In the coming weeks, we will visit through TV and news reports the
funerals of many people.  In those clips, we will see the folding of our flag
over the caskets of many victims of last week.  When you see this, I want you
to remember something very special.  Those whose bodies are laid to earthly
rest will be honored by a tradition of folding the American Flag.  This is
not just a nice gesture, but has great meaning from our history-a history
which even terror cannot overcome.  And so, as you get the lumps in your
throats, tears in your eyes, and struggle with bitterness, anger, and
frustration, here is something to remember how special these people were:
 

WHY THE AMERICAN FLAG IS FOLDED 13 TIMES
Have you ever noticed on TV or at military funerals that the honor guard pays
meticulous attention to correctly folding the American flag 13 times? I've
known how the 21 gun salute was determined (adding the individual digits of
1776), but only recently learned why the flag was folded 13 times when it is
lowered or when it is folded and handed to the widow at the burial of a
veteran. Here it is:
 

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 veterans departing our 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 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 sixth 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 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 ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; 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 tenth fold is a
tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the
defense of our 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 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 their comrades and shipmates in
the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights,
privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.  There are some traditions and ways
of doing things which have deep meaning.  You will see many flags
folded in the coming weeks, and now you will know why.