13 Folds

HONORING THOSE WHO SERVED!

This is a unique ceremony that provides a historical presentation of the background and reasons for each fold of our nation’s symbol of freedom. This usually will include a Commander, two flag bearers, and two riflemen. We will march in carrying a folded. Flag. After an introduction by the Commander, the two flag bearers will unfold and display the flag then refold it into a triangle fold. At each refolding step, the Commander will state the meaning attributed to that specific fold. After the folding is complete we will march out of the venue. Adequate parking for this presentation is required. We request a minimum of a $150.00 donation unless this ceremony is in conjunction with an associated program such as a Color Guard, payable before or at the event. Please complete the Color Guard Request Form below and submit it for approval and confirmation.

The following script is to be read by the Commander/Narrator:

“Have you ever wondered why the flag of the United States of America is folded 13 times when it is lowered or when it is folded and handed to the widow at the burial of a veteran?”

“Here is the meaning of each of those folds and what it means to you:

The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life
The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life
The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of all the veterans departing ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout 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 times of war
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 sixth fold is 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 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 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 honor Mother, for whom it flies on Mother’s Day
The ninth 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 has been molded
The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of this country since they were firstborn
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 Spirit

When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our nation’s 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 the comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.

The next time you see a flag ceremony honoring someone that has served our country, either in the Armed Forces or in our civilian services such as the Police Force or Fire Department, remember the important reasons behind each movement. They have paid the ultimate sacrifice for all of us by honoring our flag and our country.”