THE FOLDING OF THE FLAG HAS MEANING. Most of us already know certain things about the American flag, such as the 13 stripes represent the 13 original colonies and that each star represents a state of the union. But did you know the significance of the flag folding ceremony?

The flag folding ceremony represents the same religious principles in which our country was originally founded.

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 the veteran departing our ranks who gave a portion of life for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world, for it is not in vain and shall never be forgotten.

The fourth fold represents our weaker nature as American citizens trusting in God, for it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in times of war for His divine guidance.

The fifth fold is a tribute to our country; for in the words of the immortal Steven 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 the heart lies, and it is with our hearts 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 these same 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 the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and this fold is made to honor the mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day.

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

The tenth fold is a tribute to father; for he too has given of his sons for the defense of our country since she was first born.

The eleventh fold, in the eyes of the Hebrew citizen, represents the lower portion of the seal of the King David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob.

The twelfth fold is for, in the eyes of the Christian citizen, representing an emblem of eternity that glorifies in their eyes God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Ghost.

When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, which reminds us of our national motto, "In God We Trust."

After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of the cocked hat reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington. And for sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones. They followed their comrades and shipmates in the armed forces of the United States, have preserved for us the rights, privileges and freedom which we are enjoying today.