and equality for all.

     The twelfth fold represents an emblem of eternity, and solidifies our faith in God.

     The thirteen fold is a symbol of our thirteen original colonies.

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 American soldiers who first served under General George Washington to establish and preserve for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.